TAG:Anna Maria Island
Plan a Picture-Perfect Memorial Day Weekend Vacation on Anna Maria Island
Are you dreaming of sunshine, salty breezes, and endless family fun this Memorial Day weekend? Look no further, as Anna Maria Island has it all! This hidden gem of an island is located off Florida’s Gulf Coast and offers everything you need for a picture-perfect Memorial Day vacation. Below, let’s explore how your family can enjoy your picture-perfect Memorial Day weekend on Anna Maria Island.
Stay in a Beach or Gulf View Vacation Rental
Imagine waking up every morning to a breathtaking view of the beach or the shimmering waters of the Gulf just outside your window. When you book a Beach or Gulf view vacation rental with AMI Locals, that’s precisely what you’ll experience. Whether you’re seeking a small vacation rental perfect for a family of four or a spacious rental ideal for a larger group of ten, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy breakfast with a view of the sunrise and spend the evening on your balcony watching the sunset over the Gulf.
Tip: Memorial Day weekend is a popular time on the island as it kicks off the summer – booking your Gulf or Beach rental view early ensures the best selection.
Family-Friendly Activities for Everyone
Anna Maria Island is the perfect place to create new family memories, featuring activities and attractions for everyone. Let’s explore some of these options for each age group below:
For Little Ones
· Bayfront Park is a peaceful park with a playground right by the water, shaded picnic areas, and beaches with little waves, perfect for young swimmers.
· Anna Maria Island Trolley allows families to explore the island without worrying about parking – and the best thing is it’s free to use!
For Tweens & Teens
· Renting Bikes or a Golf Cart is an excellent option for families who have older kids. Explore the island on two or four wheels and discover some hidden beach paths around the island.
· Paddleboarding or Kayaking allows tweens and teens to be adventurous by exploring the calm, clear waters of the area. Parents love doing this, too, and it makes a great family outing.
Fun for the Whole Family
· Beach Days, of course, is the perfect way that families can have fun together. Build sandcastles, hunt for seashells, or soak up the sun with our beautiful white sands of the island.
· Dolphin Tours is a family-friendly boat tour where you’re almost guaranteed to spot these beautiful, playful dolphins swimming beside your boat.
Celebrate Memorial Day Island-Style
Many local restaurants and shops celebrate Memorial Day with specials and live entertainment. You can enjoy fresh seafood at a local restaurant or a picnic dinner on the beach. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not explore a few other events on Memorial Day weekend with the family?
With its laid-back atmosphere, stunning beach and Gulf views, and family-friendly, Anna Maria Island is the perfect destination for your Memorial Day weekend vacation. Book your Beach or Gulf view vacation rental now and prepare to make new memories with the family. We can’t wait to see you and your family on your Memorial Day weekend vacation here on Anna Maria Island!
Enjoy Spring Break on Anna Maria Island
Spring Break is just around the corner, and now is the perfect time to start planning it. Getting away from life at home will allow you and your family to recharge while making memories. By staying in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals, you’ll spend quality time together in a relaxing setting. Below are some exciting activities to help make your spring break unforgettable.
Day Trip Fun
One of the perks of vacationing on Anna Maria Island is the proximity to world-class amusement parks. Busch Gardens Tampa is just an hour and a half away and offers your family a quick day trip. For those willing to travel a little more, you can always head to Orlando, about a 2-hour drive from the island. You’ll have various choices, including Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, Discovery Cove, SeaWorld, and Legoland. We highly recommend purchasing tickets in advance, especially for Walt Disney World and Universal Studios. After your exciting day at the parks, know your vacation rental will be waiting for you, and relax for the rest of the week!
Play on the Water
Spring Break wouldn’t be complete without some time on the water. Rent a boat and cruise along the coast, enjoy fishing, or soak up the sunshine together as a family. For a more action-packed day, head to the Fun Life Waterpark, where you’ll float along the water and enjoy some of the fun trampolines and slides into the water. With so many aquatic adventures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this spring break.
Beach Day Bliss
Nothing beats spending time at the beach than a walk to the beach from your vacation rental or a short drive to the beach access. Pack your beach chairs, towels, umbrella, sunscreen, and sand toys for the kids. Bring a good book to relax with while the little ones build a sandcastle. For a full day at the beach, pack your cooler with your lunch and drinks to keep your family hydrated all day. Make new memories as you spend a relaxing day on the beautiful white sand beaches of Anna Maria Island!
While these are just a few highlights of what to do this Spring Break, Anna Maria Island offers endless possibilities for a memorable vacation. If you haven’t booked your Spring Break stay in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals, don’t wait- book today! We can’t wait to see you and your family make new memories this spring break together.
Anna Maria Island is Open and Ready to Welcome You Back to Luxury!
Anna Maria Island is open and prepared to embrace visitors with open arms! Just six months after overcoming the challenges of two hurricanes, this stunning paradise has beautifully recovered. With local businesses back in action and pristine beaches inviting you to unwind, unforgettable luxury vacation experiences await. Whether you’re a multi-generational family, a couple on a romantic escape, or a group celebrating a special occasion, Anna Maria Island offers the perfect setting.
Photo Taken February 2025
The community has quickly revitalized, showcasing high-end accommodations equipped with everything you need for a seamless getaway. As you explore the island, enjoy local events, from the weekly Coquina Beach Market to captivating performances by local talent. Baseball fans can catch the action at the Bradenton Marauders’ spring training and celebrate community spirit at the recently held 37th Annual SpringFest.
Local shops and gourmet dining spots are eager to provide a delightful taste of the island. Enjoy gulffront dining at the Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe, indulge in fresh seafood, or treat yourself at beloved spots like the Fudge Factory and The Donut Experiment. For an exceptional experience, don’t miss Ginny’s & Jane E’s Cafe and Gift Store for unique shopping and dining options.
Taken January 2025
Our luxurious vacation rentals are designed with your comfort and convenience in mind. Featuring spacious 5-6 bedroom homes with private pools and upscale furnishings, you can create lasting memories while enjoying a hassle-free experience. Many properties are pet-friendly, allowing you to bring every member of your family along.
Join us on Anna Maria Island, where the sun shines bright, the waves call, and the perfect luxury getaway is just a booking away. We’re excited to have you as our guest! Let us help you curate a truly memorable experience.
The Hernando De Soto Parade 2025
Mark your calendars for Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 6:30 PM for the 79th Annual De Soto Grand Parade in Bradenton, Florida! This beloved Manatee County tradition draws visitors from Anna Maria Island, Bradenton, Sarasota, and beyond—making it a truly remarkable celebration that unites communities from all over the world.
About the Parade
With over 150 exciting entries, the De Soto Grand Parade is one of the largest and oldest parades in the Southeastern United States. More than 100,000 spectators will line the streets of Bradenton to revel in the illuminated floats and catch a glimpse of our new Hernando de Soto, Captain of the Crewe, and their newly crowned Queen and Princess. Be prepared to collect beads, coins, and other festive keepsakes as they are thrown from the floats!
The parade will stage along Manatee Avenue between 1st Street and 9th Street West, with street closures beginning at 12:00 PM to prepare for this exciting event. Westbound traffic on Manatee Avenue will be rerouted around the staging area, while eastbound traffic will remain unaffected. The rest of Manatee Avenue from 9th Street W to 43rd Street W will close at 5:00 PM to ensure safety and secure crowd barriers along the 1.75-mile parade route.
Let the Celebration Begin!
You’ll witness pure joy everywhere you look as families come together to enjoy the festivities. Children run excitedly to collect treasures, gleefully shouting for “beads, throw me beads!” It always turns into a friendly competition among family members to see who can gather the most.
Don’t Miss Out on the Fun!
The De Soto Grand Parade has been a cherished staple in our community for decades, thanks to the good-natured fun and entertainment it provides. It’s a fantastic way to see our local community come together for a night of celebration.
If you’re looking for the perfect place to stay during the De Soto Grand Parade, our Bradenton rentals are your ideal choice! Enjoy the excitement of this beloved event while resting in comfort and style. With spacious accommodations, eco-friendly rentals, and top-notch amenities, you’ll have everything you need for a memorable getaway.
Experience the magic of the parade just minutes from your rental, and soak in the vibrant local culture. After a day of festivities, unwind in your beautiful home away from home. Don’t miss this opportunity—book your stay with us today and be part of the celebration!
Double the Fun: Two Must-See Events Near Anna Maria Island in March
Can you believe that March is just around the corner and will soon bring spring? March is a fantastic time to visit Anna Maria Island, with warm breezes from the Gulf and plenty of sunshine to enjoy. Double the fun with two must-see events for the family near Anna Maria Island this March. And what better way to experience them than by staying in a luxury beachfront rental? With stunning views of the Gulf, high-end amenities, and easy access to these exciting events, let’s look at two experiences you won’t want to miss this March.
37th Annual Anna Maria Island Springfest
Springfest is a cherished tradition held on Anna Maria Island every spring. This two-day festival will take place at Holmes Beach City Field on March 8th and 9th, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The festival showcases professional artists and artisans from across the U.S. Along with the art, you can enjoy live music, sample delicious treats, and embrace the community spirit. The best part is admission is free, along with complimentary parking. Don’t miss your chance to enjoy this must-see, family-friendly event on the island.
Sarasota Reggae and Food Festival
It’s time to feel the rhythm of the music and savor the flavors of the Caribbean at the Sarasota Reggae and Food Festival. Happening at the Sarasota Fairgrounds from March 28th to March 30th, 2025. Kick-off to the festival is on Friday, March 28th, at 4:00 pm and ends at 10:00 pm. Saturday, March 29th, you can continue the fun of the festival from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm and wrap up on Sunday, March 30th, from 11:00 to 6:00 pm. An even better way to enjoy the festival is to bring your furry friends along, as it’s pet-friendly. You can enjoy live reggae bands, authentic Caribbean and International cuisine, and craft vendors at the festival.
With Springfest’s artistic charm and the reggae’s lively festival, March is the perfect time to visit Anna Maria Island. Now’s the time to book your luxury beachfront rental today and experience the best of what Anna Maria offers to make this an unforgettable trip with the family!
How to Plan a Girls Getaway on Anna Maria Island
Gather your best friends for the ultimate girls’ getaway on the stunning Anna Maria Island! Whether you’re celebrating a bachelorette party, hosting a bridal shower, marking a special birthday, or simply enjoying a ladies’ getaway, AMI Locals offers luxurious vacation rentals perfect for your needs. Here’s how to plan an unforgettable trip filled with fun, relaxation, and indulgence.
Start by selecting one of our spacious homes that can accommodate your group. Look for properties with multiple bedrooms, game rooms for some friendly competition, and private pools and spas where you can bask in the sun and unwind. A rooftop deck can add an extra touch of luxury, providing stunning views as you sip cocktails and enjoy the sunset together. Make sure to book in advance to secure your desired dates, especially during peak season!
Pamper Yourself with Spa Packages
No girls’ getaway is complete without a little pampering! Treat yourselves to spa packages at one of the many local wellness centers. Enjoy massages, facials, and other rejuvenating treatments that will leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized.
Visit Historic Sites and Embrace Adventure
In addition to relaxation and dining, don’t forget to embrace adventure! Take some time to visit the area’s historic sites and local attractions to learn more about the island’s rich culture. Plan a day of fun activities through our preferred partners, from boat charters to luxury beach set ups.
Call Our Reservation Team or Book Online Today
With the perfect home base, pampering experiences, and fantastic local dining options, planning a girls’ getaway to Anna Maria Island ensures an unforgettable trip filled with laughter and memories. Book your luxury rental with AMI Locals today at 941.757.8226 and get ready to enjoy a well-deserved escape with your favorite ladies!
Why Should You #BookDirect with AMI Locals?
Are you and your family planning a vacation to Anna Maria Island this year? We need to tell you why you should #bookdirect with us if you are. Many online third-party vacation rental sites can add a 5%-20% additional fee to your reservation. We know that your vacations are significant and may limit how much you can spend each year. AMI Locals wants to ensure you get the most out of your money when visiting Anna Maria Island. The only way you’ll be able to enjoy your vacation without getting hit with that unexpected fee is by booking directly today!
What You Need to Know About Booking Direct
On February 5th, 2025, we celebrate the 8th Annual Book Direct Day, which was created to help educate vacation rental guests on the benefits of booking directly through an owner or Property Management Company vs. using a Third-Party agency such as Airbnb, HomeAway, VBRO & TripAdvisor.
While you may recognize these big-name companies and their gimmicks in helping you save money, you will soon learn they will charge you a fee for using their website. Who wants to pay extra to try and save a little money? Some of the expenses you may incur when you book with an OTA can range from 5%-20% of the total cost of your vacation rental, which in turn can cost you thousands of dollars extra depending on which rental you choose.
Why You Should Book Direct with Us
When you book directly with AMI Locals, you will speak with one of our vacation specialists who is local to Anna Maria Island and can give you the best information on the area. We know all the details on each property because we have personally been to them. We can provide you with our recommendations on where to dine, play, shop, and visit businesses in the area. Our office is conveniently on Anna Maria Island, so if any problems arise while you’re on vacation, we’re here to help.
How You Can Book Direct with AMI Locals
You will find that booking directly with us at AMI Locals is easy! We encourage all guests to book vacations through our safe & secure website, www.amilocals.com, or call our office at (941) 757-8226. Rest assured that we will never charge hidden fees and will always provide you with the best rates on our professionally managed vacation rentals. We don’t want you to have to pay anything extra so that you can use that money to go out to eat, explore the island, or make a local day trip. We understand that your money is precious, and we can help you see that your vacation to Anna Maria Island is the best it can be each year!
Are you ready to plan your vacation today? #BookDirect with AMI Locals today to have the best-planned vacation year after year!
Discover Hunters Point's Sustainable Vacation Rentals in Cortez, Florida.
As we embark on a new year, many travelers are seeking ways to make their experiences more eco-friendly without sacrificing luxury. Enter Hunters Point, a distinctive and newly established community in Cortez, Florida, offering eighty-six eco-friendly single-family homes designed to seamlessly coexist with nature. Currently featuring twenty impressive houses, this innovative resort community ensures that each home produces sufficient power for its needs while providing maximum comfort.
Situated just a five-minute drive from Anna Maria Island, Hunters Point allows guests to immerse themselves in a charming fishing village atmosphere, rich in local history and culture. From thrilling water adventures to exploring quaint historic sites, indulging in chic local boutiques, and enjoying exquisite waterfront dining, visitors can experience all the area has to offer with a focus on sustainability.
What truly sets Hunters Point apart is its unwavering commitment to sustainability. The community emphasizes energy-efficient living while actively preserving the breathtaking landscapes and culture of Cortez. Our selection of vacation rentals at Hunters Point includes a variety of private amenities such as shimmering private pools, boat docks, game rooms, and even options that are pet-friendly!
For those seeking a sustainable vacation rental experience that doesn’t compromise on luxury, Hunters Point is the perfect choice. Embrace the balance of eco-friendliness and comfort as you explore the stunning surroundings. Book your eco-friendly getaway at Hunters Point today and immerse yourself in the stunning beauty and charm of Cortez!
Shopping on Anna Maria Island: Coquina Beach Market
Who doesn’t love to shop in the sunshine?
During the months of November – July you can visit the Coquina Beach Market! And it happens every Sunday and Wednesday, Friday, & Sunday from 10 am – 2 pm. It is located at Coquina Beach Park in Bradenton Beach, the southernmost point of Anna Maria Island. Very nearby you can stay with AMI Locals at Atlantis Beach House and ride the free MCAT Trolley to the Market!
Come enjoy live music by the AMI String Band as you stroll the Coquina Beach Market. Accordingly, you will find many friendly AMI vendors with booths offering fresh produce, cotton candy, jewelry, beachy apparel, local artists, health and beauty items, and much more. In any case, you’re bound to find a treasure or two to take home with you!
Unfortunately, the Coquina Beach Market is not dog-friendly due to the Manatee County rules for the park. Just a heads up before you bring your four-legged family member.
The Coquina Beach Market is located at 2650 Gulf Drive S, Bradenton Beach, at the trolley stop/concession stand area. Specifically look for bright yellow and red signs that say Beach Market Today! They will guide you and there is usually plenty of free parking.
While you’re there, why not stop into the Coquina Beach Cafe and enjoy a Pina Colada and a lovely casual lunch on the beach? You can order that fun tropical frozen cocktail and be on “island time” with a fabulous view!
Welcome 2025 with Love: Couples Vacation on Anna Maria Island
This New Year’s, escape to the enchanting Anna Maria Island for the ultimate couples vacation, where luxury and romance blend seamlessly in our stunning vacation homes. Our curated collection of beachfront condos and elegant 1-2 bedroom homes is designed to offer you and your partner an unforgettable experience in this charming old beach town.
Picture yourself waking up in a beautifully appointed luxury home, steps away from pristine, secluded sandy beaches. Imagine enjoying your morning coffee on your private balcony, soaking in breathtaking ocean views and the soothing sounds of the surf. Each of our exquisite properties offers spacious layouts, modern amenities, and tasteful decor, ensuring your stay is both comfortable and stylish. Explore all our luxury homes here!
Unwind in your own private pool, sipping cocktails as you bask in the warm Florida sun. Whether you’re enjoying a refreshing swim or lounging poolside, our luxurious homes provide the perfect backdrop for romance. For couples seeking entertainment, many properties feature game rooms where you can challenge each other to billiards or enjoy cozy movie nights with ample seating and the latest entertainment options. Check out our properties with private pools and game rooms!
As the sun sets, indulge in a culinary experience at nearby romantic restaurants, savoring delicious meals crafted from fresh, local ingredients. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the beach, hand-in-hand, reflecting on the year that has passed and sharing dreams for the future under the stars. Don’t miss out on the chance to create unforgettable memories—book your romantic vacation today and start planning your dream escape!
