Anna Maria Island makes it easy to build a vacation around the things your family enjoys most. This seven-mile barrier island includes the communities of Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, and Bradenton Beach, each offering its own places to explore.
From relaxing on the sand to browsing local shops, dining near the water, and getting out on the Gulf, there is plenty to fill your itinerary. Staying in our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals also gives you a comfortable home base for experiencing it all at your own pace.
Scenic Beaches
A beach day belongs near the top of any Anna Maria Island itinerary. Soft sand and Gulf views stretch along the island, giving families plenty of opportunities to swim, walk the shoreline, search for shells, or settle in for an afternoon in the sun.
Try visiting different parts of the coast during your trip. You can spend time near Bean Point at the northern end, explore the shoreline around Holmes Beach, or head south toward Bradenton Beach. Staying in our AMI rentals makes it easy to plan multiple beach days without following a packed schedule.
Unique Dining
Dining is part of the Anna Maria Island experience. The island and nearby Cortez offer everything from casual cafes and seafood restaurants to waterfront dining and sweet treats. Fresh local seafood, including grouper, snapper, mullet, and blue crab, can be found throughout the area.
Families can grab something quick before returning to the beach, while couples may prefer a longer dinner near the water. With so many locally owned options, you can try somewhere different each day of your vacation.
Coastal Shopping
Leave room in your schedule for a little shopping. Anna Maria Island has independent boutiques and stores selling clothing, jewelry, gifts, home decor, beach gear, and handmade goods.
Pine Avenue is a popular place to browse in Anna Maria, while Bridge Street offers shopping and dining in Bradenton Beach. Holmes Beach also has several shopping areas. Guests staying in our Holmes Beach vacation rentals can use the free island trolley to explore shopping districts without having to drive.
Outdoor Activities
The Gulf and surrounding waterways create plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun. Kayaking, paddleboarding, boating, fishing, parasailing, and Jet Ski outings are among the activities available around the island. Visitors can also rent bikes or take guided tours.
A fishing charter can be especially fun for families looking for an activity beyond the beach. For a slower day, rent a bike and explore more of the island before finding a spot to watch the sunset.
Local History & Arts
There is more to Anna Maria Island than beaches. The Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum shares the story of all three island communities through photographs, maps, artifacts, and historic sites, including the Old City Jail and restored Belle Haven cottage.
Art galleries, studios, murals, live music, and community theater also contribute to the island’s creative side. The Island Players have been part of the community since 1949 and present live productions during their theater season.
Final Thoughts
The best things to do on Anna Maria Island combine time outside with the character of its three communities. You can spend your morning at the beach, shop in the afternoon, enjoy local seafood for dinner, and end the day watching the sun drop over the Gulf.
Guests in our Bradenton Beach vacation rentals can also explore Bridge Street, enjoy the southern beaches, and easily travel north to Holmes Beach and Anna Maria for even more activities.
Book Your Anna Maria Island Rental with Island Vacation Properties
Where you stay can make a great island vacation even better. Island Vacation Properties offers vacation homes and condos throughout Anna Maria Island, giving families options for different group sizes, locations, and travel plans.
Our local team is here to provide personalized service before and during your stay. Browse our Anna Maria Island, Holmes Beach, and Bradenton Beach properties and find a rental that puts you close to the beaches, dining, shopping, and activities you want to experience.
