TAG:AMI Locals
The Luxurious Comeback of AMI Locals' Vacation Rentals on Anna Maria Island
PRIME VACATIONS is delighted to announce our feature on Bay News 9, celebrating the remarkable resurgence of luxury vacation rentals on Anna Maria Island. As the spirit of tourism gracefully returns, our vibrant community is flourishing once again following the challenges posed by the hurricanes, Helene and Milton. Watch the full video here.
Welcoming Discerning Guests Back to Anna Maria Island
In this exciting period, our Vice President of Growth and Development, Eric Pullen, highlights the extensive restoration efforts we have undertaken across our portfolio of over 600 exquisite properties. Currently, approximately 70% of our luxurious inventory is ready to welcome guests, with a projected 90% availability by early May 2025. We are enthusiastic about hosting those who are eager to immerse themselves in the enchanting charm and beauty of our island.
In March 2025, we experienced promising occupancy rates exceeding 80%, closely aligned with our historic norms—an encouraging sign for our community. We are absolutely elated to witness Anna Maria Island alive with laughter, joy, and the bustling energy of guests enjoying leisurely bike rides, explorations, and the breathtaking natural beauty that has made our island a cherished vacation haven.
Unforgettable Experiences in Luxury
At PRIME VACATIONS, we are committed to delivering unforgettable luxury experiences that exceed expectations. We work closely with our esteemed rental owners to ensure that every guest departs with cherished memories of their stay. With the majority of our luxurious rentals anticipated to be ready by early May 2025, now is the ideal time to plan your luxury getaway to Anna Maria Island!
Why Choose PRIME VACATIONS?
When you select PRIME VACATIONS, you are choosing more than just a place to stay; you are curating a unique and lasting experience. Our impressive collection of properties—from upscale beach condos to large family homes—caters to every discerning need and desire. With our unwavering commitment to excellence, we ensure that your stay is nothing short of spectacular.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our loyal guests, property owners, and supporters for your unwavering trust and dedication to our journey. We are thrilled to share more exciting developments as we continue to grow. Explore the AMI Locals homepage today to discover the latest availability and exclusive offers tailor-made for you!
Enjoy Spring Break on Anna Maria Island
Spring Break is just around the corner, and now is the perfect time to start planning it. Getting away from life at home will allow you and your family to recharge while making memories. By staying in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals, you’ll spend quality time together in a relaxing setting. Below are some exciting activities to help make your spring break unforgettable.
Day Trip Fun
One of the perks of vacationing on Anna Maria Island is the proximity to world-class amusement parks. Busch Gardens Tampa is just an hour and a half away and offers your family a quick day trip. For those willing to travel a little more, you can always head to Orlando, about a 2-hour drive from the island. You’ll have various choices, including Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, Discovery Cove, SeaWorld, and Legoland. We highly recommend purchasing tickets in advance, especially for Walt Disney World and Universal Studios. After your exciting day at the parks, know your vacation rental will be waiting for you, and relax for the rest of the week!
Play on the Water
Spring Break wouldn’t be complete without some time on the water. Rent a boat and cruise along the coast, enjoy fishing, or soak up the sunshine together as a family. For a more action-packed day, head to the Fun Life Waterpark, where you’ll float along the water and enjoy some of the fun trampolines and slides into the water. With so many aquatic adventures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this spring break.
Beach Day Bliss
Nothing beats spending time at the beach than a walk to the beach from your vacation rental or a short drive to the beach access. Pack your beach chairs, towels, umbrella, sunscreen, and sand toys for the kids. Bring a good book to relax with while the little ones build a sandcastle. For a full day at the beach, pack your cooler with your lunch and drinks to keep your family hydrated all day. Make new memories as you spend a relaxing day on the beautiful white sand beaches of Anna Maria Island!
While these are just a few highlights of what to do this Spring Break, Anna Maria Island offers endless possibilities for a memorable vacation. If you haven’t booked your Spring Break stay in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals, don’t wait- book today! We can’t wait to see you and your family make new memories this spring break together.
Easter is Coming: Head to Anna Maria Island!
In just a few weeks, Easter will be here, and what better place to celebrate than the stunning Anna Maria Island? With high-end accommodations and pristine beaches beckoning you to relax, your luxury getaway awaits. Experience the perfect blend of comfort and sophistication while you and your family unwind and enjoy all that the island has to offer. Let’s look below at what you and your family can do while you spend Easter here on the island.
Dolphin Tours
Do you have a child or someone in your family who loves dolphins? If you do, then book a Dolphin Tour today. Not only do they have dolphin tours during the day, but they also offer sunset dolphin tours too. While on your tour you may have the opportunity to see dolphins, sea turtles, Manatees or even other tropical wildlife. Be sure to bring with you plenty of sunscreen, a hat, towel and let’s not forget a camera. What a great way to spend some quality time with your family as you enjoy the tour!
Clearwater Marine Aquarium
Spending a day at nearby Clearwater Marine Aquarium can be fun and exciting for all in the family.They have several different exhibits that you can visit such as Manatee Ecosystem Exhibit, Mavis’s Rescue Hideaway, and Underwater Viewing. What a great way to spend the day out and getting to learn a little too while on your vacation.
Easter Egg Hunt
Have your own Easter Egg Hunt this year at your Beachfront vacation rental with the family. Setting up a little hunt around your vacation rental can be fun for the kids to enjoy since you will miss the ones back home. Be sure though to not put anything that may be harmful to any of the wildlife and we suggest that you only hide them on the property and not the beach. We don’t want the eggs to get washed away by the ocean or for any small child to find the eggs. Just have a good time with the family as you participate in your very own Easter Egg Hunt together!
While there are many other fun things that you and your family can do this Easter, these are a few we wanted to share with you. If you haven’t booked your Easter vacation to Anna Maria Island in a Beachfront vacation rental, now is the time. We can’t wait to see you and your family on the upcoming holiday!
Why Should You #BookDirect with AMI Locals?
Are you and your family planning a vacation to Anna Maria Island this year? We need to tell you why you should #bookdirect with us if you are. Many online third-party vacation rental sites can add a 5%-20% additional fee to your reservation. We know that your vacations are significant and may limit how much you can spend each year. AMI Locals wants to ensure you get the most out of your money when visiting Anna Maria Island. The only way you’ll be able to enjoy your vacation without getting hit with that unexpected fee is by booking directly today!
What You Need to Know About Booking Direct
On February 5th, 2025, we celebrate the 8th Annual Book Direct Day, which was created to help educate vacation rental guests on the benefits of booking directly through an owner or Property Management Company vs. using a Third-Party agency such as Airbnb, HomeAway, VBRO & TripAdvisor.
While you may recognize these big-name companies and their gimmicks in helping you save money, you will soon learn they will charge you a fee for using their website. Who wants to pay extra to try and save a little money? Some of the expenses you may incur when you book with an OTA can range from 5%-20% of the total cost of your vacation rental, which in turn can cost you thousands of dollars extra depending on which rental you choose.
Why You Should Book Direct with Us
When you book directly with AMI Locals, you will speak with one of our vacation specialists who is local to Anna Maria Island and can give you the best information on the area. We know all the details on each property because we have personally been to them. We can provide you with our recommendations on where to dine, play, shop, and visit businesses in the area. Our office is conveniently on Anna Maria Island, so if any problems arise while you’re on vacation, we’re here to help.
How You Can Book Direct with AMI Locals
You will find that booking directly with us at AMI Locals is easy! We encourage all guests to book vacations through our safe & secure website, www.amilocals.com, or call our office at (941) 757-8226. Rest assured that we will never charge hidden fees and will always provide you with the best rates on our professionally managed vacation rentals. We don’t want you to have to pay anything extra so that you can use that money to go out to eat, explore the island, or make a local day trip. We understand that your money is precious, and we can help you see that your vacation to Anna Maria Island is the best it can be each year!
Are you ready to plan your vacation today? #BookDirect with AMI Locals today to have the best-planned vacation year after year!
Shopping on Anna Maria Island: Coquina Beach Market
Who doesn’t love to shop in the sunshine?
During the months of November – July you can visit the Coquina Beach Market! And it happens every Sunday and Wednesday, Friday, & Sunday from 10 am – 2 pm. It is located at Coquina Beach Park in Bradenton Beach, the southernmost point of Anna Maria Island. Very nearby you can stay with AMI Locals at Atlantis Beach House and ride the free MCAT Trolley to the Market!
Come enjoy live music by the AMI String Band as you stroll the Coquina Beach Market. Accordingly, you will find many friendly AMI vendors with booths offering fresh produce, cotton candy, jewelry, beachy apparel, local artists, health and beauty items, and much more. In any case, you’re bound to find a treasure or two to take home with you!
Unfortunately, the Coquina Beach Market is not dog-friendly due to the Manatee County rules for the park. Just a heads up before you bring your four-legged family member.
The Coquina Beach Market is located at 2650 Gulf Drive S, Bradenton Beach, at the trolley stop/concession stand area. Specifically look for bright yellow and red signs that say Beach Market Today! They will guide you and there is usually plenty of free parking.
While you’re there, why not stop into the Coquina Beach Cafe and enjoy a Pina Colada and a lovely casual lunch on the beach? You can order that fun tropical frozen cocktail and be on “island time” with a fabulous view!
Best Coffee Shops on Anna Maria Island
If you and your family are coming to Anna Maria Island for vacation, we must tell you all about the Best Coffee Shops on the island. Many locals find that getting their daily dose of caffeine at these shops will help you enjoy your vacation a little more. And if you happen to be staying in one of our Water Access vacation rentals, you won’t be far off from any of them. Let’s look at our picks for the best coffee shops on Anna Maria Island.
North Shore Cafe
You’ll find a quaint coffee shop in the heart of Anna Maria Island called North Shore Café. Here, you’ll be able to grab a nice cup of coffee and some wonderful breakfast selections. Many of their customers rave about the different kinds of coffee drinks they have, along with their specialty teas and their smoothies. And if you’re up for something the kids will enjoy, check out the gourmet popsicles they offer. Something about this little coffee shop will make you continue to visit for years. Don’t forget to check out their little store and bring home a souvenir to remember this fantastic coffee shop!
Ginny’s & Jane E’s Café
If you are searching for a coffee shop with some fantastic food and coffee and an “Old Florida” feel, then we suggest Ginny’s & Jane E’s Café. Here, you and your family will not only be able to get coffee but also breakfast and lunch from 7:00 am to 4:00 pm every day. Some of the coffee that you will be able to get is eclectic, and many of the locals love it! They have many different drinks options, including smoothies and Frappuccinos. Many locals love heading here for more of the signature drinks they have to offer you and your family.
Two Scoops
Two Scoops is unlike any coffee shop you have probably been to and is unique to many visitors to Anna Maria Island. Here, you will not only be able to take advantage of the ice cream goodies but also enjoy Breakfast & Lunch, and coffee. Located at 101 S. Bay Blvd in Anna Maria Island, Two Scoops is open 7 days a week from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm. Here, you can grab a quick bite to eat, have a few cups of coffee, and then grab yourself a scoop or two of ice cream to finish the visit. This is unlike any other coffee shop you have been to, and we highly recommend you check it out, too.
The Donut Experiment
If you and your family love donuts, then this is a café that you must visit on your next vacation to Anna Maria Island. Locals consider this café to have some of the best donuts around, and we can tell you that we, too, agree. Why not head to The Donut Experiment and grab a dozen donuts as you make your creations with different toppings and a cup of coffee? Sit back and enjoy the scenery and some of the staples that many are looking for regarding coffee. You can grab a hot cup of coffee, iced lattes, and even a cold brew here. We promise you that this is a place you must visit on your next vacation to the island!
Anna Maria Island Coffee Shack
Whoever said having coffee from a shack was a bad idea has never had coffee from the Anna Maria Island Coffee Shack before. Here, you can grab some quality food and delicious coffee drinks. Some items on the menu are cappuccinos, iced lattes, iced coffee, hot and cold tea, and so much more. Plus, you can grab a gift basket or two filled with goodies from around the island. You can find this fantastic little shack in Holmes Beach, but it’s only a short drive from one of our fabulous vacation rentals.
While other coffee shops are on Anna Maria Island or nearby Bradenton, we thought you’d enjoy these. And if you are still searching for the right place to stay on Anna Maria Island, check out our Water Access vacation rentals today. We look forward to seeing you and your family soon as you stay with us at AMI Locals.
The Perfect Sun-Kissed Holiday on Anna Maria Island
Anna Maria Island always offers a blend of sun-soaked relaxation and festive events throughout the holiday season. With the many light displays to see to the fun holiday celebrations, there’s something magical around every corner. Choosing one of our AMI Locals vacation rentals will elevate your holiday experience. Below is what to expect during your perfect sun-kissed holiday on Anna Maria Island.
Winter Wonderland Celebration
Thanksgiving is always the start of the holiday events, but on Saturday, December 14th, Bradenton will become a winter wonderland. From 5:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Old Main Street will transform into a winter scene, Florida-style. The kids can meet Santa and enjoy other photo opportunities. Many local youth groups will perform live on the main stage, and there will be some fun songs to sing along to. Plus, there will be carnival games such as ice fishing and fun activities for them to enjoy. And we can’t forget to mention that we will experience snow at the celebration and it’s one you can’t miss. Whoever said it doesn’t snow in Florida has never come to the winter wonderland celebration!
Festive Island Activities
Beyond the holiday events along the island, there are plenty of festive activities to enjoy. We recommend a sunset cruise with the family if you want something different. Another great option is to spend the day at the beach with a festive picnic featuring holiday-themed lunches and snacks for the whole family. For those families who love the open waters, then try your hand at kayaking or paddleboarding to enjoy the local mangrove tunnels. What a great way to stay active and still enjoy the peaceful waters of the Gulf of Mexico this holiday season.
After experiencing the best vacation, you’ll want to revisit Anna Maria Island during the holiday season. Let us at AMI Locals help you realize your dream of a sun-soaked holiday today. Now is your chance to discover why this enchanting island is a holiday favorite destination for families. Ready to experience the magic of the holidays on Anna Maria Island? Browse all our AMI Locals vacation rentals and plan your holiday escape today!
3 Fun Festivals to Enjoy this Fall with the Family on Anna Maria Island
Fall is always a great time of year to visit Anna Maria Island with the family. The weather has cooled off from the typical summer heat, and there is always something to do. Staying in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals will keep you and your family close to the fun and events. Look at what fall festivals you don’t want to miss this year near the island.
23rd Annual Bayfest
We are so excited that Bayfest is returning to Anna Maria Island this year for the 23rd year. Happening on Pine Avenue on Saturday, October 19, 2024, from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm is where your family can join in the fun. There will be live music during the day, arts & crafts, a car show, fantastic food, and more. Admission to this fun event hosted by the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce is free. There will also be plenty of vendors you can purchase things from and bring home. Think of the fun the whole family can enjoy while you enjoy this fun event together!
Trail of Treats
For the families staying with us in one of our AMI Locals vacation rentals for Halloween, here is a fun activity you can join. Starting at 4:00 pm and ending at 6:30 pm, your children can participate in the Trail of Treats hosted by the Chamber of Commerce. There will be a costume contest and trick-or-treating with local businesses. What a fun event to experience with the family. Be sure to have an enjoyable time together. What more could any family ask for while at the beach?
33rd Annual Pumpkin Festival
For those looking for a fun pumpkin festival, head to Hunsander Farms starting October 12, 2024. This event will reoccur every Saturday and Sunday, offering families lots of fall fun until October 27, 2024. Now’s your chance to discover galore pumpkin carvings, exciting hayrides, and crafts. There will also be live music, a petting zoo, and more. Admission into the festival is free, and there will be a handful of things to do that require ticket purchases, like the corn maze and train rides. There will also be items to purchase, so be sure to bring some extra cash with you to this exciting pumpkin festival.
While many other fun fall events are happening near Anna Maria Island, we wanted to share these with you. Call us today if you haven’t booked your stay in an Anna Maria Island vacation rental for this October. We can’t wait to see you and your family this fall and experience the fun on the coast of Florida!
Make Memories Before the School Year on Anna Maria Island
As the summer winds down and the school year approaches, there’s no better time to make lasting memories with the family than a trip to Anna Maria Island. This enchanting island on Florida’s Gulf Coast offers the perfect backdrop for a pre-school adventure. Begin your vacation by settling into an Anna Maria Island vacation rental, where comfort and convenience create your home away from home. Let’s look below at how your family can make memories before the school year on Anna Maria Island.
Beach Days with Sunshine
Anna Maria Island holds some of Florida’s most beautiful and treasured beaches. Spend your days soaking up the sun on the picture-perfect white sand. The crystal-clear shallow water with gentle waves makes it a perfect spot for the kids to splash safely. Don’t forget to bring beach toys, sunscreen, and plenty of snacks to keep the fun going all day. As you lounge under the shade of an umbrella, you’ll find yourself unwinding in this coastal paradise.
Explore Nature and Wildlife
For families who love nature, Anna Maria Island has plenty to offer. Take a leisurely bike ride along the island’s scenic trails or visit the Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum for a lesson on the history of our island. Head to Leffis Key Preserve for a peaceful walk through mangroves and salt marshes, where you can spot various birds and wildlife. The island’s natural beauty will captivate both young and old alike.
Family-Friendly Island Activities
There’s no shortage of family-friendly activities on Anna Maria Island. Visit the AMI Community Center, where you can find various comprehensive sports and arts and crafts activities. Take a trip to the nearby Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium to marvel at the wonders of marine life. For a unique adventure, consider exploring the calm waters surrounding the island with kayaks or paddleboards. Think of the fun you’ll have as a family with all the fun island activities.
As your vacation ends, you’ll reflect on the memories you’ve made on Anna Maria Island. Every moment spent here is extraordinary, from the sun-soaked beaches to family-friendly activities. And there’s no better way to experience it than by staying in an Anna Maria Island vacation rental. With all the comforts of home, you can relax and enjoy your time together as a family.
Celebrate America on Anna Maria Island
Independence Day is a time for celebration, and there’s no better place to revel in the festivities than Anna Maria Island. Our beautiful island, white sand, and clear waters make it the perfect backdrop for a memorable 4th of July. To make your 4th of July getaway a little more unique, why not consider the adventure of staying in a vacation rental on Anna Maria Island? Here, you’ll have the perfect home base for all the celebrations this 4th of July will have. Let’s look below at how you and your family can marvel at the festivities on Anna Maria Island.
A Day in the Sun
Start your 4th of July vacation this year with a day or two at the beach. Anna Maria Island is home to some of the most stunning beaches in Southwest Florida. Soak up the sun, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and hunt for some seashells with the kids. Play some games on the beach like volleyball, catch, or even who can build the best sandcastle with the family. Don’t forget to bring your red, white, and blue beach gear to show off your patriotic spirit!
4th of July Parade
Of the many highlights of spending the 4th of July on Anna Maria Island, the AMI Privateers 4th of July Parade stands out as a vibrant celebration of our patriotic spirit. This year, the parade will kick off at 10:00 a.m. in Coquina Beach and end around 12:30 p.m. at the Anna Maria City Pier, promising a day filled with excitement and patriotic spirit. So come prepared for the time of your life and celebrate this holiday with us on the island.
Spectacular Fireworks
As the sun sets in the west, it’s time to get ready for the day’s main event: Fireworks. Anna Maria Island offers several prime locations to view the fireworks, including the beach, pier, and local parks. One of the best places to get a great view of the fireworks is The Sandbar Restaurant. Be there early as the weather cooperates, but the show should start around 8:00 pm. It’s free, family-friendly, and has one of the best seats on the island to watch those glorious fireworks light up the night sky.
A Few Tips for a Safe & Enjoyable 4th of July
Remember to stay safe while you’re enjoying the festivities on the island. Here are a few tips to make sure your holiday is fun and worry-free:
- Stay hydrated: The Florida sun can be brutal, so drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Apply Sunscreen: Safeguard your skin from harmful UV rays by using sunscreen regularly with a minimum of 30 SPF.
- Follow local regulations: Be mindful of local rules regarding fireworks, alcohol consumption, and beach activities.
- Plan: Arrive early to secure the best spots for the parade and fireworks. Be prepared for the traffic and parking challenges you may endure for the day.
Anna Maria Island is a true paradise, and the 4th of July is the perfect time to immerse yourself in its charm. You will create lasting memories with the welcoming community, stunning scenery, and festive atmosphere. As you celebrate America on this beautiful island, let AMI Locals be your home away from home. Stay with us at AMI Locals and enjoy the convenience and comfort of our vacation rentals, making your Independence Day getaway truly special and stress-free.
