Enough can not be said about Anna Maria Island. This was our preferred beach for over a dozen years while living in Riverview. It took the same amount of time to go to Clearwater Beach, but without the huge crowds, traffic, and far less appealing beach in comparison. Anna Maria is a hidden gem, with amazing beaches, small town appeal, shops, and restaurants. The public parking can be tricky due to the small lots and limited space, but you just have to know where to go. In the summer, the water is always in the mid-80'sF, so you can just walk right into the ocean with no pause due to its warmth. Bring blankets, umbrellas, pop-up canopies, towels, sunscreen, and any extras for you to play with, as you will literally enjoy a full day until the amazing sunset. Pack plenty of water and snacks because you will not want to leave, plus locating these things when at the "tip of the island" (all these pics) is not a quick access option. I also suggest a wagon of some sort, as the walk to the beach can be a few minutes, depending where on the island you decide to visit and spend the day. The ambiance is unlike anything you will experience as you walk the coast and enjoy the wind, birds, seashells, and the occasional protected turtle nests with caution tape around them. This is a great place to unwind, decompress, spend unforgettable quality-time with family and friends, and enjoy the beauty that only...
Read moreAnna Maria Island, Florida is a barrier island with white sand beaches, a small-town feel, and lots of nature: Beaches Anna Maria Island's beaches are known for their white sand and are often ranked among the best in the world. Some say the water is clear and bath water temperature in the summer. Others say you can see dolphins playing close to shore in the early mornings. Activities Visitors can get around by golf cart or beach cruiser, and enjoy activities like kayaking. Some recommend Body & Sol Spa and Wellness for massages, hair styling, and manicures. Dining There are many restaurants in the area, including: Anna Maria Beach Cafe: Serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with water views Beach House Waterfront Restaurant: A modern restaurant with great views and food Dips Ice Cream / Anna Maria General Store: A general store that also sells ice cream Atmosphere Anna Maria Island has a relaxed vibe and a small-town feel. Some say the water looks like the Caribbean. Sustainability Anna Maria Island is committed to sustainability and wildlife respect. In 2023, it became the first Florida destination to partner with the Leave No Trace organization. Getting there Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport has expanded, making it easier to get to Anna Maria Island. Cost Anna Maria Island can be expensive, with lodging costing an average of $294 per night for a...
Read moreThe beaches are Amazing ❤ The Condo we rented for a week was absolutely a disgrace, Nasty to say the least. Ill write the name of it when I read it again We may have had A/C 1 day out of 7 😭😭 The rental management sent 2 diff. Companies out. Could not fix !! Last 2 day brought a portable A/C that only fit in one bedroom which kept the rest of HOME at 83/85 @ all times. The owner knew about this , Sent a 100.00 check to our home. What a slap in the face. Ill get all info and let you all know so this never, ever happens to you. 😭😭😭 Ok Im back. Just tosay we have stayed here prior through the yrs with fantastic times ❤ Never in Condo # 1 . 1st floor condo. The name of the condos are A Paradise Vacation Rentals 5201 Gulf Drive , Hilmes Beach Florida. Island Beach club 1. Management owner : Bill Alexander 😥 . I am only showing the exact one we stayed in. In the past the other condos , same facility was truly PERFECT ❤ PS To try to get a large refund on a Holiday is absolutely impossible!! Yes, I cleaned for 4 hrs to just shower, sheets dirty. Pillow shams had snot on them, hair in the silverware drawer. Yes had to wash all that. Couch & chairs were covered from shetts I bought. Hair everwhere & stains...urrg !!! After a 16 hr drive I was exhausted and did laundry , clean up into the night 😭😭 Do not use Unit...
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