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Romantic

Planning the Perfect Romantic Getaway to Anna Maria Island

Written by Staff on . Posted in Anna Maria Island, Blog, Info.

Whether you have an anniversary, new relationship or maybe just need time away – planning a romantic trip to Anna Maria Island is a wonderful place to start. From a quaint small beach town feel, to the amazing amenities you can access, there are many memories to be made here on Anna Maria Island. We have compiled a wonderful list of amazing things to make your romantic getaway perfect.

Accommodations

  • A Paradise Vacation Rentals has Anna Maria Island vacation rentals to suit your needs. Browse the collection of vacation rentals on Anna Maria Island, Bradenton Beach, Holmes Beach, and Longboat Key to find your perfect vacation accommodation.

Breakfast

  • Ginny and Jane E’s – This cafe is located in the Historic City of Anna Maria, a quaint “Old Florida” area on the north end of Anna Maria Island. The store is a unique collection of local art and unique finds. The cafe offers preservative, steroid, and hormone-free food. The bakery is made fresh every morning.
  • Waffle Press – The core of the menu is the Leige waffle, a sweeter, smaller cousin to the well-known Belgian waffle.

SPA TREATMENT

  • Body & Sol Spa and Wellness – The day spa is located in the historic IGA building in Anna Maria. With 4,000 sq ft, we are the largest natural full-service spa on the island of Anna Maria.

SWEET TREATS

  • Dips Ice Cream – Don’t be fooled; this ice cream shop is more than just a place to go for a sugar rush. Dips is also a candy & sports shop. Adults will enjoy the many throwback candies, including bottle caps, wax lips, and jawbreakers.  Kids will like the dotted ice cream pellets and the general abundance of delicious refined sugar. 
Romantic

DINNER

  • Sandbar Seafood & Spirits – Dine with your toes in the sand and a drink in your hand on the beach deck here. Enjoy fresh local seafood options with amazing drink menu features.
  • Slicker’s Eatery – attempts to be intentional with their ingredients, our choices, our relationships, and our impact. Everything from investing in their team, partnering with local charities, steering away from frozen or fried foods, and opting for fresh and locally sourced ingredients as much as possible.
  • Wicked Cantina – all the food is hand-made in-house daily. They specialize in delicious, Austin-style Tex-Mex as well as tasty American classics. Fresh food, a fresh, modern, family-friendly vibe, a full liquor bar, and ample parking await you.

SUNSET CRUISE

  • Salty Dolphin 2 – There is truly no better way to experience Anna Maria’s stunning views and vibrant wildlife than from the water. Sit back and relax as the setting sun paints the Gulf Coast in a stunning array of hues, and playful dolphins swim alongside your boat. 

Find a perfect backdrop for your romantic getaway on Anna Maria Island. From gorgeous sunsets, to couples massages, you will feel refreshed and more in love than ever leaving this beautiful haven. We look forward to greeting you soon and hope you have a memorable getaway here.

Feature Photo Courtesy of Deposit Photos

Anna Maria Island

Having a Blast on Anna Maria Island

Written by Staff on . Posted in Anna Maria Island, Blog, Info.

Anna Maria Island is a unique place with a small-town feel and lots of fun to be had around the area. Whether you are here for a quick relaxing trip, visiting family, or just passing through we have compiled a great list of fun ideas to participate in. From water-based activities to various tours around the area, there is something for everyone to have a blast while on Anna Maria Island.

Anna Maria Island Historical Museum – The museum’s exhibits tell the story of the first settlers on the Island and the legacy they left behind. It also covers the Island’s fishing and baseball history. It includes archives of records and newspapers for research into families and businesses.

Beaches – you have a number of great locations to experience the beach, including Holmes Beach, Manatee Beach, Beach at Bean Point, Cortez Beach, Coquina Beach, Bradenton Beach, and Bayfront Park Beach.

Body & Sol Spa and Wellness – The day spa is located in the historic IGA building in Anna Maria. With 4,000 sq ft, we are the largest natural full-service spa on the island of Anna Maria.

Fun Florida Tours – Our kayaks are CLEAR, creating a “complete window into the ocean!” While viewing marine life is a “perk” to this tour (no guarantees), you may be able to spot sea life such as starfish, shrimp, fish, manatees, dolphins, stingrays, and more. 

Historic Bridge Street – Historic Bridge Street. Historic Bridge Street is the place to go if you want to enjoy a shopping trip while you’re exploring the island. There are unique boutiques, gift shops, and art galleries, along with locally-owned restaurants.

Island Players Community Theatre – Founded in 1949, The Island Players, Inc. is an organization dedicated to providing artistic experiences for the communities of Anna Maria Island and its neighboring cities through the presentation of stage productions.

Blast Anna Maria Island
Photo Courtesy of Island Players

Sea Rocket Gulf Coast Parasail – 75-Minute Parasailing Adventure above Bradenton Beach & Anna Maria Island. This lesson provides everything beginners need to go parasailing including all parasailing equipment, safety instructions, and a motorboat with an experienced crew.

Parasail

Are you excited to join us here on Anna Maria Island for a blast of a good time? Are you an outdoor fanatic looking forward to water activities, or is retail therapy more your speed? We hope that everyone can find some amazing ways to enjoy our wonderful area and come back soon. Also, for all your vacation rental needs, always remember to Visit A Paradise as an ever-changing listing of accommodations to best fit your needs.

Feature Photo is Courtesy of Deposit Photos, Unsplash

Hydrating

Hydrating to Beat the Heat for the Best Beach Experience

Written by Staff on . Posted in Anna Maria Island, Blog, Info.

With temperatures that can spike in the triple digits, hydrating at the beach is vital to ensure you can safely enjoy time outdoors. While grabbing a case of water seems the easiest way to manage this concern while vacationing on Anna Maria Island, we prefer you leave the plastic at home to help keep our beaches clean for other visitors and generations to come. We have compiled some amazing ways to stay hydrated and maybe even make your taste buds happier than a simple water bottle could have managed.

Water for the Win – Fill up those Stanley’s and other reusable mugs with as much water as they can hold. Ensure you have plenty of back-ups during the outings to the beach and around town to refill your bottle many times over. Depending on your activity level, the temperatures, how much you sweat, and other factors predicting how much water you need can be tricky, so overpack for those outings.

Slice Up a Watermelon – Watermelon is 92 percent water! A huge hydrating fruit to slice up for enjoying any time of the day during the summer. You can also make watermelon ice cubes and flavor your water, or even slice and freeze them to put in the cooler for extra refreshment on those hot days out and about the beautiful island.

Veggies on the Go – Approximately 20 percent of your fluid intake comes from food—with the remaining 80 percent from beverages. This is great news for those who love their fruits and veggies! Better yet, grab sparkling water, and add in cucumber, strawberries, or lemon for a refreshing twist on plain old water. Additionally, check out these foods that are delicious as well as hydrating to pack for your time out in the heat:

  • Cucumbers
  • Celery
  • Tomatoes
  • Watermelon
  • Strawberries
  • Grapefruit
  • Peppers
  • Cauliflower
  • Spinach
  • Radishes
  • Broccoli
Hydrating Watermelon

Adding Electrolytes – Electrolytes control the functioning of your nervous system, regulate muscle contractions, and balance your pH levels. Hydration drinks may also contain carbohydrates or sugars, which will give you a little boost to power the lethargy of walks, swimming, and other physical activities during the heat. Whether you add electrolytes to water, or purchase pre-made drink options, there is a myriad of options on the market. Do your research for your favorite, and if planning extended exercise-heavy outdoor activities, tuck the electrolytes in your bag for staying hydrated.

Snazzy Pineapple Option – Made up of 87% water, this delicious, juicy fruit also contains an enzyme that is great for its hydrating, digestion-aiding, detoxifying, and immunity-strengthening benefits. Cut off the green leafy top, and chunk up a fresh pineapple core. Then use the husk to pour in water, adding in the chunks for flavoring for a cool all-natural drink. Another alternative is to use the pineapple and ice to create a smoothie that you can scoop into the husk for a wonderful beach-worthy vibe, as well as a hydrating treat for your taste buds.

Grab one of these drinks in your reusable bottle or cup, and head on out to the beach. Please remember to always take everything back that you brought out to the beach while out enjoying the water. The gorgeous sceneries of the island are something you simply don’t want to miss, and we hope these drink options keep everyone hydrating, exploring, and living their best life possible, whether you are here for a day or permanently.

Photos Courtesy of Deposit Photos/Unsplash

Ferry Service

New Ferry Service to Anna Maria Island On the Horizon

Written by Staff on . Posted in Anna Maria Island, Blog, Info.

There is a new ferry service coming to Anna Maria Island to make accessing the area a little easier and environmentally friendly. This new service will allow residents and visitors simpler access to both downtown Bradenton and Anna Maria Island. The service run by Gulf Islands Ferry will allow you to enjoy a scenic trip from Bradenton to Anna Maria Island through scenic areas with no traffic, parking, or other hassles. In reverse, those on the island can get to Bradenton for a day exploring the Riverwalk, art galleries, and more with a relaxing trip in that direction.

Ferry Service
Photo Courtesy of ABC7 Staff

One of the great features of this new service is the positives for the environment and vast natural resources of Anna Maria Island. These two new 50-foot catamarans, named Miss Anna Maria and Downtown Duchess, are powered by renewable resources and are energy efficient. Limiting the number of cars coming onto the island eliminates emissions, wear on infrastructure, and alleviates congestion from traffic. Each watercraft will hold 49 passengers paying $8 per trip, and two crew on board for the best trip experience.

Those that are able to use the service remember the Island Trolley once you do arrive to get around easily. Both these wonderful transportation options can add fun, ease, and relaxation to time on the island seeing everything in amazing style. The initial Coast Guard runs are expected in the next couple of weeks, and then the final schedule and details will be released.

Feature Photo Courtesy of Deposit Photos

Fourth of July

Mark Your Calendars for Fun Ways to Celebrate the Fourth of July This Year

Written by Staff on . Posted in Anna Maria Island, Blog, Info.

This weekend leads into the biggest summer holiday, the Fourth of July this coming week. We know that temperatures might be rising, but that is no reason not to have a blast this holiday. We have compiled a great list of ideas for how to celebrate the Fourth of July around Anna Maria Island, whether you are here just for a short vacay or live here all year round.

Remember that with turtle hatching season and the impacts of fireworks on the island’s ecosystem, there are no shows planned on the island. There is a lot of debris, and rash that these shows leave in their wake which impacts the wildlife and caused the decision to not have these events on the island. That said, there are amazing events close by to fill that need.

Bradenton Marauders – to host a fun family evening of baseball and fireworks on July 3rd. This game starts at 6:30 pm and a fireworks display will take place after the game. LECOM Park is located at 1611 9th St. West, Bradenton, FL 34205. Get more ticketing information and times at the team website. The first 1,500 fans to arrive for the July 3rd game will get a free t-shirt!

Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium – Our manatees, sharks, sea turtles, and otters are ready to meet you 365 days a year at Mote Aquarium, located just minutes from downtown Sarasota and Lido Beach. Visitors can explore touch pools, hands-on exhibits, and windows into the science and conservation of Mote Marine Laboratory.

July 4th Independence Day Parade – 10 a.m. on Tuesday, July 4, 2023, on Anna Maria Island from Coquina Beach (North Entrance) to City Pier Park in Anna Maria. The Anna Maria Island Privateers will be livening things up again this year – come out young and old for one of the best Fourth of July traditions on the Island.

Fireworks

Kayak Rental – get out on the water, and explore Anna Maria’s beautiful emerald coastline and abundant wildlife in one of Beach Bum’s kayaks.

Fireworks on the Lake Driven by Lamborghini Sarasota – Fireworks on the Lake are coming back with a bang! All are invited to a sparkling celebration at Nathan Benderson Park on Monday, July 3 @ 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm.

4th of July Fireworks on the Manatee River – Downtown Bradenton offers a unique urban spin on the night’s festivities. Spend your day shopping, dining, and enjoying the arts and culture downtown. Afterward, venture over to the award-winning Riverwalk to enjoy the fireworks display over the Manatee River at 9 p.m. Bring a blanket and chairs, snacks, and a camera! July 4, 2023, from 9 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Bayfront Fireworks Spectacular – This event will be Tuesday, July 4, 2023, at the Sarasota Bayfront Park, 1 Marina Plaza, Sarasota, at 9 p.m. Races and holiday festivities will attract thousands of people to the City of Sarasota.

We hope you have amazing plans for the weekend and the Fourth of July. Whether fireworks over the water or celebrations with friends, this holiday is sure to be memorable. Stay safe, and enjoy this amazing paradise we all call home.

Feature Photo Courtesy of Deposit Photos

Food AMI

Amazing Food Options on Anna Maria Island

Written by Staff on . Posted in Anna Maria Island, Blog, Info.

While Anna Maria Island is known for the wonderful quaint beachside views and small community feel, the food might just be the best part of your stay. No major food chains are part of the cuisine here on the island; instead, there are many small niche restaurants to choose from. Some of the freshest seafood, comfort foods, and drink options exist on Anna Maria Island, making it amazing for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Bortell's Fisheries
Photo Courtesy of Bortells Fisheries
  • AMI General Store – The Anna Maria General Store is an Anna Maria Island staple that has been the local place to go for food, drinks, and supplies since the 50’s when it was located at 307 Pine Avenue.
  • Bortell’s Fisheries – this is a sixth-generation, family-owned and operated fish market offering take-out only and fresh fish, smoked and fried fish to go.
  • Bridge Tender Inn – Established 30 years ago, Bridge Tender Inn (BTI) is Bradenton’s favorite sports bar and grille to eat, drink, and socialize while watching a televised sports event. You can chug beers, eat lip-smacking food, enjoy live music, and make great memories in a comfy, laid-back setting.
  • Dips Ice Cream – Don’t be fooled; this ice cream shop is more than just a place to go for a sugar rush. Dips is also a candy & sports shop. Adults will enjoy the many throwback candies, including bottle caps, wax lips, and jawbreakers.  Kids will like the dotted ice cream pellets and the general abundance of delicious refined sugar. 
  • Donut Experience – The Donut Experiment is Anna Maria’s very own gourmet donut shop! They bring a unique experience to the area and offer a large menu of donut options for everyone with a sweet tooth to enjoy. At the donut shop, you can create your own donut by choosing custom icings, toppings, drizzles, and more, and our friendly staff will create it for you.
  • Ginny and Jane E’s – this cafe is located in the Historic City of Anna Maria, a quaint “Old Florida” area on the north end of Anna Maria Island. The store is a unique collection of local art and unique finds. The cafe offers preservative, steroid, and hormone-free food. The bakery is made fresh every morning.
  • Harry’s Grill – the family and pet-friendly restaurant for good wine, beer, and live music. Anna Maria Island Sun Reader’s Choice Award winner for multiple years.
  • Kiwi Style Fish & Chips – featuring delicious choice local fish coated in their signature crispy batter and even custom-made meat patties. They aim to always serve customers the very best produce.
  • Los Chilidos – the restaurant incorporates traditional Mexican flavors with a fresh, healthier Southern California twist. The food is always prepared fresh onsite for dining in or take out.
  • Minnie’s Beach Café – breakfast and lunch restaurant with amazing fresh specials daily.
  • North Shore Cafe serves handcrafted espresso drinks, teas, coffee, and smoothies.
  • Pizza Social – this place is a small pizza shop striving to bring the best pizza possible to Anna Maria Island and the surrounding area. The Pizza Social specialties include handcrafted pizza and fresh salads.
  • Sandbar Seafood & Spirits – dine with your toes in the sand and a drink in your hand on the beach deck here. Enjoy fresh local seafood options with amazing drink menu features.
  • Slicker’s Eatery – attempts to be intentional with their ingredients, our choices, our relationships, and our impact. Everything from investing in their team, partnering with local charities, steering away from frozen or fried foods, and opting for fresh and locally sourced ingredients as much as possible.
  • Scott’s Deli – great food, great value, friendly service, and a happy atmosphere.  All of their ingredients are locally sourced when possible and always fresh, along with new treats will be featured weekly.
  • Skinny’s Place – They offer great burgers and frosted mugs at Skinny’s Place in Holmes Beach.
  • The Porch – features many incredible offerings, from signature dishes, seasonal entrées, specialty spritzers, top-quality steak, fresh fish, and a vast selection of beer and wine to choose from.
  • Tide Tables – offers fresh off the boat seafood, and is just a short drive over the Cortez Bridge too!
  • Waffle Press – t the core of the menu is the Leige waffle, a sweeter, smaller cousin to the well-known Belgian waffle.
  • Wicked Cantina – all the food is hand-made in-house daily. They specialize in delicious, Austin-style Tex-Mex as well as tasty American classics. Fresh food, a fresh modern family-friendly vibe, a full liquor bar, and ample parking await you.
anna maria island food
Photo Courtesy of Wicked Cantina

Did we make your mouth water with that list? Whether looking for a quick lunch, a healthy breakfast or the freshest seafood meal possible – Anna Maria has something for everyone. You might visit the beaches, but the food here is sure to add to the memories of your time in our community. The best part of these amazing places is rubbing elbows with the locals and the ambiance that just adds a little extra you can’t get from big food chains.

Feature Photo Courtesy of Deposit Photos

Anna Maria Island

Five Reasons You Need to Vacation on Anna Maria Island this Year

Written by Staff on . Posted in Anna Maria Island, Blog, Info.

We know that people have a lot of vacation places to choose from across the country. Of course, all staff and residents of Anna Maria Island believe this is the best choice for a laid-back and memory-making vacation. We have compiled a list of five wonderful reasons why visiting Anna Maria Island needs to be on your vacation list for this year.

Low Rise Buildings to Enjoy the Views

There are three communities: Bradenton Beach on the island’s southern end, Holmes Beach in the middle, and Anna Maria on the northern end. The total number of full-time residents tallies up to fewer than 9,000, and most structures are shorter than 37 feet. Anything taller was built before the law prohibiting high-rises. Why is architecture important? You can get the best views and easier access to the local beaches. The buildings give a small-town feel where you can kick back and enjoy the wonderful locations around the island in a true old-Florida feel.

Beach Quality

Anna Maria Island prides itself on its amazing beaches and takes great strides to keep these natural resources in the best condition possible for current residents and all visitors. No alcohol is permitted on beaches, bicycles are not out on the beach, pets are not allowed on the beaches, and they do have a plethora of stingrays, jellyfish, and even turtles during various parts of the year that all try to ensure are not disturbed. You are not going to see the overcrowded and degrading beaches you might see elsewhere in this paradise location.

Anna Maria Island

No Drive Throughs This Vacation

Drive-through restaurants are not allowed on the island. There are two fast-food joints: a sub shop, and a pizzeria, but most are amazing family-owned restaurants and lodging options and give visitors a much more personal vacation than you get in bigger resort towns. Fresh seafood, and other wonderful homemade food options, are peppered throughout the island’s landscape.

Active Lifestyle Vacation

Active and outdoor activities prevail here on the island. We might not have large casinos, nightclubs, or other amenities that bigger tourist locations boast, but we have an active, outdoor lineup of fun for as many days as you like to stay. Whether you want to spend the day at the beach or pick an adrenaline-fueled option like cycling, zip lining, or paddling, there’s plenty to do along this salty stretch of paradise.

Active Lifestyle

Family Friendly

With severe age differences in all of your traveling members, the pressure is on you to make sure that everyone loves the vacation. Low-rise buildings make access easy for all ages. The fun outdoor activities are a hit with all the kids and adults alike. What about some retail therapy to finish things off at the boutiques and other unique shops on Anna Maria Island? The restaurants won’t be the same old thing, and you are sure to find something for everyone. We even have a free island trolley service to help tote everyone around to enjoy their time on the island.

Anna Maria Island should be on everyone’s vacation must-visit list, from the scenery to the quaint shopping options. Every visitor will leave with wonderful memories, great pictures, and the desire to return to this amazing town with breathtaking ocean views. We look forward to seeing you here on Anna Maria Island soon.

Photo Courtesy of Deposit Photos and Unsplash

Anna Maria Historic

Wonderful Historic Places to Visit During a Visit to Anna Maria Island

Written by Staff on . Posted in Anna Maria Island, Blog, Info.

While many visitors come to Anna Maria Island for the beaches and gorgeous sceneries. This tropical destination boasts a litany of historic places that give a peek into the early days of Anna Maria Island. We have compiled a list of great pieces of history for Anna Maria Island that you can visit today and add a unique touch to your visit.

The Anna Maria City Pier

The 678-foot pier sands at the end of Pine Avenue and has been closed for periods of time to renovate it. Water broke down the construction of the pier over time, and after Hurricane Irma, even more, damage was recorded. This amazing pier, though, is always a piece of history that the residents are determined to keep in place and can be viewed while eating, shopping, or walking through various attractions.

Rosier Church Anna Maria Island

The Roser Memorial Church

Roser also developed the first church on the island, the Roser Memorial Community Church, in 1913. The cross on the church was lit and served as a beacon for fishermen until electricity reached the island after a few years. Amazingly, the Roser Memorial Church still stands today and can be visited in the City of Anna Maria at 512 Pine Avenue.

Cortez Fishing Village

This timeless community embraces everything that is old Florida. No high rises are allowed in the village, filled with little cottages, homes, and businesses lining super narrow streets. You can visit with proud locals that build and refurbish boats, work towers of crab traps and bring up some of the freshest seafood options for your shopping pleasure. This village is off the beaten path and a walk straight into history with a great historical museum and wonderful eateries where you are sure to love the vibe.

Anna Maria Island Historical Museum

Cortez Fishing Village

The museum can be found in a 1920’s building that was originally an icehouse. The location also served as other important parts of the community throughout its lifetime. It was a garage, a sea turtle hatchery, and an administrative building before becoming the home of the Museum of 1992. Throughout the museum, you’ll learn about the first settlers on the island around 1845. This is the best snippet of everything Anna Maria Island you will surely find in one place.

Blue Marlin Seafood

Blue marlin

In 2011 this little eatery opened in a historic 1920s cottage on historic Bridge Street in Anna Maria Island. Restoration of the cottage was done with care to provide an intimate, coastal restaurant vibe with original wainscoting and wood flooring. Tables and benches made from recycled dock wood add to the amazing ambiance of this jewel. Antique ship lanterns, fish mounts & oars scattered throughout lend the cottage a charming, intimate atmosphere. The best part is the wonderful dishes and drinks to be had in this gem of a stop while visiting the island.

With so many great places to take a trip back in time, these locales are sure to add to your trip. Step back in time and walk through years long gone here on Anna Maria Island. These amazing historic places allow you to see the past of this wonderful island, which has been built to make it the paradise it is today for residents and visitors alike.

Feature Photo Courtesy of Deposit Photos

spring Anna Maria Island

Places To Explore and Experience This Spring on Anna Maria Island

Written by Staff on . Posted in Anna Maria Island, Blog, Info.

Spring is in full swing, and visitors and residents have the bug to get outside and explore. Whether you will be on Anna Maria Island for a weekend or live here, we have places you can explore. Of course there are plenty of water activities and locations to catch breathtaking ocean views from the shore, boat, or even dipping a toe in, but there is so much more to our beautiful little paradise.

Pine Avenue Shops

Of course, you cannot miss the wonderful, one-of-a-kind shopping available on Anna Maria Island. Pine Avenue’s revitalized main street runs from The Gulf of Mexico to the Historic City pier and its one-of-a-kind shops, boutiques, great restaurants, and “Old Florida” Cottage Style accommodations are creating quite a buzz, not only for the unique art and beachy gifts but also for it’s “Green” Construction and commitment. Come see what people are talking about!

Pine Avenue
Photo Courtesy of Pine Avenue’s Facebook

Cortez Deep Sea Fishing

Grab a bunch of crew, and contact Cortez Deep Sea Fishing to book your charter for a tour today. The deep sea tours require a minimum of 10 anglers, and all ages are welcome to join in. The charters go out on a U.S. Coast Guard-inspected 62-foot vessel and typically can expect to see such catches as Key West Snapper, Porgies, Red Groupers, Gag Grouper, Sea Bass, King Mackerel, Trigger Fish, and more. They depart from Cortex, Florida and can provide amazing memories.

deep Sea Fishing
Courtesy of Cortez Deep Sea Fishing

Food Choices Galore

Despite being small, Anna Maria Island is mighty in food choices. The amazing thing is that a lot of casual drink and dining options are peppered throughout this beach hamlet that won’t break the bank. If you are seeking more upscale date options with amazing cocktails, we have that as well. This LINK takes you to a well-curated list of options to give a try. What seafood, drink, or new breakfast favorites are you sure to find?

Anna Maria Food

Sarasota Jungle Gardens

This might not officially be right on Anna Maria, but so worth the visit by short car ride. Exotic birds, crocodiles, and lemurs are just a handful of amazing animals you’ll see at Sarasota Jungle Gardens. One of the state’s oldest continuously operated attractions, this place has been around since 1939! Today, they have over 200 exotic & native animals that live in the 10-acre facility.

Sarasota Jungle Garden

Key Royale Club

Okay, this one might not be for everyone, but we know there are some golfers out there. Key Royale Club is the only golf course on the island and is breathtaking. The Key Royale Golf Course is a par 32 nine-hole walking course on an island oasis. This course is designed to give higher handicappers an enjoyable and relaxed golf experience. This is a members-only play area, but they do offer summer memberships to the public, so keep it in mind this year should you be looking for some exceptional golf experiences.

Golfing AMI

Where are you headed this weekend here on Anna Maria Island? Golfing, outing with the family, or maybe just some amazing rest on a good beach. No matter what, we are excited to have you as a resident or visitor, and we encourage you to give Visit A Paradise a call should we be able to help you find a temporary or permanent home on this amazing paradise island.

Main Photo Courtesy of Deposit Photos

Breakfasts

Best Breakfasts near Anna Maria Island

Written by Staff on . Posted in Anna Maria Island, Blog, Info, Uncategorized.

You’ve booked your dream beach vacation rental or maybe you’ve finally settled into your home in paradise. Now to find your go-to restaurants! There’s something on this list for everyone so check it out to see where the next breakfast/brunch on AMI you should try! Here’s a guide to just some of the best breakfast on Anna Maria Island or within walking distance!

The Donut Experiment

210C Pine Avenue, Anna Maria FL 34216

Create your own vision of the perfect doughnut and they make it happen! They start with a delicious, fresh-made cake donut and then you pick from our huge selection of icings and toppings made-to-order. Great fun and great flavors!

Restaurants

Peach’s

3240 E Bay Dr, Holmes Beach, FL 34217

Their breakfast and lunch menus cater to health conscious individuals and comfort food seekers alike. For over 20 years, Peach’s has been proudly serving generations of families and friends in Sarasota and Manatee counties!

Slicker’s Eatery

12012 Cortez Rd W, Cortez, FL 34210

Just a short walk over the Cortez bridge is THE place to go for weekend brunch. Slicker’s is a casual foodie eatery with brunches of fun. From their Bloody Mary Bar with premium toppings to their creative Mimosa Flights to their famous “Brunchuterie Board” you will want to stop by our make a reservation on their website for a weekend morning feast!

Ginny and Jane E’s

9807 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, FL, 34216

An island staple for more than 15 years with an eclectic mix of café, bakery, and store. Here, you can grab a giant cinnamon roll, breakfast sandwich, borrow a book to read from the café library, or peruse the funky gift shop.

Breakfast

Cortez Cafe

12108 Cortez Rd W, Cortez, FL 34215

A hearty, affordable breakfast in the fishing village of Cortez. A great place to feast where the locals eat. Their extensive menu has everything from diner favorites to Greek specialities.

Minnie’s

5360 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach, FL 34217

Family-friendly breakfast and lunch restaurant on Gulf Drive with delicious home cooked meals and baked goods. This cozy, family-owned business since the 1990’s is an island staple that never disappoints!

Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe

4000 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach, FL 34217

If you want to start your morning beachside and full – check out Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe located “Where Manatee Avenue Meets the Gulf”! Famous for their “ALL U CAN EAT” Pancakes & Sausage on the beach, but they offer much more.

Whether you stop at one of these or one of the other great breakfast spots in the Anna Maria Island area, you can’t go wrong with starting your day in paradise! Give us a call and we’ll get your perfect vacation started: (800) 237-2252

Photos courtesy of Pexels