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Writer's pictureCruising Schatzy

Things to do on Anna Maria Island, Florida

Updated: Jun 19, 2023


Historical Park on Anna Maria Island
Historical Park

We feel so lucky to live in an area with many opportunities to hit the beach and participate in each area's various activities. My family favorite is Anna Maria Island, a beautiful barrier island located in Florida, known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and charming small-town atmosphere. Plenty of lodging, dining, activities, and beautiful beaches will be enjoyed.


Here are some detailed activities and outfitters to consider when visiting the island:


Beach Activities: The beaches on Anna Maria Island are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and playing beach games like volleyball and Frisbee. Visitors can also rent beach chairs and umbrellas from local outfitters.



Boogie Boarding in the Waves
Boogie Boarding

Water Sports: Anna Maria Island offers plenty of options for those who love water sports. Visitors can go kayaking, paddle boarding, jet skiing, parasailing, and even take a dolphin tour.


Fishing: Anna Maria Island is a popular destination for anglers, and several fishing charters and outfitters are available. Visitors can book a half-day or full-day fishing trip to catch various fish species, including snook, tarpon, and redfish.


Biking: The island is bike-friendly, and visitors can rent bikes from local shops to explore the area. Several bike trails on the island provide scenic views of the Gulf of Mexico.


Golfing: Anna Maria Island has several golf courses nearby, and visitors can book tee times through local outfitters.


Nature Tours: Visitors can take guided tours to explore the island's natural beauty. Tours include birdwatching, turtle-watching, and hiking in the island's nature preserves.


Several outfitters on Anna Maria Island provide equipment rentals and guided tours for tourists. These outfitters offer equipment rentals, guided tours, and instruction for various activities, making it easy for visitors to enjoy the island's outdoor attractions.


Captain Kathe's Boat Tours: Captain Kathe offers personalized, private boat tours that can be customized to suit your interests. She specializes in dolphin-watching tours and sunset cruises. 12306 46th Ave W, Cortez, FL 34215


Zegway by the Bay: This tour operator offers Segway tours of Anna Maria Island, allowing visitors to explore the island in a fun and unique way. They offer tour options, including island, beach, and historic tours. 62nd St, Holmes Beach, FL 34217


Bradenton Beach Parasailing: This tour operator offers parasailing tours, allowing visitors to soar above the island and enjoy the stunning views. They also offer banana boat rides and jet ski rentals. 200 Bridge St #3, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217


Beach Horses: This tour operator offers horseback riding tours of the island's beaches, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of Anna Maria Island from a unique perspective. 8400 Manatee Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34209


Anna Maria Island Trolley: The trolley is a popular mode of transportation on the island, allowing visitors to explore the island's attractions and beaches at their own pace. The trolley runs daily and stops at all the major attractions on the island.


Below are lists based on the type of activities:


1. Water Sports and Activities:

  • AMI Paddleboard Adventures: Located at 9908 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, FL 34216, this outfitter offers paddleboard and kayak rentals, as well as guided tours and lessons.

  • Yolo Adventures: Located at 9908 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, FL 34216, Yolo Adventures provides rentals of paddleboards, kayaks, and bicycles. They also offer guided tours, including sunset paddles and snorkeling adventures.

  • Beach Bums Island Attitude: Located at 427 Pine Ave, Anna Maria, FL 34216, this outfitter offers rentals of paddleboards, kayaks, bicycles, and electric bikes. They also offer guided tours and lessons.

  • Anna Maria Island Dolphin Tours: Located at 4110 127th St W, Cortez, FL 34215, this outfitter provides dolphin tours, sunset cruises, and private charters.

  • Bradenton Beach Parasailing: Located at 119 Bridge St, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217, this outfitter offers parasailing adventures for all ages and experience levels.


2. Fishing Charters:

  • Captain Kim's Charters: Located at 5325 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, FL 34217, this outfitter provides inshore and offshore fishing charters for up to six people.

  • Anna Maria Inshore Fishing: Located at 5325 Marina Dr, Holmes Beach, FL 34217, this outfitter offers inshore fishing charters for up to four people.

  • Anna Maria Charters: Located at 5325 Marina Dr, Holmes Beach, FL 34217, this outfitter provides fishing charters for up to six people, as well as sunset cruises and eco-tours.

  • Double Nickel Charters: Located at 12306 46th Ave W, Cortez, FL 34215, this outfitter offers fishing charters for up to six people, specializing in offshore and nearshore fishing.


3. Beach Equipment Rentals:

  • Just 4 Fun Rentals: Located at 5358 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach, FL 34217, this outfitter offers rentals of beach chairs, umbrellas, cabanas, and more.

  • Island Scooter Rentals: Located at 5321 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach, FL 34217, this outfitter provides rentals of scooters, golf carts, and bicycles.

  • AMI Beach Fun Rentals: Located at 3228 E Bay Dr, Holmes Beach, FL 34217, this outfitter offers rentals of beach chairs, umbrellas, kayaks, paddleboards, and more.


4. Tours and Sightseeing:

  • Discover Sarasota Tours: Located at 1826 4th St, Sarasota, FL 34236, this tour operator offers various sightseeing tours, including a trolley tour of Anna Maria Island.

  • Island Pearl Excursions: Located at 5325 Marina Dr, Holmes Beach, FL 34217, this outfitter provides private boat charters for up to six people, as well as sightseeing and eco-tours.

  • Tropic Sun Tours: Located at 2801 1st St, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217, this tour operator offers sightseeing tours of Anna Maria Island, sunset cruises, and private charters.


These are just a few tour operators available on Anna Maria Island. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach day or an adventurous outdoor experience, there's something for everyone on this beautiful island. Plan ahead and make reservations when necessary, especially during the busy seasons. Although busy year-round, the peak months are between January and May. Also, be aware that some tours may not be available during the wettest months of June-September or depending on the weather. Before you go. Check with the weather app on your phone to get the latest information on the weather before heading to Anna Maria Island.

Birdwatching on Anna Maria Island
Royal Terns Hanging Out

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