What is So Special About Anna Maria Island?

Answer to the question “What is So Special About Anna Maria Island?” One can sit sipping rum in the tranquil, turquoise waters or even visit landmarks that used to be historical-however, visiting AMI is not an ordinary encounter. Rent a golf cart to explore this island hassle-free if you’re planning to visit. Crabby Joe’s provides convenient and affordable golf cart rentals to help you navigate the island in style.

Book Now: 855-272-2295

Top 5 Specialities of Anna Maria Island

1. Pristine White Sands

Anna Maria Island has a beach that attracts various types of visitors:

Coquina Beach: This beach is famous for its fine sands, tranquil waters, and shady picnic sites and it can easily pass off as a family or couple favorite. It’s easy access to stores and included parking make it the perfect for an enjoyable day by the ocean.
Manatee Public Beach: Has a playground, washrooms, and plenty of space for sunbathing. Easy access to beachfront restaurants with gentle waves.
Bean Point: If you want to experience more of an introverted nature experience, this is the beach for you. Bean Point is deserted, unspoiled, has good views of sunsets, and provides retreat from the overwhelmed tourist areas.
Holmes Beach: Wonderful for that vacationer in the need for both relaxation and activity, Holmes Beach offers restaurants and shopping plus watersports rental nearby.

2. Island Lifestyle Unique

The complete opposite of tourist resorts along the lines of high-rise hotels and chain restaurants, where one would often find quaint beach cottages and locally-owned businesses, friendly and relaxed communities making one feel at home. Indeed, some would say that “Old Florida” has a charm, which means a slowing down of pace, friendliness of locals, and a real coastal experience.

3. A Candyland for Wildlife & Marine Life

Indeed, one of the many factors contributing to the unique identity of Anna Maria Island is the diversity of its wildlife – for instance:

Sea Turtles: These turtles nest on AMI’s beaches from May to October. Conservation programs help in protecting those beautiful creatures; most of the time, visitors come to see hatchlings making their way to the ocean.
Dolphins & Manatees: Spotting either of these critters in its wild and natural habitat is sure to number among the day’s treasures, whether on a boat tour or just sauntering along the shore.
Bird Watching: Home to ospreys, pelicans, and herons, the island also boasts a huge variety of avian life that find their habitat among the mangroves and along the coast.

4. Quaint Local Shops & Restaurants

As opposed to noisy touristy areas with chain stores, Anna Maria Island has small, locally owned businesses that add to its charm. Some must-see spots are:

Pine Avenue – dubbed as “The Greenest Little Main Street in America,” Pine Avenue has its share of boutique shops, artisan markets, and eco-friendly businesses.

The Sandbar Restaurant – Hands down a local favorite and tourist’s destination, this beachfront restaurant westward facing enjoys serving up fresh seafood with breathtaking views of the ocean.

Rod & Reel Pier – This historic pier now offers casual dining of the best fishing spots available plus a glorious view of Tampa Bay.

5. Rich History & Landmarks

Dates all the way back to the early 1900’s, Anna Maria Island. Here are some must-see landmarks:

Anna Maria City Pier:Originally built in 1911, it offers views, a friendly café, and history about the island.
The Historic Green Village: One of a few restored historic buildings and has green businesses that reflect the island’s concerns toward sustainability.
Cortez Fishing Village: It stands just off the island. The nearby village is one of the very few remaining working fishing villages in Florida. Here, people wander through history while partaking of some of the freshest seafood available.

Pros and Cons of Going There

Pros:

✔ Not crowded and quiet

✔ Amazing nature and wildlife

✔ Good for families

✔ No high-rise buildings or chain businesses

✔ Plenty to explore for free and nature chill-outs

Cons:

✘ Limited nightlife

✘ At peak times, it does get busy

✘ Some parts have very little parking

✘ Grocery shopping and options are limited compared to many larger cities

What is the Way of Life at Anna Maria Island?

Getting There: Most visitors here tend to choose golf carts, bikes, or the free island trolley to do their tours around the island, as it’s a small island.
Best Month to Visit: The most appealing months to visit are March to May and September to November when conditions for both weather and a few crowds become quite perfect.
Local Rules: The island certainly lays down noise restrictions and has strict prohibitions in respect to amassing public nuisance, and wildlife are highly protected for conservation reasons.

Help and Support

For island exploration real tips and golf cart rentals, talk to Crabby Joe’s or call at 855-272-2295.