Must Have Items for Your Beach Bag

Are you headed to the white sandy beaches of Anna Maria Island this spring for your vacation? Nothing says vacation like spending a few days sitting on the beach, soaking up the rays. When staying in one of our Beach and Golf View vacation rentals, having the right items in your beach bag will help enjoy your vacation a little better. We have compiled a small list to be sure that you will be ready for your next vacation to Anna Maria Island.

Must Have Items

Beach Bag

Having the right beach bag can make ALL the difference in the world. Sure, you can throw all of your items into any old bag, but did you know that all beach bags were not created equal. We suggest looking at the size, water and sand resistance, security and stylish when searching for your bag. We have found that even using a backpack, diaper bag or a large utility tote bag works perfect for a beach bag.

Beach Towels

Pack a towel for everyone in your family whether you are going to sit in the sun or swim in the ocean. Bringing an extra towel with you is always a good idea especially if you have little ones with you. Having a beach towel with a different design can help each member in your group remember which one theirs is. This can help with the upset that the little ones will get because someone else is using their towel.

Sunscreen

With the hot southern sun on Anna Maria Island, sunscreen is a must for any beach bag. Use a sunscreen that is designed for your beach activities such as waterproof, sport, high SPF, etc.). Dermatologists recommend that you use a sunscreen with at least 30 SPF while you are enjoying the sunshine. And don’t forget to reapply throughout your day as we don’t want you to ruin your vacation here with a sunburn. If you happen to get a little too much sun, pack a bottle of aloe and stick it in the fridge. This can help soothe the burn so you can enjoy your vacation a little more.

Mesh Bag for Sand Toys

When you go on vacation with kids, bringing toys to play in the sand is a must. But we understand that bringing back the sand into your car or vacation rental can be a hassle. If you pack in your beach bag a mesh bag such as a laundry bag or a bag specifically for beach toys can help eliminate the mess. Just throw the sandy toys into the bag, give it a good shake and leave the sand behind at the beach. You can purchase these online or in a local store to bring with you on your vacation.

Baby Powder

This is a must when you go on vacation whether you have the kids with you or not. Whether you are staying in a vacation rental or you decided to drive your car to the beach access, sand will be all over you when you leave the beach. So, bringing baby powder in your beach bag will magically get the sand off of your body without irritation and leave a nice scent too.

Hat & Sunglasses

Bringing both of these items can be very useful for anyone who visits the beach. The sun in the south is a lot warmer than it would be up north, and so we want to make sure you are protected. Having sunglasses will protect your eyes from the sun bright rays and will offer you some relief when trying to keep an eye on your little ones playing. Whether you have a floppy hot or a baseball cap, you will be happy that you brought these along with you. Be sure to pack one for each member of your family.

Beach Blanket

This is an item that is often overlooked when packing your beach bag for many families. With all the excitement of spending your days on the beach that you forget to pack one. One beach blanket that we recommend you try and grab is sand-proof beach blanket. This is made to make it easier to keep the sand off the food, little hands of the kids and all the clothes. Another beach blanket alternative is using a full-size fitted sheet especially if you have young kids. Put something heavy in each of the corners and you can have a sand-free zone for your babies. Now we can’t guarantee that the kids won’t bring back sand to your vacation rental, but know that while you’re sitting on the sand your belongings will be safe.

There are many other items that you can pack into your beach bag for your next trip to Anna Maria Island, but these are the must have items we thought you should have with you. If you are still looking for a place to stay for your next getaway, then check out our Beach and Gulf View vacation rentals today. We can’t wait to see you and your family as you enjoy the white sandy beaches of Anna Maria Island!

March 17, 2023April 1, 2023

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!

February 28, 2023February 28, 2023

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

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 35^th 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

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!

December 29, 2022December 29, 2022

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

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

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.

October 31, 2022October 31, 2022

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 8^th Annual Symphony on the Sand happening on Saturday, November 12^th 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 11^th – 14^th. 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.

August 31, 2022September 1, 2022

Anna Maria Island – Florida’s Secret Time Capsule

If you have never been to Anna Maria Island before, you may not realize that it’s like Florida’s secret time capsule. Many visitors who come to Anna Maria Island for the first time will often ask “Where are all the High-Rises?” Being only an hour south of Tampa on the west coast of Florida, you will find one of the best beaches on the gulf coast. And if you happen to be staying in one of our Gulf View vacation rentals, then you will understand why this beach is the best.

Unlike many of the other larger cities and really most of Florida, where you can see high-rises as far as the eye can see, you won’t find that on Anna Maria Island. There is only 1 building that happens to be taller than 3 stories on the entire island which is a condo complex that was built in the 1970’s. How can this even be like a normal beach town? It’s easy, it doesn’t have those big hotels but instead has amazing vacation rentals that you get to stay in every-time you visit.

On Island Time

The speed limit on the main road which happens to be a two-lane “highway” that runs the entire length of the island is a nice speed of 35 mph. While this may seem like there is no way that you can find a time capsule of a town or beach that has all of the qualities that it has, it makes you glad that they take life one day at a time. Their motto is ones you’re on the island you are on island time and many visitors like that feeling.

Year-Round Fun

While you may think that visiting the island during the fall and winter months may be unreal, think again. Anna Maria Island has casual surroundings and have a climate that is temperate which is why many consider it a year-round destination. During the winter and early spring months, you may find more people trying to come visit who live in the colder states. During the summer months you find that families will occupy the area and will spend as many hours at the beach soaking up the rays. And even Coastal Living magazine has recently named Anna Maria Island among some of the nation’s “10 Best Little Beach Towns to Visit in the Fall”. What an honor that our area has received, and we take pride on it.

Modes of Transportation

Anna Maria Island is Florida's Time Capsule

While many younger people would consider the only way to get around the island is by car, many others enjoy other modes of transportation. We mean, you are on island time so why not enjoy the scenery instead by getting around via walking, bike riding and even golf cart rentals. But please note that you must have a valid driver’s license to be able to rent a golf cart on the island. Hitch a ride on the Monkey Bus as you explore our beautiful scenery. No matter what your mode of transportation may be, you will enjoy your time while on the island with your friends and family.

These are just a few reasons that you may realize that Anna Maria Island may feel like it’s Florida’s secret time capsule, but the time spent on the island for your family vacation will feel the best. Sometimes going to a different beach and noticing the hustle and bustle there will allow you to want to vacation with us at AMI Locals. We can tell you that being on island time is always fun for everyone as you will want to vacation here year after year. We hope that we can see you and your family for your next vacation to Anna Maria Island!

June 28, 2022August 10, 2022

Nightlife on Anna Maria Island this Summer

Happy friends cheering and drinking cocktails at beach party outdoor - Young millennials people having fun at weekend summer night - Youth lifestyle and nightlife concept - Main focus on left guys

Anna Maria Island during the day is perfect for enjoying the sun, sand, and surf with the family. But would you like to have a night out or two while on vacation kid-free? We at AMI Locals have the perfect spots where you can go this summer and enjoy the nightlife on the island. Staying in one of our Beach and Gulf view homes will keep you close to the action. Let’s look below where you can check out the nightlife here on Anna Maria Island.

The Doctor’s Office

Craft Cocktail Assortment on Well Lit Bar

The Doctor’s Office is a craft cocktail bar that will give you the ambiance as you’ve stepped back in time. The space where this bar is located has been on the island since the 1950s and was once an office for several doctors. Some items you’ll find on the menu are your typical “bar” food like light sandwiches, tacos & more. The drink menu is impressive, with cocktails such as the Painkiller, Brown Derby, Preferred Remedy, and Bees Knees. Don’t miss The Doctor’s Office on your next visit to Anna Maria Island!

Dcoy Ducks

Dcoy Ducks is famous to the locals and is in the Holmes Beach area. They are known to many as “The Spot” to hang out with friends from 10:30 am until 2:30 am. Dcoy Ducks hosts many events during the month each day and is one you don’t want to skip on your kid-free night out. Think of the fun you’ll have on Margarita Thursdays or Fireball Friday, including Happy Hour every Friday & Saturday Night.

Hurricane Hanks

Hipster friends toasting multicolored fancy drinks at fashion bar - Trendy people having fun together drinking cocktails at happy hour - Food and beverage party time concept on vivid contrast filter

Hurricane Hanks is another great nightlife spot for many of our guests and even the locals. They are located on Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach and open until 11 pm every night. Some items you’ll find on the menu are wings, bacon-wrapped scallops, sandwiches, and more. They offer craft beers, cocktails, and great food that can’t be missed. Hurricane Hanks offers different events during the day like Tiki Time, Retro Hour, and more.

The nightlife on Anna Maria Island is full of different things to do, but we wanted to share these with you. If you haven’t booked your next stay in one of our Beach and Gulf view homes, now is the time. We can’t wait to hear how you spent your kid-free night on the town!

May 31, 2022August 10, 2022

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

breakfast on a table showing bacon, eggs, toast

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

Anna Maria Island Beach Café

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

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

The Waffle Press

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

The Donut Experience

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

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

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

April 19, 2022August 10, 2022

4 Fun Beach Games that the Whole Family will Love

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.

February 28, 2022August 10, 2022

3 Things to Do this Spring on Anna Maria Island

Beautiful Sand Dunes and Sea Oats on the Coastline of Anna Maria Island, Florida

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

A family snorkeling in the crystal-clear water

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

Teenagers, 14 and 15 years, playing miniature golf

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!