Family Vacations Archives – AMI Locals Blog | Anna Maria Island Vacation Rentals

September 30, 2023September 30, 2023

Chasing Sunsets: Anna Maria Island’s Mesmerizing Evening Strolls

An aerial view of a a neighborhood along Holmes Beach at Anna Maria Island, Florida on a summer evening during sunset.

Anna Maria Island, a gem on Florida’s Gulf Coast, is renowned for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and unforgettable sunsets. One of the island’s most cherished traditions is taking leisurely walks along the show, toes in the water while witnessing the breathtaking spectacle of the sun setting over the Gulf of Mexico. We at AMI Locals wanted to share our favorite tips on capturing these stunning sunsets as you experience this daily phenomenon.

The Golden Hour

A very romantic shoreside sunset with orange and blue cloudy sky in Anna Maria Key

Each evening, as the sun descends towards the horizon, it paints the sky with warm hues. This magical time, known as the “Golden Hour,” casts a soft golden light over the island, creating a picture-perfect setting for your sunset stroll. The island’s western side is the perfect spot to witness this fantastic golden light with the family.

Pack Your Camera

One thing that we have to say is to pack your camera or smartphone to capture the magic of Anna Maria Island sunsets. We promise you that the changing colors and stunning reflections on the water make for some of the most Instagram-worthy photos you’ll ever take. You can also capture your family pictures as you watch their faces with awe as they, too, watch the sunset on the horizon.

Prime Sunset Spots

With every inch of Anna Maria Island’s shoreline offering stunning views, there are a few spots that are particularly renowned for their sunset vistas:

Bean Point: Located at the island’s northern tip, Bean Point offers unobstructed views of the Gulf. The backdrop of lush vegetation and tranquil waters makes for a serene sunset.
Coquina Beach: This famous beach park is an excellent choice for those looking for a livelier atmosphere during the sunset. The contrast of colorful beach umbrellas against the setting sun is a sight.
Holmes Beach: The central part of the island boasts vast sandy shores, making it a fantastic place to take a leisurely sunset walk. The iconic wooden pier here adds a touch of charm to your sunset experience.

Plan Ahead

Plan to make the most of your sunset stroll and arrive about 30 minutes before the sunset. Doing this lets you find the perfect spot, set up your camera, and soak in the pre-sunset ambiance. Bring a towel, beach chair, or blanket, and let the kids sit as they watch this beautiful masterpiece happen.

Stay for the Twilight

two happy children, running on the beach at sunset on the Gulf of Mexico, (Florida)

While the sunset is stunning, don’t rush off once the sun dips below the horizon. Stay a little longer to enjoy the twilight moments with a canvas of deep blues and purples. You may even see a few stars peek through those stunning colors before returning to your vacation rental.

Anna Maria Island’s sunsets are nothing short of enchanting. With every step you take along its shores, you’ll be immersed in a world of natural beauty and serenity. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or simply seeking a tranquil escape, include a sunset stroll on Anna Maria Island vacation. Witnessing the sun’s daily descent into the Gulf of Mexico is an experience you’ll treasure forever!

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!

June 25, 2021August 10, 2022

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.

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!

August 24, 2020August 10, 2022

Best Florida beaches to visit for Labor Day weekend

Where are the Best Florida beaches to visit for Labor Day weekend? Thinking of a little getaway for the long weekend? One of the safest way to travel in this Covid time is a road trip to a private beach house!

The best beaches in Florida await you on Anna Maria Island for Labor Day weekend. Less crowded than Miami, Clearwater, and St. Pete, and with tons more charm and small town feel. There are also 7 miles of pristine white powder soft sand and crystal clear turquiose water for you to explore.

Why not stay within walking distance to the beach, in a private luxury beach house? AMI Locals offers only the best vacation rental homes in the best locations on the best island in Florida!

Surfer's Dream - Vacation Rental Anna Maria Island FL

For a family and friends staycation, you should check out Surfer’s Dream! 4 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms plus a bonus loft area that the kiddos will go crazy over! Pillow forts and late-night ghost stories for the win! Which also means the adults can enjoy happy hour in the large, open plan kitchen in peace and quiet.

AMI Locals has vacation rental homes of all different shapes and sizes, to accommodate any group! We hope to see your smiling faces (underneath your masks) soon!

Call our reservations specialists today at 941-757-8226 and let us help book you into your dream vacation – all safe and socially distanced as you choose to be.

June 29, 2020August 10, 2022

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

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

Walt Disney World Parks

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

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

Universal Studios

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

SeaWorld

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

Legoland Florida

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

Busch Gardens Tampa

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

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

April 28, 2020August 10, 2022

The Best 3 Places to Go Fishing on Anna Maria Island

Do you and your family love to fish when you go on vacation? If you do, then we need to tell you all about the three best places where you can go fishing on Anna Maria Island. Staying in one of our Water Access vacation homes will keep you and the family close to the fish and water. Let’s look below at where you can head to on the island to get in some great fishing.

Rod & Reel Pier

One of the best-hidden treasures on Anna Maria Island is the Rod & Reel Pier located on the North End of the island. Not only can you fish off the pier, but you can also try their restaurant that is pretty famous for the area. Spend a day or two at the dock and soak up the sun and fun as you fish off this historic pier as a family for only a small fee. Plus, you will be able to grab breakfast, lunch, and dinner there if you choose not to cook for the day. Be sure to check out the Rod & Reel Pier on your next vacation to Anna Maria Island this summer!

Bay to Bay Fishing Charters

If you’re looking for a one of a kind experiences, then look no further for your fishing adventures. Bay to Bay Fishing Charters is an excellent charter to do some different charters. One of the unique fishing experiences that they offer is their Extreme Night Shark Charters! They also have other skills such as Inshore & Near Shore Charters, Tarpon Charters, and even some relaxing excursions around the bay. The least amount of time for fishing they offer is 4 hours, and they go up to a full day, which is 8 hours. If you’d like to do the night fishing, it will be for 4-5 hours. No matter what you are looking to do, Bay to Bay Fishing Charters with Captain Brian Peacock is just for you!

Anna Maria Island City Pier

Anna Maria Island City Pier has to be one of the most historical places to fish at on the island. It is being rebuilt from being damaged during Hurricane Irma and was supposed to open in March. Since the lockdown, we are hoping they will be open by this summer. You will have to have a Florida State License to fish off the pier but have no worries as you can get it there. We promise that your family will not want to leave the fishing pier at the end of the day, but it only means you can go back the rest of the week to fish.

While there are many other fun places around Anna Maria Island to go fishing, we wanted to share these with you. If you haven’t booked your summer vacation to stay with us in one of our Water Access vacation homes, now is the time. We hope to see you and your family as you travel after this quarantine is over!

June 30, 2019August 10, 2022

Play Golf on your Next Family Vacation to Anna Maria Island

Many families love to come to Anna Maria Island to relax by the water and on the white sands as the kids build sandcastles. But for some families it can be a little too relaxing and they are wanting to try something new instead. Anna Maria Island has many different things you can do including heading to a local golf course to play a round or two with the family. We at AMI Locals can tell you where some of the best greens are and how you too can enjoy your family vacation to the island. Let’s look below at where we can recommend that you play a round or two while you are on vacation to sunny Florida.

Waterlefe Golf & River Club

Waterlefe Golf & River Club has one of the best views around on Anna Maria Island and happens to be one of the best places to play a round of golf at. This golf course has been a host to the US Open Qualifier 6 times. It has also been recognized as receiving the “Top 25 Golf Courses in Florida”. Not only can you play on beautiful greens, but you will be able to see wildlife too while you play a round. Don’t miss out on this amazing golf course on your next vacation to Anna Maria Island.

Manatee County Golf Course

Manatee County Golf Course has a great central location to our Anna Maria Island vacation homes and has a driving range as well. For many of our guests who play golf, this is the course for you. This is a public golf course where your family can take lessons and have the best day on the island. This golf course has been mentioned in Golf Digest with a four-star rating for both the design of the course. We can tell you their customer service is impeccable too. To end the perfect day head over to the clubhouse and grab an ice cold drink.

IMG Academy Golf Club

Another amazing golf course to play at with the family is IMG Academy Golf Club.Located nearby in Bradenton, this course is perfect for all level players. You will find sand traps, water features and can test your accuracy. After a round of golf, head on over to Our Grill Room. This room offers panoramic views of the Sarasota Bay to catch a glimpse of the sunset. What a great way to end your trip by spending it on the golf course with the family.

There are other local golf courses for you to play however these are the few we thought you’d enjoy. If you are still searching for the perfect Anna Maria Island vacation rental, then check out our availability. We can’t wait to see you and your family on your next vacation to Anna Maria Island!