TAG:Anna Maria Island
Coming Back to Island Time – An AMI Update
Do you have a family vacation planned to visit Anna Maria Island this summer but aren’t sure of the current updates? We at AMI Locals have got you covered as we, too, want to make sure that your family is safe on your vacation. Staying in one of our AMI vacation rentals will allow you and your family to stay together and still have a good trip. Let’s look below at a few updates that we have compiled together on how you can still enjoy your summer vacation this year.
Is Anna Maria Island Open for Business?
Yes, Anna Maria Island is open for business, and we at AMI Locals are ready for you and your family to come vacation with us. There are, however, some things that we must tell you about before you schedule your next trip or before you head to the island to relax.
- Right now, the parking on the streets in Holmes Beach and Anna Maria Island has been restricted with time limits. There are, however, Public Beach Parking lots that are open with no time restrictions for you to use.
- Social Distancing on the beach is strongly encouraged, but it is not being enforced. This also goes for being out in public in general with the family.
- Restaurants and Businesses are operating at a lower capacity and will be following all recommended safety measures to keep the guests safe.
- Visitors from “hotspot” states that have been defined by our Governor are being discouraged from coming to AMI and will not be allowed to check in to vacation rentals.
What Changes in Cleaning Have You Made?
Since we first heard about the outbreak of COVID-19, we have made some changes to our housekeeping services. We know that making sure each vacation rental has been thoroughly cleaned before and after each guest checks out. Our cleaning staff wears masks and gloves at all times, and we make sure they utilize a disinfecting spray. This spray has been approved by the CDC to kill viruses and bacteria as well. Our Professional Linen Service ensures that all linens, towels, washcloths, and kitchen towels are removed after each guest and are replaced with freshly laundered ones. Our cleaning company uses the OZONE system, which provides 100% sanitation.
Enjoy Some Local Virtual Fun from the Comforts of Your Home
While you wait for your upcoming vacation, get in the mood by having a little virtual fun from some local places. We have compiled a list that you and your family can enjoy from the comforts of your home.
- Van Wezel Artworks Anywhere – Learn to Make Puppets, design costumes, and more!
- Mote Goes ReMote – Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium presents a plethora of educational videos for everyone in the family to enjoy! Plus, check out the Manatee, Shark & Otter Webcams today!
- Museums from Home – By the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, you will get to see stories, tours, and educational videos for all to enjoy! The Manatees are our favorite!
While other things are going around in the area, we wanted to keep you and your family up to date on what is happening here on the island. If you haven’t booked your next vacation today to stay with us at AMI Locals, now is the time. We can’t wait to see you and your family as you make new memories this summer by relaxing and enjoying the beach!
The Best 3 Places to Go Fishing on Anna Maria Island
Do you and your family love to fish when you go on vacation? If you do, then we need to tell you all about the three best places where you can go fishing on Anna Maria Island. Staying in one of our Water Access vacation homes will keep you and the family close to the fish and water. Let’s look below at where you can head to on the island to get in some great fishing.
Rod & Reel Pier
One of the best-hidden treasures on Anna Maria Island is the Rod & Reel Pier located on the North End of the island. Not only can you fish off the pier, but you can also try their restaurant that is pretty famous for the area. Spend a day or two at the dock and soak up the sun and fun as you fish off this historic pier as a family for only a small fee. Plus, you will be able to grab breakfast, lunch, and dinner there if you choose not to cook for the day. Be sure to check out the Rod & Reel Pier on your next vacation to Anna Maria Island this summer!
Bay to Bay Fishing Charters
If you’re looking for a one of a kind experiences, then look no further for your fishing adventures. Bay to Bay Fishing Charters is an excellent charter to do some different charters. One of the unique fishing experiences that they offer is their Extreme Night Shark Charters! They also have other skills such as Inshore & Near Shore Charters, Tarpon Charters, and even some relaxing excursions around the bay. The least amount of time for fishing they offer is 4 hours, and they go up to a full day, which is 8 hours. If you’d like to do the night fishing, it will be for 4-5 hours. No matter what you are looking to do, Bay to Bay Fishing Charters with Captain Brian Peacock is just for you!
Anna Maria Island City Pier
Anna Maria Island City Pier has to be one of the most historical places to fish at on the island. It is being rebuilt from being damaged during Hurricane Irma and was supposed to open in March. Since the lockdown, we are hoping they will be open by this summer. You will have to have a Florida State License to fish off the pier but have no worries as you can get it there. We promise that your family will not want to leave the fishing pier at the end of the day, but it only means you can go back the rest of the week to fish.
While there are many other fun places around Anna Maria Island to go fishing, we wanted to share these with you. If you haven’t booked your summer vacation to stay with us in one of our Water Access vacation homes, now is the time. We hope to see you and your family as you travel after this quarantine is over!
We can't wait to travel again!
Things we can’t wait to do when it’s ok to travel again…
We don’t know about you, but the time spent at home with our loved ones has been wonderful… but… we can’t wait to travel again! The beaches of Anna Maria Island especially are calling our name. So, here are the things we most look forward to visiting in the near future!
We can’t wait to…
- Spend a beach day in the warm Florida sunshine at Manatee Public Beach, beginning with all-you-can-eat pancakes at AMI Beach Cafe!
- Stroll down Pine Avenue and shop in person instead of just Amazon shopping online. We are great at spending money either way (whoops!) but we love the warm ambiance of the city and saying hello to the local shopkeepers.
- Enjoy a Sazerac with our friends at The Doctor’s Office. It’s not often you find the perfect cocktail, but this one is pretty darn close.
- Play a round of miniature golf at The Fish Hole on Bridge Street. And then walk over and check out the new Daiquiri Deck.
- Get our hair cut at Acqua Aveda!!! And also our nails, massages, facials…
- Just sit on the beach at Bean Point.
- Wave at the adorable manatees and grab a beer at Rod ‘n Reel Pier!
- Hike the mangrove trails of Leffis Key Preserve.
- Sit on the patio at Wicked Cantina and watch the sunset with a big group of pals, chips & salsa, and a margarita. Yum.
- Get out on the water with Egmont Key Adventures. Sunset cruises, Dolphin watching, maybe even go fishing!
We can’t wait to do all of these things, and to welcome new visitors back to our beautiful Anna Maria Island.
So please stay safe, stay healthy, wash your hands, and we hope to see you all soon on the beach! When you’re looking to book your summer vacation, give AMI Locals a call!
Anna Maria Island open shops and restaurants
We wanted to let you know that Anna Maria Island is still here for you and we have some local shops and restaurants we would like to recognize during this time that are still open. Some are offering our AMI Locals guests a special discount as well!
• RENTAL ITEMS •
AMI BEACH FUN RENTALS • (941) 896-9780
Bikes, paddleboards, golf carts etc. they have it all!
Now offering 25% off to AMI Locals guests
www.amibeachfunrentals.com
• TAKE OUT FOOD •
SLIMS PLACE • (941) 567-4056
take out or delivery, and beer and wine also available!
www.slimsplaceami.com
DUFFYS TAVERN • (941) 778-2501
cash only, best burgers on Island!
www.duffystavernami.com
THE FEAST RESTAURANT • (941) 778-5092
great pizza and a full menu of other lunch/dinner items
www.thefeastrestaurantami.com
SCOTTS DELI • (941)778-3000
sandwiches (breakfast and lunch) delivery available
www.scottsdeliannamaria.com
• DRINKS •
BALI HAI BEACH RESORT LOUNGE • (941) 245-6609
Open Friday, April 3 – AMI Locals guests receive BOGO cocktail specials
www.balihaibeachresort.com
• SHOPS •
SAND DOLLAR GIFT SHOP • (941) 778-2024
10% off purchase for AMI Locals guests
https://sand-dollar-gift-shop.hub.biz/
• SALON PRODUCTS •
ACQUA AVEDA SALON AND SPA • (941) 778-5400
5311 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach
** Drive up anytime between 10am – 3pm Tuesday, March 31st, place your order with Ali, and the Acqua girls will wrap your products and bring them to your car. Also 20% off any 2 liter size products or any 3 regular size products! Buy a $100 gift card and get $25! For a limited time.
www.acquaaveda.com
These Anna Maria Island shops and restaurants are open to serve you, and we hope you will take the time to enjoy and support them during your stay.
Again, we would like to thank you for staying with AMI Locals and hope everyone stays safe! Please let us know if you need anything at all while you are here!
~ The AMI Locals Team
Escape Winter and Come to AMI
When temperatures in the rest of the United States dip below freezing it’s easy to stare out the window and dream about being someplace sunny. AMI Locals can help you make that dream come true. Escape Winter and Come to AMI!
Anna Maria Island Florida is famous for its beaches and incredible sunsets. During the winter months the Island comes alive with art fairs, farmer’s markets, and people visiting from all over the world. The weather is typically a balmy 70 to 80 degrees. And we usually have very little rain. So, that makes us a perfect destination for some fun in the sun!
What to do on AMI
You can try your luck with a fishin’ pole on the Rod N Reel Pier or Bradenton Beach Pier, or rent a bike and cruise the Island looking for an adventure. Visit the Old Anna Maria Jail and then wander down Pine Avenue, or maybe you’ll see a friendly manatee or dolphin swimming in the water! Then stop for a quick bite at a fun local place like Ginny’s and Jan E’s before heading to the glorious beach for the afternoon. You can also book a horseback ride on the beach, go parasailing, or rent a golf cart and ride around in style. Sunset cruises and dolphin excursions are also available from local companies on the Island!
Nearby airports
AMI is located close to Sarasota Bradenton International Airport, just an easy 35-40 minute drive away. SRQ Airport has been expanding it’s flights and airlines quite a bit the past few years, so it’s easy to find a good price and it is quite convenient. We’re also just about an hour drive away from Tampa International Airport and St. Pete Clearwater International Airport.
Island time
What will make you really fall in love with AMI is our laid-back and relaxing mindset and vibe. Island Time is a very real thing, and once you’re on it you will never want to go back!
AMI Locals is a newer and rapidly growing company. And we feature only the best luxury vacation rental homes available on Anna Maria Island in Florida. Let AMI Locals help you plan your perfect beach getaway today! Give us a call or check out our available homes online, we can’t wait to see you here!
New Year, New Adventures!
New Year, New Adventures! 2020 is a blank slate waiting to be filled up with memories. Places to go, people to see, work to do, fun to be had. And AMI Locals can help you cross one thing off of your to-do list. Let us help plan your perfect 2020 Anna Maria Island beach vacation!
Vacation like a local
AMI Locals manages over 150 amazing luxury vacation rental homes of all shapes and sizes, and our Reservations team works with each and every guest to ensure we put them in the perfect property. We all live here and we all love Anna Maria Island!
Please give us a call at 941-757-8226 or email reservations@amilocals.com and let us know a few key details of what you’re looking for:
• the calendar dates for your stay
• number of guests (adults/children)
• bringing a pet?
• must-haves (such as a heated pool)
• preferred budget
and anything else specific you are looking for… we will take it from there! AMI Locals will tailor our recommended properties to best suit your needs – then all you have to do is choose your favorite and book directly with us. Easy peasy.
Family Vacations
Traveling with multi-generations in the same family – mom and dad, you and your spouse, kids, siblings and cousins in the New Year? We have homes with detached mother-in-law suites or even separate guest houses. Take a look at Freckled Fin, Blue Marlin, Daiquiri Deck, Blue Pearl, and Blue Bay. You can stay together and still have plenty of personal space! And there is plenty to do on Anna Maria Island. Rent bikes from Beach Bums and explore! Fishin’ and lunch at Rod N Reel Pier, nature hiking at Leffis Key Preserve, The Fish Hole at Bridge Street for mini-golf, and of course plenty of time at the beach.
Friends Trip
Vacationing with 5 other couples that you have been friends with since college? We have beautifully located new construction homes where every bedroom has an ensuite bathroom, so you can hang out and enjoy each other’s company without feeling like you’re back in the dorm! Check out Ocean Star, Hidden Treasure, Crystal Waves Oasis. Or, each couple can book a private villa at our Islands West Resort. Anna Maria Island has cute locally-owned shops and art galleries, restaurants & bars, and some of the nicest local people you will ever meet!
Business Travel or Corporate Retreats
Traveling for business and pleasure in this New Year? All of our luxury vacation rental properties feature free Wi-Fi so you can easily stay connected while you are staying with AMI Locals. And, we feature homes with large open gathering spaces for brainstorming and networking. All with amazing views and amenities. Mondays are always easier if you’re working by an amazing tropical pool, right? Some of our best homes for corporate retreats include Bay View Beauty, Sea Swept, and Ocean Star. Plus, we can help with the details of planning your company retreat so you won’t have to worry about a thing.
Romantic trip for two
Romantic getaway to celebrate a special Anniversary? Newlyweds and booking your honeymoon? We have the perfect beach house for you. Coral Cottage, Dockside Paradise, and Fishful Thinking are all perfectly charming and private. Or, stay in one of our resort-style properties such as the Islands West Resort, Bayside Bungalows, or the Driftwood. These have shared pools and outdoor spaces and a more social vibe.
Let AMI Locals plan your perfect New Year 2020 stay
Whatever your vacation style is, we are here to take all of the guesswork out for you. Contact us today and let us help plan your perfect beach vacation! Happy New Year from all of us here at AMI Locals.
Christmastime on Anna Maria Island
It’s the most wonderful time of the year, especially Christmastime on Anna Maria Island. Winter is a beautiful season to visit our little piece of paradise. And there is so much to see and do in December when you stay in a luxury vacation rental property! It’s time to share our AMI Locals cheat sheet of holiday events & happenings on the Island and nearby. Tag us in your holiday island adventures on facebook & instagram @amilocals!
• The AMI Chamber of Commerce Annual Tree Lighting & Holmes Beach Holiday Open House
Friday, December 6th from 5 PM – 8 PM.
https://www.facebook.com/events/423890301878746/
The shops and stores of Holmes Beach open their doors to welcome the community for this fantastic event. They provide treats, special holiday sales, live music and the tree lighting happens at 6 PM in the Chamber of Commerce parking lot – you won’t want to miss this!
• The Anna Maria Privateers Island Christmas Parade
Saturday, December 14th at 10 AM.
http://amiprivateers.memberlodge.org/event-3624031
The Privateers host this parade every year, spreading lots of Christmas cheer. And, of course… you can see Santa! You will be able to find a good spot to watch the parade anywhere along the route. It begins at 10 AM at Coquina Beach Park in Bradenton Beach on the southern end of Anna Maria Island and continues all the way to City Pier Park on the northern tip in Anna Maria.
• Santa in the Park and Anna Maria Holiday of Treasures
Friday December 13, 4 PM – 8 PM
https://www.annamariaislandchamber.org/events/santa-in-the-park-and-city-of-anna-maria-holiday-of-treasures/
Visit Santa at City Pier Park, 101 North Bay Blvd, enjoy refreshments and live holiday music from 4-6pm. Stroll through the City of Anna Maria from 5:30 PM – 8 PM enjoying merchant supplied lite bites, refreshments and holiday cheer.
• 2nd Annual Bradenton Beach Holiday Boat Parade at Bridge Street
Saturday December 14, 7 PM – 8 PM
https://www.annamariaislandchamber.org/events/2nd-annual-bradenton-beach-holiday-boat-parade/
The boat parade route will start at Jewfish Key at 7pm and head north, motoring past the Historic Bridge Street Pier and ending at Bradenton Beach Marina. Christmastime on Anna Maria Island by boat is magical!
• December Artwalk: A Village Wonderland
Friday December 13, 6 PM – 9:30 PM and Saturday December 14, 11 AM – 4 PM
Enjoy the lights and galleries decorated for the holidays. Live music, strolling entertainment, unique holiday shopping, and tasty treats during one of Bradenton’s favorite holiday events. Friday night 6-9:30 pm and Saturday 11am-4pm.
• Christmas on Bridge Street
Saturday December 14, 4 PM – 8 PM
https://www.annamariaislandchamber.org/events/christmas-on-bridge-street/
Enjoy an afternoon and evening on Bridge Street celebrating the holiday season! Bridge Street will be closed to traffic. Live bands, the local chapter of the Sweet Adelines International Singers, a cornhole tournament, free children’s Christmas ornament making activities and food tastings are some of the fun planned for the day.
• 2019 Manatee River Holiday Boat Parade
Saturday December 14, 6 PM – 10 PM https://www.facebook.com/events/474870269781486/
A short drive off of Anna Maria Island, the downtown Bradenton boat parade kicks off at sundown at Snead Island and makes it’s way up the river to Caddy’s offering public viewing locations along the Green Bridge and Bradenton Riverwalk.
• Robinson Preserve Light Festival
Saturday December 21, 6 PM – 9 PM
https://www.facebook.com/events/1595153717290899/
After sunset on the winter solstice, head over to the Robinson Preserve for an evening of reflection and contemplation. A candlelit trail will be assembled for a single night – you are invited to walk the path in mindful meditation. Take some time during this busy season to slow down, observe the lights, and enjoy the beauty of Robinson Preserve at night. Program suitable for all ages. Reservations are required for a Lantern Kit.
• Palmetto’s Historical Park – Christmas in the Park
Saturday, December 7th from 3 PM – 8 PM
https://www.facebook.com/events/459835937993496/
Start your holiday festivities with “A Classic Christmas” at Palmetto’s Christmas in the Park. This free event offers something for everyone: decorated buildings, kids’ crafts and contests, Reindeer Games, and of course, Santa. A snow hill will also be on hand for children to slide down. Santa Claus will be arriving at 4:00 – bring your camera for a photo with the big guy himself!
• Acqua Aveda Salon, Spa & Store – Annual Holiday Open House
Friday December 6, 9 AM – 7 PM
https://www.facebook.com/acquaaveda/
Come out anytime on December 6th for discounts on products and pre-booked appointments. Get ready for your holiday celebrations with perfect nails and hair!
• Pink & Navy Boutique – 2019 Holiday Party
Saturday December 13, 5:30 PM – 8 PM
https://www.facebook.com/events/712489402905909/
• Enchant Christmas St. Petersburg
now through December 29
https://www.facebook.com/events/377307009888020/
About a 45 minute drive north of Anna Maria Island, but oh so worth it! The World’s Largest Christmas Light Maze and Market is at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, FL, November 22 – December 29, 2019. The event is also host to a bustling artisan Christmas Market, an Ice Skating Trail, seasonal food and beverage, and visits with Mr. and Mrs. Claus.
So, as you can see there’s more to Christmastime on Anna Maria Island than just sipping eggnog on the beach in 70 degree weather. But we won’t judge if that’s all you want to do! Happy Holidays from AMI Locals!
Don’t Miss This Year’s Sarasota Medieval Fair
Are you and your family vacationing on Anna Maria Island this month? If the answer is yes, then we have to tell you about a wonderful event happening in Sarasota. The Sarasota Medieval Fair is going on every Saturday & Sunday from now until December 1, 2019. When staying in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals you won’t be too far from the fair. Let’s take a look below and see how your family can enjoy the Sarasota Medieval Fair.
About the Medieval Fair
This year the Sarasota Medieval Fair is located at Ringling Woods right behind the fairgrounds in Sarasota. The Medieval Fair has been happening every November since 2005 and brings new exciting experiences for their guests each year. All of the team members are based in Sarasota, Florida and they are very proud of the work they do each year they return to the Medieval Fair. This is a family-friendly event and they support their community each year. Each year the Medieval Fair brings back favorites from the previous years and new entertainment for this year. Travel back in time with your family as you get to experience what it would have been like to live in the Medieval times.
Fun Entertainment for the Whole Family
If you have never been to the Sarasota Medieval Fair, you will be in awe at the amount of live entertainment that is there. See the death-defying Wheel of Death where you can see Ichabod Wainwright use a wooden wheel to jump, run and flip. Don’t miss the jousting over on the tournament field where you can see the New Riders ride. And finally, you can’t miss seeing Broon which is where you will see them eat fire and juggling bowling balls. Let’s not forget about the many different children’s fun where the kids can enjoy some activities just for them.
Shopping, Food & Games Oh My
Another great reason to come to the Sarasota Medieval Fair this year is to enjoy the food, rides, games and shopping. You will be able to take advantage of trying foods from that time period such as roasted nuts, turkey legs, and beer. Some of the rides and games your family can do are human powered rides, ride on a camel, test your strength and archery. And we can’t forget about the amazing things you can purchase from some of the very talented artisans. Some of the goods you will be able to get while you are there are stained glass, face painting, wooden shields and swords and weaving. There will also be craft demonstrations that you won’t want to miss!
There are so many other things that are happening at the Sarasota Medieval Fair, but we wanted to share these with you. Tickets are available online and at the fair for you to purchase. There will be plenty of free parking this year and there are also multi-day passes or season passes along with single day tickets. Enjoy spending time in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals will keep you family close to the fun each weekend. Don’t miss this family friendly fun that you can experience as a family during the month of November!
Best Beachfront Homes on Anna Maria Island
Searching for the best beachfront homes on Anna Maria Island?AMI Locals is proud to offer the best beach rental properties on Anna Maria Island. And our beachfront luxury vacation rental homes in particular are the best you can find on the Island! Let us show you.
Best beachfront 8 to 10 bedroom vacation rental homes
These are the largest beachfront luxury vacation rental properties we offer at AMI Locals! If you’re planning to vacation with family & friends but still would like to have your own space, such as a private bedroom and bathroom, consider one of these amazing beachfront homes.
Luxury beachfront wedding locations
On the other hand, are you looking for the best beachfront vacation rental location to hold your destination wedding or small gathering while you stay here? Look no further! And, The Tiki and Palm Tree Paradise A & B can be rented all together to accommodate your wedding party for the festivities.
Unmatched beachfront accommodations
Thinking of a small family or group of friends trip? These are just perfect! Featuring direct beach access, amazing tropical pools great for making memories to last a lifetime.
The best part about getting away to Anna Maria Island Florida is undoubtedly our bright and sunny soft sugar-sand beaches! So, why not stay right on it? That way, you eliminate and valuable time traveling to-and-from the beach once you arrive. Call us today at 941-757-8226 and book your vacation at one of the best beachfront homes available on Anna Maria Island.
Stay with AMI Locals, and #vacationlikealocal!
Perfect Places to See the Sunset on Anna Maria Island
Do you love coming to Anna Maria Island for your family vacations every year and catching the perfect sunset? Staying in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation homes will keep you and your family in close proximity of where you can go to see the perfect sunset. We know where all the places are around the island and want to share them with you. Let’s look below at where your family can head to while you vacation here to soak up the beautiful sunsets of AMI.
The Rod and Reel Pier
This is a favorite among not only the locals but also for many of our visitors as well. Head over to The Rod and Reel Pier so that you and your family will be able to catch a glimpse of the amazing sunsets on the island. And while you are watching the sunset, grab a bite to eat at the restaurant as well so you won’t go home hungry. We promise that you won’t want to miss any of the sunsets on the island after you see it from the pier!
Bean Point
Another fantastic spot that your family can head to on Anna Maria Island is Bean Point. Many of our guests love to head to Bean Point every trip to watch the sunset. Not only will you be able to see the sunset in the distance, but you will also be able see a few wildlife animals including dolphins. This is a great place that is perfect for families who have small children who can come out and play as you watch the sun setting on the horizon!
Manatee Public Beach
Manatee Public Beach is another great location where your family can see the sunset on the island. This is also the location of AMI Beach Café so that you can grab a quick bite to eat as you sit at one of the picnic tables and enjoy. Listen to the waves crashing in the background and the children playing as you soak in the natural beauty of Anna Maria Island. If you happen to get there a little before the sun is ready to set, then you can play a little in the water and relax on the sand.
No matter where you are on Anna Maria Island, you will be able to see the amazing sunset. The palm trees in the background as you are sitting in a beach chair is just what parents are looking for when they vacation here. And staying in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation homes will keep you close to where the fun is at. We hope to see you and your family soon as you enjoy your next vacation here on the island!
