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Tag: Water Sports

surf shop

Did you know that Florida’s oldest surf shop is right here on Anna Maria Island?

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

Yes, right here on AMI in 1964 – the Brady family opened West Coast Surf Shop, one of Florida’s first ever surf shops. Since then, it’s become not only a piece of history that has produced surfing legends and clothed and supplied most of the island active but a beloved family business. Now, it remains a legendary institution of AMI culture.

surf shop

While Anna Maria’s Gulf Coast isn’t known for its ideal big waves for surfing, the WCSS has made sure that islanders still get to have their fun on the water. They have a history of hosting fun Surf Camps for local kids, educate visitors on the many other water sports like paddleboarding and skim boarding, and advocate for marine life conservation.

West Coast Surf Shop has everything for your adventuring and water sport desires. Of course, it’s always stocked with a great selection surfboards, skimboards, skateboards, paddleboards, and even boogie boards and snorkeling gear.

surf shop

Even if you’re not looking to shred the gnar, dive in, or become the next WCSS water sport legend, there’s still plenty for everyone! They have an incredible selection of stylish gear, quality swim suits, and all types of accessories. From shoes and hats to t-shirts and sundresses to sunglasses and sunscreen – stop in WCSS and we know you’ll be impressed with their eclectic and vibrant selection. They have all of the latest from the popular brands like Roxy, Costa, O’Neill, and BillaBong, as well as many other smaller local brands! There really is something for everyone – surfer or shoebie.

The Brady Family remains a staple on our island, and their involvement and encouragement of our local community has been irreplaceable. Since 1964, our island has been made better because of West Coast Surf Shop. We love shopping at WCSS and hope you will make it a part of your next trip!

Shop local and surf’s up.

3902 Gulf Dr.
Holmes Beach, Florida

Photos from West Coast Surf Shop on Facebook.

Holidays 2

Celebrate the Holidays on Anna Maria Island

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

After a long year like this, it’s important to make the holidays a time to prioritize relaxation and joy. Whether that means embracing new traditions, tweaking old ones, or just making it up as you go! A great way to make the holidays a bit more calm? Take a vacation to the most serene and beautiful place we know – Anna Maria Island!

Jack Frost won’t be nipping at your nose and the only way you’ll get a white Christmas is on our powdery-sand beaches. The weather may be warmer than any other typical Winter you’re probably used to but spending the holidays in paradise can bring its own unique kind of magic.

Here are a few ways to make the most of celebrating the holiday season in paradise.

Holidays

Build a Snowman out of Sand

Take the classic Winter activity but make it beachy. Take the snowman idea and just trade it for sand! Your hands will stay warm and you can snap a pic to share with all of your colder-weather loved ones!

Paper Snowflakes

Stay warm and make your own decorative paper snowflakes with this longtime favorite! It’s a great way to bring back some childhood memories as well as pretty much the most inexpensive craft and way to decorate that you could ever ask for!

Enjoy Ice Cream instead of Avoiding Icicles

We’d choose ice cream over icicle dodging any day! Stop by one of our favorite local ice cream shops and get a sweet treat.

Craft Coastal Ornaments

If you’re in the crafty mood and want to make a keepsake to remember your time in paradise year after year, we have a list of easy DIY coastal-themed ornaments! These work great as a family activity, stress-relieving activity, or can be given as Christmas gifts!

Trade Hot Cocoa for Iced Coffee

Holidays 3

You may be used to cuddling up next to a warm fire and sipping hot cocoa or warm cider which you can certainly still do here… But it may be a little more comfortable with sometime to help cool you down. Here’s a list of some of the BEST coffee shops in the area where you can get your favorite coffees, cocoas, and teas – hot or iced!

Toys For Tots

Giving back is a major part that makes the holiday season so lovely. Toys for Tots is an incredible initiative that we at A Paradise are happy to partner with every year. Just drop off a toy to either our Ellenton or Anna Maria Island office to take part in making someone’s Christmas special!

Go Golfing instead of Shoveling Snow

An even better way to get a good arm workout than shoveling snow? There are plenty of really great golf courses in the area. Much more fun than breaking a sweat to get into your driveway… Much more of our kind of driving!

Water Sports instead of Snow Sports

There are plenty of outdoor activities that you can enjoy in our area, especially ones on the water! If you love skiing, try water-skiing! Or there are plenty of fun Gulf activities like paddleboarding, charter fishing, or skim boarding!

Shop Local

We’ve compiled a list of some of our favorite local, small shops and boutiques where you can pick up gifts for any of your loved ones or even a souvenir for yourself!

See, there are just a few wonderful ways that you can make the holidays on Anna Maria Island special. Give us a call to hear about some of our latest deals and see how we can get you and your family your perfect getaway for winter in paradise! (800) 237-2252

Photos courtesy of Deposit Photos, Pixabay and Sharon Hoatland