Discovering Paradise: Our Experience on Anna Maria Island, Florida

Hello there! Welcome to OtourA. My name is Sam Lamboy. I recently had the pleasure of visiting Anna Maria Island, Florida. I have to say, this little island on the Gulf of Mexico is an absolute gem and the perfect destination for anyone looking for a relaxing and picturesque vacation.

I was recommended Anna Maria Island by a friend who swore this was her favorite place in Florida. As I neared the end of my SWFL series, I had to check out this location for for myself. I must say, it is now my favorite destination in Florida in the SWFL region, if not statewide.

One of the main attractions on Anna Maria Island is, of course, the beaches. They are truly stunning, with crystal-clear waters and soft, white sand. I spent hours lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun, and swimming in the warm waters of the Gulf. And the best part? The beaches are never too crowded, so I always had plenty of space to myself.

If you like sun and fun waves, head over to the ocean side where the water is stunning, the sand is fluffly and you can have lots of fun. An amazing spot to watch the sun set in the evening. Parking is available free on the streets. Make sure you follow the signs to avoid tickets. Paid parking is also available in lots nearby. The free trolley can take you from point to point to avoid heavy parking fees.

If kayaking, relaxing and picniking is your goal, head over to the bay side. Bayfront Park is the place to be. The water is absolutely stunning, clear and calm. Shelly sand area to lay out and many trees for shade. There is plenty of free parking, changing stations and facilities on site.

Of all the attractions on Anna Maria Island, one of the most iconic is the Anna Maria City Pier. Just on the other side of the bridge of the Bayfront Park, this historic pier has been a beloved landmark since it was first built in 1911, and it continues to be a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.

Stretching 776 feet out into the Gulf of Mexico, the Anna Maria City Pier offers stunning views of the water and surrounding area. Visitors can stroll along the pier, taking in the sights and sounds of the ocean and watching as fishermen cast their lines in search of the day's catch.

The pier is also home to the City Pier Restaurant, which serves up delicious seafood and other local favorites. The restaurant has outdoor seating options, and diners can enjoy their meal with a beautiful view of the water. Live music and dancing on the pier was fun. I had the coconut shrimp with fries and a glass of moscato. The view while enjoying my meal, priceless.

In 2017, the Anna Maria City Pier suffered extensive damage during Hurricane Irma. But thanks to a community-led effort, the pier was rebuilt and reopened in 2020, better than ever before. Today, visitors can enjoy all the pier has to offer, from fishing and sightseeing to dining and soaking up the island's charming atmosphere. I recommend seeing this spot right before sunset so that you can view the beauty of the day and picturesque night.

If you're planning a trip to Anna Maria Island, a visit to the Anna Maria City Pier is a must. It's a historic landmark that truly captures the island's laid-back vibe and natural beauty. I truly enjoyed people watching and spotting some dolphins while gazing out into the cystal waters. Don't forget to stop at Two Scoops and pick up an ice cream as that is definetly the thing to do.

Anna Maria Island is a treasure trove of history, and one of the best ways to learn about the island's past is by visiting its old homes and museums.

One of the most notable historic homes on the island is the Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum. Housed in the island's old jailhouse, the museum offers visitors a glimpse into the island's past through exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of its early settlers and development.

Another must-visit museum on the island is the Florida Maritime Museum, located in the nearby fishing village of Cortez. Here, visitors can explore exhibits that showcase the area's rich maritime history, from the early Native American fishing techniques to the commercial fishing industry that thrived in the area in the 20th century.

For those interested in architecture and design, a visit to the island's historic homes is a must. The island is home to many charming old cottages and bungalows, many of which have been lovingly restored and preserved. Some of the most notable examples include the Angler's Lodge, the Ilexhurst Cottage, and the Harrington House Bed & Breakfast.

In addition to these historic homes and museums, the island also offers a number of walking and biking tours that showcase the island's unique history and culture. From the historic Bridge Street to the quaint Pine Avenue, there's always something new to discover on Anna Maria Island.

Whether you're a history buff or just looking to explore the island's charming architecture and design, a visit to the island's old homes and museums is a must. It's a great way to learn about the island's past and immerse yourself in its rich culture and heritage.

If you're looking for a little adventure, Anna Maria Island has plenty to offer. I rented a bike and explored the island's many bike paths, which wind through lush mangroves and past charming beach cottages. I also took a kayaking tour through the island's mangrove tunnels, which was a truly unforgettable experience. If you have your own Kayak, there are public areas to launch from.

I took a peaceful walk through the Robinson Preserve, where I saw a variety of native birds and other wildlife. I also visited the Coquina Baywalk, which offers stunning views of the bay and is the perfect spot for a sunset picnic.

I did see some horseback riding tours in the speedway water that I would love to check out next time.

The island has a charming downtown area with unique shops and restaurants, many of which are family-owned and operated. I enjoyed wandering through the local boutiques and stopping for a bite to eat at one of the many cafes.

Near the beach, there are a few restaurants and small shops for your beach essentials. There are plenty of ice cream shops around town.

Overall, my trip to Anna Maria Island was everything I could have hoped for and more. The island's natural beauty, charming atmosphere, and laid-back vibe make it the perfect destination for anyone looking for a relaxing and rejuvenating vacation. I can't wait to go back and explore more of this hidden gem on Florida's Gulf Coast.