Anna Maria Island Florida A Vacation Insiders Guide
MEET TUCK & KRISTEN Contact Tuck: +1.678.232.7996
This Insider Guide is brought to you by Tuck & Kristen Wieler, who own 3 vacation rentals on gorgeous Anna Maria Island. After years of vacationing on AMI with their family, they know the island inside out, almost like a walking, talking guidebook!
Tuck can be contacted via any of the above options for more information about the area, pricing, and availability.
THOUGHTS FROM THE EDITOR Hand-painted signs pointing the way to seafood joints. Clapboard cottages. Fringed palm trees and live oaks draped in Spanish moss. And, most importantly—not a faceless chain business in sight. This is Old Florida, and some say its heyday is long past. Not on Anna Maria Island! In the 21st century, its coats of paint may be fresher, its food options more diverse (some of it downright gourmet), and its low-profile beach cottages outfitted with more modern comforts, but AMI remains a stronghold of simplicity in America’s most-beloved vacation state. On AMI, you won’t find highways, clogged intersections, big-box retailers or high-rises to block your view. But you will find welcoming locals, baskets of fresh Gulf
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shrimp heaped onto communal picnic tables, and modest (yet refined) beach cottages where families create lifetime memories at the edge of the Gulf. To experience AMI's timeless charms, check out Tuck Wieler's Cozy Cottage and Cozy Cabana East & West, three delightful homes within strolling distance of the beach, with private, palm-dappled pools and charming interiors in a beachy palate. Read on: You're invited to learn how to create a tailored-to-you vacation on AMI, with the help of the Wieler family's expertise!
ABOUT THE WIELERS & THE REAL AMI... A trip to the beach is a treasured tradition for Tuck and Kristen Wieler and their family of five. When they stumbled upon Anna Maria Island during a search for a beach they could really settle into, a place they could return to year after year, they realized something important: You can't really choose your family's perfect beach. It chooses you. Since their discovery of Anna Maria Island, the Wielers have felt at home on this seven-mile slice of paradise, with its flour-soft sand and clear, emerald waters. And two years ago, they translated that feeling of "home" into a house. Tuck and Kristen were taken with how Cozy Cottage exactly reflected the soothing vibe of Anna Maria Island. The cottage, with its three bedrooms, three bathrooms, and tropically landscaped, private pool, is the ideal family getaway that's just a two-minute stroll from the beach. The Wielers have also added a second, multi-functional villa to their property portfolio that can suit the needs of a young couple, couples vacationing together, or groups of families and friends. Cozy Cabana East and West are both newly renovated, beach-convenient properties just a block from the Gulf, each with its own private pool. Families or couples who want to play together, but not stay together, can take advantage of both properties and their flexible bedroom configurations. Though adding this second property was an unexpected journey for the Wielers, the urge to jump in head-first is a testament to how much they've come to love Anna Maria Island.
And there's a whole lot to love. Life slows down on Anna Maria Island. The speed limit doesn't exceed 35 MPH, and absent are high-rise condos, party bars, and chain establishments—yet Anna Maria won't leave you feeling like you've missed anything. For those seeking a peaceful, relaxing beach trip, all of the island is accessible by bike, golf cart, the free trolley, or a good ol' fashioned stroll (preferably with ice cream cone in hand). The island is home to a local history museum, quaint coffee shops, and locally owned restaurants and business. The Gulf beaches are a picturesque backdrop for lounging and enjoying the Florida sun and breeze. Anna Maria Island also offers high-octane thrills for adventure-seekers, including paddleboarding or kayaking in mangrove-lined waters among manatees, dolphins, and more. Explore some of the best waters in all of Florida with a boat charter, or take a day trip to Sarasota, Tampa, or the theme-park mecca that is Orlando, all two hours or less from the island. At the end of a fun-filled day, rest easy knowing you get to come back to a relaxing refuge, a quintessential beach front cottage or cabana with all the modern conveniences and amenities you could hope for. The island and its laidback vibe will quickly show you how beautiful life can be when it all slows down.
5 EXPERIENCES YOU CANNOT MISS...
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Kayak in the Mangroves...
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Sunsets ANYWHERE on the Beach...
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Breakfast on the Island...
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Ferry to Egmont Key...
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Dolphin Cruise...
It's easy to lose track of time in the tangled, tropical forest of Florida's mangroves with a kayak tour. As you cruise the shallow waters, you'll see young fish, sea stars and sea horses, urchins and other critters. Happy Paddler offers customizable kayak tours through this rich ecosystem at various times of the day, including sunset. Mix it up with a tour on a paddleboard with Fun and More Rentals, getting up-close-and-personal with sea turtles, manatees, and even dolphins.
On the island, sunset is the day's main event. As any local will tell you, you have to see one for yourself to understand why. Though the views are spectacular from any beachfront vantage point, White Avenue (across from Cozy Cabanas) and Bean Point (a short walk from Cozy Cottage) are two great places to stake out. Bring a (concealed and plastic...shhh!) cup of wine or a cocktail, a small picnic, and the whole family. Each night brings a whole new show. All-you-can-eat pancakes are a treat on their own—but when you get to enjoy them on a picturesque beach at Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe, it doesn't get any better. Kids and parents with a sweet tooth will both enjoy creating their own doughnut concoctions at Anna Maria Donuts, a local, family-owned staple. For the island's best French toast, made with crème brûlée, head to Ginny's & Jane E's Island Bakery, Cafe and Store.
Egmont Key, an island only accessible via boat, has a unique natural and cultural history, including a lighthouse that has stood since 1858 and fort ruins from the Spanish–American War. Hitch a ride to this secluded key on the Egmont Key Ferry. Once there, have a swim among the ruins and learn more about the island's rich history. Meanwhile, keep an eye out for diverse wildlife like shore birds, sea turtles, and the grumpylooking, burrowing gopher tortoise. You simply can't vacation on Anna Maria Island without taking advantage of an interactive dolphin cruise. Coastline Dolphin and Snorkeling Excursion offers cruises with several sandbar stops where kids can dig for sand dollars, forage for conch shells, and interact with sea urchins. Knowledgeable guides help cruise-goers easily spot schools of majestic dolphins—you'll want to have your camera for this vacation moment. To learn more, call Coastline Excursion at 941-201-8429.
4 FOR THE ACTIVE... Rent a Bike... Explore Anna Maria Island with a relaxing bike ride. Pedal by the water along City Pier or Rod & Reel Pier, both home to good eats, or down Pine Avenue to see sparkling beaches. Beach Bums offers fun and funky rental bikes suited to any excursion, including cruisers and geared bikes. For those not comfortable on two wheels, Beach Bums also rents tricycles. Couples can tour the island on tandem bikes, and parents can rent extra bike seats for young children. Rentals range from $5 to $9 an hour or $14 to $20 a day. Beach Bums will also deliver free of charge any bikes rented for longer than 24 hours.
Paddleboarding... S t a n d - u p paddleboarding is a fun way to see the waters around Anna Maria Island and fit in a rigorous, f u l l - b o d y workout while you're at it. Master your balance and rowing with a lesson from AMI Paddleboard Adventures or take part in one of their sunset tours. If you find yourself on the island during a full moon, take advantage of AMI's full moon tour to see nocturnal birds and other night-dwelling sea animals. AMI also offers rentals for one or two hours, or a half or full day with free pick up and delivery.
Charter a Fishing Boat... The waters bounding Anna Maria Island have been home to Tom Chaya for more than 30 years, making him the island's most sought-after and knowledgeable fishing tour guide. Set sail with Captain Tom's charter and he'll expertly guide you through waters teeming with snook, tarpon, permit, trout, redfish, snapper, grouper, cobia, kingfish, mackerel, and flounder. The custom-built, 26-foot boat is rigged for comfortable-yet-serious fishing, and Captain Tom offers expeditions for both experts and first-timers. Reservations with Captain Tom are available for full- and half-day trips.
A Sun Break... The fun doesn't stop just because it's a rainy or cloudy day on Anna Maria Island. Head to the John and Mable Ringling Museum, which features an art museum, a circus museum, and a residence and garden open to tours. This unique museum's story begins nearly a century ago, when a circus impresario honored his wife’s love for Italy and art with a Venician-style residence in Sarasota — to the tune of $1.5 million. Or, to experience Florida's marine life on a rainy day, head to Mote Aquarium, which also doubles as hospital for injured sea animals.
TUCK'S TIPS ON AMI DINING...
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The Waterfront... The craft bar at The Waterfront is a cocktail lover's dream. Its lineup of mixed drinks offers adventurous twists on classics, like the Smoked Margarita made with Reposado Tequila and a rinse of Mezcal with fresh lime and ginger. The food menu boasts fresh Gulf catches and the porch seating provides the ideal environment to enjoy it all. It's a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, so call ahead to make reservations. T: 941-778-1515 | Reviews
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Eat Here... Eat Here is Beach Bistro’s younger, more wallet-friendly brother. It breaks the mold of formal dining with quirky tableware and clipboard menus, but the quality of the food is just as exceptional as that of a higher-priced establishment. The fish is always fresh and plates are served as soon as they're made for the best flavor. Save room for dessert at this place—you won't regret it! T: 941-778-0411 | Reviews
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Bridge Street Bistro... Dine al fresco on the third floor terrace of Bridge Street Bistro and take in Anna Maria Island's main event: a blazing sunset. The kitchen, run by Chef Keith Daum, is known for its lobster bisque, seafood gumbo, specialty salads, and thick cuts of steak. Happy hour starts at 3 PM with drink specials and half-priced apps, and live entertainment keeps the party going past twilight. T: 941-782-1122 | Reviews
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Everyone Loves a Local Dive... For a break from seafood, try Village Idiot Pizzeria, with its NYCworthy (or better!) wood-fired pizzas in the Cortez Fishing Village. Afterward, head next door to Tyler's Ice Cream for a homemade scoop or two. Skinny's Place is another dive hangout, this one with a distinct Jimmy Buffett vibe and juicy burgers. It's a cash-only establishment with $1.50 beers and communal picnic tables ideal for getting to know your neighbor. T: 941-896-4857 | Reviews (A)
T: 941-778-7769 | Reviews (B)
TUCK'S TIPS ON WHERE TO STAY... AMI has a number of options depending on your needs. Below are the 3 rentals which Tuck owns. If these are booked, or you require a different size and style of accommodation, Tuck knows other places on the island and can help with referrals.
Cozy Cabana-East... Cozy Cabana-East has it all: coastal charm, comfort, and convenience. Located a half-mile from historic Pine Avenue on Anna Maria Island, this property is a quick, three-minute stroll from the coveted beaches of White Avenue, known by locals as a top-notch surfing spot. Guests can also relax by the sparkling private pool surrounded by private fencing and lush tropical palms. For more information please refer to the property website...
Cozy Cabana-West... Cozy Cabana-West is another charming, comfortable, and convenient property just minutes from Anna Maria Island's gorgeous beaches. Cozy Cabana-West offers two bedrooms, each with their own private bath, and can sleep additional guests on a brand new, fully convertible sleeper sofa. An outdoor patio overlooks the heated pool and comes with a propane grill for family bonding over a nice dinner. For more information please refer to the property website...
Cozy Cottage... This three-bedroom, three-bathroom home can sleep up to eight and is just steps from the beach. Each bedroom also offers direct access to the pool and lounging patio, and the kitchen is abundantly stocked. Guests can unwind in front of the 42-inch flat screen HDTV in the living room or take in the mature tropical landscape poolside. Cozy Cottage provides the beach chairs, towels, and cart. For more information please refer to the property website...
THE WIELER'S Practical Tips Groceries...
Prepare Seafood at Home...
Practicalities...
The local Publix, one of the only chain establishments on the island, is ideal for non-seafood groceries, snacks, and other necessities. It also stocks a nice selection of kids' beach toys. The Anna Maria General Store is another alternative for groceries and small items like toiletries—plus, it boasts a small cafe perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a midday coffee.
Star Fish Company is the area's highest-quality local seafood market with a daily, rotating selection that includes snapper, scallops, salmon, and more. Closer to home (but with a smaller selection), try Island Fresh Market. Another tip: For just $6, Rod & Reel Pier will cook any fish you catch on their pier (and clean yourself). That's about as fresh as seafood gets!
Though uncommon, some local businesses are cash-only. Don't worry—ATMs are abundant, including at Wells Fargo, The General Store, Publix, and Skinny's Place. We also ask that you be a good neighbor to the island's residents—who make AMI the friendly place it is—by observing quiet hours between 10 PM and 8 AM and sticking to the 25-30 MPH speed limit.
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