When nothing sounds more inviting than basking in the sunshine from the comfort of a barrier island off the Gulf of Mexico, a trip to Anna Maria Island, Florida is a must. Here, you can slow things down and really relish your time away whether you’re lingering on the sand or indulging in island fare complete with gorgeous sunset views. When you’re lucky enough to have seven days to spare in the name of fun, the following itinerary of Anna Maria Island activities will help you make more of every moment.
Day 1: Spend Quality Time on Manatee Beach
While there are plenty of sandy spots to enjoy on Anna Maria Island, a day on Manatee Beach is one you won’t want to miss. This stretch of scenic shoreline spans seven miles of lush terrain and is the perfect place to sunbathe, swim, picnic, or build sandcastles with the little ones in your traveling crew.
Manatee Beach
4000 State Road 64 and Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, Florida
941-742-5923
Day 2: Enjoy the Beauty of Anna Maria Island Activities at the Robinson Preserve
Travelers that can’t wait to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature might just find their second day adventure to Robinson Preserve a highlight of their visit. This protected space showcases the best of coastal habitats and is home to gorgeous wetlands and impressive wildlife alike. A trip to Robinson Preserve is always best paired with time exploring by kayak or paddleboard and there are plenty of nature trails to explore here as well.
Robinson Preserve
1704 99th Street NW, Bradenton, Florida
941-748-4501
Day 3: Set Aside Time for Shopping on Bridge Street
The third day of your Anna Maria Island journey is a chance to indulge in a bit of well-deserved retail therapy. Make your way over to Bridge Street, which is a Bradenton hot spot loved by locals and visitors alike on the southernmost part of Anna Maria Island. Named for the long bridge nearby, Bridge Street is packed with charming boutiques to check out and plenty of cafes to enjoy along the way as well. Whether you’re on the hunt for apparel, handcrafted goods, jewelry or home décor, you’ll find it all and more on Bridge Street during your stay.
Bridge Street
117 Bridge Street, Bradenton, Florida
941-778-3400
Day 4: Take a Ride on the Local Trolley for Sightseeing Fun
Sightseeing is the highlight activity of day four of your visit to Anna Maria Island and the best way to enjoy a comprehensive overview of your surroundings is on the Anna Maria Island Trolley. This is a free trolley and tour experience that runs from the pier in the north to Coquina Beach in the south. There are plenty of stops built in along the way, so you can hop on and off, or ride the route in its entirety depending on preference. These trolleys run from sunrise to sunset making it easy to customize your day of island exploration alongside family and friends.
Anna Maria Island Trolley
5313 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, Florida
841-778-1541
Day 5: Book a Fishing Charter
For all the land-based fun Anna Maria Island offers up, there’s just as much to enjoy here when it comes to on-the-water adventures. When you’re longing to cast a line, booking a fishing charter on day five is the way to go. The waters around Anna Maria Island play host to everything from snapper and blackfin tuna to tarpon, mackerel, sea bass, and beyond. When you want to reel something exciting in alongside a pro, consider partnering up with the team over at AMI Excursions. In addition to customized fishing charters fit for all skill levels, this local company also offers dolphin-watching tours and sunset cruises.
AMI Excursions
522 Pine Avenue, Anna Maria, Florida
941-720-5374
Day 6: Bike Your Way to Adventure
Hitting the trails in style is always a treat on Anna Maria Island and when you want to explore on two wheels, the terrain here is a cycling dream come true. Rent bikes for the day through the team at Lazy Turtle Beach Rentals, where you can also find golf cart rentals, kayaks, and paddleboards on-site. Once you have the gear you need, don’t miss out on time exploring the Coquina Bike Path, which is known and loved for its smooth surfaces and gorgeous views. There’s also a five-mile trail to check out along Bradenton Beach when you want to expand your cycling fun further.
Lazy Turtle Beach Rentals
314 Pine Avenue Suite B, Anna Maria, Florida
941-726-3163
Day 7: Hike to Bean Point in Good Company
The last day of your Anna Maria Island getaway is dedicated to hiking fun and great views. That’s why you’ll want to set your sights on Bean Point. You’ll find this observation area and beach overlooking Tampa Bay and it’s a popular destination for those who want to add wildlife watching to their lineup as well. If you linger until evening, you can pair your hike with some unforgettable sunset views here too.
Bean Point Beach
North Bay Boulevard Access, Anna Maria, Florida
Book Your Sunny Getaway in Style Today
When a trip to Anna Maria Island is calling your name, Anchor Down Vacation Rentals has the inviting home away from home you need to elevate your getaway in luxury and style. Reach out today to learn more!
