There’s no shortage of things to do on Anna Maria Island, but one thing that you just can’t miss out on is the piers. AMI has several impressive piers for your family to enjoy, whether you’re looking to cast a line or want a prime location to watch the sunset. Two of the most popular piers in the area are Rod and Reel Pier and Anna Maria City Pier. If you want an authentic look at the beauty of the piers of Anna Maria Island, don’t miss these two spots!
Rod and Reel Pier
Located on the North end of Anna Maria Island, Rod and Reel Pier has been an area staple since its inception in 1947. More than 70 years later, guests are still flocking to Rod and Reel Pier every day of the week for that “Old Florida” atmosphere and some mouthwatering local seafood. Whether you want breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Rod and Reel has it covered daily from 8 a.m. until 9 p.m.
Once you arrive at the Rod and Reel Pier, you can choose to dine on one of two levels, either inside in the dining room or outside on the quaint covered deck. Downstairs is a more casual setting serving beer and wine, while the upstairs tables are perfect for a great family meal. No matter where you sit or what you order, you’ll be guaranteed a fantastic meal with an unmatched view of the water. Once you’re done eating, stroll down the pier to enjoy a spectacular view of the Gulf of Mexico and the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, or bring your fishing pole to fish for a small fee.
Rod and Reel Pier is located at 875 North Shore Drive in the City of Anna Maria.
Anna Maria City Pier
The Anna Maria City Pier has been a favorite spot of locals and tourists alike for years. In fact, its rich history dates all the way back to 1911. Construction on the pier began because the Anna Maria Island Development Company wanted a place for the import and export of fish off the coast into St. Petersburg and Tampa. It’s been a staple of the area ever since!
Anna Maria City Pier is the perfect destination to combine history, fun, and that Old Florida feel.
Recently, devastation from Hurricane Irma has prevented visitors from experiencing its majesty. Luckily, renovation efforts have been ongoing since 2017, and the pier is being restored to its former glory, finally reopening in July of 2020. $1.5 million went into the renovation, as the pier required a complete rebuild. Besides the pier itself, there are multiple shops and restaurants in the surrounding area that have been open during these past years. They’re excited to see the pier being restored to the attraction it once was.
Anna Maria City Pier is located at 100 Bay Boulevard in the City of Anna Maria.
Plan Your Anna Maria Vacation
Once you’ve discovered the piers of Anna Maria Island, the fun doesn’t stop there. You can spend your days soaking up the sun on the white sand beaches, dining on some of the best seafood in the Sunshine State, or getting to know the rich history and breathtaking nature of AMI and the surrounding area. You can find it all just around the corner from our vacation rentals on Anna Maria Island! Contact us today to learn more.
More to Explore
While both of these piers are located on the north side of the island, there is one more spot rounding out the Anna Maria Island piers. Bradenton Beach City Pier is on the south side of AMI at the end of Bridge Street. Head this way to experience unbelievable views of Sarasota Bay, the old fishing village of Cortez, and the Intracoastal Waterway. You’ll have some great fishing opportunities, and you can grab a bite to eat at the Anna Maria Oyster Bar.
