Thinking about visiting Anna Maria Island in November? You're in for a pleasant surprise! While the temperatures continue to cool and the tourists continue to head home, the island brings new meaning to the word 'peace' during this time of year.
We've been welcoming visitors to our slice of paradise for years, witnessing firsthand how each month offers something unique. November is no exception! Whether you're looking for R&R or looking to enjoy some outdoor activities, you'll find plenty to do to enjoy your time here.
Fall weather is cooler, the crowds are more sparse, and the island's natural beauty radiates, especially without the summer heat. Here's what to expect during a stay in Anna Maria Island in November!
November Weather Forecast on Anna Maria Island
The weather this time of the year is spectacular, particularly if you're not a fan of the stifling summer heat in Florida. High temperatures generally hover around the high 70s during the day and drop to the mid-60s at night, making it a great time to visit for outdoor activities without the overwhelming heat and humidity of summer.
The evenings are cooler, so be sure to bring a light jacket for those coveted al fresco sunset dinners on the Gulf. Rain is rare, and the clear skies allow you to enjoy comfortable Anna Maria Island weather.
Best Things to Do in November
While this is by no means an exhaustive list, here are our top five favorite things to do on Anna Maria Island in November:
1. Eco-Friendly Boat Tours & Marine Education
Photo Credit: Mark Winfrey
With the Gulf waters teeming with dolphins, manatees, and various bird species soaring overhead, an eco-friendly boat tour is a great way to explore. Opt for an eco-friendly tour, like those offered by AMI Excursions. They make a concerted effort to minimize the environmental impact and an educational aspect as well. Kayaking tours are also a good idea in November!
2. Explore Historic Pine Avenue
Photo Credit: amihs.org
Pine Avenue offers a mix of old Florida charm and modern living, lined with boutiques, restaurants, and souvenir shops. As you stroll down the street, you'll get a feel for the island's history, architecture, and laid-back vibes.
Be sure to pop by the Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum for a more comprehensive glimpse into the island's past. They have some incredible exhibits that highlight the island's intriguing history, including the preservation of the historic Belle Haven Cottage.
3. Yoga on the Beach & Wellness Retreats
Photo Credit: Mark Winfrey
November is also a great month to enjoy some outdoor wellness activities, such as beach yoga classes. A local favorite way to kick off your day on AMI, many local wellness centers offer beachfront yoga sessions, meditation classes, and even pop-up sound baths or healing sessions. In November, these experiences are far less crowded, allowing for a more intimate and personal practice as the sun rises or sets.
Some yoga studios also arrange paddleboard yoga sessions, which is an adventurous and exhilarating way to connect with nature while trying to find your balance on the water. It's not as easy as it looks! But don't worry. If you fall in, the water temperature in November will still be comfortable enough to go swimming (though this might be the last month for it!).
4. Explore the Island by Bike
Photo Credit: Sam Campos
AMI is incredibly bike-friendly, and exploring on two wheels is a great thing to do on Anna Maria Island in November. Rent a bike and ride along the island's scenic roads or bike trails, passing quaint beach cottages, quirky boutiques, and local cafes and restaurants.
One especially scenic ride is along Gulf Drive, which offers gorgeous views of the Gulf of Mexico. You can also bike over to nearby nature preserves like Leffis Key or Perico Preserve to experience the local mix of beaches, wetlands, and mangrove channels.
5. Shelling at Bean Point
Photo Credit: zhukovvvlad
One of the most serene beaches on the island, no matter the time of year, the beach at Bean Point becomes more peaceful, making it the perfect place for a quiet stroll along the shoreline. You'll have a chance to find beautiful, unique shells washed up by the tide coming in from Tampa Bay.
With its unspoiled beauty, Bean Point also offers amazing views of the Gulf of Mexico and the Skyway Bridge. It's the ideal spot for nature lovers to explore, collect shells, and take in the serenity of this tranquil beach.
November Events on Anna Maria Island
The fact that the weather is cooling doesn't make much of a difference - there are plenty of fun seasonal activities and events to enjoy on Anna Maria Island in November:
Veterans Day Parade
Photo Credit: MargJohnsonVA
The Veterans Day Parade, also known as the Old Soldiers and Sailors Parade annually in November, is a special event that honors local veterans. It's a community favorite, complete with live music, flags, and a sense of togetherness that only emphasizes the island's welcoming atmosphere.
Thanksgiving on the Island
Photo Credit: Yuganov Konstantin
Thanksgiving is a special time on Anna Maria Island, and many local restaurants offer special Thanksgiving dinners with a seaside twist. Whether you want to dine in or pick up a feast to enjoy at your vacation rental, there are plenty of ways to celebrate the holiday island-style!
If you want to counteract some of that extra calorie intake, consider the Turkey Trot! While it's just over the bridge in Bradenton at Robinson Preserve, it's a mere hop, skip, and a jump away from AMI. This 3-mile fun run is great for the whole family.
Packing for Your November Trip
Photo Credit: Art_Photo
Packing for Anna Maria Island in November is straightforward, but there are a few essentials you'll want to have:
- Light layers: Pack light, breathable clothing for warm weather during the daytime, but bring a jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.
- Swimwear and beach essentials: Don't forget your swimsuit, biodegradable sunscreen, and beach gear!
- Walking shoes: Perfect for nature walks and exploring the island.
Why Anna Maria Island is Perfect in November
November on Anna Maria Island offers a wonderful blend of ideal weather, fewer crowds, and a wide range of activities. Before the chill of the winter months settles in, and recovering from the crowds of summer, November is a great time of the year on AMI. It's the perfect time to immerse yourself in the island's natural beauty, enjoy its unique events, and relax in a peaceful, laid-back atmosphere.
Ready to experience all that Anna Maria Island has to offer this November? Book your stay with Anna Maria Island Beach Rentals and discover why this is the perfect time for a memorable island getaway. Our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals are conveniently located in Bradenton Beach, Holmes Beach, and Longboat Key. We're ready for you this November!
Plan your trip today and embrace the magic of Anna Maria Island in November!
