Tag: Relaxation

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

Written by Staff on May 31, 2023. 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.

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.

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 Island Rainy Day Activities

Written by Staff on January 16, 2023. Posted in Anna Maria Island, Blog, Info.

You’ve planned your perfect vacation in paradise on Anna Maria Island. You’ve got your itinerary filled with lounging on the beach, warm swims in the Gulf, bike rides, shoreline strolls, fishing, and sunset admiring. Everything is perfectly planned out. And then… weather hits. You see a rainy day on the forecast and undoubtedly worry about your trip plans being ruined.

We’ll ease your mind with a couple of things: One, rain storms *typically* don’t last too long here in the AMI area. Two, the sunsets are always better after a stormy day. Three, there’s still so much to do in the Sarasota-Bradenton area even on a rainy day. We’ve rounded up some of our favorite rainy day activities here locally on our slice of the Sunshine State!

Visit Bradenton’s Village of the Arts

The Village of the Arts, a colorful, fun, and eclectic neighborhood not far from Downtown Bradenton and Lecom Park. The unique cottages and bungalows themselves are cute enough to make a drive to see but the offerings inside many of them are just as exciting. In the Village of the Arts you can find everything from award-winning restaurants to specialty shops, studios, healing arts, bakeries and some of Bradenton’s best art galleries.

Go Shopping

A rainy day is the perfect time to scour for souvenirs for your loved ones, send postcards to family, or treat yourself to a little retail therapy. Whether you’re looking to window shop some locally curated boutiques or wanting to make a day of it at the massive and award-winning University Town Center… You can shop til’ you drop in whatever fashion you like!

Check Out Florida Maritime Museum

Right nearby in Florida’s oldest fishing village of Cortez, is the Florida Maritime Museum. While the Florida Maritime Museum sits on four acres of stunning Florida greens, the bulk of the museum’s peculiar maritime artifacts are indoors. Head inside to see historic photographs, antique tools, boat models, and more.

Have a Spa Day

Self-care is important. Whether you’re aching for a massage, feeling a facial, or wanting to freshen up your look – AMI has some great options for day spas and salons of all kinds!No better way to forget a change in plans than pampering yourself with some spa services!

Go Bar Hopping

There are so many fantastic options to sip a drink, do some dancing, befriend some locals, or catch live music. In fact, you can find all of that and more at these nightlife spots on Anna Maria or very close by! Even better? No driving! The free trolley runs from 6am-11pm every day, but if you’re out past that there is always the Monkey Bus or Uber/Lyft rides are available as well!

See Sarasota Museums

Sarasota, Florida is known for its emphasis on the arts. You could certainly spend multiple days just checking out the museums within 20-30 minutes of Anna Maria Island. There are so many things to do in Sarasota whether you’re heading out to visit a well-renowned museum or catch some live entertainment!

As always, you can chat with our experienced team of locals for their favorite rainy day plans! When in doubt? You really can’t go wrong with supporting our local eateries, artists, and creatives in the Bradenton area. There’s always a Sunshine State of Mind here on AMI.

Photos Courtesy of Unsplash

Moving to the Florida Gulf Coast in 2023

Written by Paradise Realty Staff on December 29, 2022. Posted in Anna Maria Island, Blog, Info.

Why wouldn’t you want to live near “The Friendly City” (Bradenton) in “The Sunshine State” (Florida)? We couldn’t dream up a better location to live than here in paradise. Buying a home in Florida in 2023 is not only an investment in your well-being, but for your future. Especially if you decide to invest in a home on the Gulf Coast in the Anna Maria Island – Bradenton – Ellenton – Sarasota areas!

The truth is, the demand for Florida homes remains one of the highest in the nation. With Florida’s desirable weather, lower income taxes, & low property taxes, it’s hard to argue it’s a great place to live. From its stable economy and hot housing market to its top universities and family-friendly attractions, it’s no wonder Florida has grown by an astonishing 14.6% since 2010.

However, there are also key benefits to buying property in Florida in 2022. With it’s rising prices, it’s also an extremely stable investment – people will always want to move to Florida, so snag your piece of paradise while you can! And our expert team at A Paradise can make your Florida home dreams come true.

Florida’s economy is on rise with no end in sight. The job market is flourishing, the tourism is always steady, and the allure of Florida is solid. With no personal income tax, it’s a fantastic place to move or start a business. In fact, Florida is projected to see GDP growth of 2.8% throughout 2023.

If you’re thinking about moving your family to Florida – the closeness to globally renowned attractions, theme parks, and living in a top vacation spot is enough! Yet there are also top-rated state universities and great public schools here in Manatee and Sarasota counties!

Of course, it’s no news that Florida is THE top place to retire. Sandy beaches, great community, awesome golf courses and museums, there’s no doubt it would be the ideal place to spend your relaxing retirement days.

We know the housing market can seem overwhelming and unattainable, but we assure you that our team can help make the process less intimidating. We have wonderful properties and great plots of land here in the Gulf Coast area that we would love to introduce you to. We are always here to help, and excited to welcome you to our paradise family!

Photos Courtesy of Visit A Paradise Website

Book Your Florida Coastal Vacation Early!

Written by Paradise Realty Staff on March 29, 2022. Posted in Anna Maria Island, Blog, Info.

With life making its way back to normalcy and people craving travel and relaxation more than ever, Florida is becoming an even more popular vacation destination. That’s why it’s important to book your vacation rentals early, bid on that beachside home while you can, and most importantly: Do it with a local team you trust right here on Anna Maria Island at A Paradise.

At a recent Press Conference, the Governor and his team announced that Florida welcomed 30.9 million visitors between October and December 2021, marking the second consecutive quarter that overall visitation has surpassed 2019, pre-pandemic levels. Overall in 2021, Florida had nearly 118 million domestic visitors, the highest level in state history, as residents of other states flocked to Florida as a refuge from lockdown policies

Preliminary estimates from VISIT FLORIDA show that 29 million domestic visitors traveled to Florida in the fourth quarter of 2021, reflecting a 57% increase from the same period in 2020, and a 7% increase from 2019.

With the demand for vacation rentals and secondary homes in the beachside bliss of Florida’s Gulf Coast rising, we want to make your vacation planning and home buying is as seamless as possible. While working with the A Paradise team for your rental or realty needs, we vow take excellent care of you because ultimately… We care about our community, a community we would love for you to be a part of.

When you work with our team or book through us, you are ensured: No scams, no tricks, no funny business. We will talk you through every question and concern, and find the perfect fit for you and your group whether you’re looking to visit, rent, or buy. We’ll give you peace of mind and a piece of paradise.

With the uptick in travel and trends continuing upward, the sooner you book the better. So, give us a call or look through our website and let’s make your Florida coastal dreams come true.

Main Office: 941-778-4800 | Fax: 941-778-7090 | Email: info@paradiserealty.com

Toll Free: (800) 237-2252

Photos from Unsplash

Nightlife on Anna Maria Island

Written by Staff on March 15, 2022. Posted in Anna Maria Island, Blog, Info.

While our quaint 7-mile paradise on the Gulf Coast, Anna Maria Island, is known for its quiet simplicity and relaxing vibes… We also know how to cut a rug and have a good time! There are so many fantastic options to sip a drink, do some dancing, befriend some locals, or catch live music. In fact, you can find all of that and more at these nightlife spots we’re highlighting on Anna Maria or very close by! We also tried to mostly list places that are open past dinner hours. Alright, let’s get this island party started!

Casual and Classic

Our first suggestion has to go to our dear neighbors at Hurricane Hanks. In fact, if you’ve rented with us we’ve probably sent you to Hanks before— we love their team and their offerings! Some other casual and classic bars on Anna Maria we love are Slim’s Place, Duffy’s Tavern, and Freckled Fin Irish Pub. They all serve some of the very best pub food, too! Freckled Fin often has some great live music and the others are a go-to place to catch some sports on TV.

Bridge Street

Arguably the busiest area for nightlife on Anna Maria Island is along Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach. It has something for everyone! Everything from local dives (we’ll get to those below!) to frozen tiki drinks to family-friendly places to dance to live music. You can easily walk down Bridge Street and see what fits your night’s plans. Head to Daiquiri Deck for a sweet daiquiri, or stop in to Blue Marlin or Island Time for some delicious dinner and family-friendly dancing to live entertainment. Another mention, The Kokonut Hut is a bit further up in Bradenton Beach but is truly right on the beach!

Crafty and Comfortable

This place is all about good vibes and great products. Slicker’s Eatery in Cortez is the place to try a fun craft cocktail (we recommend the Smoked Old Fashioned), sip some local beers, and try something from their fresh and eclectic menu. Slicker’s is quickly becoming known as a favorite place to have an exciting drink and some great laughs. They even make all of their syrups in-house with natural ingredients!

Upscale Ambiance

Want to start your night with some upscale ambiance and exciting cocktails? Check out The Doctor’s Office or The Waterfront Restaurant. They have some fun drink menus that really show off the skillset of their inventive bar staff. These are particularly great nightlife spots for a nice date night on AMI.

Local Dives

To us, a “dive” is a term of endearment especially when talking about these local watering holes. When referencing the local-renowned DCoy Duck’s in Holmes Beach it has been said: “Wherever you start, this is probably where you’ll end up.” The same could be said for some other local favorite bars like Sports Lounge, Anchor Inn Pub, Tommy Knockers Saloon, Bortell’s Lounge. They each offer something different and are beloved and frequented by the locals for many years so definitely belly up to the bar and keep in mind you’re visiting a local stomping (and often) dancing ground!

Important things to keep in mind:

There is never an excuse to drink and drive, especially with how easy safe transportation is to find on the island. There is a free trolley that runs from 6am-11pm every day, but if you’re out past that there is always the Monkey Bus or Uber/Lyft rides are available as well! Check out our transportation tips here!
Almost ALL of the above suggestions have live music at some point so we recommend heading to their individual Facebook profiles or giving them a call for the most up-to-date entertainment offerings!

Photos from Unsplash.com

Family Day Trips from Anna Maria Island

Written by Paradise Realty Staff on October 29, 2021. Posted in Anna Maria Island, Blog, Info.

While Anna Maria Island is known to be one of the most relaxing beachside vacation spots in Florida, sometimes you might be looking for a little taste of adventure! Especially if your family is planning a longer stay here on AMI and wants to make a quick day trip to somewhere exciting, there are so many options for everyone in the family. From theme parks to museums to sporting events, the quick day trip from AMI is certainly worth penciling into your island vacation plans. We’ve compiled a variety of popular recommendations below, all within a reasonable driving distance from our little slice of paradise on the Gulf of Mexico.

Walt Disney World

Of course, we had to start big here! While we may think Anna Maria is the happiest place on Earth, it doesn’t hurt to make a trip to the other Happiest Place on Earth. Did you know that Disney World is only about a 2-hour drive from AMI? If you’re planning a family trip to AMI it’s definitely worth the trek to Orlando for a Disney day! Then, you can come back and unwind on our calming beaches.

Universal Studios/Islands of Adventure

Also in Orlando, this a great option for some of your bigger kids or thrill-seekers. Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and the recently-updated Harry Potter World are all just about 2 hours from AMI and are great choices if you want to get your adrenaline pumping on some roller-coasters or visit Hogwarts, and then retreat back on the Anna Maria beaches afterwards.

Downtown Tampa

With so much to offer, you can pack a plethora of activities into a day trip to Downtown Tampa. From catching a sporting event like a Tampa Bay Lightning Game or a big concert at Amalie Arena, to exploring the wonder of the Florida Aquarium, to trying many different cuisines and taking in the sunset at Armature Works. Downtown Tampa is safe, walkable, and picturesque!

Busch Gardens

Rollercoaster lovers and adrenaline seekers: Busch Gardens is a must-do. Only a little less than an hour drive from AMI and offers the best of both worlds— fast-paced rides, and lots of zoo life. It’s home to over 200 different species of animals AND Florida’s tallest roller coaster. Our closest and most beloved local theme park.

Adventure Island

Right across the street from Busch Gardens is Adventure Island! This expansive water park is a particularly popular destination in the warmer Florida months. Wave pools, lazy rivers, and LOTS of wild slides. Adventure awaits at Adventure Island.

MOSI

Also in that area near Busch Gardens and Adventure Island in Tampa, is MOSI. The Museum of Science & Industry is a must for inquiring minds and imaginative spirits. It’s fun for kids of all ages and adults alike, with a variety of interesting activities and consistently exciting visiting exhibits.

ZooTampa at Lowry Park

Get wild at Lowry Park. ZooTampa at Lowry Park is a 63-acre nonprofit zoo located in Tampa, Florida. It was previously voted the #1 Family Friendly Zoo in the US by Parents Magazine, and is recognized by the State of Florida as the center for Florida wildlife conservation and biodiversity.

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You can really have the best of both worlds with an Anna Maria Island vacation. Come relax on the beach and take a day trip to some of our easily accessible adventures! Give us a call and we’ll help find you the perfect place to relax and unwind amidst all the fun ahead: 941-778-4800

Photos from Pexels.com

Relax at Anna Maria Island’s Best Spas

Written by Paradise Realty Staff on March 30, 2021. Posted in Anna Maria Island, Blog.

It’s been a long day (week, month, year, etc) and you just need to relax. Of course, coming to the crystal clear waters and powdery-sand beaches of Anna Maria Island is the perfect vacation to kick back and unwind. But, to really take the zen to another level we highly recommend a visit to a spa. Whether you’re aching for a massage, feeling a facial, or wanting to freshen up your look – AMI has some great options for day spas and salons of all kinds! So, book that appointment and get ready to chill out in paradise — you deserve it!

Aluna Wellness Center

2219 Gulf Dr N, Bradenton Beach, Anna Maria Island
941-778-8400
WEBSITE

Aluna Wellness Center and Spa in Bradenton Beach is an eco-friendly holistic center offering massage, organic skincare, acupuncture, and wellness treatments. The center boasts four treatment rooms, a relaxation and meditation room and a lovely zen garden located directly across from the beach. Aluna Wellness brings together authentic ancient healing traditions from around the world with contemporary therapies to nurture your whole being. They offer a wide variety of holistic therapies including: acupuncture, massage, cold laser therapy, herbal consultations, beach yoga, pain relief programs, body scrubs and organic facials.

Sea-renity Beach Spa & Bou-tiki

112 Bridge St, Bradenton Beach, Anna Maria Island
941-779-6836
WEBSITE

Experience authentic Island-Style Relaxation & Stress Relief indoors + out on the beach, with the island’s first & only massage in their private tiki hut right on the beach. Indoor massage therapy with excellent facials and painless waxing services, too. And check out the Bou-tiki, with Gulf-inspired gifts, local art, handcrafted soaps, candles and jewelry.

Island Therapeutics

5500 Marina Dr. Suite 6, Holmes Beach, Anna Maria Island
941-216-8884
WEBSITE

Centrally located on AMI, Island Therapeutics is a unique massage center that uses a multi-disciplinary approach to massage therapy. The practitioners at Island Therapeutics are committed to providing each client with supportive, professional, client specific treatments that ensure you get the most of your service.

Body & Sol Spa and Wellness

9805 Gulf Drive 2nd Floor, Anna Maria, Anna Maria Island
941-650-5441
WEBSITE

Their day spa is located in the historic IGA building in Anna Maria. With 4,000 sq ft, they are the largest natural full service spa on the island of Anna Maria. Their mission is to ensure each client receives the highest level of service that they can offer. Massage, Bridal Hair and makeup, Waxing, Natural Pedicures and Manicures, Hair Styling for Men and Women, Facials, and Yoga Classes.

Acqua Aveda

5311 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach, Anna Maria Island
941-778-5400
WEBSITE

Acqua Aveda Salon and Spa Winners of the People’s Choice Awards year after year for Best Day Spa and Best Hair Salon. Located in Holmes Beach, Florida, the 2,600-square-foot salon and spa is the perfect place to experience island renewal. From wedding day to work day and everyday in between let the experienced team at Acqua create services to bring you and the world back into balance.

No matter what spas or services you choose, we hope your time on Anna Maria Island brings you peace and serenity. Give us a call and we’re happy to help plan your next island trip and get you set up at a slice of beachfront paradise! (800) 237-2252

Photos courtesy of Pexels

New Year’s Resolution 2021: Find Peace in Paradise

Written by Paradise Realty Staff on December 29, 2020. Posted in Anna Maria Island, Blog.

As the uncertain, anxious, and downright disappointing year of 2020 winds to a close we are probably all looking forward to what 2021 has in store. If this last year has taught us anything it’s that even the best plans can unravel, the most solid traditions can change, and the most calm spirits can become… well, less calm. Amidst the wild things that go on in the world, we’ve been prompted to be extra grateful for the things that remain among a storm.

For this new year’s resolution we’ve decided to give ourselves a break. We’re putting aside any of the typical resolutions: fitness plans, sales goals, pressures be gone. This upcoming year, we’re opting to give ourselves grace and the gift of relaxation.

I know what you’re thinking… the last year gave us an abundance of “free” time. We cancelled plans and stayed home more than ever as the opportunities to get out and about and stay busy were at the minimal. However, with the stress and weight this year put on our shoulders it’s pretty safe to say many of us are likely not ending this year in a “zen” state of mind.

So, our goal for 2021 is to be intentional with our self-care and to actively seek a healthier and more relaxed state of mind. We may not be sure what exactly 2021 will bring and we know that just because a new year starts on the calendar doesn’t necessarily mean a swift reset of everything else. However, we want you to be intentional about taking care of yourself. It’s the best thing you can do to care for others. Whether you start scheming for the new year or pick up whenever you want: We challenge you to seek peace and relaxation.

Of course, our best suggestion for that is spending some time on the beach. Whether you’re an island local who can take some time to do more sunset walks on Anna Maria or treat yourself or a loved one to a nice dinner at a waterside eatery. Or if you’re a visitor who is looking for the ultimate place to take some time to breathe deeper, soak in some Vitamin-D, and enjoy the calm clear waters of AMI. Either way, spending some time alone or with your loved ones in paradise is the ultimate mental and emotional reset to help you feel more balanced.

If you need help getting your piece of peace in paradise, give us a call at (800) 237-2252 so we can set you up in your perfect getaway!

Photos courtesy of Unsplash.com