Transportation Tips: Getting Around on Anna Maria Island
On Anna Maria Island, we relish in our slower pace of life. It’s a place to slow down, rest, and relax. Because we are a smaller island, it’s totally acceptable (and recommended) that you explore our whole island to find all the magic that awaits from the North End of Bean Point to the tip of Coquina Beach. Best part when visiting AMI? You definitely don’t need to worrying about renting a car for your whole crew! We’ve decided to highlight some of our favorite creative and more environmentally-conscious ways to get around.
Trolley
A major staple of Anna Maria Island is our FREE trolley! Sit back, relax, enjoy the view and leave the driving and parking to someone else. Hop on and off as often as you like. Early birds will be excited to know island trolley service starts at 6am from both ends of the loop. Trolleys typically run at 20 minute intervals until 9pm, then every 30 minutes until 10:30pm.. Trolleys offer both air conditioned and open-air seating and are such a fun way to get from one end of the island to another, with plenty of stops along the way. Just wait at one of the trolley stops within operation hours and they’ll come pick you up, no payment, plan, or bus card needed!
Ride-Sharing/Airport Rides
While we may be a small town we’re not totally old-school. Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft are available on Anna Maria and surrounding areas! If you’re specifically looking for a ride to your rental from the airport, we recommend using a local driving service. There are plenty of safe options we can recommend in the area, just ask our team when booking or planning your trip and we can provide some suggestions!
Monkey Bus
Commonly referred to as “The Monkey Bus”, their unmistakable fleet is available to drive you wherever you want to go! Get this… rides are free- the drivers and their fleet run entirely on tips! Want a ride to dinner? Need to run a couple errands? Want a safe ride back from getting drinks? Give the Monkey Bus a call! Unlike the trolley, their vehicles can cross all the bridges, meaning you are not necessarily limited to the Island if you need a ride in-town or in Cortez. You can also pre-book trips which is great for larger groups! If you’re looking for an added fun twist, they even have a karaoke-equipped vehicle! Just be sure to bring some cash to generously tip your local driver! Open daily Noon to 3:00 a.m.
For Rides Call 941-565-6542
Bikes
Our favorite option… Explore the island like a true islander: On bike! With Anna Maria Island being only 7 miles long from one end to the next it’s easy to get from place to place on a bike. Hopping on a bike is the perfect way to explore Anna Maria Island and stop at some of the wonderful shops, bars, or beach spots it has to offer. Pack your wheels or rent a variety of different bikes from one of the many affordable local rental shops like Beach Bums on Pine Avenue. Some rentals even include bikes so be sure to ask when booking with us at A Paradise! Just don’t forget your helmet and to stay safely on the sidewalk or in bike lanes and the island is yours to ride!
Photos from Pexels.com
