1-Week Itinerary for Anna Maria Island

Photo Credit: Mark Winfrey

Arrive over the Cortez or Manatee Avenue bridges, check in, and ease into island time.

Morning / Arrival

Aim for mid-afternoon, if you can, to avoid the morning rush and make the most of your first day. Stop at Publix in Holmes Beach to pick up breakfast basics, snacks, drinks, and any beach essentials you might need for the week.

Locals often recommend grabbing fresh fruit, pastries, and some cold beverages to keep you refreshed.

If you're arriving hungry, try a quick bite at a nearby restaurant before heading to your rental.

Afternoon

Post check-in, keep it simple and stress-free. Head to Manatee Public Beach or the nearest beach access for your first walk, swim, and toes-in-the-sand moment.

Manatee Public Beach is a favorite among locals and visitors alike because of its family-friendly amenities. It's a great spot to settle in and get a feel for the island's laid-back vibe.

If you're feeling adventurous, rent a kayak nearby to explore the calm waters or try your hand at paddleboarding. Don't forget to keep an eye out for dolphins playing offshore.

Evening

Catch the stunning sunset from the sand. Many locals say the sunsets here rival the best in Florida.

For dinner, head to the Beach House Waterfront Restaurant, an Anna Maria Island gem known for its sunset dining experience with panoramic Gulf views. Their fresh seafood dishes, especially the grouper and scallops, come highly recommended.

If you prefer a more casual vibe, The Ugly Grouper in Holmes Beach offers a lively atmosphere with outdoor seating, live music several nights a week, and a menu featuring fresh fish sandwiches and creative cocktails.

Both spots offer a true taste of island life and set the perfect tone for your week ahead.

Day 2: Classic Beach Day at Manatee Beach & Bridge Street Evening

This is your first full beach day on Anna Maria Island, so take your time and enjoy the island's relaxed pace.

Morning

Start with coffee and breakfast at Anna Maria Island Beach Café, right at Manatee Public Beach. Enjoy classic dishes like eggs Benedict or pancakes with beachfront views.

Rent beach chairs and umbrellas to settle in on the soft white sand. Manatee Public Beach offers family-friendly amenities such as restrooms, showers, picnic tables, and a playground, so it's easy to hang out here for several hours.

Spend the morning swimming, shell hunting, or relaxing. And since you got the layout of the beach yesterday, you can really take advantage of your morning.

Afternoon

Take a break from the sun with a dip in the pool or cool shower at your rental. Stop by West Coast Surf Shop for beach gear and insider tips. Return to the beach for more swimming or for a stroll to spot sand dollars and other treasures.

Evening

Head south to Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach for dining and entertainment. The Historic Bridge Street District is a popular area for shopping and dining, featuring Bridge Street Pier where visitors can fish, watch boats, and enjoy views of Tampa Bay.

Dine at Anna Maria Oyster Bar on the Pier, famous for fresh oysters, lobster, and fish specials. The family-friendly waterfront spot is perfect after a day in the sun. Try their grouper sandwich, a local favorite.

End with a cocktail at a nearby bar or relax by the bay as twilight falls.

Day 3: Donuts, Pine Avenue, & Bean Point Sunset

Photo Credit: UA-Visions

Make this your north end day, with local shops, food, and one of the prettiest beaches.

Morning

Start your day early at The Donut Experiment on Pine Avenue, a local favorite where you can build your own donut masterpiece with a wide selection of icings and toppings. The shop often has a line, but locals say it's worth the wait for these fresh, made-to-order treats.

After indulging, take a leisurely stroll down historic Pine Avenue, a charming street lined with boutique shops, cozy cafes, and the Anna Maria Island Historical Museum, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the island's past.

Afternoon

For lunch, grab a bite at one of the quaint cafés along Pine Avenue.

If you're traveling with kids or want a creative souvenir, stop by a local shop offering sand dollar painting. This fun activity lets you design your own keepsake from your Anna Maria Island vacation.

Evening

After a restful break at your rental, head to Bean Point for the afternoon and evening.

Bean Point Beach sits at the northern tip of Anna Maria Island, where Tampa Bay meets the Gulf of Mexico. This popular beach is a local treasure, known for its calm waters, soft sand, shelling opportunities, and stunning views. Its serene atmosphere makes it one of the best spots for watching sunsets on the island.

Be sure to bring a flashlight if you stay after dark and respect parking signs to keep the area pristine for everyone to enjoy.

Day 4: Bayfront Park, Rod & Reel Pier, & Kayak Adventure

Photo Credit: Ken Schulze

Today, you'll explore a new beach and get some time out on the water.

Morning

Start your day with fresh pastries and coffee at your rental, soaking in the peaceful island morning. Then head to Bayfront Park in Anna Maria, a local favorite known for its calm, shallow waters perfect for wading and spotting small fish.

This park offers excellent amenities, including charcoal grills, picnic tables, playgrounds, and shaded areas, making it ideal for families or groups looking to relax and enjoy the bay's serene atmosphere. It's a perfect spot to unwind, have a casual cookout, or simply enjoy the gentle breeze off Tampa Bay.

Afternoon

Take a leisurely walk toward the nearby AMI City Pier for a waterfront snack or lunch with stunning views of the bay. The pier is a beloved local hangout where you can watch fishing boats come and go or try your hand at fishing by renting a rod from the local bait shop.

Keep in mind that pier access and fishing rules can change, so check ahead before planning your visit. While there, you might catch a glimpse of dolphins or seabirds, adding to the authentic island experience.

Note on hurricane damage: AMI City Pier is currently being rebuilt following hurricane damage in 2024. It is set to reopen in fall 2026.

Rod N Reel Pier, another of the island's beloved piers positioned close to AMI City Pier, was also destroyed by hurricanes in 2024. The owners are currently raising funds to rebuild it; check out our blog post to learn more.

Evening

In the afternoon, enjoy some of Anna Maria Island's popular water sports by renting a kayak or paddleboard. You can stay close to home and explore the island's waters by launching in Bimini Bay.

If you don't mind driving for about 30 minutes, book an eco-tour at nearby Robinson Preserve. These tours give you a chance to explore mangrove tunnels and spot native wildlife like manatees and herons in their natural habitat.

After your adventure, keep dinner simple with a casual meal on the north end of the island, followed by a peaceful evening stargazing from the beach, soaking up the quiet magic of island life.

Day 5: Coquina Beach & Bradenton / Mainland Day Trip

This day takes you to the southern tip of Anna Maria Island and includes a quick mainland adventure.

Morning

Head out early to Coquina Beach to beat the crowds and enjoy the peaceful morning vibes.

Coquina Beach is one of the best beaches on the island, known for its massive pine-tree canopy that provides plenty of shade, perfect for those who want a break from the sun.

The shoreline here is great for shelling, so bring a bucket and see what treasures you can find along the soft white sand. Locals love starting their day here because the beach offers a great mix of natural beauty and vibrant energy without feeling overcrowded.

Coquina Beach has plenty of amenities that make it ideal for a full day of fun. There are picnic areas with charcoal grills, clean restrooms, and outdoor showers to rinse off the salt and sand.

The beach's lively atmosphere is perfect for families and groups, with volleyball courts and plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the sun.

Afternoon

Grab lunch at the beach concessions, where you can find casual bites like fresh fish sandwiches and cold drinks, or take a short drive to a nearby café for a more relaxed meal.

After soaking up the sun, cross over to the mainland via the Cortez or Manatee Avenue bridges for a change of pace. Bradenton Riverwalk is a lovely spot to stretch your legs with its walking paths, splash pad, and public art installations.

You can also explore downtown Bradenton's shops and cafés before heading back to the island.

Evening

In the evening, return to Bradenton Beach for some fun miniature golf, a stroll along historic Bridge Street, and dinner at one of the many restaurants lining the waterfront.

This area buzzes with local charm and offers a variety of dining options, from fresh seafood to casual pub fare, making it a perfect way to wind down your day.

Day 6: Holmes Beach, Fishing or Dolphin Tour, & Laid-Back Night

Photo Credit: Mark Winfrey

Day 6 blends more sand time with one memorable outing to experience the island's abundant wildlife and natural charm.

Morning

Start your morning slow in Holmes Beach, where you can enjoy a peaceful stroll along the soft sand or grab a freshly brewed coffee and breakfast at Minnie's Beach Cafe.

After fueling up, head back to Manatee Public Beach or a nearby beach access point for a refreshing swim in the calm, warm Gulf waters. Early mornings here tend to be quiet and less crowded, offering an ideal chance to relax, spot seabirds, and maybe even catch sight of a manatee or two near the shore.

Afternoon

Anna Maria Island is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering plenty of ways to get out on the water. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the mangrove-lined bays or book ahead for an inshore fishing charter where you might reel in snook, snapper, or trout.

For families or those wanting a more relaxed adventure, a dolphin cruise departing from Bradenton Beach or Cortez is a fantastic way to see these playful creatures up close in their natural habitat.

Evening

After your water adventure, retreat to your vacation rental for some much-needed downtime. Enjoy a refreshing nap, read on your balcony with a great view, or take a relaxing swim in the pool.

For dinner, keep it simple and close to home in Holmes Beach, which has some fantastic restaurants.

End your day with a peaceful, moonlit walk along the beach, where the sound of the waves and the cool evening breeze will remind you why Anna Maria Island is such a special place to visit.

If you prefer a romantic vibe, consider a sunset cruise that sails along the coastline, providing breathtaking views and a chance to unwind as the sun dips below the horizon.

Day 7: Favorite Beach Revisited, Coffee, & Check-Out

Make your final day a greatest-hits morning by revisiting your favorite beach from the week.

Whether it's the peaceful seclusion of Bean Point, the family-friendly vibe of Manatee Public Beach, the shaded pine canopy at Coquina Beach, or the calm waters and picnic spots at Bayfront Park, take your time soaking in the last moments of island life.

Bring your camera or phone to capture those final stunning views and maybe spot a few dolphins or shorebirds one last time.

Morning

Start your morning with a fresh cup of coffee from a local favorite like the Donut Experiment or North Shore Café, where the baristas know your name and the island buzz is just waking up.

Take a leisurely walk along the shoreline, feel the soft sand between your toes, and breathe in the salty Gulf breeze. This is the perfect time to reflect on your week and savor the laid-back island atmosphere before packing up.

Midday

Before leaving, enjoy a casual lunch at one of the charming spots along Gulf Drive or Pine Avenue.

These areas offer a variety of other restaurants where you can grab a quick bite or a relaxed meal with fresh seafood or island specialties. It's a great way to say goodbye to the island's flavors and friendly faces.

Afternoon

Take a slow, scenic drive off the island, perhaps stopping at a bayside overlook or a quiet park to soak in the last views of the water and palm trees. Leave Anna Maria Island feeling refreshed, with plans already forming for your return to this Gulf Coast treasure.

Getting Around Anna Maria Island

AMI is compact, so moving between Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, and Bradenton Beach is low-stress. Many of the most popular attractions are within walking distance of one another.

The AMI Trolley provides free transportation around Anna Maria Island from 6.00 AM to 10:30 PM every day. It runs from the north end to Coquina Beach with stops every few blocks; check the official trolley information before you go.

Visitors often use golf cart rentals and bikes as eco-friendly transit options on Anna Maria Island. This makes exploring Anna Maria Island easy and stress-free without needing a car for every outing.

Parking is limited in some places, such as Bean Point and other public beach accesses, and rideshares can be less common on the island. A golf cart or bike will definitely make short journeys easier.

Where to Eat on Anna Maria Island

Anna Maria Island offers a delightful range of dining options to satisfy every palate during your relaxing getaway. Here are some of the best restaurants on the island:

• The Donut Experiment: Create your own custom donuts with a variety of icings and toppings, perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat.
• Sandbar Restaurant: Enjoy fresh seafood with stunning beach views, especially memorable at sunset.
• Anna Maria Oyster Bar: Located on the historic Bridge Street Pier, known for oysters, lobster, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
• The Ugly Grouper: Popular casual dining spot with outdoor seating, great seafood, burgers, and live music, ideal for lunch.
• Skinny's: Famous for the best burgers on the island.
• Waterfront: Renowned for spicy margaritas and fresh fish dishes.

Many of these restaurants are conveniently located near Bridge Street and Pine Avenue, making it easy to explore the island's vibrant culinary scene.

Don't forget to hit the local grocery stores and make some meals at home in your vacation rental since you're enjoying an extended stay on the island.

Come Spend the Week With Us on Anna Maria Island

Spending one week on Anna Maria Island is the perfect way to experience a relaxing getaway filled with beautiful beaches, delicious food, and charming local culture. From the hidden gem of Bean Point to the vibrant Bridge Street dining scene, each day offers something new to explore and enjoy.

Our lovely vacation rentals ensure you won't miss the best experiences Anna Maria Island has to offer. Embrace the laid-back island vibe and make memories that will keep you coming back to this Gulf Coast paradise.