TAG:Beach Vacations

Anna Maria Island is Open and Ready to Welcome You Back to Luxury! 

Anna Maria Island is open and prepared to embrace visitors with open arms! Just six months after overcoming the challenges of two hurricanes, this stunning paradise has beautifully recovered. With local businesses back in action and pristine beaches inviting you to unwind, unforgettable luxury vacation experiences await. Whether you’re a multi-generational family, a couple on a romantic escape, or a group celebrating a special occasion, Anna Maria Island offers the perfect setting. 

Photo Taken February 2025

The community has quickly revitalized, showcasing high-end accommodations equipped with everything you need for a seamless getaway. As you explore the island, enjoy local events, from the weekly Coquina Beach Market to captivating performances by local talent. Baseball fans can catch the action at the Bradenton Marauders’ spring training and celebrate community spirit at the recently held 37th Annual SpringFest.  

Local shops and gourmet dining spots are eager to provide a delightful taste of the island. Enjoy gulffront dining at the Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe, indulge in fresh seafood, or treat yourself at beloved spots like the Fudge Factory and The Donut Experiment. For an exceptional experience, don’t miss Ginny’s & Jane E’s Cafe and Gift Store for unique shopping and dining options. 

Taken January 2025

Our luxurious vacation rentals are designed with your comfort and convenience in mind. Featuring spacious 5-6 bedroom homes with private pools and upscale furnishings, you can create lasting memories while enjoying a hassle-free experience. Many properties are pet-friendly, allowing you to bring every member of your family along.

Join us on Anna Maria Island, where the sun shines bright, the waves call, and the perfect luxury getaway is just a booking away. We’re excited to have you as our guest! Let us help you curate a truly memorable experience. 

How to Plan a Girls Getaway on Anna Maria Island 

Gather your best friends for the ultimate girls’ getaway on the stunning Anna Maria Island! Whether you’re celebrating a bachelorette party, hosting a bridal shower, marking a special birthday, or simply enjoying a ladies’ getaway, AMI Locals offers luxurious vacation rentals perfect for your needs. Here’s how to plan an unforgettable trip filled with fun, relaxation, and indulgence. 

Choose the Perfect Home Base 

Start by selecting one of our spacious homes that can accommodate your group. Look for properties with multiple bedrooms, game rooms for some friendly competition, and private pools and spas where you can bask in the sun and unwind. A rooftop deck can add an extra touch of luxury, providing stunning views as you sip cocktails and enjoy the sunset together. Make sure to book in advance to secure your desired dates, especially during peak season! 

Pamper Yourself with Spa Packages 

No girls’ getaway is complete without a little pampering! Treat yourselves to spa packages at one of the many local wellness centers. Enjoy massages, facials, and other rejuvenating treatments that will leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized.  

Visit Historic Sites and Embrace Adventure 
In addition to relaxation and dining, don’t forget to embrace adventure! Take some time to visit the area’s historic sites and local attractions to learn more about the island’s rich culture. Plan a day of fun activities through our preferred partners, from boat charters to luxury beach set ups.  

Call Our Reservation Team or Book Online Today

With the perfect home base, pampering experiences, and fantastic local dining options, planning a girls’ getaway to Anna Maria Island ensures an unforgettable trip filled with laughter and memories. Book your luxury rental with AMI Locals today at 941.757.8226 and get ready to enjoy a well-deserved escape with your favorite ladies! 

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!

Why Fall is the Perfect Time to Visit Anna Maria Island

As the vibrant colors sweep the country, Anna Maria Island transforms into a serene and peaceful paradise. While many love to flock to the more traditional fall destinations, many love to sneak away to our beautiful island. You’ll notice that you can take advantage of our hidden gem during the fall months and experience all we offer. As you stay in one of our AMI Locals vacation rentals, you can relax and enjoy your time on the island. See below why fall is the perfect time to visit Anna Maria Island this year.

Perfect Weather for Outdoor Activities

Fall on Anna Maria Island allows visitors to enjoy milder temperatures, making it perfect for exploring the island’s outdoor activities. The heat will soon fade, bringing warm, sunnier days and much more relaxed evenings. Take a bike ride along the island’s paths, kayak along the calm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, or spend the day lounging on the white sandy beaches. You’ll fall in love with the weather this fall with the family here at Anna Maria Island.

Fewer Crowds = More Relaxation

One of the best aspects of visiting Anna Maria Island during the fall months is that the crowds have decreased considerably. Schools are back in session, meaning the summer rush is over, allowing you to enjoy the beaches more. Fall vacations are also great for visiting charming local shops and enjoying delicious food at local restaurants. Fall on Anna Maria Island will offer a more relaxed experience and fewer crowds so that you can have the best vacation of the year.

Stay with AMI Locals for the Ultimate Fall Getaway

When you choose to stay in an Anna Maria Island vacation rental with AMI Locals, you enhance your fall getaway in every way. We have homes that fit every family’s needs and wants that you may be looking for while on vacation. Each vacation rental has amenities that will make you feel like you’re at home, but instead, you’re in a paradise destination. There is something for everyone, from full-sized kitchens to private pools and large outdoor living spaces. Enjoy a lazy morning sitting on your porch as you enjoy your coffee, or spend the evening in the private pool to spend time together as a family. Plus, with our service, you’ll have everything you need to make your fall vacation seamless.

Fall is an extraordinary time of the year to visit Anna Maria Island with the family. You’ll find something new you may love, from the weather to the unique charm our island offers everyone. There’s no better time to reserve your fall getaway in one of our AMI Locals vacation rentals. We can’t wait to see you and your family as you experience the island’s magic this fall.

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.

FALL in Love with Anna Maria Island

Fall in Love with Anna Maria Island. It is not hard to do when you vacation during the months of Fall on Anna Maria Island.

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to vacation on Anna Maria Island during the fall months of September, October, and November? Here is a little secret: This is our favorite time of year on the island! Even though it may not feel like colder weather and there are no landscapes of color-changing leaves to look at…the spirit of Fall takes over Anna Maria.

Less Crowds

Generally, by this time of year, the crowds have dwindled. You can get a feel for what it is like to live like a local on Anna Maria Island during the Fall months. By now, most of the kids have all returned to school, and the beaches are quiet. So, head out to the beach for a secluded and relaxing day. Grab a book and read. Or, close your eyes and soak up plenty of warm rays from the sun.  There is nothing like getting a tan in the Fall on Anna Maria Island. During the Fall on Anna Maria Island, the lack of crowds is evident everywhere. After relaxing at the beach, explore the uncrowded restaurants, shops, and bars. Just jump on the free Anna Maria Island trolley and explore the island from end to end. Maybe find a new favorite spot to grab a bite to eat. During the Fall on Anna Maria Island, you will find much shorter wait times for a table at most of our popular dining options!

Festivals Galore

As October and November roll in, so do all the area festivals! In my opinion, the Fall on Anna Maria Island – October to December – are the best months of the year to explore all the great happenings in and around Anna Maria Island. Maybe you keep it super local and head down to the Coquina Beach Market at the island’s South end to search for treasures from local artists and vendors, all while taking in the beautiful gulf views.

Also, look for Halloween-style island events. From costume contests to the Anna Maria Elementary Fall Festival, there is fun to be had for all ages! Take advantage of the Trail of Treats if you find yourself here with your little ones on Halloween. This is where area businesses hand out goodies to all the dressed-up kiddos!  If you get adventurous and head off the island, you will find some exciting events! Maybe head East and go to a good old-fashioned pumpkin festival. There are plenty to choose from! Or, take a ride on the Pumpkin Patch Express at the Florida Railroad Museum, where you can journey on an open-air train through the picturesque countryside of Manatee County. The train ride ends at a remote pumpkin patch. There, everyone selects a pumpkin and gets to bring back the perfect gourd for an island-style pumpkin carving party. With so many things going on, how will you choose? Check out our area events calendar when planning your next Anna Maria Island getaway! 

Beautiful Weather

While the island is beautiful and sunny almost all year, the Fall months on Anna Maria Island are very refreshing. They can bring a nice break from the high humidity and hot, sticky days that rule the Summer. While the days are warm and pleasant, with temperatures hovering in the 80’s, the evenings can often bring a nice breeze and cool down into the low to mid 70’s. This makes those evening strolls on the beach even more enjoyable. You may still even be able to catch a glimpse of the spectacular sea turtle nests. Some of the eggs will still be waiting to hatch. Sea turtle season runs until the end of October every year. Each nest is marked and secured with “caution tape.” Witnessing the hatching of a nest and watching all those tiny sea turtles take off toward the water is one of the most fascinating and memorable sights you will ever see!

Get Out On The Water

The Fall on Anna Maria Island is also an excellent time of year to fish. Being a barrier island, you can enjoy offshore and inshore fishing the best. This time of year, trout, flounder, redfish, cobia, snapper, and permit take center stage for near-shore fishing. Perhaps one of our spectacular Waterfront Homes would give you the best opportunity to do a little fishing right in your backyard! Or, allow you to bring your boat and secure it behind your vacation home. You can always book a local fishing charter to show you all the best spots to drop a line. Or, just head out to one of the island’s piers. Whichever you choose, we can help point you in the right direction. If fishing is not your forte, then perhaps a leisurely cruise around the coastline of our little island is more your speed. We have some excellent suggestions for dolphin cruises, sunset cruises, and snorkeling excursions on our website. With clear, sparkling aqua

What Are You Waiting For?

So, whether you want to get away for a romantic week for two or you are traveling with a group, we have a unique and luxurious vacation home waiting just for you. Visit our AMI Locals Rental Page to pick your next vacation home from our list of exceptional properties. Or, contact one of our property managers to make your vacation dreams a reality this Fall on Anna Maria Island. Let us show you how to vacation like a local!

MLB Spring Training and an AMI Beach Vacation

So if you’re anything like us, you can’t wait for the day that baseball players report for MLB Spring Training. Finally, we can enjoy the sunshine, hot dogs and cold beer, and BASEBALL! And Florida is lucky enough to host the Grapefruit League, so there are plenty of teams and stadiums within a very short road trip of Anna Maria Island. Then why not enjoy a relaxing Anna Maria Beach Vacation along with an MLB Spring Training game? Let AMI Locals show you how.

Play ball! Spring Training begins in February.

Beginning in February, there are many Major League Baseball teams that come to Florida to play baseball in the mild Winter and warm Spring days that we enjoy here; such as the Pittsburgh Pirates, Boston Red Sox, Baltimore Orioles, and New York Yankees. We here at AMI Locals are ready to be your guide to planning a grand slam vacation!

First, take a look at the Grapefruit League Spring Training schedule and available tickets. Second, find your favorite MLB team and choose a game (or several!) that you’d like to attend. With this in mind, get your cheering section together and book one of our fabulous AMI Locals luxury vacation rental homes for your adventure. After all, we have a wide variety of homes available for any size group. Such as Just Beachy with 6 bedrooms, or Island Life with 3 bedrooms, all the way up to our 9 bedroom beauty Island Sol! When you are combining a beach vacation with a Spring Training game in the same trip, it’s bound to be a home run of fun!

Nearby Bradenton and Sarasota MLB Spring Training Stadiums

For example, Anna Maria Island is within a very short distance of two Spring Training fields. The Pittsburgh Pirates play at nearby LECOM Park in downtown Bradenton, an easy 20-minute drive from AMI. So be sure to head out for the game early and stop by one of our favorite breweries!
Additionally, The Baltimore Orioles’ Spring Training home is at Ed Smith Stadium in Sarasota. So it’s a fun way to spend an afternoon there! Afterwards, why not explore downtown Sarasota’s Main Street for shopping and happy hour while you are in the neighborhood?

• LECOM Park – 1611 9th St W, Bradenton, FL 34205
• Ed Smith Stadium – 2700 12th St, Sarasota, FL 34237

Tampa area MLB Spring Training Stadiums to visit

Then, about an hour away, you have the Bronx Bombers, The New York Yankees spending their Spring Training time at Steinbrenner Field in Tampa. Also, The Philadelphia Phillies play at Spectrum Field in Clearwater,  The Toronto Blue Jays at Dunedin Stadium in Dunedin, and The Detroit Tigers at Publix Field in Lakeland.

• Steinbrenner Field – 1 Steinbrenner Dr, Tampa, FL 33614
• Spectrum Field – 601 N Old Coachman Rd, Clearwater, FL 33765
• Dunedin Stadium – 373 Douglas Ave, Dunedin, FL 34698
• Publix Field – 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd, Lakeland, FL 33805

Teams worth traveling a little further to see – The BoSox and beyond

Next up on the tour, the Tampa Bay Rays play at Charlotte Sports Park in Port Charlotte, about an hour and 15 minutes away. Our hometown Rays are always fun to watch! Unfortunately this year, the MLB Spring Training for our Tampa Bay Rays will be at Disney’s ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex due to too much damage from Hurricane Ian to our home stadium.

• Charlotte Sports Park – 2300 El Jobean Rd, Port Charlotte, FL 33948
• Disney’s ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex – 700 S Victory Way, Orlando, FL 34747

Then, you’ll hear Sweet Caroline playing when the Boston Red Sox win at JetBlue Park in Fort Myers, and the Minnesota Twins also take the field at Hammond Stadium in Fort Myers, about a 2 hour drive south of Anna Maria Island.

• JetBlue Park – 11500 Fenway South Drive, Fort Myers, FL 33913
• Hammond Stadium – 14100 6 Mile Cypress Pkwy, Fort Myers, FL 33912

Visit Orlando to see ATL

Finally, the Atlanta Braves play at Champion Stadium in Lake Buena Vista, just outside of Orlando, about 2 ½ – 3 hours from Anna Maria Island.

• Champion Stadium – ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, 700 S Victory Way, Kissimmee, FL 34747

Directions and destinations from Anna Maria Island to MLB Spring Training stadiums

To get from Anna Maria Island to these ballparks, you’ll first cross the Manatee Avenue Bridge. Then you will continue eastward on Manatee Avenue – and now you need to choose your destination: Bradenton/Sarasota, Tampa area, Port Charlotte, Fort Myers, or the Orlando area.
Before you leave the Island, search by the chosen ballpark’s address that we have provided above. Our favorite is Google Maps for turn-by-turn directions and time estimates.

So, whatcha waiting for? Pack your bathing suits and baseball gloves, buy your tickets, and call your AMI Locals to book your vacation rental home. Since the peanuts and Cracker Jack will be at the stadium, there’s no need to bring that from home! Batter up!

Best Beaches in the World

Where are the Best Beaches in the World? According to a new post by Travel Addicts, Bean Point Beach on Anna Maria Island is one of the World’s Best Beaches!

So, our secret is out. But we’ve been saying for years that Anna Maria Island is home to the best beaches in the United States and one of the best beaches in the World. Our 7-mile long stretch of powder-soft white sandy beaches is one of the best beach vacation destinations you can choose to visit. Better yet, the beautifully clear turquoise waters and quiet beach town atmosphere are all available to you without even having to leave the country!

First, let’s take a look at Bean Point Beach.

Located on the northern tip of Anna Maria Island, Bean Point Beach is breathtakingly beautiful. It is also one of the more peaceful beach spots to watch a sunset, as crowds tend to favor the more easily accessible Manatee Public Beach. Bean Point Beach is a great spot for walking. You can observe the Florida wildlife such as birds and fish, dolphins, and more. Breathe in the fresh salty air and exhale all of your stress and worries.

AMI Locals properties that are located within a very close walking distance to Bean Point Beach include: Bean Point Bungalow, Grande Haven, Coastal Queen, Beach Escape, and Bay View Beauty.

Next, let’s explore Manatee Public Beach!

Manatee Public Beach is another great location where your family can see the sunset on the island! With plenty of parking, the AMI Beach Café, and amenties such as the public bathrooms onsite, it is one of the most convenient and usually more busy beach destinations on Anna Maria Island. It’s a beautiful and family-friendly place to gather and enjoy the sun and sand!

AMI Locals properties that are located within a very close walking distance to Manatee Public Beach include: The Islands West Resort Villas, Beach View Retreat, The Coconut Cottages, Sandy Pointe, and Gulf Pearl.

Finally, let’s visit Coquina Beach!

Located on the southernmost point of Anna Maria Island, Coquina Beach features parking, public amenities, walking trails, and great views of the Longboat Pass drawbridge. The waves kick up a bit more at this beach, and the breeze is so nice! Coquina Beach Market happens here during season, too, so you can browse our local artists’ work and souvenirs.

AMI Locals properties that are located within a very close walking distance to Coquina Beach include: Sea Forever, Ocean Breeze, As Far as the Eye Can Sea, The Surof House, Beach to Bay, Crystal Waves Oasis, and Salt Life.

Thanks again to our friends at Travel Addicts!

Check out their great collection of articles and travel tips, and be sure to check out our available AMI Locals Anna Maria Island luxury vacation rental homes for your next getaway!

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…

1. Spend a beach day in the warm Florida sunshine at Manatee Public Beach, beginning with all-you-can-eat pancakes at AMI Beach Cafe!
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. Play a round of miniature golf at The Fish Hole on Bridge Street. And then walk over and check out the new Daiquiri Deck.
5. Get our hair cut at Acqua Aveda!!! And also our nails, massages, facials…
6. Just sit on the beach at Bean Point.
7. Wave at the adorable manatees and grab a beer at Rod ‘n Reel Pier!
8. Hike the mangrove trails of Leffis Key Preserve.
9. Sit on the patio at Wicked Cantina and watch the sunset with a big group of pals, chips & salsa, and a margarita. Yum.
10. 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!

Best Place to Vacation Post COVID-19

We are all looking forward to the days when life gets back to normal and the uncertainty has settled. One thing we will take away from this is how important it truly is to Carpe Diem, and enjoy every moment! So in the midst of COVID-19 you might be thinking we need a vacation, we need to escape and relax, and we need to have fun. But where is the Best Place to Vacation Post COVID–19? What is the future of travel after Coronavirus?

Travel in the United States and support local businesses

Here are a few things to keep in mind while planning your next vacation. Consider staying state side and travel in the United States. Also consider areas where you can support local business and economy. Major cities like New York and theme parks like Disney have been heavily impacted and will take time to get back to their usual hustle and bustle. A better option is planning a beach vacation. One place remains pristine and ready for new guests, and that’s Anna Maria Island.

Get your “Vitamin Sea” post COVID-19

Visit the best white sand beaches in Florida here in Anna Maria Island! We’ve got 7 miles of beautiful Gulf front beaches with sparkling blue water and views for miles with no high rises insight! Come Vacation like a Local and let AMI Locals help you plan your post quarantine getaway. We work with professional cleaning companies and you can rest assured linens and sheets are sterilized between every guest by our professional linen program. We have over a 160 homes in the area, and are experts in island living. Hands down the Best Place to Vacation Post COVID-19!

The beach offers a much needed serenity and the resilience of the island make it a top pick for post COVID–19 travel. Shawn Kaleta, who owns multiple homes on the island, says in regards to Anna Maria Island, “we have been through recessions before and we will get through this one. There is no better place to visit, especially after a time like this.”

Anna Maria is one of a kind in that it offers world class beaches, beautiful luxury vacation homes, and unique shops and restaurants. Check out some of our favorites like Ginny and Jane E’s, The Waterfront Restaurant, The Sand Dollar Gift Shop, Beach House Restaurant, and Acqua Aveda Salon and Spa.

So, Carpe Diem!

So we say Carpe Diem, “Seize the Day” and plan your next trip to Anna Maria Island with AMI Locals. The Best Place to Vacation Post COVID-19. There’s no better time than now! AMI Locals is a newer and rapidly growing company. 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!