🏝️Old Florida Charm Meets Beautiful Gulf Coast Beaches
Explore the charm of Anna Maria Island, Florida – stunning beaches, laid-back vibes, local eats, and family fun await on this Gulf Coast paradise.
🌞 Escape the Crowds — Welcome to Anna Maria Island
While the theme parks of Orlando draw the headlines, many seasoned Florida travelers are falling in love with a different kind of paradise: Anna Maria Island.
Located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, just south of Tampa and west of Bradenton, this 7-mile-long barrier island offers powder-soft beaches, turquoise waters, and a laid-back atmosphere that feels like a trip back in time.
Whether you’re planning a relaxing day trip from Orlando or a peaceful beach add-on to your villa vacation, Anna Maria Island is one of Florida’s best-kept secrets.
🏖️ What Makes Anna Maria Island So Special?
Anna Maria Island offers something most destinations can’t: authentic “Old Florida” charm with modern touches. No high-rise condos. No chain restaurants. Just small shops, friendly locals, and natural beauty at every turn.
🌅 Highlights Include:
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Uncrowded white sand beaches on both the Gulf and Bay side
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Stunning sunsets every evening
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Laid-back vibe — think flip-flops, bikes, and beach cruisers
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Fresh seafood and local boutiques in walkable areas
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Wildlife spotting: dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, pelicans
🚗 How to Get to Anna Maria Island
From Orlando:
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Drive time: About 2.5–3 hours (150 miles)
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Route: I-4 W to I-75 S, exit at FL-64 W toward Bradenton
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Bridge access: Cross the Anna Maria Island Bridge (Manatee Ave W)
👉 Tip: This makes for a perfect day trip or overnight stop before or after your Orlando villa stay.
🏄♀️ Best Things to Do on Anna Maria Island
1. Relax at Coquina Beach
Wide, clean, and shaded by pine trees. Great picnic area and parking.
2. Stroll Pine Avenue
Charming street with boutiques, local art, island-style cafés, and sweet shops.
3. Catch the Sunset at Bean Point
Tucked away at the island’s northern tip — a hidden, peaceful paradise.
4. Visit the Rod and Reel Pier
An iconic fishing pier where you can dine over the water or cast a line.
5. Rent Bikes or a Golf Cart
The best way to get around — everything is within a few miles.
6. Kayak the Mangroves
Go wildlife spotting in Bimini Bay or the Neal Preserve’s mangrove tunnels.
🍽️ Where to Eat on Anna Maria Island
Food on Anna Maria Island is always fresh, local, and casual.
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🐟 The Sandbar Restaurant – beachfront dining & seafood with a view
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🦀 Ginny’s & Jane E’s Café – quirky spot for breakfast or brunch
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🍤 Rod & Reel Pier Restaurant – rustic seafood over the bay
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🍦 Two Scoops Ice Cream Parlor – over 30 classic and tropical flavors
🏡 Extend Your Trip — From Theme Parks to Tranquility
Staying in Orlando or Kissimmee at one of our beautiful vacation villas? Consider splitting your trip:
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🌆 First Half: Thrill-filled Disney, Universal, and attractions
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🏝️ Second Half: Wind down with nature, beaches, and serenity at Anna Maria
This “best of both worlds” Florida vacation lets you enjoy high-energy fun and peaceful beach time without needing a passport or long flights.
We can help recommend day trip options or beach rental add-ons for our villa guests looking to explore more of Florida during their stay.
👨👩👧👦 Perfect for Families, Couples & Solo Travelers
Anna Maria Island suits all types of travelers:
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Families: Safe, swimmable beaches & no rowdy nightlife
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Couples: Romantic sunsets & waterfront dining
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Nature lovers: Birdwatching, kayaking, and eco tours
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Seniors or relaxed travelers: Flat terrain and easy access to everything
🧳 Travel Tips for Visiting Anna Maria Island
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☀️ Bring reef-safe sunscreen and a beach umbrella
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🚫 No chain stores – bring what you need or shop local
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🏖️ Beach chairs and bikes are available to rent on the island
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🚲 Park your car — golf carts and bikes rule the roads here
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🐬 Keep an eye out for dolphins while dining or swimming!
📅 Ready to Add Anna Maria Island to Your Itinerary?
Whether you’re planning your entire vacation around Anna Maria, or making it a peaceful add-on to your Orlando villa stay, you won’t regret visiting this hidden Gulf Coast gem.
Want help organizing a multi-stop Florida adventure from your villa base near Disney? We’re happy to help.
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