Anna Maria Travel Guide

Dreaming of white sand beaches? Anna Maria, Florida is the perfect location for a long weekend getaway. The city of Anna Maria is only 40 miles south of Tampa Bay, and seven miles west of Bradenton beach. This dreamy beach town will take your breath away with its beautiful beach, charming beachfront rental homes, and many things to do and see.

Because Anna Maria is on the gulf coast, the Gulf of Mexico makes the sea a beautiful tinted blue and very warm. This lovely island has it all; a stunning pier, bay walk, colorful beach houses, museums and plenty of beaches to soak in the sun. Because Anna Maria Island vacation rentals have became so popular in the past years, vacation home real estate has skyrocketed -- many people even build houses for the purpose of vacation rentals now.

Things to Do in Anna Maria

The various beaches here are the most popular choices of course, such as the Coquina Beach and the Holmes Beach. White sand, blue water and lots of sunshine are not the only things visitors can enjoy to the fullest at Anna Maria. The top things to do include the Coquina Baywalk, galleries such as the Island Gallery West where many paintings are on display, and the Anna Maria Island Historical Museum which includes plenty of information of the island, such as the sadly destroyed Pier which was ripped apart by a hurricane.

The Pine Avenue is one of the best streets in Anna Maria, which also means it is one of the busiest. The street connects Holmes Beach and the now-destroyed Anna Maria City Pier. There are many little restaurants and coffee shops to enjoy, a community garden, and an Olive Oil Outpost where farmers display their finest oils, vinegars, honey and many more artisan products. For family-friendly fun, visit the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium. Visitors can learn about marine life and the importance of oceans. Many fish, crabs and even sharks can be seen here, and some attractions include touch tanks to discover even more about these wonderful creatures.

Best Places to Stay in Anna Maria

For the most amazing and fun vacation, rent out beach houses and condos. There are plenty of places to stay, great options for families, couples and friends as well. The downtown area of Anna Maria is busier, so if you prefer quiet nights make sure to avoid those locations. Gorgeous beachfront properties are very popular but these accommodations tend to sell out fast, so when you see something you like do not hesitate to book it.

Best Time to Visit Anna Maria

Due to its great location, Anna Maria is always warmer than 60 degrees, and particularly hot in the summer months. October is probably the best month to visit because the weather is very nice with a lot of sunshine, the average temperature above 75 degrees, and not too much rain.

During summer months and in September there is heavy rainfall. So if you prefer dry and sunny weather, June to September is not your best bet for a weekend getaway at Anna Maria.

Food in Anna Maria

There are plenty of great places to check out in Anna Maria! Lots of seafood and Italian restaurants, and if you have a sweet tooth you will not be disappointed. Cute donut shops and dessert bars await visitors. Walk down to the beach and have a nice refreshing drink at one of the seaside restaurants. Many places offer great selections for children as well, so the whole family can tuck into a meal together.