One of the best ways to enjoy Anna Maria Island is by getting out on the water. And one of the easiest ways to do that is by kayak. Get up close to an array of wildlife when paddling the salt marches, mangrove tunnels, and other inlets of AMI. We’ll run down some of our favorite spots.
Bayfront Park, 316 North Bay Blvd. in Anna Maria Island, sits where the Gulf of Mexico converges with Tampa Bay. The park has a kayak launch and has awesome views of Sunshine Skyway Bridge and Egmont Key. Beginners will want to stay close to shore as the open bay has strong currents and winds, and boat traffic.
Bimini Bay is a hidden gem, located in the Holmes Beach area of AMI. Protected from the wind and waves, the bay makes an easy paddle for beginners. This is a great spot to see manatees and dolphins while paddling.
A kayak launch at Coquina Beach Park Bayside offers another good place to slip your boat in the water. Head east across the bay or paddle south along the shoreline of Longboat Key to investigate inlets and waterways. Be aware of high boat traffic and the possibility of strong currents in this area.
Emerson Point Preserve also makes a great starting point for an adventure. Use the kayak launch at Riverside Pavilion on the far west end of the preserve or the launch on the north side, approximately halfway inside the preserve entrance.
Skilled paddlers may prefer Neal Preserve, where the launch is located on the south side of State Highway 64, east of the Anna Maria Bridge. The waterway is protected and scenic, but the entire seven-mile trail may be long for beginners. Paddlers enjoy a great mix of tunnels, tidal lakes, and mangrove islands, as well as open bays.
Robinson Preserve offers 40 acres of peaceful waterways for canoeing and kayaking. Located in northwestern Bradenton, the main aquatic entrance is at 9800 Manatee Ave. West. It’s a nice launch site. Be prepared to see dolphins and manatees at play, as well as other wildlife. But, keep your distance. Don’t chase these creatures or feed them.
A few general tips include:
- Always wear a life jacket.
- Kayakers are required to flash a light at other boaters, so carry a flashlight.
- Watch for markers and stay away from boaters.
- Check the local weather before launching.
- Carry a whistle. It’s also a requirement.
- Wear sunscreen and stay hydrated.
If you prefer a kayak tour, book with Beach Bums AMI. Their tour guides paddlers along the red mangroves and into Anna Maria Sound, then passes under the Key Royale Bridge and into Bimini Bay. Beach Bums also rents kayaks and offers free pickup and delivery to your vacation rental.