Things to Do Archives – Page 3 of 3 – AMI Locals Blog

October 29, 2021August 10, 2022

3 Natural Springs State Parks Near Anna Maria Island for a Day Trip with the Family

Lithia Springs State Park with a squirrel on a palm near Tampa Florida.

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

Weeki Wachee Springs River with blues and greens

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

The gardens at Rainbow Springs in Dunnellon, Florida.

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

Happy cute caucasian boy swimming in watermelon inflatable ring. Vacation on sea side. High quality photo

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!

February 28, 2021August 10, 2022

Enjoy Spring Break on Anna Maria Island

It’s hard to believe that Spring Break will be here before we know it, and now is the time to start planning it. Getting away from life at home will allow both you and your family to recharge a bit, all while relaxing in the area. Staying in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals will keep you and the family together. Let’s look below at what fun things you can do this spring break with the family!

Day Trip Fun

One of the best things about vacationing to Anna Maria Island this spring break is being close to several different amusement parks. Busch Gardens Tampa is located about an hour and a half from the island and is a quick trip to make. If you’re looking to travel a little more, then you can always head to Orlando, which is about a 2-hour drive from the island. Here you and your family can choose from Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, Discovery Cove, Sea World, and Legoland. We do, however, recommend that you purchase your tickets before heading over to the parks, as Walt Disney World does require you to make Park Pass Reservations. No matter where you go for the day, know that you will be able to come back to your vacation rental and relax the rest of the week!

Play on the Water

Another great way your family can enjoy spring break this year is to enjoy time on the water. This year, either rent yourself a boat where you can sail along the coast and enjoy fishing, relaxing, and having a great time together. Suppose you’re looking for something a little more entertaining, then head on over to the Fun Life Waterpark, where you’ll be floating a long the water and enjoying some of the fun trampolines and slides into the water. There is so much to do on the water that these are just a few of the things you can do.

Enjoy a Day on the Beach

Spending time away from life at home is getting to walk to the beach from your vacation rental or driving over to the beach. Be sure to bring your beach chairs, towels, umbrella, sunscreen, and sand toys for the kids with you. If you’d like to get a book or two with you while you relax as the kids play in the sand. Bring your lunch down on the sand along with a cooler full of drinks to keep you and the family hydrated for the day. Make new memories as you spend time relaxing and enjoying your time together on the beautiful white sands of Anna Maria Island!

While there are so many other things that you can do while on vacation to Anna Maria Island, we wanted to share these with you. If you haven’t booked your spring break vacation to stay in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals, now is the time. We can’t wait to see you and your family make new memories this spring break together!

January 31, 2021August 10, 2022

Take a Romantic Getaway to Anna Maria Island this Valentine’s Day

Finding time for just the two of you can be a little tricky at home with the hustle and bustle of taking care of the kids to working from home. This year surprise your loved one with a romantic getaway to Anna Maria Island for Valentine’s Day. Staying in one of our 1-2 Bedroom vacation rentals will allow the two of you just to relax and enjoy your time away from home. Let’s look below what you can do while you’re on your romantic getaway here on the island.

Romantic Dinner

We understand that taking a vacation with the kids can be a little hectic at times. So, while you’re on your romantic getaway to Anna Maria Island, enjoy a few romantic dinners together kid-free. Head on over to The Sandbar Restaurant located here on the island to get one of the best local cuisines in town. Ask to sit outside so that you can feel the sand under your feet as you enjoy your romantic dinner. Some of the fantastic foods you can have for dinner are Two Docks Clams, Seafood & Grits, Stuffed Shrimp, and don’t forget about the Key Lime Pie. Many other delicious foods are available on the menu, so get a few different ones and give them a try!

Explore the Island

Another great way that you can enjoy your romantic getaway is by exploring the island together. Whether you’re looking to do something adventurous like kayaking or looking to do something a little off the well-beaten path, there is something for everyone here. Head over to the Anna Maria City Pier and take a long walk enjoying the serene water and wildlife. Rent a bike and explore the island together by getting a little fresh air as you take your time pedaling around town. With all of the fun options available on the island, you may never want to leave to go back home.

While there are many other things that you and your loved one can do while you’re on your romantic getaway this Valentine’s Day, we wanted to share these with you. If you haven’t booked your trip to stay in one of our 1-2 Bedroom vacation rentals, now is the time. We look forward to seeing you in the next few weeks as you enjoy your time together as a couple enjoying island life!

December 28, 2020August 10, 2022

Escape the Cold to Sunny Anna Maria Island

Are you and your family looking to escape the cold and head to a warmer climate? If the answer is yes, then allow us at AMI Locals to share a few reasons you should vacation with us. Staying in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals will allow the whole family to join you and enjoy the warmth. Let’s look below at what fun things you can want while you vacation to Anna Maria Island this winter to escape the cold.

White Sands

Escape the Cold to Sunny Anna Maria Island

This year exchange the cold snow and ice for the lovely warm sands of Anna Maria Island. Instead of worrying about what warm clothes you should pack on your vacation, worry about what summer clothes you want to wear. Allow the family to soak up the sun while sitting poolside in one of our AMI Locals vacation rentals or enjoying the white sands of the beach. The weather is perfect for you and the family to want the Gulf of Mexico’s water instead of bundling up to go outdoors.

Fun in the Water

Your family can do a few other things while on vacation here on Anna Maria Island is enjoying time out on the open water. Many love to head on over and enjoy Fun Life Water Park, which allows your family to have your party on the water. It’s like a floating water park that you’ve never experienced before, and we can tell you it’s quite fun too. Some of the other fun things you can do on the water are Paddle Board or Kayak together by renting for a few hours and having a good time. No matter what you’d like to do this winter with the family on the water, there is something for everyone!

While there are many other fun things you can do, such as rent a bike or golf cart, head to an amusement park, or just relax, we wanted to share these with you. If you haven’t booked your next winter getaway to stay with us at AMI Locals, now is the time. We hope to see you and your family enjoying the island’s warm sands instead of the cold snow on the slopes!

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!

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!

September 28, 2018August 10, 2022

Rock Climbing In St. Petersburg Florida

What do some of our AMI Locals do on their day off?

Well rock climbing of course, at Vertical Ventures in St. Petersburg! With St. Petersburg being such a short drive away from Anna Maria Island, it makes it so easy to go check out this awesome Rock Climbing Gym on your vacation to Anna Maria Island. Escape the rain or the sun, and find a fun and safe place to have some fun with the whole family. Sarah, one of our AMI Locals, and her husband decided to take the day and do some rock climbing and get some great video along the way.

Picture of rock climbing gym

As you can see here, there is plenty of space to climb! This gym has everything you need to get on the wall, from rock climbing shoes to chalk. One of the other great things about this rock climbing gym is that it is an attraction for the entire family, so no one will feel left out of this excursion. Check out this video of Sarah’s first attempt on the wall:

Overall, this place is awesome and a great way to spend some time if you are trying to escape the beach for a little while or just wanting a fun and different adventure. So what should you expect when you go to rock climb?

Here is a list of things to keep in mind when you go:

Don’t worry, they have ropes! It’s an extremely safe way to have a lot of fun.
They have everything you need as far as gear. You won’t need to bring anything except maybe your friends or family!
They will show you everything you need to know about the gear and rock wall.
And if you do want to bring something, snacks and water should be top of the list.
Remember to have fun! This isn’t the movie Cliffhanger and you’re not Sylvester Stallone 😉

To show you what a good time you’ll have, here is a picture of our AMI Local Sarah and her husband after a great time at the rock climbing gym.

Sarah and her husband at a rock gym

September 16, 2018August 10, 2022

What to Do When It Rains on Anna Maria Island

Going on vacation is always fun especially when you go to the beach. But what if you have a day or two of rain when visiting Anna Maria Island? Don’t worry because there are plenty of things that you can do when it rains on Anna Maria Island. Let’s look below at a few activities that there are to do while you vacation in paradise.

Mote Marine Museum

What to Do When It Rains on Anna Maria Island

The Mote Marine Museum is a non-profit museum where you and your family can go and enjoy the day. The museum has many different exhibits that everyone in the family will want to enjoy. From their Shark Zone to the reef animals exhibits, you will be sure to learn about animals. The aquarium does offer a blend of entertainment and education with a working marine laboratory. You can visit this in Sarasota, Florida from 10 am to 5 pm seven days a week including holidays.

Anna Maria Island Jail & Historical Society

Visiting one of our historical museums can be so much fun for the whole family. You will not be disappointed if you come and visit the Old City Jail, the Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum and more. The historical society museum was constructed in a 1920 icehouse and then became a auto garage, sea turtle hatchery and an admin building. The exhibits you will see will help tell the stories of the first settlers of the island and what they left behind. This is open on weekdays from 10 am to 1 pm. What a fun day to spent with the family!

South Florida Museum

What to Do When It Rains on Anna Maria Island

South Florida Museum is another great option to take the kids out while it rains. Here you will be able to explore the largest natural and cultural history museum on the Florida’s Gulf Coast. Not only do you get to visit all the exhibits at the South Florida Museum, but you will also be able to visit the Parker Manatee Aquarium and the Bishop Planetarium as well. Admission to get in is $19 for each adult, $17 for Seniors 65+, $12 for each child from 4-12. Children under 4 do get in for free with each paying adult. Don’t let this visit slip by when you visit Anna Maria Island!

There are many other things that you can do while it rains on your vacation, but these are just a few we thought you’d enjoy. And if you don’t feel like going out for the day in the rain, then spend your time at your gulf view vacation rental. Bring board games or play a game of cards with the family. Watch movies or just enjoy a nice afternoon nap. No matter when you come to visit paradise and a rainy day happens, there is always something for you to do!

July 24, 2018August 10, 2022

5 Best Things to Do with Kids on Anna Maria Island

Do you have a family vacation this year on Anna Maria Island and not sure what there is to do with the kids? If you are staying in one of our beach and gulf view vacation rentals, we can tell you some of the best things to do with the kids. We have compiled a small list for you to check out and see what you and your kids can do on your next family vacation!

Go to the Beach

5 Best Things to Do with Kids on Anna Maria Island

Well you are vacationing in Florida, so one of our number recommendations is to hit the beach and spend as much time as you can there. Let your kids spend as much time there creating new memories with them. Build as many sandcastles as you’d like and let the play in the beautiful, white sand. The best part of heading to the beach on Anna Maria Island is that there are sand bars that help create shallow water areas for your kids to play in. Let the kids wear their energy out on the beach for the day!

Hunt for Sea Shells

5 Best Things to Do with Kids on Anna Maria Island

When you are vacationing hunting for sea shells can be a favorite activity for everyone in the family to do. This can be a great activity for the younger ones who are just learning to walk and for even the parents. Plus, we know of a great area to head to get to the best shells. If you head over to Beer Can Island (Greer Island) you can find some of the best area for the best shells.

Play & Enjoy Bayfront Park

We understand that your kids build up more energy than you can handle and need to run it off. Take them to Bayfront Park where they can run off that energy and where you can enjoy the beautiful views of the bay. This is a free park and a great new place to visit when you are on vacation.

Go Get Donuts

5 Best Things to Do with Kids on Anna Maria Island

When on vacation you must get donuts especially at one of the most delicious places in the US! You will need to take the kids to The Donut Experience at least one time while you are on vacation to experience the made to order donuts. When you arrive though, don’t be surprised if you find a line out the door. This is a very popular place to go whether you are a local or a tourist. The process is simple and you will see many options to help you make your donuts better tasting. Just have fun and let the kids be creative. What a better way to enjoy these donuts!

Eat on the Beach

If you are looking for a new experience when it’s time to eat dinner or lunch with your family. Head over to The Sandbar Restaurant where you can eat with your toes in the sand. This is a locally owned restaurant that has an expansive patio with many tables over actual sand. And to make it better when you go just before sunset where you can experience a beautiful view of the sun setting over the water. They have a great kid friendly menu and no worry about the kids making a mess on the floor, it’s sand. Maybe make this your last meal while on the island. What a beautiful memory to make on your final day!

5 Best Things to Do with Kids on Anna Maria Island

While there are still many other things to do with your kids but these are just a few that we’d thought that you’d like. While staying with us in one of our vacation rentals, you will find that there is something for everyone in the family. Take pictures, make new memories and come back to the island for years to come!