AMI Locals Archives – Page 2 of 3 – AMI Locals Blog | Anna Maria Island Vacation Rentals

October 29, 2021August 10, 2022

3 Natural Springs State Parks Near Anna Maria Island for a Day Trip with the Family

Lithia Springs State Park with a squirrel on a palm near Tampa Florida.

Have you ever wanted to head to a state park in the past but didn’t know which one to try? We at AMI Locals wanted to share 3 Natural Springs State Parks with you that are within a few hours’ drive of the island. Staying in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals, you’ll be able to not only enjoy our beautiful beaches, but you’ll be close to some of the natural springs state parks too. Let’s look below at where you and your family can head for the day to check out three of the many natural springs state parks in Florida.

Weeki Wachee Springs State Park

Weeki Wachee Springs River with blues and greens

Have you ever heard of Weeki Wachee before? Too many tourists, it sounds like a fun name to pronounce, and as locals, we can say it is. The Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is located about 2-hours from our beautiful island and is one state park that we couldn’t mention. This Park first opened in 1947 and has been a favorite for many locals and tourists to head to for some fun in the sun. We must mention that during the summer months, they will reach capacity early and so be sure to get there as soon as they open at 9:00 am. A few of the things you can do while there are snorkeling, swimming, boat tours, mermaid shows, and even the waterpark. Be sure to add this to your list to check out your next vacation to Anna Maria Island.

Rainbow Springs State Park

The gardens at Rainbow Springs in Dunnellon, Florida.

Rainbow Springs State Parks is located a little further north of Weeki Wachee Springs State Park but is another beautiful park to visit. Located about two and a half hours from Anna Maria Island, you could easily make this another day trip with the Family. Some fun things you can do at this state park are snorkeling, swimming, tubing down the Rainbow River, Geocaching, and more. Think of the fun the Family will have to get to tube down the river after spending the morning doing some geocaching.

Rock Springs Kelly Park

Happy cute caucasian boy swimming in watermelon inflatable ring. Vacation on sea side. High quality photo

Rock Springs Kelly Park is located about two and a half hours from Anna Maria Island and is just north of Orlando. Depending on how you’re arriving at AMI, you could either do this Park before you come to your vacation rental or on your way home. They limit the number of vehicles in the park each day, so we thought it was a great way to start your trip or end it on a fun adventure. Some of the things that you’re able to do at the park are Kayak, Paddleboard, or even tubing. If you’re going to do a little tubing, they do offer rentals for tubes, or you can bring your own, which in turn, you could use on your trip to Anna Maria Island.

While there are many other natural springs state parks within a few hours of Anna Maria Island, we wanted to mention these. If you haven’t booked your next trip to stay in one of our AMI Locals vacation rentals, give us a call today. We’d love to hear all about your adventures to one of these amazing parks!

October 1, 2021August 25, 2022

2 Fun Festivals to Enjoy this Fall with the Family on Anna Maria Island

Collection of autumn pumpkins on a blue background

Fall is an excellent time of the year to visit Anna Maria Island for many different reasons. You and your family can do plenty of fun things, and we are here to tell you about them. Staying with us in one of our AMI Locals vacation rentals will keep you and your family to the fun. Let’s look below at two fun to enjoy with the family on Anna Maria Island this fall.

21^st Annual BayFest

Classic cars in a row parked on asphalt parking lot

We are so excited that Bayfest is returning to Anna Maria Island this year for the 21^st year. Happening on Pine Avenue on Saturday, October 15^th, 2022, from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm is where your family can join in the fun. There will be live music during the day, arts & crafts, a car show, fantastic food and more. Admission to this fun event hosted by the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce is free. There will also be plenty of vendors that you can purchase things from to bring home with you. Think of the fun that the whole family can enjoy while you enjoy this fun event together!

31^st Annual Pumpkin Festival

boy picks pumpkin at the farmers market. The person in motion, defocused.

Another fun thing that your family can take advantage of this fall is the 31^st Annual Pumpkin Festival. This festival will be at Hunsader Farms in Bradenton, Florida, for several weekends in October. While this festival is not free to attend, the cost is $15 per person, and parking is $5. They are only accepting cash right now, but some of the vendors at the festival may accept cards. The dates you can attend are October 15-16^th, 22-23^rd & 29-30^th from 9 am to 5 pm. Some things you can do at the farm are pony rides, corn maze, hayrides, arm painting, pumpkins, and more. How cool would it be to bring a pumpkin back to your vacation rental for the remainder of your stay?

While there are other fun things that you can enjoy this fall, including our white sandy beaches and vacation rentals with pools, we wanted to share these. If you still are looking for a quick getaway to beautiful Anna Maria Island this fall with the family, give us a call today. We hope to see you soon so you can enjoy these fall festivals too!

February 28, 2021August 10, 2022

Enjoy Spring Break on Anna Maria Island

It’s hard to believe that Spring Break will be here before we know it, and now is the time to start planning it. Getting away from life at home will allow both you and your family to recharge a bit, all while relaxing in the area. Staying in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals will keep you and the family together. Let’s look below at what fun things you can do this spring break with the family!

Day Trip Fun

One of the best things about vacationing to Anna Maria Island this spring break is being close to several different amusement parks. Busch Gardens Tampa is located about an hour and a half from the island and is a quick trip to make. If you’re looking to travel a little more, then you can always head to Orlando, which is about a 2-hour drive from the island. Here you and your family can choose from Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, Discovery Cove, Sea World, and Legoland. We do, however, recommend that you purchase your tickets before heading over to the parks, as Walt Disney World does require you to make Park Pass Reservations. No matter where you go for the day, know that you will be able to come back to your vacation rental and relax the rest of the week!

Play on the Water

Another great way your family can enjoy spring break this year is to enjoy time on the water. This year, either rent yourself a boat where you can sail along the coast and enjoy fishing, relaxing, and having a great time together. Suppose you’re looking for something a little more entertaining, then head on over to the Fun Life Waterpark, where you’ll be floating a long the water and enjoying some of the fun trampolines and slides into the water. There is so much to do on the water that these are just a few of the things you can do.

Enjoy a Day on the Beach

Spending time away from life at home is getting to walk to the beach from your vacation rental or driving over to the beach. Be sure to bring your beach chairs, towels, umbrella, sunscreen, and sand toys for the kids with you. If you’d like to get a book or two with you while you relax as the kids play in the sand. Bring your lunch down on the sand along with a cooler full of drinks to keep you and the family hydrated for the day. Make new memories as you spend time relaxing and enjoying your time together on the beautiful white sands of Anna Maria Island!

While there are so many other things that you can do while on vacation to Anna Maria Island, we wanted to share these with you. If you haven’t booked your spring break vacation to stay in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals, now is the time. We can’t wait to see you and your family make new memories this spring break together!

December 28, 2020August 10, 2022

Escape the Cold to Sunny Anna Maria Island

Are you and your family looking to escape the cold and head to a warmer climate? If the answer is yes, then allow us at AMI Locals to share a few reasons you should vacation with us. Staying in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals will allow the whole family to join you and enjoy the warmth. Let’s look below at what fun things you can want while you vacation to Anna Maria Island this winter to escape the cold.

White Sands

Escape the Cold to Sunny Anna Maria Island

This year exchange the cold snow and ice for the lovely warm sands of Anna Maria Island. Instead of worrying about what warm clothes you should pack on your vacation, worry about what summer clothes you want to wear. Allow the family to soak up the sun while sitting poolside in one of our AMI Locals vacation rentals or enjoying the white sands of the beach. The weather is perfect for you and the family to want the Gulf of Mexico’s water instead of bundling up to go outdoors.

Fun in the Water

Your family can do a few other things while on vacation here on Anna Maria Island is enjoying time out on the open water. Many love to head on over and enjoy Fun Life Water Park, which allows your family to have your party on the water. It’s like a floating water park that you’ve never experienced before, and we can tell you it’s quite fun too. Some of the other fun things you can do on the water are Paddle Board or Kayak together by renting for a few hours and having a good time. No matter what you’d like to do this winter with the family on the water, there is something for everyone!

While there are many other fun things you can do, such as rent a bike or golf cart, head to an amusement park, or just relax, we wanted to share these with you. If you haven’t booked your next winter getaway to stay with us at AMI Locals, now is the time. We hope to see you and your family enjoying the island’s warm sands instead of the cold snow on the slopes!

December 1, 2020August 10, 2022

Spend the Holidays on Anna Maria Island

It’s hard to believe that the holidays are here and pretty soon the new year will be here too. Instead of staying at home this year, sneak away on a tropical vacation to sunny Anna Maria Island. Staying in one of our AMI vacation rentals will allow you and your family to enjoy all the fun things you wouldn’t be able to at home. Let’s look below at a few things that you can do on your next vacation to Anna Maria Island this holiday season.

Fun Day in the Kitchen

One way that you and the family can enjoy the holidays a little more this year is by having a day of baking and decorating treats. When you stay with us in one of our AMI vacation rentals, you will have a full kitchen as you do at home to cook in. This year make some chocolate chip cookies, snickerdoodles, and how about some gingerbread. While you are making gingerbread, you can create and decorate gingerbread houses while on vacation. Have a contest to see who can decorate the best and then eat the treats afterward. Just enjoy your time together, baking in the kitchen one day on your next vacation.

Watch Holiday Movies Together

Another fun thing that you and the family can do this holiday season is to sit down and watch a few movies. Turn on the Hallmark Channel or stream your favorite holiday movies to the tv in the living room. Watch a classic “White Christmas” or “A Charlie Brown Christmas” while checking out the view from the windows of your beautiful rental. Pop up some popcorn or indulge in some of the treats that you made in the kitchen. No matter what you’re watching on the TV this year, just enjoy some quality time together this year.

While there are many other things that you can do while you are on vacation this year to Anna Maria Island, we wanted to share these with you. If you haven’t booked your holiday vacation to stay with us in one of our AMI vacation rentals, now is the time. We hope to see you and your family as you make new traditions this year at the beach!

October 31, 2020August 10, 2022

Anna Maria Island City Pier is Now Open

Are you and your family visiting Anna Maria Island soon and looking for something to do. The good news is that the Anna Maria Island City Pier has officially opened for you to enjoy. Staying in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals will keep you and your family close to the fun. Let’s look below at a little more information on the Anna Maria Island City Pier.

History of the Pier

The Anna Maria Island City Pier first opened for business in the early 1900s to provide a dock for big and small ships. This is where many imports and exports for fish for the area were a staple, and this was the perfect pier for just that. However, the dock has faced many different hurricanes and storms that would pose a port problem. In 2017 Hurricane Irma came through and caused some significant damages. It was evident that the pier would have to be repaired, and instead decided to replace it.

The New Pier is Open

Since the old pier was damaged more than most thought, it was time to build a new pier. Instead of making the pier with planks, they reconstructed it using metal instead. This, in turn, is good that it should be able to withstand hurricanes. While the new pier was supposed to open up to the public back in March, it was delayed due to COVID-19. The pier is now officially open for all those to come and enjoy it. Go check it out on your next trip to Anna Maria Island with the family!

The Anna Maria Island City Pier has been around for more than 100 years, and we hope that it will be around at least 100 more. If you haven’t booked your next vacation to stay with us in an Anna Maria Island vacation rental, now is the time. We hope to see you and your family as you explore the new city pier too!

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!

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 29, 2020August 10, 2022

Stay in an AMI Locals Vacation Rental While You Visit Local Theme Parks

Do you and your family have plans to visit one of the many theme parks located in Central Florida this year? We at AMI Locals have the details on when they are opening and how you can enjoy a relaxing vacation in a beach home too. Staying in one of our many Anna Maria Island vacation rentals will allow your family to enjoy some privacy along with the white sand beaches and the relaxing waves. Let’s look below at a few of the reopening plans with several of the theme parks located in the area.

Walt Disney World Parks

Stay in an AMI Locals Vacation Rental While You Visit Local Theme Parks

Walt Disney World has recently released its reopening plans, and we couldn’t be more excited to get back to the parks ourselves. On July 11^th, Magic Kingdom Park & Animal Kingdom will be opening up. On July 15^th, Hollywood Studios & Epcot will be opening back up along with the Food & Wine Festival kicking off a little early. To visit each park, you will have to have tickets or annual passes and use their reservation system to gain access to one park a day. Everyone over the age of 2 has to wear a mask within the park and will require each person in the party to have their temperatures taken. Disney Springs has already opened and is available for you to come and shop the day away before heading back to your vacation rental.

Universal Studios

Universal Studios has already opened its parks and has a similar system to gain entry to each ride. They, instead of making reservations for each day, are allowing people to enter the park, but it is based on first come first serve. Once the park has reached its new capacity, then you will not be able to gain entrance to the parks. The water park, Volcano Bay, is open, and while you are swimming, the face masks are not required, the central common areas they are. Also, while inside Universal Studios, they do have a U Rest, which is where you can take off your mask for a minute and remember to social distance.

SeaWorld

SeaWorld is open back as well, and they, just like Universal Studios, has the same concept. Aquatica is open as well, and they do not allow masks to be worn while riding the rides and swimming but do in the common areas. They have also launched a new reservations system just like Walt Disney World, and you will need to have some to gain entrance to the parks. If you, however, have date-based tickets, you don’t need to worry about using the reservation system. The parks are also opened for five days a week and are closed on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Legoland Florida

If you have younger kids and they love Legos, then head on over to Legoland for the day. They have been open since June 1^st, and they are no requiring face masks to be worn by guests but are recommending them. If you forgot your mask, then you will be able to grab a complimentary one from the park. Legoland will be open from 10 am to 5:00 pm daily, and the waterpark will be open from noon to 4:00 pm. You will find that this is a great park for the younger crowd and will win you brownie points with each kid!

Busch Gardens Tampa

Busch Gardens Tampa and Adventure Island are open back to the public. They, just like many of the other parks, are implementing those who are two and older, will be required to wear face masks. There are relaxation areas where you can take a breather and not wear your masks or while eating or drinking. They also will be doing temperature checks when you enter the park, and if you have a fever of 100.4 or higher, you will not be allowed to enter the park.

Staying in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals will allow your family to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet. Some of the things that you may experience at your vacation rental is a private pool, beach access, and spending time with the family. We understand that going to a theme park can be fun but sitting back and relaxing at your rental is just what every family needs and wants. We can’t wait to see you and your family as you come vacation with us and still have the exciting thrill of going to a theme park for a day or two!

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!