Anna Maria Vacation Insider Guide

A Vacation Insiders Guide

Anna Maria Island

Hello, and welcome to Anna Maria Island!

Hi, we’re Terry and Sandy Whyte, and we’re thrilled to welcome you to Anna Maria Island. Not only does the island o er a quirky, welcoming array of local businesses that virtually guarantees no chains can compete, its scenic beauty is preserved by initiatives.

We’re here whenever you need us!

T: +1.905.579.4996

OUR STORY We were smitten with this quaint barrier island when we rst visited in 1989—and we’ve returned every summer since.

Six years after our rst trip, we took the plunge and purchased our rst condo on the island. With a young family at the time, we made it work by renting our new home out to like-minded travelers. We understood their needs, because we had been in their position— they wanted luxury accommodations at a price they could a ord. By o ering just that, we booked our condo for an average of 50 weeks per year.

Fast forward over 25 years: now we offer a small collection of homes that allow guests to truly experience the island we fell in love with. Come see our Anna Maria Island. We know you’ll fall under its spell.

Thanks to these efforts, wildlife abounds, too: from ornery dolphins to wizened sea turtles to large-yetgraceful manatees. There’s always a sight to see—even when you’re not looking for one. That’s part of the magic of Anna Maria Island.

OUR HOMES Heated pools, endless gulf views, and white sand beaches just steps away...

We’ve done a lot of first-hand research on what makes the ideal AMI getaway, and can say with con dence that our homes t the bill.

Quality furnishings and tasteful design give our resort condos the feeling of a high-end retreat. Beach chic interiors and sweeping views let you enjoy the breezy spirit of the island without even stepping foot in the sun.

Once you do venture out, you’ll nd sparkling pools and private beach access just outside your door.

It’s the beach the way it’s meant to be. That’s why we’ve carefully selected these homes to share with you.

ABOUT THE WHYTES & THE REAL AMI...

Our family fell in love with Anna Maria Island the first time we visited in 1989.

Every summer since, we've spent our vacations on this island, and in 1995, we bought our first condo here. Having a young family at the time meant we had to rent our condo to offset ownership costs. Thankfully, by offering luxurious accommodations at an affordable price, we were able to keep the condo booked for an average of 50 weeks a year. These steady bookings allowed us to purchase our second condo in 2013, and a third in 2014. While opening up these homes has allowed us to keep returning to the island—and even better, to a house that feels like home—we also truly enjoy offering a place to guests to discover Anna Maria Island and feel at home here, too.

We were honored when TripAdvisor and FlipKey recognized our dedication to providing a top-notch rental experience with a "Top Rental Property" award two years running. More than anything, we appreciate that positive reviews from past guests determine the award winners.

Anna Maria Island is not a place where you "go to" the beach—here, you are AT the beach. From the moment your toes touch the powder-white sand beaches, you'll know you've arrived at a coastal paradise where the sun, sand and water

“The timeless quality of AMI is the other part of its unique identity. High-rise condos and fast-food chain restaurants are pleasantly absent”

are essential to its identity. And the timeless quality of AMI is the other part of its unique identity. High-rise condos and fast-food chain restaurants are pleasantly absent, replaced by low-profile (yet sophisticated) beach cottages and local, authentic shops and eateries.

Anna Maria Island is affectionately known as "The Island in the Sun." With Gulf temperatures averaging 84 degrees, and 360 days of sunshine per year, the surrounding, sun-warmed waters are called "The Nursery" for the pods of dolphins that come here to raise their young. Dolphin sightings are frequent—when walking the beaches, dining at a beach-front restaurant, or exploring the water by boat or kayak—and even after years of such sightings, they've never lost their magic for us.

With the island's laid-back, unhurried charm, speed limits are mostly restricted to 25–35 MPH. A free trolley serves both tourists and residents, and a shuttle will bring you here from each of the surrounding five airports. No car is necessary for your vacation! Even better, the free trolley stops right in front of all our island properties every 20-30 minutes from 6:00 AM to 10:30 PM. Forbes chose AMI as the "#3 Prettiest City in the Country" and Condé Nast Traveler calls it one of the "Top 30 Islands in the World." So kick off your shoes and get ready to explore this gem with family and friends!

5 EXPERIENCES YOU CANNOT MISS...

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Explore the Beaches...

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Horseback Riding (& Surfing) on the Beach...

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Explore the Island by Bike...

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The Fish Hole Adventure Mini-Golf...

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The Aquarium at Mote Marine Laboratory...

The first thing you must do when visiting Anna Maria Island is to—not surprisingly—explore its recently re-nourished beaches. Seven miles of powdery white sand stretch from Bean Point to Bradenton Beach, and each mile brings a different setting, with varied aquatic life, waving sea grasses, and a selection of beach-front restaurants offset by stretches of calm, uncrowded shoreline. One constant, of course, is the glittering, blue-green water capped in white foam.

Experience the dream of riding a horse on a picturesque beach. Then, stay on horseback as your hoofed companion swims right into Palma Sola Bay. That's right—you can ride a swimming horse! Learn how to "horse surf" and "horse ski," which are pretty much exactly how they sound: balance on your feet on the horse's broad back as it moves through the water. You'll likely see a few dolphins swimming past during your adventure, too.

On Anna Maria Island, you can explore almost anywhere by bicycle, including on the sand beaches and on the roads, where the slow speed limit and lack of traffic make cycling safe. Take time to enjoy wildlife like squirrels, native birds like the Blue Heron, and if you're lucky, sea mammals like dolphins or manatees. Terry recommends ABC Rentals, which will pick up and deliver bikes right at the doorstep of your accommodations.

The Fish Hole offers family-friendly entertainment with a nautical theme. Going beyond traditional miniature golf, The Fish Hole has waterfalls, lagoons, treacherous handicaps, and a bit of local history and fishing education mixed in. Each of the 18 holes is named for a different fish, like the Black Tip Shark and The Barracuda. Looking for more adventure? Head to Smugglers Golf where you can play 18 holes surrounded by live alligators!

Touch pools, working labs you can peek into, and fun interactive exhibits will introduce you to the exciting research happening at Mote Marine Laboratory. Here, there are 100 species of marine life to see and learn about, plus several eco-tours including the renowned Sea Life Encounter Cruise, Guided Kayak Tours, Nature Safari, and private charters on board the Miss Explorer.

4 FOR THE ACTIVE...

Watersport Rentals...

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Enjoy a day on the open water, with all your watercraft rental needs right at your fingertips. Take a short walk to Coastal Watersports. Since 1982, Coastal Watersports has operated its family-owned recreational watersports outfitter directly on the Gulf Coast beaches of Anna Maria Island. They o er exhilarating jet ski rentals as well as sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Any way you want to spend your time on the Gulf, Coastal Watersports can help make it happen, and even offers temporary boater certificates.

Parasailing...

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How about going above the water and letting the Gulf breezes guide you? Try sailing 800 feet above the crystal clear waters off the coast of Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach with Bradenton Beach Parasailing.

Share the moment with up to three people. And together spot turtles, sh, manatees, stingrays or other wildlife in their natural habitat...not to mention an elevated view of AMI’s beauty below. If you want to stay dry, don’t worry: the Coast-Guard-certified guides will be sure you land softly on the back deck of a specially built parasail boat.

Spend a Day on the Water...

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One of Terry’s favorite things to do is to rent a boat from the Bradenton Beach Marina and spend a day on the surrounding waters of Anna Maria Island. The bays of Tampa and Sarasota are some of the most renowned bodies of water in the U.S., and they are teeming with sea life large and small, including majestic dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles. If you forget to pack a lunch or get hungry out on the water, there are several good restaurants to stop along your journey, including Bradenton Beach Marina and Marina Jacks.

Nature Tours...

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Captain Kim’s Charters have provided Anna Maria Island visitors with a variety of relaxing and interactive boat charters for 15 years. With Captain Kim, you’ll have, as she says “ all the excitement of the high seas without the hassle of renting or buying equipment.” Board a 30-foot pontoon and enjoy a day of dolphin and bird watching, sandbar-hopping, or just kicking back with the sun and spray on your face. Captain Kim offers 6 different charters, and guest can mix and match to create the perfect experience for the whole family or a romantic date night.

TERRY & SANDY'S FAVORITE RESTAURANTS...

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Bridge Street Bistro...

One of Terry's favorite restaurants on AMI is the Bridge Street Bistro. At this multi-level spot, you can enjoy casual dining and live music every day downstairs, and date-night fine dining upstairs on the terrace amidst brilliant sunsets, tropical breezes, and the sounds of the surf. Bridge Street Bistro is the new hotspot for dining on Anna Maria Island and an experience you won't want to miss.

T: 941.782.1122 | Reviews

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The Waterfront Restaurant...

Located at the north end of the island, The Waterfront Restaurant offers all the ingredients of a memorable meal. The outdoor patio overlooks the water, the Anna Maria Island City Pier, and, further across the water, the world-famous Sunshine Bridge. Take in the views and enjoy a comprehensive menu that includes a fresh catch of the day, fresh salads and pastas and the best steak on the island.

T: 941.778.1515 | Reviews

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The Sandbar Restaurant ...

Directly overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, the Sandbar Restaurant is a local and tourist favorite known for its fresh seafood. Situated on large expanse of white-sand beach, the Sandbar offers front-row Gulf of Mexico views—best enjoyed at sunset. It's not unusual to see children playing in the sand, a beach wedding, and stars lighting up the sky all on the same evening.

T: 941.778.0444 | Reviews

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Gulf Drive Cafe...

The Gulf Drive Cafe is located directly on the newly re-nourished beaches on the southern part of Anna Maria Island. This familyfriendly restaurant with a tropical vibe serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily, and was named one of the “Best Breakfasts in Florida” by Southern Living Magazine. Also check out the adjacent property (same owners), The Kokonut Hut, with nightly live entertainment, cocktails, and an unbeatable spot for the island’s famous sunsets.

T: 941.778.1919 | Reviews

TERRY & SANDY'S TIPS ON WHERE TO STAY...

AMI has a number of lodging options to suit your needs. As well as owning two vacation rentals on the island, Terry and Sandy also manage a number of others. Below are their two rentals along with some information on the other options should they be fully booked.

Anna Maria Island Condo...

Our condo offers all the amenities you need to fully enjoy your stay on Anna Maria Island, including air conditioning, a 50-inch flat screen television, and luxurious bedrooms with the finest 200-thread linens and a Floridian comforter. From the bedrooms, sliding glass doors lead onto the balcony, which provides breathtaking views of the pool, the Gulf of Mexico, and the parasailors passing by.

For more information please refer to the property website...

The Beach Sands...

Treat yourself to amazing beach views from every room by day, and unforgettable sunsets by night, at The Beach Sands. You'll enjoy elegantly decorated accommodations with amenities to make your beach vacation a treasured memory, including a state-of-the-art kitchen, wireless internet, HDTVs, direct beach access and a heated pool.

For more information please refer to the property website...

Orienting Yourself...

Anna Maria Island is located on the west coast of Florida, around 20 miles from Sarasota, 55 miles from Tampa, and 125 miles from Orlando. The island itself is 7 miles long but a mere 2 miles across at its widest point. You'll often hear reference to Anna Maria, Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach. These are all places on the Island, with Anna Maria to the north, Bradenton to the south, and Holmes Beach sandwiched in between. Our condos are located in Bradenton Beach.

Away From the Beach Tips...

Retail Therapy...

St. Armands Circle...

Homegrown Treats...

If you love shopping for goodies you can't find elsewhere, try the shops in Bradenton. Pick up vintage dresses and refurbished furniture (if you're not flying home...) and don't forget the stores at Village of the Arts.

These artist bungalows sell affordable and fine art from regional artists. Or shop the huge outlet mall for traditional luxury stores like Polo Ralph Lauren.

St. Armands Circle offers wonderful shopping and dining for a luxury treat on your trip.

Find exclusive shops, galleries, and boutiques, plus high-end restaurants and nightlife. Pay a visit to the center of St. Armand's Circle to see AMI's version of a Hollywood landmark: The Circus "Ring of Fame" commemorating circus stars. Then have dinner at the famous Columbia Restaurant.

Florida's mild climate makes it a goldmine for delicious fresh fruit. At Mixon Fruit Farm in Bradenton, you'll find brimming baskets of sweet, juicy citrus fruits that taste (almost) as good as dessert. Or, for something a little more sinful, try their famous "Mixon Swirl," an orange-flavored ice cream cone.

You can also tour the groves and learn about the citrus-growing process.

TERRY & SANDY'S DAY TRIP IDEAS...

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The Legendary Theme Parks...

If you're not in Florida for the beaches, you're likely here for the amusement parks. The world's most famous park, Disney World, is 90 minutes away from Anna Maria Island; Busch Gardens is 60 minutes away. A day trip to the Florida mainland makes for a best-of-it-all vacation with beach-front relaxation and theme park adventure.

Disney Website | Map

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Busch Gardens Website | Map

Robinson Preserve...

Tucked into the corner of northwest Bradenton, just a few minutes outside of Anna Maria Island, this is 487 acres of coastal saltine, marsh, and mangrove habitats. Bring your birding guides and binoculars— these complex ecosystems attract rare birds like roseate spoonbills, wood storks, white pelicans, bald eagles, and least terns. Climb the 40-foot observation tower for sweeping views.

Website | Map

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Fishing Charters...

When it comes to fishing charters, Terry says there's only one company you should contact: Stray Dogs Fishing Charters. Captain Scott has 35 years' experience guiding offshore fishing trips out of the docks at the Cortez Fishing Village. In that time, he's developed a word-of-mouth reputation for consistent, quality catches, making him one of the most popular fishing charter guides on the island.

Website | Map

Or a less intense half-day trip...

Golf Courses...

McKechnie Field...

Scuba Diving...

Like almost everywhere in Florida, there are many good golf courses to play on Anna Maria Island, and it can be hard to pick the right ones. Terry highly recommends the Sarasota Golfer's Guide and several area courses, including Legacy Golf Club, Riverstrand Golf, Rosedale Golf & Country Club, Waterlefe Golf & River Club, and Stoneybrook Golf Club.

Located just 20 minutes from Anna Maria Island, McKechnie Field is home to the Pittsburgh Pirates' spring training facility and Grape Fruit League. Renovations to the field's Spanish architecture include upgraded grounds, concession stands, kiosks and improved sight-lines, all while maintaining the classic feel of an American ballpark.

The Regina Sugar Barge, which sank in a 1940s just off Bradenton Beach, is the perfect location for a shore dive. Although the wreck has deteriorated it's still a great dive. The site is sunk in 20 feet of water about 75 yards off the coast.

The site is just north of Cortez Road, one of three access points to Anna Maria Island. Look out for the buoys marking the site.

TERRY & SANDY'S PRACTICAL TIPS...

Orient Yourself Before Arriving...

Several airports within driving distance. The closest is Sarasota airport (SRQ) at around 30 minutes away. Others, including St. PetersburgClearwater, Tampa, Fort Myers, and Orlando are anywhere between 1 hour and 2.5 hours away. Further afield is Miami which is around a 4 hour journey by car.

The Trip From the Mainland to AMI...

Three bridges lead to the Island. Two from the mainland, which arrive at Holmes Beach or Bradenton Beach, and one from the north end of Longboat Key, itself to the south of the island.

Refer to this map for an overview.

Getting Around the Island...

A car is not necessary on Anna Maria Island, as a free trolley service stops pretty much everywhere. Also available for free is Island Beach Monkeys, a new transportation service with a fleet available to drive you wherever you want to go.

Want a ride to dinner? Need to run errands? Want a tour of Anna Maria? Island Beach Monkeys is an easy solution. Drivers work for tips only and all of the crew are Island residents. They can offer a wealth of information about Island businesses, dining choices, sights, and special events. They even have a karaoke-equipped vehicle!

Groceries & Essential Shopping...

There is a fantastic Publix grocery store located directly in the middle of Anna Maria Island. The free trolley stops right in front. Publix is like most grocery stores, but perhaps a little smaller than your local grocery store back home. Still, the store is complete with a full bakery, deli, fresh produce department, and, of course, fresh fish.

Our Glorious Weather...

Anna Maria Island is truly a slice of paradise, with bright rays of sunshine and clear skies blessing the majority of days in a year. Even in fall and winter, temperatures can stay up in the 60s or even 70s. When there is a cloud in the sky, it's usually the kind you'd like to see: either high up and wispy or hanging over the water in billows of fluffy white.

Relax at the Beach or by the Pool...

Our condos provide you with private beach access to the breathtaking white powdered sand beaches. Take our beach chairs and umbrella with you or relax on one of the pool loungers whilst the kids swim in 84F heated water! An outdoor shower is available for rinsing off the sand.

Thanks for staying with us!

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