Explore AMI Archives – AMI Locals Blog | Anna Maria Island Vacation Rentals

July 31, 2023August 1, 2023

How to Explore Anna Maria Island without a Car

Parked bicycles on tropical beach of Anna Maria Island, Florida

Do you have a vacation planned to Anna Maria Island soon, but you don’t want to drive your car after you arrive at your vacation rental? No worries, we know the best ways to get around our island without needing a car. Anna Maria Island is only 7 miles long so you can explore our beautiful island differently. Let’s look at some options for exploring Anna Maria Island without a car below.

Golf Cart Rentals

golf cart riding around anna maria island

Exploring with a Golf Cart Rental is a great way to get around Anna Maria Island. Depending on how many people you have in your party will determine the size cart you will need. Take your pick between a 4-passenger or 6-passenger golf cart and whether you want it to be electric or gas-powered. Another great thing about the golf carts is that they are street-legal and can be driven on most of the roads on the island. Which one would you choose?

Biking

Another great option that is available to explore the island is bike riding. Even if you’re traveling to AMI with the family in your car, bringing bikes can be an excellent option for anyone. If you don’t have room to bring the bikes, you may want to check out several of the local places on the island to rent a bike or one for the whole family. Bean Point, City Pier, and Coquina Beach Bike Path are some places you can check out on bikes. Pack a picnic lunch and explore what our beautiful island has to offer. We promise you won’t be disappointed!

Boats, Tours & Jet Skis

Beautiful Scenery at Anna Maria Island Florida USA. Photo Credit: Marty Jean-Louis

The final option we wanted to share with you is exploring the open waters around our beautiful island. A favorite for many of our guests is booking a dolphin tour that will allow you to see these beautiful animals glide through the water during the day. For something a little different, check out the Sunset Dolphin Cruise or book a private tour the family will discuss for years to come. Boat and Jet Ski rentals are also available to check out!

There are many other ways to explore the island without a car, but we wanted to share some of our favorites. If you are ready to book your next stay in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals, now is the time. We can’t wait to hear how your next visit was and be sure to tag us in your pictures and videos on social media as you explore the island!

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!

September 1, 2020August 10, 2022

Experience Kayaking & Paddleboarding on Anna Maria Island

Do you and your family love to get outside and experience new things while on vacation? If the answer is yes, then allow us to share a few things that your family can do here on Anna Maria Island. Staying in one of our AMI Locals vacation rentals will allow your family to be close to the action. Let’s look below at how you can experience kayaking and paddleboarding here on the island.

Kayaking Around the Island

Have you ever been kayaking at home or even at a different destination? We can tell you that kayaking is one of our guests’ favorite things to do. Whether you have brought your kayak or you’re renting one, the time you spend on the water may become your favorite thing to do. You will find that many of our waterfront properties will allow you and the family to put your kayak into the water. Having access so close to where you will be staying will allow more time outside and having the time of your lives. If you aren’t staying in a waterfront property, then you will be happy to know we have a few places where you can go to put in your kayak around town.

Bimini Bay – this is located in the Holmes Beach area and is one of the best places to launch your kayak from. You can also launch directly from the pier and paddle away together as a family.
Robinson Preserve – this is another excellent location that is along the Manatee Avenue Causeway.
De Soto National Memorial Park – this happens to be a national park, and if you’re interested in learning a little, they do offer ranger-led tours.

Paddleboarding

Another fun activity that you can do while you are on vacation to Anna Maria Island is paddleboarding. This is another activity that is excellent exercise and fun for the whole family. Whether you have been paddleboarding before or not, the laughs are too much to handle at times. There are many different rental locations around the island that no only will give you tours, but they will also deliver your paddleboard to your vacation rental. Again staying in waterfront property will allow you to have access to the water a little easier, but you will still be able to access the water elsewhere too. Many of the locations above will allow you to put your paddleboard into the water, but we do suggest that taking a tour is the way to go.

While there are many other fun things to do here on Anna Maria Island, we wanted to share these with you. If you haven’t booked your next vacation to stay with us in one of our AMI Locals vacation rentals, now is the time. We can’t wait to hear about the adventures you have on the water!

May 7, 2020August 10, 2022

Best Beaches in the World

Where are the Best Beaches in the World? According to a new post by Travel Addicts, Bean Point Beach on Anna Maria Island is one of the World’s Best Beaches!

So, our secret is out. But we’ve been saying for years that Anna Maria Island is home to the best beaches in the United States and one of the best beaches in the World. Our 7-mile long stretch of powder-soft white sandy beaches is one of the best beach vacation destinations you can choose to visit. Better yet, the beautifully clear turquoise waters and quiet beach town atmosphere are all available to you without even having to leave the country!

First, let’s take a look at Bean Point Beach.

Best Beaches in the World - Bean Point Beach, Anna Maria Island Florida

Located on the northern tip of Anna Maria Island, Bean Point Beach is breathtakingly beautiful. It is also one of the more peaceful beach spots to watch a sunset, as crowds tend to favor the more easily accessible Manatee Public Beach. Bean Point Beach is a great spot for walking. You can observe the Florida wildlife such as birds and fish, dolphins, and more. Breathe in the fresh salty air and exhale all of your stress and worries.

AMI Locals properties that are located within a very close walking distance to Bean Point Beach include: Bean Point Bungalow, Grande Haven, Coastal Queen, Beach Escape, and Bay View Beauty.

Next, let’s explore Manatee Public Beach!

Best Beaches in the World, Manatee Public Beach Anna Maria Island Florida

Manatee Public Beach is another great location where your family can see the sunset on the island! With plenty of parking, the AMI Beach Café, and amenties such as the public bathrooms onsite, it is one of the most convenient and usually more busy beach destinations on Anna Maria Island. It’s a beautiful and family-friendly place to gather and enjoy the sun and sand!

AMI Locals properties that are located within a very close walking distance to Manatee Public Beach include: The Islands West Resort Villas, Beach View Retreat, The Coconut Cottages, Sandy Pointe, and Gulf Pearl.

Finally, let’s visit Coquina Beach!

Best Beaches in the World, Coquina Beach Anna Maria Island Florida

Located on the southernmost point of Anna Maria Island, Coquina Beach features parking, public amenities, walking trails, and great views of the Longboat Pass drawbridge. The waves kick up a bit more at this beach, and the breeze is so nice! Coquina Beach Market happens here during season, too, so you can browse our local artists’ work and souvenirs.

AMI Locals properties that are located within a very close walking distance to Coquina Beach include: Sea Forever, Ocean Breeze, As Far as the Eye Can Sea, The Surof House, Beach to Bay, Crystal Waves Oasis, and Salt Life.

Thanks again to our friends at Travel Addicts!

Check out their great collection of articles and travel tips, and be sure to check out our available AMI Locals Anna Maria Island luxury vacation rental homes for your next getaway!

March 30, 2020August 10, 2022

Anna Maria Island open shops and restaurants

We wanted to let you know that Anna Maria Island is still here for you and we have some local shops and restaurants we would like to recognize during this time that are still open. Some are offering our AMI Locals guests a special discount as well!

• RENTAL ITEMS •

AMI BEACH FUN RENTALS • (941) 896-9780
Bikes, paddleboards, golf carts etc. they have it all!
Now offering 25% off to AMI Locals guests
www.amibeachfunrentals.com

• TAKE OUT FOOD •

SLIMS PLACE • (941) 567-4056
take out or delivery, and beer and wine also available!
www.slimsplaceami.com

DUFFYS TAVERN • (941) 778-2501
cash only, best burgers on Island!
www.duffystavernami.com

THE FEAST RESTAURANT • (941) 778-5092
great pizza and a full menu of other lunch/dinner items
www.thefeastrestaurantami.com

SCOTTS DELI • (941)778-3000
sandwiches (breakfast and lunch) delivery available
www.scottsdeliannamaria.com

• DRINKS •

BALI HAI BEACH RESORT LOUNGE • (941) 245-6609
Open Friday, April 3 – AMI Locals guests receive BOGO cocktail specials
www.balihaibeachresort.com

• SHOPS •

SAND DOLLAR GIFT SHOP • (941) 778-2024
10% off purchase for AMI Locals guests
https://sand-dollar-gift-shop.hub.biz/

• SALON PRODUCTS •

ACQUA AVEDA SALON AND SPA • (941) 778-5400
5311 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach
** Drive up anytime between 10am – 3pm Tuesday, March 31st, place your order with Ali, and the Acqua girls will wrap your products and bring them to your car. Also 20% off any 2 liter size products or any 3 regular size products! Buy a $100 gift card and get $25! For a limited time.
www.acquaaveda.com

These Anna Maria Island shops and restaurants are open to serve you, and we hope you will take the time to enjoy and support them during your stay.

Again, we would like to thank you for staying with AMI Locals and hope everyone stays safe! Please let us know if you need anything at all while you are here!

~ The AMI Locals Team