Why Anna Maria Island is Great for the Whole Family

You may be wondering why AMI is considered so great for families. It is likely because of all the kid-friendly Anna Maria Island activities! When you are looking for things to do on Anna Maria Island, our helpful staff will steer you in the right direction. 

Chances are that, despite staying in one of our beachfront Anna Maria Island rentals with amenities such as private pools, private beach entry, complimentary WiFi, full kitchens, and more, you’ll still want to explore the island a bit. Here are just a few of the things to consider doing on your Anna Maria Island getaway with your family.

Beaches

Beaches are practical and inexpensive, which is often what many families are seeking when on their island vacation. Here are some of the Anna Maria beaches to consider visiting.

Bean Point Beach is perfect for locals and visitors alike. It is situated along with one of the longest stretches of white sand beaches in Anna Maria and is perfect for sunbathing.

Manatee Public Beach is an upbeat, active beach, where there are lots of people and things to do. There are plenty of activities available for everyone to do regardless of their age. This is the best beach to visit if you are active, and it’s the most popular with families. Finally, Leffis Key Beach is a quiet stretch where many photographers go to take pictures of the natural beauty of the beach preserve and to capture panoramic views.

a blue heron in anna maria island

Parks

Nothing is more cost-effective than one of the parks on Anna Maria Island. Whether you visit to relax or to engage in some activities such as kite flying, hiking, or picnicking, a park is an ideal place for these types of things. Consider visiting these local and nearby parks and preserves.

Leffis Key Preserve is a saltwater wetland full of plant-life, such as sea grapes and Jamaica dogwood. There is also a platform to observe the beauty of the entire preserve, perfect for the family that loves nature! Also, Robinson Preserve is only a short 20-minute drive outside of Anna Maria Island. It is 700 acres of mangroves, with coastal wetlands and marshes. There is also kayaking and hiking available.

aerial view of anna maria island

Nearby Attractions

Most families who visit the area enjoy spending time outdoors, whether you’re hanging out on Anna Maria Island’s piers or out in nature. Here are a few of the nearby attractions that might be of interest to you and your family to do while visiting Anna Maria.

Enjoy A Salty Dolphin sunset cruise! Your captain takes you on a sunset cruise around the Gulf of Mexico. Why just sit by and enjoy the ocean when you can get up close and personal? The cruise takes you through grassy flats, where you’ll see water creatures, such as manatees, in their natural environment. Many dolphins are spotted along the way, which is the main attraction for this sunset cruise!

You can also enjoy a leisurely hike along the Bayway Trail, one of the most popular Anna Maria Island trails. The trail is situated between St. Petersburg Beach and St. Pete Beach and is a smooth asphalt trail lined with palm trees. For something inside, Bolero Bowling is always great fun for the entire family and is the perfect way to spend a rainy day. Hopefully, it isn’t raining during your Anna Maria Island family vacation, but if it is, you can always visit The Astro Skate Family Fun Center. It’s fun for the entire family in one location!

Plan Your Anna Maria Vacation

Contact the Island Vacation Properties team to start planning your next beach getaway! We look forward to hosting your perfect vacation.

Where to Stay

Whether you are at the beginning of the planning process or you have been trying to make a last-minute deal on a vacation rental in Anna Maria Island, you can always find what you’re looking for at Island Vacation Properties. We have a whole portfolio of family-friendly vacation rentals available! Choose from a beachfront rental, pet-friendly, resort accommodations, long and short-term rentals, or houses with up to 5 bedrooms. Amenities include private pools, cabanas, beach access, fully stocked kitchens, washer and dryers, and more. Contact us today for a full list of available rentals!