How to Get to Anna Maria Island

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Located roughly a 30-minute drive from Anna Maria Island, SRQ is the closest airport, which is the best option if you want a short, direct drive. It's a smaller airport, so flights may be limited, but it's the most convenient in terms of distance.

Tampa International Airport (TPA)

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About an hour away, Tampa International is a major airport with a huge selection of flights from domestic and international locations. It's an easy drive down the coast, with straightforward routes and swoon-worthy views of Tampa Bay.

St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE)

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About 45 miles away, PIE is another good option, particularly if you're flying with a low-cost airline. The drive takes about 50 minutes and you can make a quick stop in St. Pete or Clearwater to see another gorgeous area of Florida!

Orlando International Airport (MCO)

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For those who don't mind a bit of a drive (about two hours), Orlando's major airport probably offers the best range of flights, especially for international travelers. Plus, you're in a prime place to check out the state's popular theme parks at the beginning or end of your trip!

Driving to Anna Maria Island: Main Routes from Nearby Cities

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If you're driving in from popular Florida cities, you're in for a beautiful ride. The Gulf Coast roads offer beautiful seaswept views with plenty of spots to stop, snap some photos, and stretch your legs. Here are some popular starting points:

Route

Head south on I-75, exit onto FL-64 W (Manatee Avenue) for a direct drive across the Manatee Avenue Bridge.

Stop Recommendation: Bradenton's Village of the Arts

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About 15 minutes before you reach the bridge to Anna Maria Island, take a short detour into Bradenton's Village of the Arts, a cultural area packed with local art galleries, cutesy shops, and comfy cafes. The village has a boho vibe and features work from local artists, providing an idyllic break to stretch your legs, grab a coffee, or check out some unique souvenirs. Look out for Arte Caffe if you're in the mood for authentic Italian pizza in a cozy art-filled setting or Ortygia, popular for its Sicilian specialties and cozy atmosphere.

From Orlando (Approx. 2 Hours)

Route

Start on I-4 W towards Tampa, merge onto I-75 S, and exit at FL-64 W for the final stretch to the island.

Stop Recommendation: Winter Haven's Bok Tower Gardens

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For those craving a touch of tranquility mid-trip, stop at Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales, about an hour from Orlando. This picture-perfect National Historic Landmark is home to immaculately landscaped gardens and a majestic 205-foot Singing Tower that plays melodic carillon concerts daily.

The surrounding gardens are lush and peaceful, making this an ideal stop to unwind. There's a small café for light bites and refreshments, and the surrounding nature trails are perfect for a quiet stroll. Kids will love the Hammock Hollow Children's Garden, while adults can appreciate the beautiful views and sense of serenity.

From Miami (Approx. 4 Hours)

Route

Take I-75 N (Alligator Alley), then head north on I-75 through the west coast of Florida, eventually taking FL-64 W for the final stretch.

Stop Recommendation: Naples Botanical Garden

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You'll find Naples Botanical Garden at the halfway point - a verdant oasis spanning 170 acres of meticulously curated landscapes, including a Caribbean Garden, a Brazilian Garden, and even a butterfly sanctuary. It's a perfect spot to relax, recharge, and get a taste of Florida's unique plant species.

For a light meal, check out Fogg Café, which offers fast casual dining with a focus on local ingredients. They offer breakfast options as well as salads and sandwiches for something savory. The gardens are a different way to experience Florida's natural beauty and a perfect break before the last stretch of your drive.

From Fort Myers (Approx. 1.75 Hours)

Route

Head north on I-75 and take FL-64 W, a straightforward route offering easy island access.

Stop Recommendation: Venice, FL

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Just 40 minutes into your drive, Venice is a historic town that's a popular spot due to its charming downtown, eclectic boutiques, and shark teeth galore! It's a great town to stretch your legs, enjoy a leisurely amble along the  Venice Pier, or grab a quick bite to eat at one of the local haunts.

Venice's Historic District has several specialty shops with handcrafted items and beachwear on a banyan tree-lined avenue if you're looking to bring home some island-inspired souvenirs. Interested in finding shark teeth on the beach? Venice is internationally renowned for its shark teeth fossil hunting at Caspersen Beach, one of the best shelling beaches in Florida.

Other Airport Transfer Options

Ride-Sharing Services

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Lyft and Uber operate in the area, and you can book a ride from any nearby airport directly to Anna Maria Island. While it may be pricier from the farther airports, it's a convenient option for those who want to skip the car rental process or prefer to not have to deal with a car!

Shuttle Services

Several  shuttle services provide airport transfers directly to Anna Maria Island, especially from Tampa and Sarasota. These are great options if you don't need a private ride but also don't want to deal with a rental car.

Public Transportation

Although they're limited, public buses run from Bradenton to Anna Maria Island. Manatee County Area Transit (MCAT) offers routes that connect with the island's trolley service, which is free and runs along the main roads, which makes it easy to get around once you're on the island. This isn't a realistic option if you're traveling with luggage.

Getting Around Anna Maria Island

Once you're on the island, you'll find that getting around is easy!

The Free Anna Maria Island Trolley

Running from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., the  free trolley is a great way to explore at no cost. It travels from the north end of Anna Maria down to Coquina Beach, with stops at key points along the way.

Bikes and Golf Carts

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For a unique (and eco-friendly) way to explore our island, why not  rent a bicycle or  golf cart? Plenty of establishments are set up along the island for visitors to rent one of these underutilized methods of transportation! Check out  Robinhood Rentals as your one-stop shop for bikes and golf carts in Anna Maria City.

Strolling the Island on Foot

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If you like taking in the sights as you go from point A to point B, you'll be delighted to discover that AMI is quite walkable, particularly if you're staying near the beaches or shops in any of the three towns. Oftentimes you'll find that everything you need is just a short stroll away!

Where to Stay on Anna Maria Island

Anna Maria Island's charm starts well before you set foot on its sandy beaches. Whether you're arriving by air or taking a leisurely road trip, the journey here is all part of the experience! Once you've arrived on AMI, get situated in your vacation rental with Anna Maria Island Beach Rentals.

With options in Longboat Key, Holmes Beach, and Bradenton Beach, you're exactly where you want to be. Join us for breathtaking views, warm hospitality, and that unmistakable island spirit waiting for you. Safe travels, and welcome to AMI!