Planning Your Ideal Vacation

We understand there is so much more to your vacation than just accommodations.

When you think about your next holiday what comes to mind?

We’ve put together the following information to help you choose your vacation destination.

Where should we go? Looking for something that is not a densely populated tourist hot spot? Anna Maria Island (AMI) Florida is a little gem along the coast of the Gulf of Mexico that offers a perfect mix for those seeking total and utter relaxation or those wanting a more active, but still relaxing vacation. Anna Maria Island with 7 miles of bright, white powdery sand beaches, crystal clear turquoise water and old Florida charm is a popular tourist destination unlike others. The locals have done an amazing job of maintaining the island’s charm with no chain restaurants and no high rise buildings. You will find old beach cottages, gently swaying palms tress and award winning picture perfect beaches. Combine all that with the beautiful Florida sunshine and you have the idyllic atmosphere of Anna Maria Island. Watching sunrises colouring the radiant sky or viewing spectacular sunsets you will be delighted you have come to this beautiful Island.

Where will we stay? Stay with Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals and you will have everything you could possibly need to spend a vacation in paradise. From the white sandy beaches of Anna Maria Island, private beach access, luxurious condos featuring a heated pool, lanais overlooking the beach or pool and amazing location, we offer everything you need for a blissful, tropical vacation. 

When is the best time to go? Anytime. If you want to enjoy a tropical climate, then Florida is the place for you. Florida has an average annual high of 80F, offering year round sunny, warm weather.

Every year residents from the northern United States, Canada and other cold weather countries flock to Florida in search of sunny skies and warmer temperatures. Because of this people think the months from January to April offer the best weather of the year. But, other months offer an equally perfect vacationing environment –

For example, Anna Maria Island, Florida from December to March sees average day temperatures from low 70’s to high 70’s. April to June low to high 80’s and July and August mid-high 80’s with some low to mid 90 degree temperatures. September to November low to high 80’s.

In my opinion, May and mid-September through November offer the best in terms of ideal temperatures – both air and water. Average daily highs ranging from low to mid 80’s and Gulf of Mexico water temperatures hovering around 80F delivers near perfect conditions for your vacation. These months are usually dry with lowish humidity and on top of that are quieter months. The snowbirds are gone, kids are in school which mean you have the Anna Maria Island beaches almost to yourselves.

Temperature tolerance is different for each of us. Some people think they will melt in the Florida summer heat. For me, summertime weather on Anna Maria Island is ideal. From June-August, average daily high temperatures range from 85 F – 91 F. With a 5-15 mph tropical beach breeze felt most prominently on the beach, most find it is quite comfortable. The Gulf of Mexico is typically 5-10 degrees cooler than the air temperatures making the water pristine! A swimsuit, cooler and beach umbrella are all you need for a most enjoyable day on the beach.

As you plan the perfect trip, remember any time of year is a great time to vacation in Anna Maria Island.

How will we get there? Plane, bus, train or car?

One of the many advantages of choosing Anna Maria Island as your travel destination, is that it is easily driveable from most American States and Canada. Plus, there are five International Airports within 2 hours of Anna Maria Island. Most visitors either fly or drive, but if that’s not your thing and you are willing to spend a little more time, consider travelling by train or bus which is as much an experience as it is transportation. Wether you arrive via air, train or bus there are many transportation services available to pick you up and deliver you safely to our condos.

How far is it from the airport? The closest airport to us, Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ), is approximately 15 minutes. SRQ is a relatively small airport making it very easy to navigate. The baggage area is easy to find and the car rentals are in the same area. In 2018 SRQ added a series of new destinations flights from budget airlines to/from some very popular locations. With many low cost, non-stop flights now being offered, Sarasota Bradenton International Airport is our the airport of choice. Tampa International Airport (TPA), another great options for our guests, is exactly 1 hour door to door. TPA offers an abundance of flights to many destinations. The driving time to: Orlando International (MCO) 1 hour 50 minutes, Clearwater/St.Petersburg (PIE) 45 minutes, and Fort Myers Southwest Florida (RSW) 1 hour 40 minutes; these are great airports as well.

How can we get around? Worried you won’t have a car when you arrive, don’t be. Unbelievable as it may seem, you really can get around the seven mile Island of Anna Maria without a car. Anna Maria Island offers you several transportation options: the Free Island Trolley operates daily from 6:00 am to 10:30 pm running approximately every 20 minutes. It will take you from Anna Maria at the northern tip to Coquina Beach, the Southernmost point of the Island & yes, it is FREE. Island Monkey Bus, a tip only ride service on Anna Maria Island and beyond. Golf cart Rental is readily available and a fun way to see the Island. Bike rental. Walk. Shopping, restaurants, and loads of activities are all within walking distance of our vacation property.

Upon booking with us, we are happy to help you choose the means of transportation that is right for you.

What will we do when we’re there? There is plenty to do on Anna Maria Island (AMI) Whether you’re looking for a quiet escape from reality or prefer a more lively experience there’s something for you on the island. You can go to the beach. With private beach access you will find less crowds in an area that’s almost exclusively yours. Walk the beach, you have 7 miles of it to enjoy or if you want true relaxation, sit and listen to the sound of the waves. You can bike the Island. Rent a bike and discover the Island, the peaceful neighbourhoods and the slow lifestyle of AMI. Follow along an unbeaten path, you never know what you might find. Go Paddleboarding, jet skiing, sailing or kayaking. Rentals are available right on the beach. Walk to Historic Bridge Street on Bradenton Beach. You will find lots of quaint shops, restaurants, and a nice pier at the end of Bridge Street. Well you’re there stop for a game of mini-putt and then to the courtyard at Blue Marlin where you can listen to live music and enjoy some delicious seafood. Rent a Golf cart or take the Free trolley to the North end of the Island. Have your picture taken at the old Anna Maria Jail and go shopping on Pine Avenue. With no shortage of shops you will find quaint, boutique clothing stores, culinary specialty stores, and more! Take your wallet as is likely you will find something you want to buy.

Can I play golf? – There is only one golf course on Anna Maria Island and it is gorgeous! The club is members only, but you can pay a guest fee of around $500. A little pricey for most, but don’t be discouraged there are many courses near Anna Maria Island.

Bradenton Country Club is a beautiful course designed with fountains, lots of trees, and lagoons. It is a 18 hole course located just 10 minutes east of the Island.

Timber Creek Golf Course is a nine hole course located 10 minutes east of Anna Maria Island. Not only is it a budget friendly course, but perfect for beginners and families.

Manatee County Golf Course is located in West Bradenton, about 10 minutes from Anna Maria Island. This public course will challenge even you scratch golfers.

IMG Academy Golf Club is a prestigious club located about 15 minutes from Anna Maria Island. Facilities include a driving range.

So as you can see, yes you can golf when vacationing on Anna Maria Island. For a full list please inquire upon booking with us.

Yoga on vacation, of course! Beach yoga or in studio classes are available.

All weekly studio classes are on a DROP-IN basis. Gentle and Flow classes limited to 25 students. Restorative classes limited to 15 students. Once your reservation with us is confirmed please request yoga information. We will be happy to provide you with everything you need to get in touch with the local yoga group.

Is it a good place for the kids? Not only is Anna Maria Island beautiful, it is also a great place for families. The island is not overly large. It is big enough to offer lots to do and yet small enough that everything is easily accessible. On AMI, you won’t experience long lines, crazy traffic or other headaches while on vacation with your little (or big) ones.

Here are a few of our family favourites:

Go to the beach – Build sandcastles, swim, throw a ball around, bury each other in the sand. There are so many fun things to do at the beach.

Hunt for seashells – You can find shells anywhere on the beach, but for really great shelling go to Greer Island aka Beer Can Island. Located just south of Coquina Beach it is a perfect spot to grab some beautiful shells.

Get Donuts – This is always at the top of our list. The Donut Experiment for the most delicious donuts. You must experience these made to order donuts with multiple options of glaze, toppings galore, and even a drizzle of choice!

Play Miniature Golf – A fun activity for all ages. Who doesn’t love watching the ball sink in the hole? On historic Bridge Street which is full of other shops, restaurants and activities, so you can spend a whole morning, afternoon or evening there.

Or, rent kayaks and tour the mangroves, visit Mote Marine & Aquarium in Sarasota, parasail, the list is almost endless.

Where will we eat and drink? Our condos are complete with fully equipped kitchens and there are several nearby markets to find fresh local seafood, locally grown seasonal veggies and fresh spices. There is also a Publix Supermarket on the Island a few minutes from our condo and Island delivery service is also available.

We always suggest our guests dine out at least once. Why? Because the food on the Island is amazing! Beach towns aren’t always known for great food, but that’s not the case on Anna Maria Island. Whether you opt to dine at an upscale restaurant or prefer a more casual relaxed atmosphere you won’t be disappointed with the island’s culinary offerings. There are many restaurants in Anna Maria Island, each one offering something to suit every taste and palate. Would you like to dine with your toes in the sand, indulge in the freshest local seafood in a classy beach setting? Whether you prefer American food, Italian, barbecue, pub food, Mexican, German, you name it, you will find it on Anna Maria Island!

The following restaurants are all within walking distance of our condo. Walking times range from 2 to 15 minutes: Anna Maria Oyster Bar On the Pier, Beach House, Blue Marlin, Bridge Street Bistro, Bridge Tender Inn, French Table, Island Creperie, Island Time Bar & Grill, Kokunut Hut, Oma Pizza & Restaurant, Seafood Shack, Smoqehouse, Tide Tables Restaurant, Wicked Cantina.

When planning your next vacation, put Anna Maria Island on the top of your list. We’re certain you will be delighted as you take your first step on the white powdery sand beaches and look out onto the long stretch of turquoise water. For us, each visit is a beautiful as our first visit. Even after 30 years, we are still in awe of the breathtaking beach views and everything else AMI has to offer. We invite you to visit the white sandy beaches of Anna Maria Island where our favourite place in the world becomes your favourite place too!

For the latest up to date news, things to do, special offers, travel tips and more continue to follow our blog @ Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals/Blog