Top 10 Things to do in Anna Maria Island

This post was most recently updated on February 13th, 2021

On the Gulf Coast of Florida, about 1 hr from Tampa, is Anna Maria Island. With 7 miles of beautiful white sand beaches and crystal blue water, you can have your tropical island vacation right in the USA. It is a low key place, with no high rises, a 35 mph speed limit and Instagram worthy sunset views. With plenty of Old Florida Charm and lots of incredible things to do in Anna Maria Island you might never want to leave.

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Wether you want to sit by the ocean all day or have some adventure Anna Maria Island will have something for you.  Here are my favorite things to do on Anna Maria Island

1   Go to the Beach

You are on an island so going to the beach is rather obvious. The question is which one do you go to? 

The Island has 3 main towns. Bradenton Beach to the south, Holmes beach in the middle, and Anna Maria in the North. Each has its own character. With the southern end having lots of charm. The middle being more commercial and crowded but also having more parking. And the northern tip is usually considered more quiet and secluded with upscale rentals.

With that said there are no bad beaches on Anna Maria Island. However, my favorite beach is Bean Point on the northern end of the island. I love that it is less crowded. Has gorgeous protected sand dunes. White powder soft sand that actually squeaks when you walk on it.  The downside is very limited parking and no facilities. However, if you can deal with those two things then I would definitely say that a visit to Bean point is one top things to do on Anna Maria Island.

Fun Fact: The sand is made out of quartz and remains cool even during the hot summer.

Other popular beaches are Manatee Public Beach, which is great for families and has full facilities including food and beverage and picnic tables. 

Cortez Beach and Coquina Beach at the southern end have lots of shade, parking and facilities. Coquina is also the longest stretch of beach.  

Bradenton beach is great for diving or snorkeling.  Here you will find the Regina tanker submerged about 100 feet from the shore. 

For more beach access points check out this map

2   Bike the Island

Anna Maria is not a large island and for the most part it’s pretty walkable. However, in order to cover more ground and have some fun while at it, I highly suggest using a bike. Seeing the Island by bike is a one of the best things to do on Anna Maria Island. 

If you are not staying at a resort like The Rod and Reel Resort that provides bikes, and did not bring your own, then you can rent one from one of the rental companies on the island. You can check out Beach Bums Recreational on the north side of the island. Fun and More Rentals or AMI Beach Fun Rentals in the middle. And Segs by the Sea in the South.  

The Island has many multi-use paths, which means most are used by cars, bikes, and pedestrians alike. Additionally, there are a number of unmarked bike paths and further efforts are being made to increase the bike paths throughout the Island.   

A popular bike path is the Coquina bike path. It is multi use trail and has a beautiful scenic view. Alternatively, use the five miles of bike path along Gulf Drive in Bradenton Beach. Check out this site for more information on bike paths and a handy map.

3   Shopping on Pine Ave

If you need a break from the rays and waves then head to Pine Avenue for some shopping fun. Trust me; you do not want to miss strolling down Pine Ave and checking out the variety of craft shops and boutiques. Here you will certainly find something to remember your trip by. The beauty about the shops here is that they are not your big brand name stores. On the contrary, here you will find mom and pop shops operated by locals with unique items you will want to take home. 

Check out Olive Oil Outpost for balsamic vinegars, oils, cheeses and more. Stoll into the Shiny Fish Emporium for one of a kind gift and souvenirs. Do not miss Pink & Navy Boutique for fashions trends, accessories and more. And if your style is more beachy then head to The Island Cabana and Bella by the Sea Home. If you still want to do additional shopping then I suggest Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach. 

Moreover, this street has some of my favorite places to eat with Poppo’s Taqueria, Pizza Social and The Donut Experiment.

4   Check out The Old City Jail 

The Old City Jail is part of the Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum. It was first built in 1927 and this attraction is a must for any history buff. You won’t want to leave the island without snapping a picture by the old city jail. Then take some time to learn about the first settler on the island. 

Fun fact –It is said that detainees would be bitten incessantly by mosquitos in the jail and that the fear of these conditions actually kept most people out of trouble and violations to a minimum.   I wish we lived in the days where the fear of mosquito bites were all it took to keep people in check! Don’t leave without checking out this fun thing to do in Anna Maria Island. 

5   Fishing on a Pier

One of the best things to do on Anna Maria Island is to go fishing on one of its piers.  Do keep in mind you must have a valid State fishing license.  Licenses are easy to get and relatively inexpensive. You can check out this site for more information.

If you don’t want to bring in your own equipment then you can rent everything you need to fish on Anna Maria Island. 

The two best piers to fish from are City Pier and Rod and Reel pier. You can also rent your rods and purchase bait there. Both piers extend a far way into the ocean. With City Pier stretching 700 feet out and the Rod and Reel about half that. Therefore, depending where you stand on the pier you will be able to catch different types/species of fish.  

If you are further south on the Island you will find a pier on Bradenton Beach. Alternatively, there are three barriers on coquina beach you can use to fish from.  They are not really piers but they jet out into the water. Just keep in mind there is no shade and no bait shops there so you will need to have everything with you. Moreover, if piers are not your thing then you can always do some surf fishing from the shoreline (just make sure to avoid public swimming areas) or head out on a boat for some deep-sea fishing. 

Top Tip: Sunrise and sunset are the best times for fishing.  Not only is it less hot for us humans but the fish are more active then as it is their feeding time.

6   Kayaking or Stand Up Paddle-boarding (SUP)

There’s tons of amazing things to do on Anna Maria Island, but seeing it from the water gives you a whole new perspective. Kayaking and Stand up Paddle boarding are a fun and active way to experience the island.  Beginners and pros alike will enjoy the gentle waters on Anna Maria. You can rent equipment and go explore on your own or join one of the guided tours.

Kayaking

If you are looking to go out on your own Beach Bums offers kayaking rentals that are affordable. A single kayak for up to 4 hours for only $35 or a tandem (2-person) kayak for $55. 

Some popular spots to kayak are Robinson Preserve and Neal Preserve.  Here you can experience some cool mangrove tunnels.  For a different kayaking experience, you can go to Bimini Bay where the conditions are very peaceful.

I personally enjoy the guided tours because you do not need to worry about getting lost and learn so much from the experience.  In addition, the guides always know the best places to spot cool wildlife. 

We had a fabulous experience with Happy Paddler Kayak on their coastal Island Tour. It was the perfect activity for the family and we got to see dolphins, crabs, a small shark and even a seahorse. Aside from the wildlife our favorite part of the tour was going to beer can Island. Such a cool spot with lots of driftwood – perfect for photography. This tour definitely exceeded our expectations and we would recommend it to anyone visiting the island.

Stand Up Paddle Boarding

Out of all the awesome things to do in Anna Maria Island paddle boarding is one you do not want to miss.  We recently purchased our own boards, but you do not need to own equipment to enjoy the sport. Some resort like the Rod and Reel provide them as part of your stay.  Or you can rent them from several companies on the Island. 

The important thing here is don’t be intimidated. If you have ever wanted to try paddle boarding and not had the opportunity then Anna Maria is a great place to try it. The Islands calm waters make it ideal for beginners to try out the sport.  And if you are not a beginner there are plenty of places where you can find some challenges. Either way SUP is one of the best activities on Anna Maria Island. 

7   Parasailing on Bradenton Beach

While I enjoy the view from the water, I can also say that perhaps one of the best views are from the sky. If you are feeling adventurous then definitely put Parasailing on your list. AMI Adventure Rentals offers some great parasailing packages. You will soar above the water and view the entire island from above. It is both an adrenaline and peaceful experience all at once. It is one of the best things to do on Anna Maria Island and enjoyable for all ages. I guarantee you will make memories that will last a lifetime.

8   Horse Surfing – Horseback Riding in the Water

This activity is technically not on Anna Maria Island. However, it is close enough you should cross it off your bucket list while you are here. We call it horse surfing and there are several companies that offer this experience. You can check out Cponies they offer various types of tours so if getting in the water with your horse is not your thing, you can also do trail riding or beach riding.

9   Enjoy a Culinary Science Experiment & Create Your Own Donuts

This experience will also feature in places to eat on Anna Maria Island. But it is such a fun thing to do on Anna Maria Island that I thought it was worth mentioning on its own. This is an AMI must!!! And it won’t break the bank. 

Here every donut is your own creation.  The cake style donuts are made fresh and you dictate what goes on them. You will have the ability to pick from a huge selection of toppings to make almost an endless combination of delicious donuts. They have unique glazes as well like key lime, sriracha and maple bacon. 

Do not miss this place when visiting Anna Maria Island and make sure to pair your donut creations with an iced coffee for a perfect combination.

10   Experience Sunrise and Sunset on a Beach

There is nothing more peaceful that to hear the waves while you watch a sunrise or sunset on the beach. Fortunately Florida has some of the most amazing ones and you can watch both on Anna Maria Island in the same day.  

A few favorite places for Sunrise would be Bean Point and the Rod and Reel Pier. What is great about sunrise is that you will have the beach nearly to your self.  You will also get to experience seeing the Coquinas burrow. With less people on the beach, it is easier to spot them digging themselves into the sand. Sunrise is also a great time to look for shells, as the new ones deposited overnight on shore have not been picked through yet. 

Now for sunset, pretty much pick any beach facing west.  You might even sit out at one of the ocean front restaurant, like the Sand Bar or Beach House Restaurant, and have a drink and some food as you watch the sun go down.  Alternatively get on the water and watch the sunset from a boat or kayak for a unique perspective. 

Regardless of where you chose to watch it make sure you do not miss a sunrise or sunset on Anna Maria Island. It is an experience you won’t forget.  

Where to Eat on Anna Maria Island

Anna Maria Island has many unique places to eat and you won’t find many chain restaurants here. I am going to highlight a few favorites I have tried and a few that have been highly recommended by friends who visit the island regularly.  This is the condensed list with just some top picks, there are many more great options on the Island. 

Let’s Start with breakfast.  Ginny’s & Jane E’s is a quirky shop that has some fun breakfast items. Two favorites are the Crème Brule French toast or check out their enormous cinnamon rolls.  A recommended spot I want to try  is the Waffle Press. I hear their made from scratch Belgian waffles are scrumptious. In addition, for something on the lighter side head to North Shore Café. Here you will find items like smoothie bowls and avocado toast. All three of these breakfast spots will have coffee to get your day started right. 

My lunch staple is Poppo’s Taqueria, they make some mean tacos and won’t break the bank. For Pizza check out Pizza Social which is not far from the tacos. 

If you want to eat with toes in the sand or have a water view check out The Sandbar Restaurant. It also happens to be the oldest restaurant on the Island. Alternatively go to the Rod and Reel, which features gorgeous views and relaxed vibes. Locals and tourists alike love it. 

For a fine dining experience, head to Beach Bistro. It is arguably the most famous restaurant on the Island and has a wonderful yet pricy menu. A less pricy and good alternative is the Waterfront Restaurant. 

If you are craving Sushi then The Island Ocean Star is the place to go. And for a bar with creative drinks you must check out The Doctors Office – the promise to help cure what ails you. 

Let’s not forget about dessert. If you have a sweet tooth try Hometown Desserts. For Ice cream head to two scoops. Moreover, do not miss The Donut Experiment for the best donuts and they have some good iced coffee to go with them. 

Where to Stay on Anna Maria Island

I highly recommend a stay at The Rod and Reel Resort. It is a small boutique hotel, located right on the water and features all suite rooms. Perfect place if you are want more room or on a family holiday.

I also love that they provide so many amenities at no extra cost. Like access to bikes, kayaks, paddleboards, heated pool and other fun family friendly activities on property. They also offer beach gear, chairs, umbrellas and towels. And their rooftop is the perfect place to watch a sunrise or sunset.

The Rod and Reel Resort is the perfect home base to explore Anna Maria Island.

Check out the full review of the Rod and Reel Resort with more details on everything they have to offer.

How to Get Around on Anna Maria Island

It is not a large Island and parking can be a hassle so my preferred method of transportation is walking and the bicycle.

Not to say that you cannot get around by car because you certainly can. However, I much prefer the more ecofriendly bike. Walking is an option as it is not a large Island and most everything can be reached on foot. 

If you need to venture further away you can hop on the free trolley which travels up and down the Island at intervals of about 20 minutes.

Alternatively you can call the Monkey Bus – it is a fun and festive service that will pick you up and drop you off pretty much anywhere on the Island and the drivers work for tips!

Hope you enjoyed this guide with the top things to do on Anna Maria Island. For more great adventures in Florida check out this Dry Tortugas Day Trip. Or check out this post with weekend getaways in the South. 

If you have any other suggestions feel free to share them in the comment section below.  Or lets get social on Instagram or Facebook.