Top 20 Things To Do In Anna Maria Island

One of the most beautiful beaches on the island is not just famous for its ocean side but is also known as what's back from the beach. It offers a stand majestic Australian pine tree walkway.

This family-friendly location is a great destination if you plan a picnic or beach fire with a spread-out area for your kids. Apart from that, Coquina Beach Bradenton Beach FL is also the best place if you plan to indulge in some of the best water activities on the island.

Planning to escape from the hurly-burly of the area? You should visit Anna Maria Island beaches and enjoy the site's activities. It also has a huge parking space divided into north and south.

Coquine Beach Things To Do:

• Sunbath and Swimming in clear waters
• Play beach side Volleyball
• Picnic with beachfront views
• Snorkel and Diving for underwater life
• Collect Seashells along the shorelines

Originally built in the 1900s, City Pier Anna Maria Florida has become an Island landmark. Visiting the pier, you will notice the pier's planks engraved with messages commemorating family members, friends, and loved ones.

Come here to walk the 700-foot pier, get food and drinks, go fishing, or check out the views and crystal-clear water. This is also the perfect spot to see marine life.

While strolling around, you can treat yourself an ice cream cone from Two Scoops across the street and walk down the pier. This area does not offer parking spaces. However, you can take a free trolley to get here.

Popularly known as a fishing area, you can also explore many wildlife from the Rod and Reel pier fishing, such as dolphins and birds. The place also offers some of the best seafood in the area.

You can go fishing off the dock or walkways for free, stop by the nearby restaurants, and enjoy both indoor settings and the best cuisines they offer.

The Rod and Reel Pier Anna Maria Island offers stunning Gulf views, perfect for strolls and sunset watching. Its rustic charm and friendly vibe make it a beloved spot for locals and tourists, offering an authentic coastal experience.

What To Do?

• Relax on the beautiful beach
• Explore the historic piers
• Go fishing and water sports
• Watch Sunset
• Dine in on local restaurants

Not just about the beaches and waterfronts, the island is also known for its historical and cultural heritage. The museum exhibits the early island life and the first settlers in the area.

Explore old things like artifacts, newspapers, and maps that show history. This Anna Maria Island Museum has interesting displays and photos that show how the island changed over time. 

A must-visit place in the city for history enthusiasts, it was built in 1927 and offers a unique window into the island's captivating past. It's like taking a fun trip to learn about the past.

What You See?

• Artifacts from the island's past
• Historical newspapers and documents
• Old maps of the island
• Well-curated exhibits showcasing the island's history
• Photographs depicting the island's transformation over time

This is one of the best Island activities, as the place offers a large population of bottlenose dolphins that love to play in the waters. The cruise captain will help you find them so you can see them.

Dolphin Tours Anna Maria Island offers a chance to cruise through the picturesque waters of the Gulf of Mexico, granting you breathtaking coastal vistas. It's a perfect way to appreciate the Island's scenic charm while seeking playful dolphins.

Dolphin tours are suitable for all ages, making them family-friendly activities for children and adults. Interacting with dolphins in the wild creates lasting memories and a sense of wonder for tourists, making it a highlight of their visit.

Popular Options For Dolphin Tours:

• Anna Maria Island Dolphin Tours
• Boat Tours
• Eco Tours
• Kayak Tours
• Sunset Dolphin Cruises

Shopping and visiting its popular landmarks are the best things on Pine Avenue. You can also grab a quick bite at Poppo’s Taqueria for authentic Tex-Mex.

With over 30 vendors, Pineapple Marketplace is a local favorite for clothing, jewelry, antiques, art, and more. It's a good place to shop if you want something special, whether you really like collecting things or you just enjoy looking for cool stuff at good prices.

They are some of the most visited attractions in Pine Avenue Anna Maria Island scenic and hiking part of the island. While you will see history in another part of the islands, you dedicate some time here.

What To Do In Pine Avenue:

• Shopping
• Dining
• Art Galleries
• Stroll and People-Watch
• Admire Historical Cottages

Stopping by the waterfront restaurant Anna Maria Island Florida on the island is a must for seafood enthusiasts. They serve the freshest catches, making the most of their coastal location.

Many of these places offer beautiful waterfront dining, allowing you to savor your meal while gazing at the Gulf of Mexico or the bay. The island's dining scene has a relaxed and welcoming vibe, allowing you to unwind and dine casually.

These restaurants also emphasize local ingredients, showcasing the island's dedication to supporting nearby producers and delivering an authentic taste of Florida. It's the perfect blend of great food, stunning views, and a laid-back atmosphere.

Best Restaurants In Anna Maria Island FL:

1. The Waterfront Restaurant and Craft Bar
2. The Sandbar Restaurant
3. Rod & Reel Pier Restaurant
4. The Beach House Restaurant
5. Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant & Pub

This protected state park offers pristine beaches, dunes, and lush vegetation, providing a serene escape from city life. It provides a captivating natural and historical experience.

You can spot gopher tortoises, nesting sea turtles, various bird species, and even the occasional dolphin or manatee in the surrounding waters. Explore well-preserved fortifications, like Fort Dade, that harken back to the Spanish-American War.

Crystal-clear waters around Egmont Key State Park invite snorkelers to explore vibrant marine life, including colorful fish and coral formations. It's a day trip that combines natural beauty, history, wildlife, and adventure, creating lasting memories.

Additional Information:

• The opening hours are from 6 am to 9 pm
• For more details, you can contact at +1 352-563-2088
• Parking costs $5 per vehicle

This is the must-visit place if you are a nature lover. The Preserve features trails that wind through lush mangrove forests, providing opportunities for walking trials and birdwatching.

Also known as a prime location for natural wildlife, you can explore various bird species, crabs, and other coastal creatures. The trails lead to elevated boardwalks and viewpoints overlooking Sarasota Bay, offering stunning panoramic vistas.

Leffis Key Preserve boasts footpaths, extensive boardwalks through mangroves, and a 26-foot high hill offering 360-degree Gulf of Mexico and Sarasota Bay views. Its serene atmosphere makes it an ideal place for a quiet nature escape away from the crowds.

More Information:

• It is open from 8 am to sunset
• Dogs are not permitted in the area
• Tons of hiking trials and other activities

If you want to venture out of Anna Maria Island, plan a day trip to Longboat Key. Laid-back Longboat Key is the Island’s neighboring barrier island in Sarasota that’s connected and reachable by a bridge.

Longboat Key Anna Maria Island Florida has a wonderfully slow, relaxed beach town atmosphere. It's the kind of place where you might envision retiring to enjoy a leisurely, sun-soaked life. It's perfect if you want a break from the sometimes-crowded beaches.

In addition to its beautiful beaches, Longboat Key is also known for its waterfront golfing. So, if you're into golf, bring your clubs and tee off at one of the island's four golf courses.

If you're searching for the top things to do near Anna Maria Island, you shouldn't overlook this. It offers a different pace and a chance to enjoy the area's serene beauty.

Spending time strolling through Historic Bridge Street is one of the favorite things to do on Anna Maria Island. The area has a lovely Old Florida vibe, which is lots of fun to explore or unwind after a long day out in the sun.

Located at the Southernmost end of the island in Bradenton Beach, this shopping street is a treasure trove of quaint art galleries, boutiques, bait shops, gift shops, cafes, bakeries, bars, and local restaurants.

You can pop by to do some souvenir shopping or to grab lunch or dinner, and as you shop, be sure to stop by the Bridge Street Clock Tower. The area also hosts many seasonal and community events during festive periods like Christmas and the summer holidays.

What To do?

• Explore Boutiques and Shops
• Dining at Restaurants
• Enjoy Live Entertainment
• Fishing on the Pier
• Relax on Bradenton Beach

If you're in the mood for a quieter, more peaceful beach experience, you should definitely check out Bean Point Beach. It's quite different from some of the busier beaches on the island.

Bean Point Beach Anna Maria FL offers a serene escape and breathtaking views of Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. This beach attracts couples looking for a peaceful and relaxing time away from the hustle and bustle of crowded beaches.

If you're thinking of spending some extra time there, it's a good plan to bring a picnic blanket and some snacks. This beach has few conveniences, but it's the ideal spot if you want a peaceful and beautiful natural experience.

Things To Do In Bean Point:

• Relax on the Beach
• Swim and Snorkel
• Watch Stunning Sunsets
• Observe Wildlife
• Have a Picnic

Anna Maria Island is great for bringing your own or renting a kayak for a mangrove tour. There are many places where you can launch your kayak into the water and explore the clear ocean water or visit some of the mangrove trees.

Another great thing to do while on the island is standup paddleboarding. The Gulf of Mexico's calm waters and minimal waves create an ideal environment for paddleboarding enthusiasts to enjoy a peaceful and scenic experience.

Guided tours enhance the experience with insights into local wildlife and plant life as you meander through picturesque tunnels. Enjoy the serene natural beauty to the fullest.

Beach Bums and Kayak Jacks are just some rental companies where you can rent water equipment. A few companies on the island also do kayak and paddle board tours.

You’ve got to go to The Donut Experiment Anna Maria Island on Pine Avenue to satisfy your sweet teeth when visiting the place. Here, you get to create your donuts with their donut bar.

You can watch the donuts being cooked right in front of you, and then you get to choose what kind of icing, toppings, and drizzle you want on them. It's a super fun and one-of-a-kind experience.

If you're unsure about all the choices, don't worry. You can also go for some of the most popular combinations many people enjoy. Remember, this place can get really crowded in the morning, so plan accordingly.

More Details:

• Address: 210 Pine Ave, Anna Maria, FL 34216
• Contact: +1 941-896-3172
• Menu: thedonutexperiment.com
• For only $1.35 per donut and $13.75 per dozen

Renting a beachfront house is the ultimate way to embrace the beach lifestyle. These houses offer stunning ocean views, letting you wake up to the sound of waves and enjoy breathtaking sunrises and sunsets from your doorstep.

With direct beach access, beach enthusiasts can enter the sand right from their property. Privacy is a major perk of the houses; you get the entire property to yourself, making it great for couples, families, or friends traveling together.

Additionally, Anna Maria Island House Rentals features fully equipped kitchens, allowing you to save money by preparing your meals. Some are pet-friendly so that you can bring your furry family along.

Overall, renting a beach house offers an immersive beach experience with comfort, convenience, and unforgettable ocean views.

Horseback riding on the island is the best way to explore the beaches and other places. It offers a unique and scenic way to explore the island's natural beauty.

The trained and experienced staff offers unique horseback ride on the beach for young and old people. It is a unique and memorable way to connect with the island's natural beauty, perfect for romantic beach rides and family adventures.

Enjoy the thrill of riding horses along the sandy shores of the Gulf of Mexico, taking in the stunning coastal views and the sound of the waves. It is suitable for riders of various skill levels, making it a family-friendly activity for both beginners and experienced riders.

Best Horse Riding Tours:

• BeachHorses LLC
• Great World Adventures
• Traditional Outfitters
• The Beach Horseback Ride Company
• C Ponies Beach Horses

Bike renting is a fun way to get around and a fantastic way to enjoy the island's charm fully. Biking allows you to leisurely explore without worrying about parking or traffic. 

Vacationing on the island is all about escaping the daily grind. Bike rentals in Florida let you leave the car behind once you're settled in. It's the easiest way to get around, avoiding parking stress while adding a fun dimension to your vacation.

Popular rental companies like Beach Bums, AMI Beach Fun Rentals, and Fun and More Rentals offer hassle-free bike rentals. They provide free bike delivery, options for single or multiple days, and include helmets and locks for your safety and convenience.

So, pedal around and enjoy the island's relaxed vibe without the car hassle. The other options include using your own car or hiring one for the convenience.

Taking a sunset cruise is like having front-row seats to a spectacular show in the sky. You watch as the sun paints vibrant colors over the horizon, creating a mesmerizing experience.

On these cruises, you can kick back and relax while soaking in the coastal beauty surrounding you.  Don't forget your camera because the sunsets here are picture-perfect. You'll have plenty of opportunities to capture memories that will last a lifetime.

You might even be lucky enough to spot dolphins, seabirds, or other marine life during your cruise, adding a new layer of excitement. Sunset cruises Anna Maria Island offer a mix of natural beauty, romance, and relaxation. 

Sunset Cruise Tours:

• Anna Maria Island Dolphin Tours
• Anna Maria Sailing Adventures
• Paradise Boat Tours
• Segs by the Sea
• Captain Kathe's Boat Tours

Known for its stunning natural beauty, it offers a mix of habitats, including wetlands, mangrove forests, and tidal marshes, providing a home to various wildlife and plant species.

The preserve has well-maintained trails that are ideal for hiking and biking. You can rent a paddleboard and kayak to explore the waterways and mangrove tunnels.

Robinson Preserve Bradenton FL has picnic areas with scenic views, making it a great place for a leisurely outdoor meal with friends and family. It offers a peaceful escape into nature, providing outdoor activities and wildlife viewing opportunities.

• Address: 1704 99th St NW, Bradenton, FL 34209
• Contact: +1 941-742-5923

One of the absolute favorite spots is Anna Maria Oyster Bar Bradenton, known as 'AMOB.' It's perched on the Bradenton Beach Pier, offering a prime location and a welcoming and family-friendly vibe.

The staff is incredible, and the food and drinks are outstanding (don't miss their White Sandy Beaches or Toasted Monkey cocktails). Their Calamari, Tuna Stack and Jumbo Chicken Wings are stellar choices for starters.

You have a wide range of options for your main course, from perfectly prepared seafood and Gulf-fresh fish to oysters, steaks, chicken, hearty soups, and pasta at Anna Maria Oyster Bar On The Pier.

The best part? You get to enjoy all of this with a view of the ocean. Dining at the bar, where the food is incredibly fresh and the atmosphere is fantastic, is undoubtedly one of the top things to do.

• Address: 200 Bridge St, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
• Contact: +1 941-778-2662
• Menu: oysterbar.net
• Hours: 11 am to 10 pm