TAG:Family Vacation
Day Trip to 3 Theme Parks on your Anna Maria Vacation
Did you know that Anna Maria Island is within driving distance of several theme parks in Florida? That’s right, and we have all the details to share with you and your family. Staying in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals will keep you and your family close to the fun. Look below at three theme parks within driving distance of our beautiful island.
Busch Gardens Tampa
Busch Gardens Tampa is your ticket if you’re looking for an unforgettable memory at a local theme park. They are in North Tampa, only an hour from our beautiful island. Fun for the whole family, you’ll be able to enjoy rides for the thrill seekers and rides for the younger kids too. This park offers guests of all ages the chance to check out many different animals you’ll find here in Florida and some from other countries. And if you’re looking for a fun waterpark, check out their Adventure Island.
Legoland
Do you have a young child who loves to build with Legos? Then Legoland is your perfect ticket for a fun day at a theme park. They are in Winter Haven, which is about 2-hours from the island. Legoland is ideal for children 12 and under as they have perfect kid-sized rides. Legoland also offers a waterpark with “heated pools seasonally” and a wave pool, lazy river, body slides, and even a Duplo safari to enjoy. Think of this theme park to enjoy Legos as an adult without the chance of stepping on them in the middle of the night.
SeaWorld Orlando
SeaWorld Orlando is another great theme park to visit for the day and is in Orlando, about a 2-hour drive from Anna Maria Island. This park is often overlooked by too many who visit the other theme parks in the area, but it is one we wanted to share with you. For the younger kids in the family, and as it says, sunny days keeping the clouds away is perfect as you can step on into Sesame Street Land and feel like you’re right in the TV show. If the bigger kids want something to do, there are plenty of rides such as Mako, Kraken, and Journey to Atlantis to check out. Plus, don’t forget to check out the different animals, such as the manatees, manta rays, and more.
Many other theme parks in the area would make great day trips; we wanted to share these. If you haven’t booked your next stay with us in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals, now is the time. We can’t wait to hear which theme park was your favorite on your next stay with us!
Don’t Miss this Year’s BayFest 2022 with the Family
Are you coming to Anna Maria Island next month for your family vacation? If the answer is yes, then we have to tell you all about a fun event you don’t want to miss. Anna Maria Island during the fall months are wonderful to visit because the weather has cooled off a bit, the water is still warm and Bayfest will be here before you know it. Staying in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals will keep your family close to the fun festival activities. Let’s take a peek below at what some of the fun things that you can enjoy at the 2022 BayFest on Anna Maria Island.
Food for Everyone to Love
Who doesn’t love going to a festival where food is going to be? The smell of the food when you first arrive makes you want to eat all day long. BayFest will have an assortment of food that your family can enjoy all day. From ice cream to hearty food, there will be something for everyone. Don’t miss out on the adult drinks that you can get as well for you to try. What a fun start to a wonderful day at the festival!
Kids Zone
Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce didn’t forget about the kids during the BayFest. There are going to be plenty of things that the kids can do while the festival is going on. The kids can enjoy a fun bounce house, fun inflatables they can play on and let’s not forget the fun Pirate Ship they get to enjoy. Let all the kids burn their energy out while enjoying the BayFest this year!
More Fun Activities for the Family
There will be so much more for anyone in the family to enjoy such as getting to do a little shopping with some of the Arts & Crafts vendors, seeing some of the Classic Cars at the Car Show & dancing a little with the family. What a fun day you and your family can do and enjoy on your next vacation to Anna Maria Island!
When is BayFest 2022?
The 21st Annual BayFest will be held on Saturday, October 15th beginning at 10:00 am. The event will be held on Pine Avenue in the City of Anna Maria Island. When staying at one of our AMI vacation homes, you will be able to take the trolley for free to Pine Avenue on the day of the event. If you’d like to drive to event from your vacation rental, you will be able to park at Crosspointe Fellowship Church located on Gulf Drive which is on the north end of Holmes Beach. There also may be a few other locations nearby that will allow you to park but please make sure to read all the signs before doing so.
Coming during the fall months will keep you still having a great time at the beach but allowing your family to enjoy the fun festival too. If you haven’t made your reservation to stay in one of our beautiful vacation homes, now is the time. We can’t wait to see you and your family as you come celebrate with us at the 21st Annual BayFest on Anna Maria Island!
4 Fun Beach Games that the Whole Family will Love
Do you and your family have a vacation planned to Anna Maria Island this year? If the answer is yes, then allow us with AMI Locals to share a few games to play on the beach. Staying in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals will allow you and your family to connect. Let’s look below at what four fun beach games we’d like to share with you that the whole family will love.
Seashell Hunt
Anna Maria Island has an abundance of seashells that you may not find on beaches that border the Atlantic Ocean. So naturally, a seashell hunt along the shoreline of the beaches can be just what your family needs. The objective of this fun game is to see who can find the most seashells or the biggest shells in a certain amount of time. When everyone is done finding their shells, you can give points on the number of shells, the size of the shells, or the color of the shells. Think of the fun the kids will have by getting to have a fun hunt on the beach.
Musical “Towels”
A fun game that is often played at parties is musical chairs, but since you’re at the beach, trade those chairs for towels. All you need is towels, a phone, and some fun songs. If you don’t have enough towels, you can use spare clothes in place of the towels. The rules for musical chairs will apply to this game. Anyone in the family can play this game, and this game can be played multiple times during the day.
Sand Mermaids
Another fun game that the whole family will love is to make sand mermaids. This is especially fun for the little ones as most times; it’s the parents or siblings getting to become the mermaid. Have the person who is going to be the model lay in the sand, and the rest of the family will then cover their legs and waist with sand. Then the shaping of the mermaid tail begins, and then time to decorate the tail. Use the seashells you found on the beach during the seashell hunt, seaweed, and other beach finds. Don’t forget to take pictures of each person who has become a mermaid!
I Spy
For families with younger kids, this game is perfect for you. Just like you play this game on road trips in the car, it’s ideal for playing on the beach. This game can be played while eating lunch on the beach or while you’re having the kids take a break from the water. You can use different themes such as colors, nature, or items seen on the beach. Depending on how old the kids are, it is how hard you make the guessing game.
There are many other fun games that you can play while you’re on vacation; we wanted to share the above with you. If you are still on the hunt for the perfect Anna Maria Island vacation rental, give us a call today. We can’t wait to hear how you and your family loved playing the games we shared with you above.
3 Things to Do this Spring on Anna Maria Island
This spring, do you have a family vacation planned to come to Anna Maria Island this spring? If the answer is yes, allow us to share three things you can do in the area. Staying in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals will allow you to be close to the action. Let’s look below at what you and your family can do this spring on the island.
Snorkeling Fun
One of the best things about vacationing to Anna Maria Island is getting to experience something you’ve never done. If you’ve ever vacationed in the Caribbean, you might have had the opportunity to snorkel, but our crystal-clear water allows you to do it here. Some of the wildlife that you’ll be able to spot while in the water are shells, dolphins, manatees, and even stingrays. If you don’t have your equipment, have no fear as there are a few different tour companies that offer snorkeling tours around the island. Think of the new memories that the whole family will have by getting out in the water and seeing what you can spot in the water.
Bean Point Beach
Another great location that many locals and visitors love to visit is Bean Point Beach. This is one of our best-kept secret spots on the island because you won’t be able to find large signs showing the way. You will go a little north of the Anna Maria City Pier to see this beautiful spot, just past the crossroads. You can get to this location by car or even biking. There is much different wildlife that lives there that you can admire, swim or walk with the family. Don’t forget to stay to see the sunset and grab that picture for Instagram!
Mini Golf with the Family
Playing mini-golf together is a tradition for many families who vacation to the beach every year. One of the places where you can head to play a round or two of mini golf is The Fish Hole in Bradenton Beach. If you’re concerned about the heat being too much during the day, don’t worry as they have cooling misters throughout the course. Some of the other things that you’ll be able to do while playing are grabbing a souvenir to take home, grabbing a cool drink, and you can feed the Koi.
There are many other fun things that you can do this spring, but we wanted to share these few with you. Now is the time if you haven’t booked your next trip to Anna Maria Island. We can’t wait to hear what you did this spring on your vacation!
Winter is an Excellent Time of the Year to Vacation on Anna Maria Island
It’s hard to believe that winter is here and in several parts of the country is dumping snow like crazy too. One of the best things about vacationing to Anna Maria Island during the wintertime is no snow. Just our sandy white beaches, crystal clear water, and incredible temperatures are what you get to look forward to. Staying in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals will allow you and your family to enjoy our beautiful island. Let’s look below at why winter is an excellent time of the year to spend your vacation on Anna Maria Island.
Less Crowded
One of the best things about vacationing to Anna Maria Island during the winter is the crowds are much less. You’ll not only be able to find all of the best spots on the beach in the morning, but you’ll have a prime spot sitting in the waves. The kids will have all the space they could ever want to build their little sandcastle village, including a moat. Less crowded means that you won’t have long waits at stores, restaurants, and experiences around the island.
Amazing Temperatures
Another big reason winter is a great time to visit Anna Maria Island this winter is the temps. During January, you’ll find that the average temperature during the day is 71 degrees, with a low of 52 degrees. February has a little better temp with the average during the day being 74 degrees with a low of 55. March brings warmer temps with a daily average of 77 degrees and a low of 58 degrees. You’ll also find that it may rain 3-5 days total during each month which allows you to enjoy the weather a little more.With the weather being perfect, you’ll still be able to get in and enjoy the water with the family, it’s just like you’re in the Caribbean.
While there are other reasons why winter is an excellent time of the year to vacation on Anna Maria Island, we wanted to share these few with you. If you haven’t booked your winter stay with us in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals, give us a call today. We can’t wait to see what you think of our winter compared to your winter back home!
3 Natural Springs State Parks Near Anna Maria Island for a Day Trip with the Family
Have you ever wanted to head to a state park in the past but didn’t know which one to try? We at AMI Locals wanted to share 3 Natural Springs State Parks with you that are within a few hours’ drive of the island. Staying in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals, you’ll be able to not only enjoy our beautiful beaches, but you’ll be close to some of the natural springs state parks too. Let’s look below at where you and your family can head for the day to check out three of the many natural springs state parks in Florida.
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
Have you ever heard of Weeki Wachee before? Too many tourists, it sounds like a fun name to pronounce, and as locals, we can say it is. The Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is located about 2-hours from our beautiful island and is one state park that we couldn’t mention. This Park first opened in 1947 and has been a favorite for many locals and tourists to head to for some fun in the sun. We must mention that during the summer months, they will reach capacity early and so be sure to get there as soon as they open at 9:00 am. A few of the things you can do while there are snorkeling, swimming, boat tours, mermaid shows, and even the waterpark. Be sure to add this to your list to check out your next vacation to Anna Maria Island.
Rainbow Springs State Park
Rainbow Springs State Parks is located a little further north of Weeki Wachee Springs State Park but is another beautiful park to visit. Located about two and a half hours from Anna Maria Island, you could easily make this another day trip with the Family. Some fun things you can do at this state park are snorkeling, swimming, tubing down the Rainbow River, Geocaching, and more. Think of the fun the Family will have to get to tube down the river after spending the morning doing some geocaching.
Rock Springs Kelly Park
Rock Springs Kelly Park is located about two and a half hours from Anna Maria Island and is just north of Orlando. Depending on how you’re arriving at AMI, you could either do this Park before you come to your vacation rental or on your way home. They limit the number of vehicles in the park each day, so we thought it was a great way to start your trip or end it on a fun adventure. Some of the things that you’re able to do at the park are Kayak, Paddleboard, or even tubing. If you’re going to do a little tubing, they do offer rentals for tubes, or you can bring your own, which in turn, you could use on your trip to Anna Maria Island.
While there are many other natural springs state parks within a few hours of Anna Maria Island, we wanted to mention these. If you haven’t booked your next trip to stay in one of our AMI Locals vacation rentals, give us a call today. We’d love to hear all about your adventures to one of these amazing parks!
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!
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.
Labor Day weekend - Get away to Anna Maria Island!
There’s nothing better than spending Labor Day weekend at the beach! Sun, sand, friends and fun to celebrate the unofficial end of summer! So, why not run away from home and come visit Anna Maria Island? And AMI Locals has a ton of fabulous Luxury Vacation Rental Homes to choose from. Check out Feelin’ Beachy, Salt Life, or any of our available rentals.
Festivals & touristy things
If you feel adventurous, and are over 21, head up to Tampa for the Summer of Rum 2019 festival to kick off Labor Day weekend. Gotta love a cool tropical adult beverage on a hot summer day! Also, while you’re there, you can check out the Tampa Museum of Art, and Sparkman Wharf. It’s about an hour and fifteen minute drive North of Anna Maria Island. But, Tampa is a fun city to visit for the day!
Another option, head South to Sarasota for the Sarasota Sailing Squadron 72nd Annual Labor Day Regatta. It takes place over all three days of the weekend. Also, Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium is a fantastic spot to visit with the family! You can’t beat seeing sea turtles up close and personally!
The best bet – the beaches!
Meanwhile, on the Island you’ll want to stay close to the beach. Nearly all of our properties are within a 5-minute walk to the beautiful soft white-sand Gulf of Mexico beaches. Then, spend the day on the beach, and come “home” to relax by the pool. Then, head out for dinner on the weekend with live music at Island Time Bar and Grill, or pop over to Rod N Reel Pier for a nice cold beer and views for days!
So, why not come stay and play on Anna Maria Island this Labor Day weekend… Call us at 941-757-8226 today, and let us help plan your perfect getaway!
