Known for its relaxed lifestyle and energetic vibe, Anna Maria Island is located off the Gulf Coast of Florida and has beautiful beaches, adorable shops, and great restaurants.
Here are five things to do in Anna Maria Island that showcase the best of this beautiful island, which you will notice if you visit today.
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1. Relax at Bean Point Beach
You often ranked one of the secluded, pristine beaches on Anna Maria Island, Bean Point Beach at the island’s northern tip.
As you walk along the soft white sands, you will be embraced by magnificent vistas of the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay convergence.
It’s an excellent place to bring a beach towel or chair, have a quiet picnic, and watch dolphins and pelicans.
With very little public access, Bean Point is less crowded than many beaches, ideal for unwinding and soaking up the beauty of nature.
To reach Bean Point, follow the little ways off the road at the end of North Shore Drive. Bring a cooler with water, snacks, and sunscreen, as there are no restrooms or beachside amenities.
2. Stroll Down Pine Avenue
Pine Avenue is the main street in Anna Maria Island’s slight town feel. This vibrant street, nicknamed the “Greenest Little Main Street in America,” features shops, local art galleries, and eateries and is a downtown centerpiece for walkable enjoyment.
It is perfect for getting trinkets or jewelry or visiting stores with vintage items related to the coast. Each local shop is an astonishing, generous, direct family-owned store, so you feel like each one is a hidden treasure! Be sure to visit Shiny Fish Emporium to hand paint your own sand dollar to take home as a souvenir.
As you stroll, you will encounter homemade ice cream shops and bakeries for a refreshing respite from the hot Florida sun!
3. Have Lunch at the Sandbar Resturant
People often need clarification about things to do on Anna Maria Island; this article can help. The Sandbar Restaurant offers Florida’s freshest seafood in a gorgeous atmosphere. Right on the beach, the Sandbar is known for its casual, upscale vibe.
The restaurant has what you crave, from fresh shrimp to fish tacos to a grouper sandwich. It is an excellent stop for an authentic island meal because of its sustainable seafood and local ingredients. It can become busy during lunch and sunset, so it is advisable to arrive early.
4. Take a Sunset Cruise
One of the best ways to see the sun dropping below the horizon is by taking the sunset cruise, one of the most popular trips to Anna Maria Island.
At sunset, numerous tour operators on the island offer cruises ranging from pontoon boats for special occasions to larger catamarans.
You will want to soak in this Gulf Coast jewel, but make sure you soak in the stunning sunset over the island; it is one you will remember for decades. Many cruises, significantly longer ones, add snacks, drinks, or music.
For those couples who want a lesson in romance, seek out the private charters, which also offer customized packages.
Watching the sunset glisten off the water is truly something to behold, and this is a must for visitors to Anna Maria Island.
5. Check out the Historic Bridge Street Pier
Nested within the cosmopolitan Bradenton Beach, the Historic Bridge Street Pier is the ultimate multi-functional destination.
The pier, built in the 1920s, boasts that old Florida feel, with a beautiful view over the Intracoastal Waterway.
This is a perfect pier if you need fishing; local shops in the same area also rent fishing equipment if you forget to bring your fishing tools! On the other side of Bridge Street, you can find local shops, cafes, and art galleries.
Pull into the cool drinks and live music at the classic waterfront restaurant Bridge Tender Inn. To complete your stay with an adventurous twist, hire a kayak or paddleboard and get out among the waters to see the island’s native marine animals up close.
The Island Time Bar & Grill is located on Bridge Street, an excellent spot for a fun night with tasty food. At dusk, the entire place is more magical, as string lights outline the pier and the bordering spaces by the waterfront, creating a warm but energizing atmosphere.
Conclusion
Here, you can understand what things to do in Anna Maria Island. This makes Anna Maria Island the top destination for a day full of leisure, adventure, and coastal charm.
From relaxing on the beautiful Bean Point Beach to soaking up the local culture on Pine Avenue, it offers a little taste of everything for every type of traveler.
From water sports to a relaxing day with great views, Anna Maria Island has something in store for adventure lovers and those who want to lounge around.
