10 Amazing Things to Do in Anna Maria Island
Dreaming of the ultimate beach getaway?
Let us introduce you to Anna Maria Island–a little slice of paradise that we’ve visited and completely fallen in love with.
With its quintessential Florida charm and laid-back vibe, it’s the perfect destination for your next family beach trip.
What Makes Anna Maria Island so Special?
Just an hour’s drive from Tampa, Anna Maria Island is a hidden gem on Florida’s Gulf Coast that should be on everyone’s Florida bucket list.
One of the things that makes AMI so special is its commitment to preserving its character and charm–no building on the island stands taller than three stories.
That means no towering high-rises blocking your view, just uninterrupted beach town beauty at every turn.
In fact, it’s such a dreamy place that it’s one of my top recommendations for a romantic babymoon in Florida!
It feels like stepping back into a simpler, more picturesque version of coastal Florida.
We visited in early May and it was hands-down one of the best times of year to visit Anna Maria Island.
*Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission at no cost to you. All opinions remain my own.
10 Best Things to Do on Anna Maria Island
To help you plan the perfect trip, I’ve put together our top 10 things to do in Anna Maria Island, FL. Get ready to fall in love with AMI just like we have!
1. Anna Maria Island Segway Tour
We had a 5-star experience with our Anna Maria Island Segway tour and highly recommend it! A Segway tour is the perfect way to get your bearings and see everything the island has to offer early in your trip.
These guided tours typically last about two hours, and you’ll learn so much about the area. Keep in mind, riders must be 12 years or older to participate.
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2. Bike Around the Island
Exploring Anna Maria Island by bike is a must! We rented cruisers from Beach Bums and couldn’t have been happier with the experience. The bikes are affordable, fun, and a fantastic way to navigate all of the island’s scenic side streets.
Choose to rent by the hour, day or week depending on your plans–you’ll love the freedom or biking around this laid-back paradise.
3. Paint Sand Dollars at The Shiny Fish Emporium
The Shiny Fish Emporium is a fun, quirky shop visited again and again by those who frequent the island.
The best part of this boutique is painting sand dollars. What a fun keepsake! If you’re visiting with your family, this activity is a must. It’s fun, creative, and the perfect way to bring home a meaningful souvenir from your trip.
You could even turn yours into a Christmas ornament!
4. Stroll Down Pine Avenue
Spend a leisurely afternoon exploring Pine Avenue, where shopping and dining go hand in hand.
This popular strip is lined with unique gift shops, boutique stores and delightful sweet treats around every corner. It’s the perfect way to soak in the island’s charm while finding treasures to bring home.
5. Hop on the Free Trolley
The Anna Maria Island Trolley is a fun, family-friendly way to get from place to place on the island, and best of all–it’s free!
Running daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, the trolley stops approximately every 20 minutes, making it a convenient and fun way to explore. Kids will love the ride, and you’ll love the hassle-free transportation.
6. Enjoy Lunch at Star Fish Company
Star Fish Company isn’t just a fantastic lunch spot, it’s an experience!
Star Fish Company combines a fresh fish market with a laid-back waterside restaurant, where you can dine outdoors while watching seabirds and fishing boats along the dock. We saw several fisherman coming in with their daily catch while we ate some of the freshest seafood around. It was as dreamy as it sounds!
While there may be a wait, the incredible seafood and unique atmosphere make it well worth your time. For more restaurant options, check out our guide to the best restaurants in Anna Maria Island!
7. Relax at Bean Point Beach
Tucked away on the northernmost tip of the island, Bean Point Beach is truly a slice of paradise.
While you may need to park and walk a few blocks to reach it, the breathtaking panoramic views from the tip of the island and serene exclusivity make it worth the effort.
It’s our top pick for beaches on the island! (Our second favorite is Coquina Beach, where we were delighted by the abundance of fish and seabirds–it’s another must-visit spot!)
8. Take a Sunset Cruise Around Anna Maria Island
No trip to Anna Maria Island is complete without experiencing the breathtaking Gulf sunsets, and there’s no better way to take them in than from the water!
A sunset cruise offers stunning views of the turquoise waters as the sun dips below the horizon. Most tours last about two hours. Be sure to book in advance for this unforgettable experience.
9. Explore the Iconic Piers of Anna Maria Island
AMI is home to three incredible piers, each offering its own stunning views.
The Rod and Reel Pier is a must-visit complete with a casual restaurant at the end where we love to enjoy lunch surrounded by 360-degree ocean views.
The Anna Maria City Pier is another iconic spot, erpfect for fishing or simply taking in the scenery.
Finally, the Bradenton Beach Historic Pier offers a glimpse into the island’s past and is an excellent spot for a stroll, especially as the sun goes down and the evening lights come on.
Visiting all three piers is a great way to experience the unique character of AMI!
10. Go on a Clear Kayak Guided Tour
While we didn’t get the chance to do a clear kayak tour during our visit, it’s absolutely at the top of our list for our next visit!
The crystal-clear waters around Anna Maria Island are home to manatees and other amazing marine life, making this guided tour a truly magical experience.
Paddle through the calm, shallow waters and immerse yourself in the natural beauty–it’s a must for animal lovers and adventure seekers alike!
FAQ
How long should I stay in Anna Maria Island?
While you can definitely do a day trip to Anna Maria Island, we recommend staying a full week if possible to soak it all in.
What is the closest airport to Anna Maria Island?
AMI is easily accessible and only one hour from the Tampa airport. Smaller airports that are even closer to the island include Sarasota/Bradenton and St. Petersburg.
Is Anna Maria Island a good place for kids?
Absolutely! AMI is very kid-friendly and there is so much to do for families.
What are the best beaches on Anna Maria Island?
Our favorite beach is Bean Point Beach on the northernmost tip of the island. Other beautiful public beaches include Manatee Beach (in Holmes Beach) and Coquina Beach.
The most family-friendly beach is Manatee Beach which features playgrounds, grills, picnic tables and restrooms.
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Planning Your Anna Maria Island Getaway
As you can see, AMI boasts plenty of things to do for couples and families alike! From idyllic white sand beaches to exciting excursions, there are countless possibilities.
I hope these recommendations for the best things to do in Anna Maria Island make planning your own island adventure a breeze!
Need help packing? Check out this packing list we made just for you!
Read More Beach Trip Planning Resources:
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