Sunset sails, quiet beaches, dinner on the sand and a golf-cart cruise home: our favorite ideas for a romantic evening on Anna Maria Island.
Anna Maria Island slows right down in the evening, which makes it perfect for couples. Here are our favorite ways to spend an evening together. Mix and match: you don't need to do them all.
1. Start with a stroll on Pine Avenue. Wander the little shops in the late afternoon, when the heat eases, then head to the end of the street for the bay views from the City Pier.
2. Find your own patch of sand at Bean Point. The island's northern tip is quieter than the main beaches and faces the sunset. Take a blanket and arrive early.
3. Watch the sunset from the water. A small sunset catamaran sail, such as Spice Sailing Charters, is one of the most memorable ways to end the day. Look out for dolphins riding the bow, and book ahead in season.
4. Or pick a classic sunset spot. Our guide to the best sunset spots (and where to park) has the views, timings and parking tips. Best sunset spots.
5. Dinner on the sand. For a special occasion, Beach Bistro serves fine dining right on the beach. Reserve well in advance. For something more relaxed, see our Eat & Drink guide.
6. Cruise home by golf cart. A street-legal golf cart makes the short trip back under the stars part of the evening. Golf cart rentals.
7. Or start the next day early. A guided sunrise kayak through the mangroves is calm, quiet and full of birdlife: a lovely way to start a day together. Kayak tours.
Good to know: popular sunset sails and restaurants fill up in season, so book ahead, and check the sunset time on the day.
