Unveiling the Best Activities in Anna Maria Island, Florida: A Comprehensive Guide

Anna Maria Island is one of my top three picks for best places to visit in Florida. Just in case you are curious; Naples and the Keys are the other two places. My favorite thing about the Anna Maria is that no matter where you stay, it feels like you actually live there. All of the hotels/resorts are nestled in neighborhoods among palm trees, colorful foliage, and private homes.

The Island is about an hour’s drive south of Tampa and is 7 1/2 miles long and less than a mile wide. It is divided into three sections; Anna Maria (Northern end), Holmes Beach (Middle section), and Bradenton Beach (Southern end).

Anna Maria (North End of Island)

The north end is my favorite part of the island and where we usually spend most of our time. The homes are gorgeous and the beaches are less crowded. Unless you are staying in the area, it is hard to use the beaches due to lack of parking.

Beaches

Bean Point

Bean Point is the best beach on the island. It is at the northern tip of the island. There is a massive area of white sand and the sunsets are amazing. It is a public beach, but mainly used by people staying in the area.

 Limited parking is along North Shore Drive. Park completely off the road (no tires touching the road) and between the designated signs.  Last time we were there, it was limited to about six spots along the whole road. It will basically be in someone’s yard. There are access points along the road with signs indicating beach access. It will be between houses. Be prepared for a long walk through sand to get to the water.

Address:

Starts around 825 N Shore Dr Anna Maria, FL 34216 and runs west

100 Pine Avenue access

 It is usually more crowded by people staying locally and basically has no parking either.

Bayfront Park

Bayfront Park has a nice beach area and the water is calmer. A good size public parking area is available. 

Address:

316 N Bay Blvd, Anna Maria, FL 34216

Shopping

Bayview Plaza

We loved the clothing boutiques and ice cream shop and it is withing walking distance of where we usually stay. 

Address:

101 S Bay Blvd, Anna Maria, FL 34216

Pine Avenue

Tons of colorful boutiques and specialty shops are along Pine Avenue. Most have parking in front. 

Where to Eat

The Donut Experiment

The Donut Experiment is a donut shop where you pick your topping to make a designer donut. We were told they are amazing, but unfortunately, it was so crowded that we couldn’t even get in the door. People were sitting around outside eating them and they did look good! Maybe next time. Lol

Address:

210c Pine Ave, Anna Maria, FL 34216

Rod and Reel Pier

Enjoy one of the most amazing views on the island while eating local seafood at The Rod and Real Pier.

Address:

875 N Shore Dr, Anna Maria, FL 34216

Sandbar Restaurant

 The Sandbar Restaurant is another great place with local seafood but with beach front dining and a perfect sunset view.

Address:

100 Spring Ave, Anna Maria, FL 34216

Lodging (Reasonably Priced)

Sunrise Garden Resort

The Sunrise Garden Resort is surrounded by lush tropical landscape in a quiet residential area, It is the perfect place to enjoy the laid-back feel of Anna Maria Island. See my review post here.

Address:

512 Spring Ave, Anna Maria, FL 34216

Anna Maria Motel & Resort Apartments

This place is all about the location. Walk across the road and you are at Bean Point beach access. We have only stayed here once, but it was clean and has a nice pool.

Address:

808 N Bay Blvd, Anna Maria, FL 34216

Other Fun Things to do 

Movies in the Park

Movies  at the Bayfront Park on Wednesday nights a 6:30 pm.  Check here to see what’s playing. 

Address:

316 N Bay Blvd, Anna Maria, FL 34216

 Holmes Beach (Middle section)

This is where the main access to the island is located. It is super crowded and is very time consuming to drive through this area.

Beaches

Anna Maria Public Beach  &  Manatee Beach Park

Both are public and have parking. As I said, they are very crowded during the day.

Address:

Anna Maria
102 39th St, Holmes Beach, FL 34217

Manatee Beach
4000 State Road 64 and Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, FL 34217

Shopping

Sun and Surf Beach Shop

They have the cutest clothes and unique gifts. We also love all the birds in the cages lining the front of the store.

Address:

5418 Marina Dr, Holmes Beach, FL 34217

Where to eat

We usually stop at the Publix Super Market and get food to cook at the cottage. It is the only grocery store on the island.

Address:

3900 E Bay Dr, Holmes Beach, FL 34217

Where to stay

We have never stayed in this area. It is so busy that the north and south ends are better options.

Bradenton Beach (Southern end)

Beaches

Coquina Beach

Coquina Beach is a nice public beach with plenty of parking.

Address:

 1438 Gulf Dr S, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217

 Shopping & Where to Eat

 Bridge Street

Historic Bridge Street is the spot that used to be the only access to the island. An old wooden bridge was where the pier is located now. You will find a good selection of unique places to shop and eat.


Address;

Bridge streets meets Gulf Drive around 111 Gulf Dr S, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217

Lodging

Tropic Isle Beach Resort

Beautifully landscaped, clean, reasonably priced and only a road between it and the beach.

Address;

101 22nd St N, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217

Other Fun Things to Do on the Island

Charter a trip to Egmont Key, rent kayaks or jet skis, get a massage on the beach, or take a sunset cruise

Kayak rentals - https://happypaddler.com/rentals-kayak-paddleboard-longboat-key-anna-maria-bradenton/

Eggmont Key, Dolphin tours, and sunset cruises - https://www.amidolphintours.com/tours

massages - https://searenityspa.com/

Ways to Get Around the Island

The free Anna Maria Island trolley, Renting a golf cart, or a bike

Shelling on Anna Maria Island

Anna maria is not great for shelling. Occasional shells can be found on the beaches, but they are small. 

Day Trips off the Island

Sarasota Jungle Gardens

About a 30-minute drive 

3701 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34234

Fort De Soto Park

About an hour drive

 3500 Pinellas Bayway S, St. Petersburg, FL 33715

Sunken Gardens

About an hour drive

 1825 4th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33704

Happy Travels!

Fairhope, Alabama: A Charming Escape by the Bay

Nestled along the eastern shore of Mobile Bay, Fairhope, Alabama is a small, picturesque city that offers visitors a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its beautiful natural scenery, quaint streets, and charming attractions, Fairhope is a true hidden gem in the South. In this post, we'll explore some of the best places to visit in Fairhope and share some recommendations for places to stay and eat during your visit.

Fairhope Municipal Pier

One of the most iconic landmarks in Fairhope is the Municipal Pier. The pier extends out into Mobile Bay and provides visitors with stunning views of the water and surrounding landscape. Whether you're looking to fish, take a leisurely stroll, or simply relax and soak in the sun, the Municipal Pier is a must-visit destination. 

Address:

Located at the end of Fairhope Avenue where it meets North Beach Road

North Beach Park

Adjacent to the pier, North Beach Park is a popular spot for picnics, swimming, and other outdoor activities.

 Fairhope Avenue

Fairhope Avenue is the main street in the city and is lined with a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries. Visitors can enjoy browsing local boutiques, sampling homemade ice cream, or taking a guided walking tour to learn more about the history of Fairhope.

Fairy tale Castles

Fairhope is known for its whimsical architecture, and one of the most enchanting examples is the Fairy Tale Castles. These unique structures were built in the 1930s and feature turrets, gables, and other fairy tale-inspired details. Although the castles are privately owned and not open to the public, visitors can still admire them from a distance.

Sheldon Storybook Castle

http://fairhopecastle.com/Sheldon.html

Here is the Air BnB link

Mosher Castle

http://fairhopecastle.com/Mosher.html

Tolstoy Park, The Henry Stuart House

Tolstoy Park is a historic landmark that was once the home of Henry Stuart, a writer and philosopher who lived in Fairhope during the early 1900s. Today, visitors can tour the park and see the cottage where Stuart lived and worked. Adjacent to Tolstoy Park is The Henry Stuart House, a museum that houses a collection of Stuart's writings and personal effects.

Address:

22787 US-98, Fairhope, AL 36532

Turn west onto Parker road and then turn right into the first driveway. It is located among offices that look like apartment. The GPS will take you into the other end of the area and get you lost!

Admission:

Free and open all the time

Fairhope French Quarter

The French Quarter is a historic district with a distinctive European-inspired architecture, featuring buildings with wrought-iron balconies, colorful shutters, and stucco walls. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a variety of unique shops, restaurants, and cafes

Address: 

40 S Section St, Fairhope, AL 36532

Lodging

Fairhope offers a variety of lodging options, from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxury hotels. For a unique experience, check out The Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa, a historic property that offers stunning views of Mobile Bay and a variety of amenities, including a golf course, spa, and multiple dining options. 

Fairhope has a vibrant food scene that offers something for every taste. For a casual meal, check out Panini Pete's, a popular spot for sandwiches and other deli-style fare. For a more upscale dining experience, try The Wash House, which serves seafood and other Southern specialties in a charming, restored house.

In conclusion, Fairhope, Alabama is a charming destination that offers visitors a delightful blend of natural beauty, historic landmarks, and modern conveniences. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway or a fun family vacation, Fairhope is sure to please.

Enjoy Your Visit!

       Sherri