Anna Maria Island Travel Tips
Planning your first (or fiftieth) trip to Anna Maria Island? Whether you're daydreaming about lounging on powder-soft beaches or already mapping out your ferry ride from Bradenton, this guide covers all the essential travel tips and answers to the most frequently asked questions about AMI. Where to Stay, Eat, and Play on Anna Maria Island all in this in depth article.
Best Time to Visit Anna Maria Island
When is the best time to go?
The ideal time to visit Anna Maria Island is March to May or September to early November. During spring, you’ll enjoy balmy temperatures (70s–80s), lower humidity, and fewer crowds than peak winter. Fall offers stunning sunsets, warm waters, and off-season deals.
Summer (June–August) brings hot temps and family crowds, while winter (December–February) is perfect for snowbirds seeking warmth — but expect higher prices and limited availability.
What to Pack for Your AMI Vacation
AMI has a laid-back, flip-flops-first vibe — you won’t need much beyond beachwear and sun protection.
Packing Essentials:
Light, breathable clothing
Swimsuits (more than one!)
Reef-safe sunscreen
Sandals or water shoes
Sunglasses and a wide-brim hat
A beach bag or backpack
Reusable water bottle
Bug spray (especially in summer)
Waterproof phone pouch (great for kayaking)
Optional but smart:
Travel umbrella or light rain jacket
Snorkel gear if you want your own
A portable cooler for beach snacks and drinks
Getting to Anna Maria Island
There are several ways to get to AMI, but your best bet depends on where you’re coming from.
From Bradenton:
The Gulf Islands Ferry offers a scenic, car-free route from downtown Bradenton to Anna Maria Island. It’s affordable, convenient, and a fun way to skip traffic.
By Car:
From Bradenton or Sarasota, take Manatee Avenue (SR 64) or Cortez Road (SR 684) over the drawbridges.
By Plane:
The closest airport is Sarasota-Bradenton International (SRQ), about 30 minutes away. Tampa (TPA) is an hour’s drive with more flight option how to Get Around the Island
AMI is only 7 miles long — and intentionally slow. You don’t need a car once you’re there.
Popular Ways to Get Around:
Free Island Trolley (runs daily, every 20–30 minutes)
Bike rentals
AMI Golf cart rentals (street-legal and fun)
Walking — many restaurants and shops are within steps of the beach
Where to Stay on AMI
Choose from cozy beach cottages, condos, or resort-style rentals. Each of AMI’s three cities has its own vibe:
Anna Maria (North): Quiet, residential, upscale
Holmes Beach (Central): Family-friendly, walkable
Bradenton Beach (South): Lively, near Bridge Street shopping and dining
Things to Do on Anna Maria Island
From serene sunrises to bustling beach bars, there's no shortage of Anna Maria Island activities. Some favorites include:
Relaxing at Bean Point or Coquina Beach
Kayaking or paddleboarding on Bimini Bay
Taking a sunset cruise or dolphin tour
Dining at The Sandbar or Waterfront Restaurant
Fishing from Rod & Reel Pier or the Historic Bridge Street Pier
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Anna Maria Island family-friendly?
Absolutely. AMI is one of Florida’s most family-oriented beach destinations with calm waters, playgrounds, and lots of ice cream shops.
Can I bring my dog?
Dogs are not allowed on the main beaches, but nearby Palma Sola Causeway Beach is dog-friendly. Many vacation rentals and patios are pet-friendly too.
Do I need reservations for restaurants?
In high season (winter/spring), yes — especially for waterfront spots. Some places don’t take reservations, so plan to arrive early.
Is alcohol allowed on the beach?
No, alcohol is not permitted on all public beaches. Check signage — rules are strictly enforced.
Are there grocery stores nearby?
Yes. There’s a Publix in Holmes Beach and several convenience stores and markets throughout the island.
Is the island accessible for people with limited mobility?
Yes. Manatee Public beach has an ADA-accessible mat, and the free trolley is wheelchair-accessible.
Quick Tips from Locals
Don’t rush — island time is real here.
Respect the sea turtles: No lights on the beach during nesting season (May–October).
Avoid the drawbridges during rush hour unless you’re on a bike.
Support small businesses — AMI has only a handful of chain stores or fast food.
Anna Maria Island offers a peaceful, sun-drenched retreat from the everyday. With the right planning — and a few insider tips — you’ll enjoy a stress-free, memory-filled getaway you’ll want to repeat every year.
