TAG:Anna Maria Island Vacation Rentals
Day Trip to 3 Theme Parks on your Anna Maria Vacation
Did you know that Anna Maria Island is within driving distance of several theme parks in Florida? That’s right, and we have all the details to share with you and your family. Staying in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals will keep you and your family close to the fun. Look below at three theme parks within driving distance of our beautiful island.
Busch Gardens Tampa
Busch Gardens Tampa is your ticket if you’re looking for an unforgettable memory at a local theme park. They are in North Tampa, only an hour from our beautiful island. Fun for the whole family, you’ll be able to enjoy rides for the thrill seekers and rides for the younger kids too. This park offers guests of all ages the chance to check out many different animals you’ll find here in Florida and some from other countries. And if you’re looking for a fun waterpark, check out their Adventure Island.
Legoland
Do you have a young child who loves to build with Legos? Then Legoland is your perfect ticket for a fun day at a theme park. They are in Winter Haven, which is about 2-hours from the island. Legoland is ideal for children 12 and under as they have perfect kid-sized rides. Legoland also offers a waterpark with “heated pools seasonally” and a wave pool, lazy river, body slides, and even a Duplo safari to enjoy. Think of this theme park to enjoy Legos as an adult without the chance of stepping on them in the middle of the night.
SeaWorld Orlando
SeaWorld Orlando is another great theme park to visit for the day and is in Orlando, about a 2-hour drive from Anna Maria Island. This park is often overlooked by too many who visit the other theme parks in the area, but it is one we wanted to share with you. For the younger kids in the family, and as it says, sunny days keeping the clouds away is perfect as you can step on into Sesame Street Land and feel like you’re right in the TV show. If the bigger kids want something to do, there are plenty of rides such as Mako, Kraken, and Journey to Atlantis to check out. Plus, don’t forget to check out the different animals, such as the manatees, manta rays, and more.
Many other theme parks in the area would make great day trips; we wanted to share these. If you haven’t booked your next stay with us in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals, now is the time. We can’t wait to hear which theme park was your favorite on your next stay with us!
Don’t Miss These Fun Events This December on Anna Maria Island
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?
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.
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.
Fun Events on Anna Maria Island in November
Are you and your family coming to Anna Maria Island to vacation during the month of November? If the answer is yes, then we can tell you all about the fun events happening around town. Anna Maria Island is a great location to visit year-round and staying in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals will keep you close to everything. Let’s look below at a few of the fun events happening on Anna Maria Island next month.
Symphony on the Sand
Join in this year for the 8th Annual Symphony on the Sand happening on Saturday, November 12th beginning at 4:30 pm at Coquina Beach. This event features the Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus & Orchestra and will last about 3 hours. This year it is located at the Gulfside Park and the ticket prices begin from $25 and goes up to around $125 per person. There will also be plenty of local vendors that will be there to grab some pretty amazing local food such as Coquina Café, The Lazy Lobster of Longboat, Eliza Ann’s Coastal Kitchen and Hometown Desserts. What a fun event that you and your family can attend to hear some amazing music!
“Old Soldiers and Sailors” Veteran’s Day Parade
Anna Maria Island loves to help honor the Veteran’s on Veteran’s Day. This year the parade will begin at 1:00 pm at City Hall on Friday, November 11th, 2022 and will go down Pine Avenue to the City Pier Park. The parade will feature 3 local high school marching bands, floats, over 100 marching veterans and there will be a military fly-over. After the parade, you will get to go enjoy a free Ice Cream Social at the Anna Maria Island Historical Museum. What a great way to honor the veterans and get to enjoy a fun parade.
Siesta Key Crystal Classic
If you have kids who love to build sandcastles, then this event is perfect for your family. Head over to Siesta Key Beach on Beach Road in Sarasota beginning on November 11th – 14th. This is where you will be able to see around 24 international artists visit Siesta Key Beach have some amazing sand sculptures. The Siesta Key Crystal Classic is one of the area’s best sand sculpting competitions and the family will enjoy. Some of the other things that your family can experience is the sand sculpting lessons and demonstrations, and the local vendors you will get to grab food at. Don’t forget the camera as you visit where you can take pictures of the sculptures!
While there are many other fun events happening this November on Anna Maria Island, these are the few we wanted to share with you. Staying in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals will make sure you’re able to relax and enjoy your vacation too. We hope to see you next month as you join in on the fun with the family.
Don’t Miss this Year’s BayFest 2022 with the Family
Are you coming to Anna Maria Island next month for your family vacation? If the answer is yes, then we have to tell you all about a fun event you don’t want to miss. Anna Maria Island during the fall months are wonderful to visit because the weather has cooled off a bit, the water is still warm and Bayfest will be here before you know it. Staying in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals will keep your family close to the fun festival activities. Let’s take a peek below at what some of the fun things that you can enjoy at the 2022 BayFest on Anna Maria Island.
Food for Everyone to Love
Who doesn’t love going to a festival where food is going to be? The smell of the food when you first arrive makes you want to eat all day long. BayFest will have an assortment of food that your family can enjoy all day. From ice cream to hearty food, there will be something for everyone. Don’t miss out on the adult drinks that you can get as well for you to try. What a fun start to a wonderful day at the festival!
Kids Zone
Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce didn’t forget about the kids during the BayFest. There are going to be plenty of things that the kids can do while the festival is going on. The kids can enjoy a fun bounce house, fun inflatables they can play on and let’s not forget the fun Pirate Ship they get to enjoy. Let all the kids burn their energy out while enjoying the BayFest this year!
More Fun Activities for the Family
There will be so much more for anyone in the family to enjoy such as getting to do a little shopping with some of the Arts & Crafts vendors, seeing some of the Classic Cars at the Car Show & dancing a little with the family. What a fun day you and your family can do and enjoy on your next vacation to Anna Maria Island!
When is BayFest 2022?
The 21st Annual BayFest will be held on Saturday, October 15th beginning at 10:00 am. The event will be held on Pine Avenue in the City of Anna Maria Island. When staying at one of our AMI vacation homes, you will be able to take the trolley for free to Pine Avenue on the day of the event. If you’d like to drive to event from your vacation rental, you will be able to park at Crosspointe Fellowship Church located on Gulf Drive which is on the north end of Holmes Beach. There also may be a few other locations nearby that will allow you to park but please make sure to read all the signs before doing so.
Coming during the fall months will keep you still having a great time at the beach but allowing your family to enjoy the fun festival too. If you haven’t made your reservation to stay in one of our beautiful vacation homes, now is the time. We can’t wait to see you and your family as you come celebrate with us at the 21st Annual BayFest on Anna Maria Island!
3 Things to Do this Spring on Anna Maria Island
This spring, do you have a family vacation planned to come to Anna Maria Island this spring? If the answer is yes, allow us to share three things you can do in the area. Staying in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals will allow you to be close to the action. Let’s look below at what you and your family can do this spring on the island.
Snorkeling Fun
One of the best things about vacationing to Anna Maria Island is getting to experience something you’ve never done. If you’ve ever vacationed in the Caribbean, you might have had the opportunity to snorkel, but our crystal-clear water allows you to do it here. Some of the wildlife that you’ll be able to spot while in the water are shells, dolphins, manatees, and even stingrays. If you don’t have your equipment, have no fear as there are a few different tour companies that offer snorkeling tours around the island. Think of the new memories that the whole family will have by getting out in the water and seeing what you can spot in the water.
Bean Point Beach
Another great location that many locals and visitors love to visit is Bean Point Beach. This is one of our best-kept secret spots on the island because you won’t be able to find large signs showing the way. You will go a little north of the Anna Maria City Pier to see this beautiful spot, just past the crossroads. You can get to this location by car or even biking. There is much different wildlife that lives there that you can admire, swim or walk with the family. Don’t forget to stay to see the sunset and grab that picture for Instagram!
Mini Golf with the Family
Playing mini-golf together is a tradition for many families who vacation to the beach every year. One of the places where you can head to play a round or two of mini golf is The Fish Hole in Bradenton Beach. If you’re concerned about the heat being too much during the day, don’t worry as they have cooling misters throughout the course. Some of the other things that you’ll be able to do while playing are grabbing a souvenir to take home, grabbing a cool drink, and you can feed the Koi.
There are many other fun things that you can do this spring, but we wanted to share these few with you. Now is the time if you haven’t booked your next trip to Anna Maria Island. We can’t wait to hear what you did this spring on your vacation!
Winter is an Excellent Time of the Year to Vacation on Anna Maria Island
It’s hard to believe that winter is here and in several parts of the country is dumping snow like crazy too. One of the best things about vacationing to Anna Maria Island during the wintertime is no snow. Just our sandy white beaches, crystal clear water, and incredible temperatures are what you get to look forward to. Staying in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals will allow you and your family to enjoy our beautiful island. Let’s look below at why winter is an excellent time of the year to spend your vacation on Anna Maria Island.
Less Crowded
One of the best things about vacationing to Anna Maria Island during the winter is the crowds are much less. You’ll not only be able to find all of the best spots on the beach in the morning, but you’ll have a prime spot sitting in the waves. The kids will have all the space they could ever want to build their little sandcastle village, including a moat. Less crowded means that you won’t have long waits at stores, restaurants, and experiences around the island.
Amazing Temperatures
Another big reason winter is a great time to visit Anna Maria Island this winter is the temps. During January, you’ll find that the average temperature during the day is 71 degrees, with a low of 52 degrees. February has a little better temp with the average during the day being 74 degrees with a low of 55. March brings warmer temps with a daily average of 77 degrees and a low of 58 degrees. You’ll also find that it may rain 3-5 days total during each month which allows you to enjoy the weather a little more.With the weather being perfect, you’ll still be able to get in and enjoy the water with the family, it’s just like you’re in the Caribbean.
While there are other reasons why winter is an excellent time of the year to vacation on Anna Maria Island, we wanted to share these few with you. If you haven’t booked your winter stay with us in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals, give us a call today. We can’t wait to see what you think of our winter compared to your winter back home!
3 Natural Springs State Parks Near Anna Maria Island for a Day Trip with the Family
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
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
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
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!
Hunt for Shells on Anna Maria Island
Do you like to collect shells for something at home, or a project your working on? If the answer is yes, then we suggest vacationing here on Anna Maria Island this winter. Anna Maria Island has crystal clear waters, white sandy beach and a healthy amount of Florida sunshine. If you are staying in one of our Beach and Gulf View vacation rentals, then you will be close to where you’ll find the shells. There is something for everyone when you vacation on Anna Maria Island including looking for rare Florida seashells. Let’s look at where you and your family can hunt for the shells and what shells you’ll find.
Early Morning
Many of the families who visit Anna Maria Island have kids who like to get up at the crack of dawn even while on vacation. So why not go ahead and head to the beach in the early morning to hunt for some seashells. Walk slowly by the water searching for that perfect shell that you’d been wanting. You may find several different kinds of shells, but we know of the few you may find. Many shells may have washed up on the beach during the night and so this can be the perfect time to find some. If it is low tide you may be able to find a few starfish but be sure to check if they are alive or dead. If they are alive, please leave them there and give them another chance at living more.
Where to Shell?
Anna Maria Island has many beaches that you and your family can head to find those perfect shells. Holmes Beach, Coquina Beach, Bayfront Park and Bean Point are great places to start to look for those beautiful shells. Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty a little because sometimes the best shells you will find may be buried a little in the sand. We suggest that you bring a bucket (borrowing one from the kids will work), a small shovel, sunscreen and water shoes or flip flops. If you are bringing the kids with you, we suggest that you bring a towel with you as well because we know they will get wet.
What Shells Can You Find?
One thing that you might have to remember that when you go shell hunting, you need to know what you are looking for. So, we have a few that we know you will be able to find on Anna Maria Island. Here are a few of the shells you may come across while you are on your shell hunt.
- Cockle Shell – These are very distinctive and found by many because of their fan shape they have.
- Coquina Shell – These tiny, cute looking shell are what we call coquina shells. They are not any bigger than a dime and will come in a variety of colors and patterns.
- Junonia Shell – This shell is one of the rarest that you will come across on the island. Because it’s so beautiful, many shell collectors consider this one to be the best one.
- Banded Tulip Shell – This shell is named after it’s colored bands that can be seen on the exterior.
- Horse Conch Shell – This shell has been Florida’s state shell since 1969 and is a beautiful shell. You’ll often find this shell in a larger size but you’ll find them small too.
- Murex Shell – The Murex shell is often identified by the spines located on the outside of the shell. Many will get these shells mixed with a whelk but they are bright in color compared to whelks.
While there are many other shells that you will come across while hunting for them, these are just a few we thought you’d enjoy. And a few little tips to remember while you shell, it’s best to go after high tide in the morning. We highly suggest wearing water shoes or flip flops, so your feet don’t get cut in the process of wading through the shallow waters. Beach and Gulf View vacation rentals will keep you and your family close to the fun and action on Anna Maria Island. We can’t wait to see you as you come down to stay with us.
Celebrate the 4th of July on AMI
Independence Day is on its way and there is no better place to stay than with AMI Locals. Celebrate with Parades, Food, Fireworks and Beach Vibes!
A few of our AMI Locals favorite recommendations for delicious food to start and finish the day :
1. Ginny’s and Jane E’s Café and Gift Shop
A fun, funky, Bakery/café serving breakfast and lunch, in a relaxed, atmosphere with loads of crazy fun things to look at and/or purchase. Try the giant cinnamon rolls to get your weekend off to a great start.
Located at 9807 Gulf Dr. Anna Maria Island, FL 34216 941.778.3170
2. The Sandbar Restaurant
A beautiful beachfront seafood restaurant serving classic dishes that will be sure to satisfy any appetite. The Sandbar is located on the north end of Anna Maria Island and has been a favorite of locals for decades. Dine with your toes in the sand and a drink in your hand on the waterfront deck or enjoy inside dining. The Sandbar offers a gulf to table, farm to fork, and pasture to plate award winning menu. Specials vary weekly -100 Spring Ave, Anna Maria, FL 34216 941.778.0444
* Fireworks just after sunset over the Gulf have been canceled this year to protect nesting turtles!
3. The Beach House Restaurant
On the beach, amazing views and delicious food. The Beach House will not disappoint. The Beach House Restaurant is located on the Bradenton Beach end of AMI and a second option for toes in the sand and beach vibe dining. Seafood is their specialty offering some of the worlds best Oysters, Shrimp and Fish; but don’t worry you can also order up amazing New York Strip and many other delicious selections as well – 200 Gulf Dr N, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217 941.779.2222
* Fireworks just after sunset over the Gulf have been CANCELED to help protect sea turtle nesting!
JULY 3rd – Parade Time!
The July 3 parade will begin at Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach at 10 a.m., proceed through Holmes Beach and end near City Pier Park in Anna Maria at approx. 11:30. The parade is a fantastic event by the Privateers held annually and loved by all.
Looking for a place to lay your head after a fun-filled day?
www.AMIlocals.com has availability with spectacular properties and a wonderful team to assist you with property needs. Here are just a few examples:
Welcome to Surfer’s Dream, a beautiful new construction home perfectly located just a short walk off beach! This 4 bedroom, 6.5 bathroom home, plus loft, is absolutely amazing.
This gorgeous and unique home will leave you breathless, and with plenty of space and privacy for a single-family, multi-family, or large group of friends and/or family combined – everything you could want in a luxury beach vacation rental home is found here at The Ritz.
This home features 7 bedrooms, with 6 King beds, a Full over Full bunk bed, and a Queen sleeper sofa bed.
Island Paradise is a beautiful beachfront condo with absolutely, incredible views. It makes you feel like you are living right on top of the beautiful blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico! The property has 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths.
For more information check out www.amilocals.com – take a look around and give us a call when you find your dream home away from home. We will get you all set up for the vacation of a lifetime.
We are so excited to hear from you and share our Independence Day here on Anna Maria Island.
Easy Ways to Explore Anna Maria Island on your Next Vacation
Do you and your family have a vacation coming up to visit Anna Maria Island? If the answer is yes, then we have to tell you all about the ways you can explore the island. Staying in one of our Water Access vacation rentals can keep your family close to the water. Getting around the island is easy as 1, 2 , 3 and we are here to let you know how you can explore the island for free!
Anna Maria Island Trolley
We have been asked numerous times if you can still visit Anna Maria Island without a car and the answer is absolutely! Not only can you explore the island by walking around it, you can also explore the island by using the Anna Maria Island Trolley. This service is available to all those who visit the area and is available 365 days a year. Depending on where you are staying at on the island will depend on which location you need to start at. Many will find that beginning at the Anna Maria City at 6:00 am and there will a trolley at each stop every 20 minutes throughout the day. If you are concerned that there will be no air, you will be pleasantly surprised that each trolley does have air-conditioning but there are a few that do offer open-air seating too. This is a great way that you can explore Anna Maria Island for free with the family!
Island Beach Monkeys
When you visit Anna Maria Island and are headed to enjoy some nightly activities, but the trolley isn’t running that late, have no fear. Island Beach Monkeys is just the service you are looking for then. This is another free mode of transportation to get around the island. One thing that is different compared to other transportation around the island is that the drivers work for tips only. How cool is that?! Their hours of service are from 12:00 pm to 3:00 am every day which is perfect for those who love late night outings. Some of the other services that Island Beach Monkeys offers are tours, weddings, airport & cruise ship shuttles and even off-island rides too. Their fleet includes 2 mini-buses (one equipped with a karaoke, an 8-passenger golf cart limo and an SUV. Give them a call at 941-565-6542 to catch a ride on the Monkey Bus on your next vacation to Anna Maria Island!
There are many other ways that you can get around the island but these are the few we wanted to share with you. If you haven’t booked your next vacation to Anna Maria Island yet, now is the time. We hope that you and your family will enjoy using these services while on vacation
