There is something for everyone on Anna Maria Island. Whether you prefer lazy beach days or getting wet with active water sports, fine dining, or beach picnics, AMI has it all. Those inclined to spend their vacation shopping will find Pine Avenue truly a delight. You can spend hours window shopping and still not see it all!
From local boutiques to delectable dining, Pine Avenue is one of the best ways to experience the culture of Anna Maria Island.
Location
Where is Pine Avenue, and how do you get there? Fortunately, Anna Maria Island is only 7 miles long from its northern point to the bottom. Hence, no matter where you are on the island, it’s not difficult to get around. Pine Avenue is located at the North end of the island, stretching from Anna Maria Island Beach to the AMI pier on the other. Wherever you are starting from, it’s a quick journey by bike or rented golf cart. There’s also the free AMI trolley, which allows you to hop on and off at will.
Shopping
Pine Avenue offers more than your run-of-the-mill souvenir shops and big-name outlets. The street is known and beloved for its locally owned and operated businesses, contributing to the famous “Old Florida feel” of the island. Here you’ll find unique souvenirs and styles that you won’t get anywhere else. No matter your price range, there is something for everyone.
Some of the most popular souvenir shops include the Three Island Monkeys, which features local prints and paintings by local artists, and the White Egret and Egrets Nest with home furnishings and interior designs, home accents and gifts, and an island boutique.
For clothing, we recommend tourist favorites like Pink and Navy, The Island Cabana, and Libby’s Island Jewelry. Here you’ll find both new and used clothing for members of the entire family. Beach Bums is the perfect place to visit for rentals or beach equipment as they offer paddleboards, kayaks, bikes, golf carts, and more. AMI Outfitters Coastal Gear & Apparel provides professional outdoor gear, so you don’t have to worry in case you’ve forgotten anything at home.
If you’re visiting with kids, then definitely stop by the Flip Flop Shop & Candy Shop at 315 Pine Avenue. Their selection includes a variety of candies, ice cream, and other delicious treats. It’s the perfect way to keep the kids happy during a long Anna Maria Island shopping trip!
Anna Maria Island Restaurants
After exploring the island, you’ll certainly work up an appetite. Pine Avenue is renowned for its lovely locally-owned Anna Maria Island restaurants, bakeries, and hole-in-the-wall food spots.
Vinny & Cheryl’s Italian Kitchen is one of the best restaurants around. Just pass by the window to see what breads are on the menu for the day. The menu changes daily, but the food is always delicious, so you’ll never be disappointed. Some classic Italian menu items include veal parmesan, baked ziti, lasagna, and pizza.
For delicious meals with locally sourced foods, look no further than Relish Café, located in Anna Maria Island’s Historic Green Village. This eco-friendly structure relies primarily on solar power for energy. Among the café’s most popular dishes are the fresh fruit waffles, chicken salad, and protein breakfast burrito. They also sell frozen popsicles from a local Sarasota operation called Pop Craft. The café is not to be missed and is by far one of the best restaurants on Anna Maria Island!
Finally, for dessert, don’t miss Anna Maria Donuts. Choose your own icing and toppings – get creative with any combination that you can imagine! There are crushed Oreo cookies, bacon, rainbow, and chocolate sprinkles, just to scratch the surface. The shop is not far from the beach, so you can pick up your donuts and watch the sunset.
Plan Your Next Visit
Of course, once you step foot on Anna Maria Island, we know you won’t want to leave! So book your next amazing Holmes Beach vacation rental and experience the beauty of the island for yourself.
Other Pine Avenue Attractions
What better souvenir to bring home than a picture of yourself in jail? Not just any prison, but the Anna Maria Jail. This tiny, open-air building was built in 1927. Though it no longer functions as an actual jail, it does occasionally help control rabble-rousers who visit the island for weekend partying. A night in the cell with thousands of mosquitos was enough to convince them not to act out again! The jail is located right next door to the Anna Maria Historical Society Museum and Park.
The historical society is just the place to visit to experience the island’s rich history as a former Native American fishing camp and later Spanish colony. This building itself is a historical monument, first functioning as the island’s icehouse in 1920. Entrance and tours are free, though donations are highly encouraged.
Finish your tour of Pine Avenue with a stroll along the pier. You might spot herons, pelicans, dolphins, or, if you’re lucky, fishers reeling in a large shark. The pier is open 24 hours a day and is easily one of the most popular Anna Maria Island attractions.
Where to Stay
When planning your vacation, we offer the best Anna Maria Island places to stay. Our wide selection of Anna Maria Island house rentals includes beachfront condos and house rentals for any number of guests. Anna Maria Island long weekend rentals are also available if you happen to be visiting from nearby.
