8 Best Things To Do In Anna Maria Island

Photo Credit: LMPark Photos

The Shiny Fish Emporium is one of my favorite places to go on Anna Maria Island. The owner’s vision was a place that children could enjoy as much as their parents.

When you enter the store, you will see for yourself that vision is a reality with a shop decorated in whimsical decor featuring unique heirloom-quality toys, hand-curated clothing, and gifts for adults. The owner shares her art with youngsters in art classes, painting sand dollars, and other projects.

We painted sand dollars and had a great time. The staff set us up on a large table, provided smocks and hundreds of colors of paint, and encouraged us to get creative.

You cannot leave without trying their fantastic ice cream. I usually go for Hawaiian Bubbles and hang out on the couch.

I love the owner's style and have bought so many of her clothes, most of which I have never seen anywhere else. This is a hidden gem on Anna Maria Island and one that can be enjoyed by toddlers to teens, and even mom and dad!

2. Get Donuts

Photo Credit: Tareq Khalaf

You will need to make at least one trip to The Donut Experiment while you are on the Island. We first discovered Donut Experiment during spring break 2016.

Since then, we’ve visited many times and brought lots of family and friends. All have loved it. We absolutely love the donuts and all the combinations. We’ve tried many!

Don’t be surprised to see a line, but don’t worry, it moves fast. The donuts are always fresh because you place your order and watch as they are being made right in front of you. You have the choice of multiple glazes and toppings.

The wonderful staff is friendly and helpful. The ordering process is easy and efficient. It is a fun atmosphere too – eating donuts right on the front porch. The donuts from Donut Experiment are simply the best!

3. Play Miniature Golf

Photo Credit: Andrew Angelov

The Fish Hole Adventure Golf is a great course with nice features throughout, including turtles and fish. It is well laid out with some areas of shade for anyone wanting to escape the sun. A great activity for all ages, even little ones. Not only is it a fun course, but it is on Bridge Street, only minutes from the condo.

Bridge Street has lots of shops and restaurants, so you can spend a whole morning or afternoon there. Take a walk to the Bradenton Beach Pier at the East end of Bridge Street. This is the historic Bridge Street Pier, a vibrant hub for recreational and sightseeing activities.

The pier provides excellent views of Cortez Fishing Village and Sarasota Bay, making it the perfect spot for photos and relaxation.

4. Dine With Your Toes in the Sand

Photo Credit: Fellers Photography

The Sandbar Restaurant is a popular waterfront restaurant on Anna Maria Island, favored for its fresh seafood and beachfront location.

It’s the only place on Anna Maria Island where you can actually eat on their large outdoor patio with your toes in the sand. Seat yourself with your feet in the sand while your food is being creatively prepared, and enjoy a cold drink as you take in the view.

Anna Maria Island is known for its fresh seafood and scratch-made dishes, with dining options ranging from casual beachside eateries like The Sandbar to fine dining establishments.

Offering a casual atmosphere where kids can run and play in the sand while waiting for their food, this locally owned eatery uses goods grown in their own farm, serves fish fresh from the docks at Cortez, and makes their own bread. Enjoy this beautiful beach view, literally yards from the water, directly on the beach.

5. Go to the Beach

Photo Credit: Linda White Wolf

This is my #1 fun thing to do. Our favourite, and everyone’s, is spending lots of time at the beach. The beauty for our guests is that you just cross the street and you’re there. No packing up the kids and loading the car to drive. Gotta love that!

Bradenton Beach is long and flat with plenty of clean, beautiful, white sand and lots of shallow water for young kids to play in.

Anna Maria Island is home to several beautiful, white sandy beaches that are considered some of the best in Florida. They're known for their soft, white sand that stays cool even on hot days.

Sunset views are a highlight on beaches at the north end of the island. Bean Point Beach and the Anna Maria City Pier are both perfect spots for ending a beach day.

Breakdown of AMI's Best Beaches

• Bean Point Beach, located at the northern tip of the island, is a favorite beach for its serene atmosphere, sand dunes, sea oats, and stunning sunsets. It’s less crowded, perfect for relaxation, and offers views of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.
• Coquina Beach, at the southern end, is a family-friendly spot with picnic tables, free parking, and plenty of space for family adventures like spotting dolphins playing in the surf.
• Manatee Public Beach is centrally located, offers free parking, and is popular for its amenities and easy access.
• Holmes Beach is another great option for a laid-back, family-friendly vibe.

6. Discover Nature and Wildlife

Photo Credit: Cheri Alguire

If you’re a nature lover, Anna Maria Island is a true paradise waiting to be explored. It offers endless opportunities to connect with the Gulf Coast's natural beauty.

Start your adventure with a boat tour through the turquoise waters of Sarasota Bay, where you’re likely to spot playful dolphins and gentle manatees gliding by. For an extra special experience, make it a sunset cruise.

The island is also a haven for sea turtles, especially during nesting season, making a stroll along the Anna Maria Island beach both exciting and educational.

For those who love to get up close with nature, rent a kayak, boat, or paddleboard and navigate the calm, scenic waters around Anna Maria. You’ll discover hidden mangrove tunnels and quiet coves teeming with wildlife.

Shelling is another favorite Anna Maria Island activity. Keep an eye out for unique shells, shark teeth, and sand dollars washed up on the shore, perfect for a beachcomber’s collection.

7. Take the Trolley

Photo Credit: Chris Ferrara

The free Anna Maria Island trolley, which stops nearby, will take you to all of these fun things while taking the worry out of driving and parking. Riding the trolley itself is another fun thing to do and a fun way to see the Island. Kids and adults love it.

Check out our guide to discover more free ways to get around. If you'd rather explore with your own transport, golf cart rentals are a great alternative to cars. Or, for a more energetic alternative, you can rent bikes to explore the island instead.

8. Experience Local Events and Festivals

Photo Credit: Yuganov Konstantin

One of the best ways to soak up the island charm of Anna Maria is by joining in on the local events and festivals that bring the community together all year long.

Anna Maria Island is famous for its vibrant atmosphere, and there’s always something happening to make your visit extra special. From the lively family-friendly events to the 4th of July and holiday events, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to mingle with locals and experience the unique culture of this beloved beach town.

Get Ready to Visit Anna Maria Island

Ready to experience the beautiful beaches, natural beauty, and unique wildlife that make Anna Maria Island so special?

Our vacation rentals are ready to welcome you to the sands of AMI. Be sure to book in advance, especially during peak season.

See you on the beach!