Are you considering going to Florida for your upcoming summer vacation? If so, we don’t blame you! The Sunshine State offers miles of coastline, unspoiled beaches, fresh seafood, friendly locals, and tons of activities for you and your friends or family to do. It doesn’t matter if you are an outdoorsy person who likes sports, or you would rather sip a Mai Tai by the beach – AMI and Bradenton have it all! Read on to learn all about Anna Maria Island!
About Bradenton Beach
Before you buy your flights or hop in the car, it is helpful to know more about AMI and Bradenton. Bradenton Beach is a southern city on AMI that has the ‘old world’ Floridian charm, featuring 1,500 permanent residents, vintage shops, seafood restaurants, and tons of culture.
This laid-back and cool coastal town is relaxing, open, enticing, and welcoming, ensuring every single tourist feels like they are home. We recommend going to one of the numerous beaches, buying a souvenir at one of the many vintage shops, licking sweet ice cream from one of the cafes, and visiting one of the nearby museums to learn more about the history of this utopia.
If you visit Bradenton, you can’t miss the beach! Pencil this in as one of the top things to do during your trip here. We recommend going to Coquina Beach to see wildlife, bird watch, and bring food for a beach picnic. You can also go parasailing to soar high into the sky, surf on the breaking waves, and take an eco-tour through the lush forest.
For those in your group who are more interested in the slower side of life, head to Bridge Street for some great shopping to find boutiques, local shops, and jewelry stores. If you have worked up an appetite on the water or walking around the stores, don’t worry – Bradenton is home to SO many cafes, eateries, breakfast joints, and dessert shops. We recommend going to Bridge Street Bistro for food and a view. If you want a hearty seafood meal, the Beach House Waterfront Restaurant can’t be beaten. Don’t just take our word for it; try the peel and eat shrimp!
About Anna Maria Island
Anna Maria Island is a 7-mile-long island that features Bradenton Beach, Holmes Beach, and Anna Maria Island. This island is connected to the city of Bradenton by two bridges and is just a short drive away from Sarasota and Longboat Key. While here, you can’t miss the beaches and Bean Point, the northernmost beach with incredible views of the nearby Egmont Key and bridges.
