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.

Why Winter is the Best Time to Explore Anna Maria Island

white sands on a beach with a beautiful blue and dark blue color water, blue sky and in a teal color writing that says Why Winter is the Beast Time to Explore Anna Maria Island

When the chill of winter begins to bite in many places around the United States, Anna Maria Island off Florida’s Gulf Coast offers a warm and inviting escape. Renowned for its idyllic landscapes and pleasant climate, winter here is the season of beauty and outdoor adventure. As your guides to this island paradise, we at AMI Locals are excited to share why winter is the ideal time to explore our beautiful island.

Ideal Weather for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Two kayakers on a green and red kayak each, having an oar with yellow paddles on them, wearing a yellow life vest on calm waters on the gulf of mexico

Anna Maria Island is a haven of sunny skies and moderate temperatures during the winter. The cooler weather is perfect for a range of outdoor activities. Enjoy biking along scenic trails, kayaking through calm waters, or simply indulging in a relaxing day of fishing. The mild winter climate ensures your outdoor adventures are comfortable and enjoyable for the whole family.

Peaceful & Less Crowded

Winter on Anna Maria Island is a time of tranquility. The usual crowds thin out, leaving the beaches and attractions less populated. This quieter atmosphere allows for a more laid-back and personalized experience. The island’s serene beaches offer the perfect backdrop for peaceful walks, relaxation, or just basking in the soothing sounds of the waves. Plus, you can take advantage of the crystal-clear blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico and search for those perfect shells as a souvenir.

Unique Wildlife Sightings

picture of a spoonbill flying along the coast of Florida with greenery in the background

The island’s cooler months attract migratory birds, turning it into a birdwatcher’s paradise. Some of the birds that you may happen to see are the Osprey, Cormorants, Spoonbills, and a Laughing Gull. The surrounding waters are also home to various marine life, including dolphins and manatees. They are often more visible and active during the winter season.

Comfortable and Cozy Accommodations

AMI Locals provides a range of accommodations to suit any winter getaway. From cozy beach cottages to luxurious villas, each property is designed to offer comfort and warmth. Enjoy a coffee with a stunning Gulf view or relax on a beachfront property – all within reach this winter. No matter the size of your family, we have a vacation rental just for you to enjoy.

Delectable Dining Experiences

a bowl of ice filled with fresh seafood and a bottle of tabasco pepper sauce

The island’s dining scene remains vibrant in the winter, with the added advantage of less crowded restaurants. This is the perfect time to enjoy the best tables at top-rated restaurants and charming beachside cafes. Now is the time to sample fresh seafood and local specialties as you dine in some of the best places you can find along the West Coast of Florida!

In essence, Anna Maria Island in winter transcends the typical winter experience. It’s where cool breezes, gentle waves, and stunning natural beauty create that peaceful winter haven. With AMI Locals, your winter escape to Anna Maria Island promises a memorable and enriching experience. Book your stay with us and discover the unique charm of our island this winter.

FALL in Love with Anna Maria Island

Fall-On-Anna-Maria-Island-Uncrowded-Beach-AMI-Locals

Fall in Love with Anna Maria Island. It is not hard to do when you vacation during the months of Fall on Anna Maria Island.

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to vacation on Anna Maria Island during the fall months of September, October, and November? Here is a little secret: This is our favorite time of year on the island! Even though it may not feel like colder weather and there are no landscapes of color-changing leaves to look at…the spirit of Fall takes over Anna Maria.

Less Crowds

Generally, by this time of year, the crowds have dwindled. You can get a feel for what it is like to live like a local on Anna Maria Island during the Fall months. By now, most of the kids have all returned to school, and the beaches are quiet. So, head out to the beach for a secluded and relaxing day. Grab a book and read. Or, close your eyes and soak up plenty of warm rays from the sun.  There is nothing like getting a tan in the Fall on Anna Maria Island. During the Fall on Anna Maria Island, the lack of crowds is evident everywhere. After relaxing at the beach, explore the uncrowded restaurants, shops, and bars. Just jump on the free Anna Maria Island trolley and explore the island from end to end. Maybe find a new favorite spot to grab a bite to eat. During the Fall on Anna Maria Island, you will find much shorter wait times for a table at most of our popular dining options!

The-Sandbar-Restaurant-Anna-Maria-Island
Visit the Sandbar Restaurant for Gulf Side dining at it’s finest

Festivals Galore

As October and November roll in, so do all the area festivals! In my opinion, the Fall on Anna Maria Island – October to December – are the best months of the year to explore all the great happenings in and around Anna Maria Island. Maybe you keep it super local and head down to the Coquina Beach Market at the island’s South end to search for treasures from local artists and vendors, all while taking in the beautiful gulf views.

Also, look for Halloween-style island events. From costume contests to the Anna Maria Elementary Fall Festival, there is fun to be had for all ages! Take advantage of the Trail of Treats if you find yourself here with your little ones on Halloween. This is where area businesses hand out goodies to all the dressed-up kiddos!  If you get adventurous and head off the island, you will find some exciting events! Maybe head East and go to a good old-fashioned pumpkin festival. There are plenty to choose from! Or, take a ride on the Pumpkin Patch Express at the Florida Railroad Museum, where you can journey on an open-air train through the picturesque countryside of Manatee County. The train ride ends at a remote pumpkin patch. There, everyone selects a pumpkin and gets to bring back the perfect gourd for an island-style pumpkin carving party. With so many things going on, how will you choose? Check out our area events calendar when planning your next Anna Maria Island getaway

Halloween-On-Anna-Maria-Island
Halloween on Anna Maria is a Scary Fun Time!

Beautiful Weather

While the island is beautiful and sunny almost all year, the Fall months on Anna Maria Island are very refreshing. They can bring a nice break from the high humidity and hot, sticky days that rule the Summer. While the days are warm and pleasant, with temperatures hovering in the 80’s, the evenings can often bring a nice breeze and cool down into the low to mid 70’s. This makes those evening strolls on the beach even more enjoyable. You may still even be able to catch a glimpse of the spectacular sea turtle nests. Some of the eggs will still be waiting to hatch. Sea turtle season runs until the end of October every year. Each nest is marked and secured with “caution tape.” Witnessing the hatching of a nest and watching all those tiny sea turtles take off toward the water is one of the most fascinating and memorable sights you will ever see!

Turtles-On-The-Beach-Anna-Maria-Island-Florida-AMI-Locals
Watch the Baby Turtles hatch on Anna Maria Island

Get Out On The Water

The Fall on Anna Maria Island is also an excellent time of year to fish. Being a barrier island, you can enjoy offshore and inshore fishing the best. This time of year, trout, flounder, redfish, cobia, snapper, and permit take center stage for near-shore fishing. Perhaps one of our spectacular Waterfront Homes would give you the best opportunity to do a little fishing right in your backyard! Or, allow you to bring your boat and secure it behind your vacation home. You can always book a local fishing charter to show you all the best spots to drop a line. Or, just head out to one of the island’s piers. Whichever you choose, we can help point you in the right direction. If fishing is not your forte, then perhaps a leisurely cruise around the coastline of our little island is more your speed. We have some excellent suggestions for dolphin cruises, sunset cruises, and snorkeling excursions on our website. With clear, sparkling aqua

Fishing-Boat-Tampa-Bay-Anna-Maria-Island-Florida
Boating, Fishing, and Diving are great in the Fall.

What Are You Waiting For?

So, whether you want to get away for a romantic week for two or you are traveling with a group, we have a unique and luxurious vacation home waiting just for you. Visit our AMI Locals Rental Page to pick your next vacation home from our list of exceptional properties. Or, contact one of our property managers to make your vacation dreams a reality this Fall on Anna Maria Island. Let us show you how to vacation like a local!

MLB Spring Training and an AMI Beach Vacation



So if you’re anything like us, you can’t wait for the day that baseball players report for MLB Spring Training. Finally, we can enjoy the sunshine, hot dogs and cold beer, and BASEBALL! And Florida is lucky enough to host the Grapefruit League, so there are plenty of teams and stadiums within a very short road trip of Anna Maria Island. Then why not enjoy a relaxing Anna Maria Beach Vacation along with an MLB Spring Training game? Let AMI Locals show you how.

National Anthem before an Orioles Spring Training Game at Ed Smith Stadium in Sarasota.

Play ball! Spring Training begins in February.

Beginning in February, there are many Major League Baseball teams that come to Florida to play baseball in the mild Winter and warm Spring days that we enjoy here; such as the Pittsburgh Pirates, Boston Red Sox, Baltimore Orioles, and New York Yankees. We here at AMI Locals are ready to be your guide to planning a grand slam vacation!

First, take a look at the Grapefruit League Spring Training schedule and available tickets. Second, find your favorite MLB team and choose a game (or several!) that you’d like to attend. With this in mind, get your cheering section together and book one of our fabulous AMI Locals luxury vacation rental homes for your adventure. After all, we have a wide variety of homes available for any size group. Such as Just Beachy with 6 bedrooms, or Island Life with 3 bedrooms, all the way up to our 9 bedroom beauty Island Sol! When you are combining a beach vacation with a Spring Training game in the same trip, it’s bound to be a home run of fun!

Our view from the bleacher seats at LECOM park in Bradenton.

Nearby Bradenton and Sarasota MLB Spring Training Stadiums

For example, Anna Maria Island is within a very short distance of two Spring Training fields. The Pittsburgh Pirates play at nearby LECOM Park in downtown Bradenton, an easy 20-minute drive from AMI. So be sure to head out for the game early and stop by one of our favorite breweries!
Additionally, The Baltimore Orioles’ Spring Training home is at Ed Smith Stadium in Sarasota. So it’s a fun way to spend an afternoon there! Afterwards, why not explore downtown Sarasota’s Main Street for shopping and happy hour while you are in the neighborhood?

  • LECOM Park – 1611 9th St W, Bradenton, FL 34205
  • Ed Smith Stadium – 2700 12th St, Sarasota, FL 34237

Tampa area MLB Spring Training Stadiums to visit

Then, about an hour away, you have the Bronx Bombers, The New York Yankees spending their Spring Training time at Steinbrenner Field in Tampa. Also, The Philadelphia Phillies play at Spectrum Field in Clearwater,  The Toronto Blue Jays at Dunedin Stadium in Dunedin, and The Detroit Tigers at Publix Field in Lakeland.

  • Steinbrenner Field – 1 Steinbrenner Dr, Tampa, FL 33614
  • Spectrum Field – 601 N Old Coachman Rd, Clearwater, FL 33765
  • Dunedin Stadium – 373 Douglas Ave, Dunedin, FL 34698
  • Publix Field – 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland, FL 33805
Representin’ the St. Louis Cardinals, Tampa Bay Rays, and the NY Yankees at Steinbrenner Field in Tampa. Baseball and friends – what a great way to spend a day!

Teams worth traveling a little further to see – The BoSox and beyond

Next up on the tour, the Tampa Bay Rays play at Charlotte Sports Park in Port Charlotte, about an hour and 15 minutes away. Our hometown Rays are always fun to watch! Unfortunately this year, the MLB Spring Training for our Tampa Bay Rays will be at Disney’s ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex due to too much damage from Hurricane Ian to our home stadium.

  • Charlotte Sports Park – 2300 El Jobean Rd, Port Charlotte, FL 33948
  • Disney’s ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex – 700 S Victory Way, Orlando, FL 34747

Then, you’ll hear Sweet Caroline playing when the Boston Red Sox win at JetBlue Park in Fort Myers, and the Minnesota Twins also take the field at Hammond Stadium in Fort Myers, about a 2 hour drive south of Anna Maria Island.

  • JetBlue Park – 11500 Fenway South Drive, Fort Myers, FL 33913
  • Hammond Stadium – 14100 6 Mile Cypress Pkwy, Fort Myers, FL 33912

Visit Orlando to see ATL

Finally, the Atlanta Braves play at Champion Stadium in Lake Buena Vista, just outside of Orlando, about 2 ½ – 3 hours from Anna Maria Island.

  • Champion Stadium – ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, 700 S Victory Way, Kissimmee, FL 34747
Watching the Orioles play at Ed Smith Stadium in Sarasota. Night games are also a great way to enjoy your beach days and then an MLB Spring Training game!

Directions and destinations from Anna Maria Island to MLB Spring Training stadiums

To get from Anna Maria Island to these ballparks, you’ll first cross the Manatee Avenue Bridge. Then you will continue eastward on Manatee Avenue – and now you need to choose your destination: Bradenton/Sarasota, Tampa area, Port Charlotte, Fort Myers, or the Orlando area.
Before you leave the Island, search by the chosen ballpark’s address that we have provided above. Our favorite is Google Maps for turn-by-turn directions and time estimates.

So, whatcha waiting for? Pack your bathing suits and baseball gloves, buy your tickets, and call your AMI Locals to book your vacation rental home. Since the peanuts and Cracker Jack will be at the stadium, there’s no need to bring that from home! Batter up!

Explore Springfest 2023 this year on your Vacation to Anna Maria Island



Explore Springfest 2020 this year on your Vacation to Anna Maria Island

Do you and your family have a vacation planned to Anna Maria Island in March? If the answer is yes, then we need to let you know about the fun that is happening at this year’s Springfest. Staying in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals will keep you and your family close to where the fun is at. Let’s look below at what your family can enjoy while you are on vacation during Springfest this year.

About the Festival

Explore Springfest 2020 this year on your Vacation to Anna Maria Island

If you have never been to Springfest before then you are in for a treat! Springfest is sponsored by the Anna Maria Island Art League is and held every year. This year the dates to attend the festival is March 18th & 19th, 2023 in Holmes Beach. This is a fine arts & crafts festival that you won’t want to miss this year. Springfest is returning for its 35th year and is one that will allow you and your family to check out the local’s crafts and art. This year it will begin at 10:00 am at City Hall Field and we promise you that it’s one you can’t miss!

What to Find & Buy

Explore Springfest 2020 this year on your Vacation to Anna Maria Island

Some of the fun things that you will be able to purchase at Springfest 2023 are crafts, art and fine art from 80 professional artists. With having so much to check out, it’s good that there are two days that you can hang out at the festival and also listen to some excellent music, get to try a variety of food & treats and so much more. There will also be different things that the kids can participate in to create their very own arts and crafts. Just think of the memories that you can make while on this vacation to Anna Maria Island.

While there are other fun things that you will be able to check out on your next vacation to Anna Maria Island, we wanted to share the details about Springfest 2023 with you. If you haven’t booked your vacation to stay in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals yet, now is the time. We can’t wait to see you and your family as you help us celebrate Springfest 2023 together!

Best Coffee Shops on Anna Maria Island

Best Coffee Shops on Anna Maria Island

If you and your family are coming to Anna Maria Island for vacation, then we must tell you all about the Best Coffee Shops on the island. Many of the locals find that getting their daily dose of caffeine at these shops will help you enjoy your vacation a little more. And if you happen to be staying in one of our Water Access vacation rentals, then you won’t be far off from any of them. Let’s look at our picks for the best coffee shops on Anna Maria Island.

North Shore Cafe

You’ll find a quaint coffee shop in the heart of Anna Maria Island called North Shore Café. Here you’ll be able to grab a nice cup of coffee and some wonderful breakfast selections. Many of their customers rave about the different kinds of coffee drinks they have, along with their specialty teas and their smoothies. And if you’re up for something the kids will enjoy, check out the gourmet popsicles they offer. Something about this little coffee shop will make you continue to visit for years to come. Don’t forget to check out their little store and bring home a souvenir to remember this fantastic coffee shop!

Ginny’s & Jane E’s Café

Best Coffee Shops on Anna Maria Island

If you are searching for a coffee shop that has some amazing food, coffee and that “Old Florida” feel, then we suggest Ginny’s & Jane E’s Café. Here you and your family will not only be able to get coffee, but you can get Breakfast and Lunch from 7:00 am to 4:00 pm every day. Some of the coffee that you will be able to get are eclectic and many of the locals love them!  They have many different options of drinks that you can get including smoothies and Frappuccino’s. Many of the local’s love heading here for more of their signature drinks that they have to offer you and your family.

Two Scoops

Two Scoops is not like any coffee shop that you have probably been to and is very unique to many visitors to Anna Maria Island. Here you will not only be able to take advantage of the ice cream goodies, but you will also be able to enjoy Breakfast & Lunch as well as the coffee. Located at 101 S. Bay Blvd in Anna Maria Island, Two Scoops is open 7 days a week from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm. Here you are able to grab a quick bite to eat, have a few cups of coffee and then to finish off the visit grab yourself a scoop or two of ice cream. This is not like any other coffee shop that you have been to and we highly recommend you check it out too.

The Donut Experiment

Best Coffee Shops on Anna Maria Island

If you and your family love donuts, then this is a café that you must visit on your next vacation to Anna Maria Island. Locals consider this café to have some of the best donuts around and we can tell you that we too agree. Why not head to The Donut Experiment, grab a dozen of donuts as you make your own creations with different toppings and a cup of coffee or two. Sit back and enjoy the scenery and also some of the staples that many are looking for as far as coffee goes. Here you are able to grab a hot cup of coffee, iced lattes and even cold brew. We promise you that this is a place you need to visit on your next vacation to the island!

While there are other coffee shops that are on Anna Maria Island or in nearby Bradenton, we thought that you’d enjoy these. And if you are still searching for the right place to come stay in on Anna Maria Island, the you must check out our Water Access vacation rentals today. We look forward to seeing you and your family soon as you stay with us at AMI Locals.  

Don’t Miss These Fun Events This December on Anna Maria Island

Sandy christmas snowman in red santa hat and sunglasses at sunny beach. Holiday concept for New Years Cards.

Do you and your family have a vacation planned to Anna Maria Island in December? If the answer is yes, allow us to share a few fun things in the area. Staying in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals will allow you and your family to be close to the fun. Let’s look below at when and where you’ll be able to attend these fun events on Anna Maria Island.

Did Someone Say a Boat Parade?

Boats lit up with Christmas lights parked at the dock in Florida

 One of the best things about vacationing on Anna Maria Island during December is seeing the boat parade. This year head over to Bradenton Beach for the 4th Annual Holiday Boat Parade. The event will take place on Saturday, December 3rd starting at 6:00 pm along the Intracoastal Waterway. You and your family will be able to see the parade from two different locations – Longboat Pass Bridge and Bradenton Beach City Pier. Think of the memories you’ll make while watching the beautiful boats pass by, all decorated for the holidays.

Privateers Christmas Parade

This December the Privateers Christmas Parade will be island-wide and will run the entire island length. The fun parade to see with the family is happening on Saturday, December 10th, 2022, from 10:00 am until 12:00 pm. This parade is presented by the Anna Maria Island Privateers and can’t be missed. After the parade, don’t leave as Santa & Mrs. Claus will be making their appearance and will have a party for the kids. Get in the Christmas spirit with the whole family as you enjoy your day together on the island.

Annual Christmas on Bridge Street

Another fun event that is returning in 2022 is the Annual Christmas on Bridge Street celebration in Bradenton Beach. On December 17th, 2022, starting at 3:00 pm and ended at 9:00 pm on Bridge Street is where you’ll be able to locate this fun-filled event. There will be plenty for the whole family to do, including a kid’s zone, holiday crafts, shopping, and food. Don’t miss out on this event this year as you help us celebrate the holidays.

Two hot cocoa drink on a bed of snow and white background, close up. Concept of christmas winter morning

Many other things are happening in the area this December, but we had to tell you of the ones listed above. If you haven’t booked your next stay in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals, give us a call today. We hope to see you out there and can’t wait to hear which event was your favorite.

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!

4 Fun Beach Games that the Whole Family will Love

Father and daughter playing frisbee

Do you and your family have a vacation planned to Anna Maria Island this year? If the answer is yes, then allow us with AMI Locals to share a few games to play on the beach. Staying in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals will allow you and your family to connect. Let’s look below at what four fun beach games we’d like to share with you that the whole family will love.

Seashell Hunt

two young children, a boy and his baby brother are on the beach by the ocean shore, picking up seashells

Anna Maria Island has an abundance of seashells that you may not find on beaches that border the Atlantic Ocean. So naturally, a seashell hunt along the shoreline of the beaches can be just what your family needs. The objective of this fun game is to see who can find the most seashells or the biggest shells in a certain amount of time. When everyone is done finding their shells, you can give points on the number of shells, the size of the shells, or the color of the shells. Think of the fun the kids will have by getting to have a fun hunt on the beach.

Musical “Towels”

A fun game that is often played at parties is musical chairs, but since you’re at the beach, trade those chairs for towels. All you need is towels, a phone, and some fun songs. If you don’t have enough towels, you can use spare clothes in place of the towels. The rules for musical chairs will apply to this game. Anyone in the family can play this game, and this game can be played multiple times during the day.

Sand Mermaids

Three kids playing in the sand, burying one little girls legs in the sand.

Another fun game that the whole family will love is to make sand mermaids. This is especially fun for the little ones as most times; it’s the parents or siblings getting to become the mermaid. Have the person who is going to be the model lay in the sand, and the rest of the family will then cover their legs and waist with sand. Then the shaping of the mermaid tail begins, and then time to decorate the tail. Use the seashells you found on the beach during the seashell hunt, seaweed, and other beach finds. Don’t forget to take pictures of each person who has become a mermaid!

I Spy

For families with younger kids, this game is perfect for you. Just like you play this game on road trips in the car, it’s ideal for playing on the beach. This game can be played while eating lunch on the beach or while you’re having the kids take a break from the water. You can use different themes such as colors, nature, or items seen on the beach. Depending on how old the kids are, it is how hard you make the guessing game.

There are many other fun games that you can play while you’re on vacation; we wanted to share the above with you. If you are still on the hunt for the perfect Anna Maria Island vacation rental, give us a call today. We can’t wait to hear how you and your family loved playing the games we shared with you above.  

How to Enjoy your Easter Vacation on Anna Maria Island

Easter logo decorated by brush drawn easter eggs. Egg hunt concept as card, postcard, poster, banner, sale or promo sign.

Do you have a vacation planned to spend Easter with us on Anna Maria Island? If the answer is yes, allow us to share a few things about what you can do to enjoy your stay. Staying in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals will allow you and your family to reconnect with each other. Let’s look below at what you can do and how you can enjoy your trip this Easter on the island.

Easter Egg Hunt at your Vacation Rental

Portrait Of Five Children Wearing Bunny Ears On Easter Egg Hunt In Garden

We all know that having kids and attending at least one Easter Egg hunt is a big deal, but if your kids think they’ll miss it, they won’t. Instead, have an egg hunt right there at your vacation rental. Whether you’re staying in a beachfront vacation rental or a rental with a pool, the possibilities are endless. Bring plastic eggs filled with goodies for the kids to find as you hide them around your rental or around the outside area. However, we ask that you make sure that you pick them up if the kids don’t find them, as we want to ensure the wildlife is safe. Think of the new memories you’ll make watching their faces find those eggs around your vacation rental.

Bake a Few Goodies

Colorful easter cookies in basket

Another great way to enjoy Easter this year here on Anna Maria Island is to bake some goodies. A number one goodie that most kids love to help bake and decorate is sugar cookie cutouts. We must say that cupcakes are another hit with the kids as they help decorate them with their favorite candy. With the full-sized kitchens in your vacation rental, all you need are the ingredients, lots of love, and family to help make your treats.

Beach Time

A beautiful ocean whitecap waves roll onto the sandy beach of Anna Maria Key

We can’t forget to mention spending your time on the beach with the family. With our white sand and crystal-clear water, there is never a bad day here on the island. Pack a lunch, snacks, a cooler full of ice and drinks, and the beach toys for the day. Whether you’re staying in a beachfront vacation rental or a rental where you must walk a little bit, the beach is right within reach. Don’t forget to pack those beach bag essentials to be able to enjoy your time soaking up the sun with the family.

There are many other reasons you can enjoy your Easter vacation, but we wanted to share these with you. If you haven’t booked your trip to stay in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals, call us today. We can’t wait to see you and the family for Easter and Spring Break!