Anna Maria Island
plan your perfect Anna Maria Island visit
Beach Guide
Bean Point
Northernmost tip of the island. Secluded, shell-rich, stunning sunsets. Rarely crowded. No facilities but worth the walk.
Manatee Public Beach
Family-friendly with parking, restrooms, picnic areas. The most accessible beach on AMI. Beautiful Gulf waters.
Coquina Beach
Southernmost public beach. Wide stretch of white sand, volleyball nets, pavilion, boat ramp. Great for families and groups.
The Island Journal
From the Blog
A Romantic Evening for Two on Anna Maria Island
What to Do on a Rainy Day on Anna Maria Island
Wheelchair-Friendly Things to Do on Anna Maria Island
Free and Low-Cost Things to Do on Anna Maria Island
Your First Day on Anna Maria Island: Where to Start
Minnie’s Beach Cafe: The Friendliest Breakfast on Anna Maria Island
Dolphin Dash 5K Returns to Coquina Beach
Iris-istable Options: Our Canal-Side Family Stay
Tides, Currents & Beach Safety on Anna Maria Island
Seeing Sea Turtle Hatchlings on Anna Maria Island: A Night Guide
The Ultimate Oceanfront Family Getaway: A Review of 'Ship Watch'
Top 5 Breakfast Spots on the Island
The Happy Manatee: Our New Favorite Breakfast on Anna Maria Island
Top 5 Coffee Shops on the Island
Where to See the Best Sunset on AMI (and Where to Park)
Sea Turtle Nesting on Anna Maria Island: A Night Guide
The Quiet Magic of Island Mornings
How to Pack for the Perfect Beach Day
Island BBQ Bliss: Is gRub the Island's Best BBQ?
The Ugly Grouper: Family-Friendly Dining in Holmes Beach
A North End Rental Perfect for Beach & Pool Lovers: A Review of 'Maria's Way'
Chasing Sunsets: A Review of 'Sunset at 714'
A North End Pool Hideaway: A Review of 'Castaway Cove'
The AMI Beach Guide: Rules, Safety & Local Quirks
The Best Time to Visit Anna Maria Island: A Month-by-Month Guide
Anna Maria Island with Kids: The Ultimate Family Guide
Getting Around Anna Maria Island: Trolley, Golf Carts, Bikes & Parking
Stay
No chain hotels here — just charming vacation rentals, boutique cottages, and Old Florida beach houses. Wake up steps from the Gulf in a place that feels like it's yours.
Find AccommodationEat & Drink
Fine Dining
Beach Bistro
Award-winning fine dining right on the sand. James Beard-recognized, BYOB, world-class sunsets.
Casual Waterfront
The Sandbar
Classic AMI waterfront dining. Fresh seafood, frozen drinks, toes-in-the-sand atmosphere.
Tropical BBQ
Grub
A beloved local BBQ joint. Legendary smoked brisket and ribs, laid-back island vibes, worth every minute of the wait.
Island Events & Rhythms
From the Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival and weekly seasonal markets to local art walks and community gatherings, the island pulses with a laid-back, welcoming rhythm year-round.
View Events Calendar
Protect
Conservation
AMI is home to loggerhead sea turtle nesting (April–October) with over 400 nests annually. The island also protects manatees, shorebirds, and seagrass beds.
Explore
Things to Do
Paddle the mangrove tunnels, set out on a dolphin tour, cast a line from the historic piers, or cruise the island by golf cart. Adventure is never far away.
Plan
Weather & Seasons
Enjoy a subtropical climate with winter averages of 72°F and summer averages of 90°F. Discover the best time to visit based on your ideal vacation.
Bring the island home
Coloring Books for Curious Kids
Designed to educate, protect & preserve
Every One Stop AMI book helps families learn about the island's wildlife, history, habitats, and responsible exploration—so young visitors can help protect and preserve Anna Maria Island.