AMI Locals Vacation Rentals Archives – AMI Locals Blog

April 29, 2024April 29, 2024

Top 5 Reasons to Choose Anna Maria Island for Your Memorial Day Getaway

Photo with gray stars in the background on while with a Happy Memorial Day - Remember and Honor banner with an American Flag

Did you know Memorial Day weekend is the perfect opportunity to take a break from the hustle and bustle of life at home and enjoy quality time with your family and friends? Anna Maria Island offers an idyllic setting, a charming atmosphere, and enticing beaches for an escape. Here are the top five reasons to consider Anna Maria Island for your Memorial getaway, especially when staying in one of our luxurious AMI Locals vacation rentals.

1. Stunning Beaches

That feeling you get when you see the beach for the first time on vacation. White sands, beautiful, crystal-clear water

Anna Maria Island boasts seven miles of white sandy beaches, offering breathtaking views and various activities. There’s something for everyone, from swimming and soaking up the sun to playing beach volleyball and building ultimate sandcastles. The beaches here are also known for their safety and cleanliness, making them perfect for all family outings.

2. Exceptional Vacation Rentals

AMI Locals provides a selection of premium vacation rentals that help enhance your holiday experience, whether you’re looking for a cozy villa or a spacious beachfront home with a private pool. Accommodations that fit every need and budget, all our homes are fully equipped with all the comforts of home. Plus, some luxurious extras make your stay as comfortable and convenient as possible. Think of the memories you’ll unlock on your next stay with us.

3. Family-Friendly Activities: Dolphin Tours

Summer landscape near Anna Maria Island with dolphins swimming nearby boat

The dolphin tour is one of the most unique and must-do activities on Anna Maria Island. Many families love participating in this tour and seeing dolphins up close and personally from the water. Watch as they swim next to your boat or jump up for a little more excitement. Not only is this a fun and unique activity, but it’s also one everyone will remember for years. The area has many different tour operators to pick from, and many include other options.

4. Learn the History of Anna Maria Island at the Historical Society Museum

Take a trip to Anna Maria Island’s Historical Society Museum to learn a little more about the history of our island. The museum is in an old icehouse built in the 1920s. You’ll find items that showcase our island’s rich history through photographs, artifacts, and stories. Many say this is a short visit, but it offers an insight into how the island developed and what life was like for the early settlers. The best part of visiting this museum is that it’s free, which makes it budget-friendly for all our guests.

5. Vibrant Local Events

Customers pick fresh red peppers at the local farmers market.

Memorial Day weekend on Anna Maria Island bursts with vibrant events, from local parades honoring veterans to beachside cookouts, craft fairs, and lively farmers markets. There is always something happening on Anna Maria Island for this exciting holiday to help start the summer. Experiencing these events is a great way to engage with the community and the island’s culture and hospitality.

Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Anna Maria Island offers a perfect blend of both for your Memorial Day getaway. Staying in a vacation rental from AMI Locals allows you to enjoy the island like a local but with all the conveniences of home. Book your getaway today and plan an unforgettable holiday filled with sun, sand, and memories.

January 22, 2024January 22, 2024

Valentine’s Day Adventures for Families on Anna Maria Island

a border of valentine's day candy hearts on a light grey background with the words in dark gray that say "Valentine's Day Adventures for Families on Anna Maria Island"

Valentine’s Day isn’t just for couples. It’s a day to celebrate all kinds of love, including the love within families. This year, why not take your family to Anna Maria Island, a hidden gem on Florida’s Gulf Coast, for a Valentine’s adventure everyone will cherish? Staying in one of our AMI rentals will keep you and your family close to some of the action-packed fun. Here’s how you can spend this special day soaking up the sun, sea, and togetherness on this idyllic island.

Morning: Breakfast and Beach Time

Festive dish-Valentines day homemade pink colored heart shaped pancakes with berries. Vibrant indoors horizontal closeup image.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at one of the island’s cozy cafes, or make your family a memorable meal in your AMI rental. Many places offer unique Valentine’s Day treats, so indulge in heart-shaped pancakes or red velvet waffles. After breakfast, head to one of Anna Maria Island’s pristine beaches. Build sandcastles, collect seashells, or enjoy the gentle waves and warm sun. Remember to capture a family snapshot with the stunning Gulf of Mexico, providing the perfect backdrop!

Midday: Explore the Island

Rent bikes and explore the island’s charming neighborhoods. Stop by the local shops for unique souvenirs, and don’t miss out on tasting some delicious homemade ice cream. If your family loves adventure, you might consider a dolphin tour or a kayaking excursion through the mangroves. These activities are fun and offer an opportunity to learn about the local marine life and ecosystems.

Afternoon: A Picnic with a View

Young girl sharing broccoli with mother while sitting on blanket on beach

Pack a picnic and head to one of the island’s parks for lunch. Bayfront Park offers stunning views and an excellent playground for the kids. Enjoy your meal with the sight of the sparkling and perhaps a glimpse of dolphins playing in the distance.

Evening: Sunset Celebration

As the day winds down, find a spot on the beach for the main event: a spectacular Anna Maria Island sunset. Bring blankets and a light dinner, like sandwiches or a pizza from a local pizzeria. Observe as the sky transforms into a tapestry adorned with hues of oranges, pinks, and purples. This peaceful moment is perfect for reflecting on the love and bond your family shares.

Night: Stargazing and Sweet Dreams

Rear view of a young caucasian woman sitting on a tropical beach watching Milky way in a starry sky

If your little ones still have energy, end your night with stargazing on the beach. The island’s low light pollution means you can see various stars twinkling above. Finally, head back to your AMI rental, whether it’s a beachfront home or a home with a pool, and tuck into bed with hearts full of love and memories to last a lifetime.

Celebrating Valentine’s Day on Anna Maria Island with your family is an excellent way to escape from the everyday routine and create memorable moments together. Whether through shared adventures, relaxing on the beach, or simply enjoying each other’s company in a beautiful setting. These shared moments will deepen the bonds of the family and remind everyone that love comes in many forms.

November 27, 2023November 27, 2023

Anna Maria Island Makes Waves with Travelers from All Over

Anna Maria Island is a 7-mile-long barrier island on Florida’s Gulf Coast that is a true hidden gem! Major travel publications including Travel +Leisure, The Wall Street Journal, Herald-Tribune, and Thrillist, have recently recognized Anna Maria Island as a must-visit destination. Let’s explore what makes Anna Maria Island stand out as a travel destination!

Modern Florida Charm

Cultivated by a loyal following, thanks to its no-high-rises shoreline, incredible sunsets, and small-town feel, Anna Maria Island has become increasingly popular amongst vacationers who want to feel like they’ve escaped (Thrillist and Travel + Leisure). Rich in historic landmarks, visitors can check out the AMI City Pier, Anna Maria City Jail, Cortez Fishing Village, and the Anna Maria Historical Society for more information on how this island came to be (Thrillist and Herald-Tribune).

Activities, Restaurants, and Shops

Thrillist suggests the best way to explore the blue waters and to catch a view of our local manatees and dolphins is atop a kayak or paddleboard, or you can book a boat cruise from Bradenton Beach Marina. The restaurants are spread across the charming island and include great spots, including The Doctor’s Office and The Beach Bistro for beachfront dining, and the Rod N Reel Pier is an Instagram-worthy spot to visit and boasts Tampa Bay views. (Herald-Tribune and Thrillist). You cannot forget about Pine Avenue; it offers a unique variety of boutiques locally made, restaurants, and cute coffee and donut shops (Thrillist).

Pristine Gulf of Mexico Beaches

Anna Maria Island has six award-winning beaches with easy access that are the biggest draw for locals and visitors alike according to the Wall Street Journal. Some beaches feature ice cream shops and beachside seafood shacks (Herald-Tribune!) Visitors can enjoy the white sandy beaches and calm waters from the comfort of their vacation rental home‘s backyard or take short walks to the sparkling beaches.

We are so happy to be recognized by major publications and cannot wait to share our charming beach town. Whether you are searching for a beachfront condo, dog-friendly rentals, water access homes, or inviting three-bedroom homes, we have something for everyone!

Start booking your dream Anna Maria Island Vacation today!

May 31, 2022August 10, 2022

3 Best Places to Grab Breakfast on Anna Maria Island in 2022

breakfast on a table showing bacon, eggs, toast

One of the best things about going on vacation anywhere is eating out for breakfast. Taking a break at any time of the year can be just as exciting, especially when you don’t have to cook at least once while you’re gone. Staying in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals will keep you close to some of the exciting places. Let’s look below at where we recommend our picks for the three best restaurants to eat breakfast on the island.

Anna Maria Island Beach Café

tables and chairs with place settings along with trees and umbrellas on the beach overlooking the blue water

Would you like a beautiful beachfront view while you’re eating breakfast? If the answer is yes, we’d love to tell you about Anna Maria Island Beach Café. This is an excellent pick for an early morning breakfast option on the island that comes with a fantastic view. Their menu includes All-You-Can-Eat Pancakes, French Toast, Eggs, and Bagels, and we can’t forget about the Breakfast Tacos. Don’t miss out on eating at this restaurant on your next vacation to Anna Maria Island.

The Waffle Press

The Waffle Press is another great place to grab breakfast on Anna Maria Island. Get your family one of their scratch-made waffles, including the Camper (Smores), Grand Slam, Canadian, Waffle Sandwiches, and more. They also have an excellent menu for coffee and baked goods that you may want to try. And if you have young kids or just want a snack, grab their mini waffles too to take back to your vacation rental.

The Donut Experience

donuts with fruit loops, oreos and chocolate frosting on them.

Did someone say Donut?! If you have kids or like eating donuts, and you’re looking for something a little different, then The Donut Experience is for you. Located in the heart of Anna Maria Island is where you’ll find this gem that many forget it’s here. One of the things that many love about this restaurant or donut shop is that you can pick what goes on them. First, you will pick out your icing. Next, you will pick out the toppings to go onto your donuts, and then you choose which drizzle you’d like. This can be a fun thing to do with the kids on a rainy day or as you’re getting ready to go check in for your vacation.

While there are many other fun places to grab breakfast from on Anna Maria Island, we wanted to share these with you. If you haven’t booked your vacation to stay in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals, call us. We can’t wait to hear where your favorite breakfast was from on the island!

September 29, 2020August 10, 2022

3 Fun Museums to Check Out Around Anna Maria Island

Do you and your family have a vacation planned to visit Anna Maria Island this year, and you’d like to see some educational places? If the answer is yes, we’d like to share three fun museums with you to check out in the area. Staying in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals will keep you and your family close to the action. Let’s look below at the three museums that you should check out around Anna Maria Island.

DeSoto National Memorial

Did you know that the DeSoto National Memorial is just a short drive from Anna Maria Island? This memorial features a visitor center with impressive displays of historical weapons and armor from the 1500s. You and your family can do plenty of things, such as having lunch outside in the picnic area or going on a hike on one of the nature trails. Be sure to bring your camera, plenty of sunscreens, because of the hot Florida sun and bug spray. This memorial is also pet-friendly so if you do get your pet with you, make sure to have their leash and plenty of treats and water for them as well. Think of what a great day you and your family will have learned a little history of the area!

Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum

This museum is located in the northern part of AMI and is one of the area’s most exciting museums. This is where you will be able to find several original pieces of history of the island. You will see some of the things that are the icehouse, the original jailhouse, and the Bella Haven Home, which happens to be a historical 100-year-old cottage. Admission to the Anna Maria Island Historical Society is free and is quite a hidden little gem in the area. It’s one you and your family won’t want to miss!

The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature

Another great museum that you and your family should check out is The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature. This museum has so many different engaging exhibits that will make coming a great way to learn. With many kids doing virtual learning online or homeschooling, a day or two at the museum will be more hands-on learning. Some of the exhibits that you will find at the museum are the mosaic backyard universe, the manatee habitat, and we can’t forget about the Planetarium. This will be a great day spent learning and exploring all the fun things that this museum has to offer families.

While there are many other fun things you can do in the area, we wanted to share them with you. If you haven’t booked your next vacation to Anna Maria Island in one of our vacation rentals, now is the time. We hope to see you and your family as you make new memories this year together!

September 1, 2020August 10, 2022

Experience Kayaking & Paddleboarding on Anna Maria Island

Do you and your family love to get outside and experience new things while on vacation? If the answer is yes, then allow us to share a few things that your family can do here on Anna Maria Island. Staying in one of our AMI Locals vacation rentals will allow your family to be close to the action. Let’s look below at how you can experience kayaking and paddleboarding here on the island.

Kayaking Around the Island

Have you ever been kayaking at home or even at a different destination? We can tell you that kayaking is one of our guests’ favorite things to do. Whether you have brought your kayak or you’re renting one, the time you spend on the water may become your favorite thing to do. You will find that many of our waterfront properties will allow you and the family to put your kayak into the water. Having access so close to where you will be staying will allow more time outside and having the time of your lives. If you aren’t staying in a waterfront property, then you will be happy to know we have a few places where you can go to put in your kayak around town.

Bimini Bay – this is located in the Holmes Beach area and is one of the best places to launch your kayak from. You can also launch directly from the pier and paddle away together as a family.
Robinson Preserve – this is another excellent location that is along the Manatee Avenue Causeway.
De Soto National Memorial Park – this happens to be a national park, and if you’re interested in learning a little, they do offer ranger-led tours.

Paddleboarding

Another fun activity that you can do while you are on vacation to Anna Maria Island is paddleboarding. This is another activity that is excellent exercise and fun for the whole family. Whether you have been paddleboarding before or not, the laughs are too much to handle at times. There are many different rental locations around the island that no only will give you tours, but they will also deliver your paddleboard to your vacation rental. Again staying in waterfront property will allow you to have access to the water a little easier, but you will still be able to access the water elsewhere too. Many of the locations above will allow you to put your paddleboard into the water, but we do suggest that taking a tour is the way to go.

While there are many other fun things to do here on Anna Maria Island, we wanted to share these with you. If you haven’t booked your next vacation to stay with us in one of our AMI Locals vacation rentals, now is the time. We can’t wait to hear about the adventures you have on the water!

July 31, 2020August 10, 2022

How AMI Locals is Keeping Our Guests Safe During COVID-19

Do you and your family have a vacation planned to Anna Maria Island this year? If you do and you’re still not sure about traveling, we at AMI Locals want to share how we’re keeping you safe. Staying in one of our AMI Locals vacation rentals will allow you and your family to feel like you’re still at home but enjoying our beautiful beaches. Let’s look below at how we are keeping our guests safe on their next visit to Anna Maria Island this year.

Housekeeping Services

How AMI Locals is Keeping Our Guests Safe During COVID-19

One of the main things that we at AMI Locals have done is make sure that our homes that you’re renting are clean. We have since the COVID-19 pandemic began made sure that all of our cleaning crews will exceed your expectations. Our cleaning staff wear gloves and masks at all times as they are cleaning each unit. This is something that we know is very important to helping stop the virus from spreading. We have been utilizing a disinfectant spray that has been approved by the CDC to kill any virus or bacteria left in the homes. We make sure that every linen and trash is removed from the home after the previous guests leaves and we make sure that every room and inch of the home is clean for your family to enjoy!

Linens

Another big thing that we do make sure of is that each piece of the linens that come in and out of our homes are professionally cleaned. This includes towels, washcloths and kitchen towels as we will replace with a freshly laundered set. Our cleaning company does happen to use the OZONE system which does provide 100% sanitation. This is very important as we want to make sure that everything is completely clean and sanitized before your arrival to your AMI Locals vacation rental.

We know that with COVID-19 has made many uncomfortable with traveling but rest assured that we have taken care of the worry for you. Instead of worrying about your vacation, just come and enjoy your time here on the island. If you’d like to book your next vacation stay in one of our AMI Locals vacation rentals, we are here to help you. We hope to see you and your family on your next vacation as you relax and enjoy the beautiful beaches!

June 1, 2020August 10, 2022

Coming Back to Island Time – An AMI Update

Do you have a family vacation planned to visit Anna Maria Island this summer but aren’t sure of the current updates? We at AMI Locals have got you covered as we, too, want to make sure that your family is safe on your vacation. Staying in one of our AMI vacation rentals will allow you and your family to stay together and still have a good trip. Let’s look below at a few updates that we have compiled together on how you can still enjoy your summer vacation this year.

Is Anna Maria Island Open for Business?

Yes, Anna Maria Island is open for business, and we at AMI Locals are ready for you and your family to come vacation with us. There are, however, some things that we must tell you about before you schedule your next trip or before you head to the island to relax.

Right now, the parking on the streets in Holmes Beach and Anna Maria Island has been restricted with time limits. There are, however, Public Beach Parking lots that are open with no time restrictions for you to use.
Social Distancing on the beach is strongly encouraged, but it is not being enforced. This also goes for being out in public in general with the family.
Restaurants and Businesses are operating at a lower capacity and will be following all recommended safety measures to keep the guests safe.
Visitors from “hotspot” states that have been defined by our Governor are being discouraged from coming to AMI and will not be allowed to check in to vacation rentals.

What Changes in Cleaning Have You Made?

https://www.amilocals.com/professional-cleaning-services

Since we first heard about the outbreak of COVID-19, we have made some changes to our housekeeping services. We know that making sure each vacation rental has been thoroughly cleaned before and after each guest checks out. Our cleaning staff wears masks and gloves at all times, and we make sure they utilize a disinfecting spray. This spray has been approved by the CDC to kill viruses and bacteria as well. Our Professional Linen Service ensures that all linens, towels, washcloths, and kitchen towels are removed after each guest and are replaced with freshly laundered ones. Our cleaning company uses the OZONE system, which provides 100% sanitation.

Enjoy Some Local Virtual Fun from the Comforts of Your Home

Coming Back to Island Time – An AMI Update

While you wait for your upcoming vacation, get in the mood by having a little virtual fun from some local places. We have compiled a list that you and your family can enjoy from the comforts of your home.

Van Wezel Artworks Anywhere – Learn to Make Puppets, design costumes, and more!
Mote Goes ReMote – Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium presents a plethora of educational videos for everyone in the family to enjoy! Plus, check out the Manatee, Shark & Otter Webcams today!
Museums from Home – By the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, you will get to see stories, tours, and educational videos for all to enjoy! The Manatees are our favorite!

While other things are going around in the area, we wanted to keep you and your family up to date on what is happening here on the island. If you haven’t booked your next vacation today to stay with us at AMI Locals, now is the time. We can’t wait to see you and your family as you make new memories this summer by relaxing and enjoying the beach!

March 16, 2020August 10, 2022

Easter is Coming…Let’s Head to Anna Maria Island!

In just a few short weeks it will be Easter and what a better way than to head to Anna Maria Island to celebrate. Anna Maria Island is a great place where you and your family can enjoy some time away from real life back home and soak up the sun. Staying in one of our Beachfront vacation rentals will keep you and your family close to the sun & fun. Let’s look below at what you and your family can do while you spend Easter here on the island.

AMI Dolphin Tour

Do you have a child or someone in your family who loves dolphins? If you do, then book an AMI Dolphin Tour today. Not only do they have dolphin tours during the day, but they also offer sunset dolphin tours too. While on your tour you may have the opportunity to see dolphins, sea turtles, Manatees or even other tropical wildlife. Be sure to bring with you plenty of sunscreen, a hat, towel and let’s not forget a camera. What a great way to spend some quality time with your family as you enjoy the tour!

Clearwater Marine Aquarium

Spending a day at nearby Clearwater Marine Aquarium can be fun and exciting for all in the family. If you’ve never seen the movie “A Dolphin Tale” then you may not know the story of Winter the dolphin. Not only can you see Winter who has a prosthetic fin but can see other animals too. They also have several different exhibits that you can visit such as Mavis’s Rescue Hideaway and Underwater Viewing. What a great way to spend the day out and getting to learn a little too while on your vacation.

Easter Egg Hunt

Have your own Easter Egg Hunt this year at your Beachfront vacation rental with the family. Setting up a little hunt around your vacation rental can be fun for the kids to enjoy since you will miss the ones back home. Be sure though to not put anything that may be harmful to any of the wildlife and we suggest that you only hide them on the property and not the beach. We don’t want the eggs to get washed away by the ocean or for any small child to find the eggs. Just have a good time with the family as you participate in your very own Easter Egg Hunt together!

While there are many other fun things that you and your family can do this Easter, these are a few we wanted to share with you. If you haven’t booked your Easter vacation to Anna Maria Island in a Beachfront vacation rental, now is the time. We can’t wait to see you and your family on the upcoming holiday!

February 23, 2019August 10, 2022

What to Pack for Your Vacation to Anna Maria Island

You have just booked your next family vacation to Anna Maria Island and you have asked off work to be able to go and relax on vacation. But we know that for many families packing can be a daunting task, especially when you are vacationing with little ones. Having a plan or even a list can help you pack for the whole family so that you can relax and enjoy your beach vacation. We at AMI Locals have come up with a list to get you started on packing for your upcoming vacation.

Before you Start Packing

Going on vacation can be fun, exciting and relaxing but knowing a few things before you start to pack can help you in the long run. Always check the local forecast before you leave on vacation and yes, even before you pack. You know that you will need your swimsuits and shorts for your vacation, you may also need to bring a rain jacket or even a lightweight sweater as well depending on the time of year you visit.
Make a list of activities that you’d like to do with the family including day trips, outings or eating out. Be sure to make a list for the whole family of what you will need. We suggest doing this a few weeks before your trip just in case you need to add a few things at the last minute.
Organize a wardrobe for each day especially for the little ones including underwear and sleepwear too. To help keep you organized when packing the little ones, grab a box of gallon sized Ziploc bags and put two outfits in each one for each day. This can not only help you stay organized but can also help keep up with what they will wear each day too.

Clothing

Beach Clothing | This should consist of swimsuits (we suggest at least 2 for each family member), hats, flip-flops and cover ups (a lightweight dress will do too).
Everyday Clothing | Each member of the family should have at least 1 outfit for each day of vacation plus a couple extra ones for emergencies. For the younger children, we suggest at least 2 outfits a day and that includes underwear and socks.
Footwear | We understand that some shoes are bulky, and you don’t want to bring them, so we suggest bringing 3 pairs for each family member. A pair of comfortable tennis shoes for walking any distance, a pair of flip-flops and a nicer pair in case you want a date night or two.
Nighttime Clothing | Don’t forget about packing your pajamas and plenty of underwear and socks.

Toiletries

Haircare Products | Shampoo, Conditioner, Hair Ties, Hair Gel, Shower Cap, Hair Dryer, Flat Iron, Brushes, etc.
Mouth Care | Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Floss
Eye-care | Contacts & Case, Contact Solution, Glasses, Sunglasses
Everything Else | Safety Pins, Feminine Products, Razors, Body Wash, Soap, Cotton Swabs, Air Freshener, etc.

Medicine Bag

Prescription Medication | Bring all medications in their original bottles in case you need to go see a doctor while on vacation you know what you are on. (Also have a list on your phone in case of an emergency.
Over the Counter Medications | Benadryl, Motrin, Tylenol, Vitamins
First Aid Kit | Band-Aids, Neosporin, Sunscreen, Aloe, etc.

Miscellaneous

These are the other items that you will need to bring with you on vacation such as things for the beach including a beach bag, chairs, towels, sand toys, beach umbrella and more. Also, if you’d like to bring your bikes you can especially for the younger kids so they can have fun at your AMI Locals vacation rental. Books and things that the kids can color with can help keep them busy on a rainy day too.

There are so many other things that you can pack for your family vacation, but we felt this list should do the trick. If you still haven’t booked your next family vacation to Anna Maria Island, we suggest you check out our availability. We can’t wait to see you and your family on your next adventure to our beautiful island!