Nine Things That Make AMI a Nostalgic Beach Destination
If your idea of a paradise means something other than wall-to-wall high-rise condos and tourist traps, Anna Maria Island is just the ticket. Discover an Old Florida-feel where wooden beach cottages, mom-and-pop businesses, and spectacularly gorgeous beaches live aside tiki huts and fishing piers. Three charming communities are along the seven-mile stretch of the island – Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, and Bradenton Beach.
1. A Free Trolley
The free municipal trolley carries vacationers and locals to various stops, including the Island Shopping Center, Manatee County Public Beach, Bridge Street, and Coquina Beach. It runs regularly, so you're never waiting long.
2. The Beaches
Our beaches offer Gulf of Mexico and Bay views, with Manatee Beach a family favorite for its playground, bathrooms, showers, and lifeguard patrols.
3. Bikes and Golf Carts
Bicycling and golf carts make it easy to reach the beaches or the shops along Pine Avenue, a revitalized main street running from the Gulf to the Historic City Pier, lined with boutiques and restaurants. Beach Bums AMI rents both and delivers free to your rental for bookings over 24 hours.
4. No Traffic
Between the trolley, golf carts and bicyclists, Anna Maria Island benefits from a lack of traffic, adding to the island’s laid-back pace.
5. The Piers
The piers – the Anna Maria City Pier and Rod n’ Reel Pier – bring to life memories of old-school beach vacations. Both are good spots for fishing and crabbing.
6. The Food
Rustic dive bars, pier grills, and beach- or bay-side dining make for an inviting dining experience. What’s better on vacation than a burger at the beach or an oyster po-boy on a pier is hard to beat.
7. Nature Preserves
When the island gets busy, head off-road to Grassy Pointe Preserve in Holmes Beach or Leffis Key Preserve in Bradenton Beach. Both have walking trails and boardwalks, and feel a world away.
8. Historic Bridge Street
Shop along Historic Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach, a walkable strip with water views and plenty of stores. Bridge Street Bazaar, family-owned since 1987, is a good stop for souvenirs and beach supplies. Other favorites include Back Alley Treasures, One Stop Shell Shop, the Fudge Factory, and Bridge Street Bait Shop.
9. The Rentals
Low-rise buildings, beach cottages, and large family homes make up our portfolio. The properties have that Old Florida feel, but the amenities, furnishings, and appliances are anything but dated.
