Anna Maria Island, a picturesque barrier island on Florida's Gulf Coast, is a popular year-round destination known for its sandy expanses of shoreline, clear waters, and welcoming atmosphere.
While you can visit AMI at any time of year, there's a unique charm that spring brings to the island. When the vibrant colors begin to pop, and the snowbirds make their way back home, it's no wonder that spring is a popular time of year for tourism on our little slice of paradise.
Whether you've already booked one of our vacation rental homes or are in the beginning stages of planning your trip, we'll guide you through all you need to know about visiting Anna Maria Island in the spring. We've got you covered with the weather you should expect, packing essentials, and the best things to do in spring on Anna Maria Island. Dust off your suitcase and let's go!
Why Spring is a Great Time to Visit Anna Maria Island
Spring makes for a fairly relaxing visit to AMI. There's a balance between the departure of the snowbirds with the beginning of the summer crowds - not to mention the spring breakers that come down for the more relaxed Anna Maria Island nightlife.
AMI Spring Break
Photo Credit: Mark Winfrey
Spring break typically happens in March, leaving the months of April and May somewhat less crowded (and a bit more quiet). The island comes alive during this time, with pops of color from blooming flowers, the stir of wildlife, and the energy that the crowds bring.
Anna Maria Island Weather in Spring
Temperatures on AMI in spring are mild and comfortable, particularly compared to the summer's sweltering heat. The average highs in the mid 80s and nighttime lows in the 60s mean layering is key. The air is also much less humid than in the summer months, making it even more comfortable to take part in fun outdoors.
Spring is dryer than the summer months in general, with significantly less rainfall and afternoon storms. The days boast an abundance of sunshine and perfect weather for hiking, watersports, beach days, and other outdoor activities. The precipitation that does fall in spring is typically short-lived, making way for clear skies after a quick rain.
Top Things to Do in Spring on Anna Maria Island
Attend Anna Maria Island Springfest
Anna Maria Island Art League holds an annual Springfest designed to showcase artists and craftspeople locally and from all over the country. The festival happens each year in mid-March.
That weekend, you can head down to Holmes Beach for your fill of unique art, live music, raffles, family-friendly entertainment, and more.
Hit the Beach
Photo Credit: Stephen B. Goodwin
With the waters beginning to warm up and fewer crowds than during the summer months, spring is perfect for a relaxing beach day on AMI. You can head to Coquina Beach for a lively game of beach volleyball, Bean Point for a quiet day of shelling, or Manatee Public Beach for a family beach day.
EXPLORE LEFFIS KEY PRESERVE
Photo Credit: Billy McDonald
If you're a nature enthusiast, you'll love spending a spring day at Leffis Key Preserve. During the spring months, this nature preserve comes alive with wildlife and a number of bird species. Don't forget to bring the binoculars!
GET OUT ON THE WATER
The waters surrounding AMI are absolutely perfect for all types of watersports. Adrenaline junkies will love the availability of jet skis on the island, as well as ample opportunities to go parasailing.
If you're in the mood for something relaxing, there are plenty of options for kayaking and paddleboarding, either by tour or renting your own equipment. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and manatees!
TAKE A CRUISE
Photo Credit: Maridav
And if you want something that's genuinely hands-off, there are a variety of different cruises you can take around the island - from romantic sunset cruises to dolphin sighting tours; you'll be able to find something that suits your interest.
WANDER A LOCAL FARMERS' MARKET
Photo Credit: Lynn Hassebrock
Whether you're in the mood for a unique, handcrafted souvenir to bring home, or you want to take full advantage of our vacation rental kitchens and stock up on some fresh produce and seafood to whip up your own meal, the farmers' markets on Anna Maria Island are definitely worth a trip.
Your two choices on the island are the Bridge Street Market or the Coquina Beach Market - both of these run from approximately November through April or May, so if you're heading to AMI in early spring, you've got a good chance of making one of them.
However, if both farmers' markets on the island are already closed for the season, you can take a mini-day trip to the nearby Red Barn Flea Market or Sarasota Farmers' Market to check out their year-round markets as well.
HEAD OUT TO SEA
As an island in the Gulf of Mexico, it should come as no surprise that AMI is a veritable hotspot for fishing enthusiasts and anglers of all skill levels. Whether you want to fish off a pier or take a fishing charter offshore, you'll find plenty of opportunities.
Fishing on Anna Maria Island in spring brings with it a number of different fish species you might reel in, depending on where you want to fish. Some fish you might encounter in the waters surrounding AMI include tarpon, grouper, snook, barracudas, and plenty more.
Some of the most popular spots for fishing are Rod and Reel Pier, the jetties along the island's north side, and, of course, Tampa Bay.
PACKING ESSENTIALS FOR A SPRING VISIT
Spring on AMI is all about enjoying the beautiful weather, so be sure to dress the part. Light and comfortable clothes are best, regardless of what your plans are. While the temperatures in spring on Anna Maria Island are fairly mild, you'll still want to bring a light jacket or coverup for evenings, as the temperatures drop a bit once the sun dips below the horizon.
Of course, as the Gulf waters begin to warm up, you'll need your beachwear for days and your choice of sun protection. We recommend bringing biodegradable sunscreen, a sunhat, and sunglasses. You'll also need to bring beach towels (or pick them up at a local souvenir shop).
Sandals or flip flops are perfect for exploring the different neighborhoods of AMI and beach days. If you plan on exploring Leffis Key Preserve or other nature trails, you should bring some comfortable hiking shoes.
Regardless of what you plan on doing once you get to AMI, on the off chance that you may forget something, our island has plenty of shops to pick up what you need.
ARE YOU READY TO ENJOY SPRING ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND?
Spring on Anna Maria Island is like a breath of fresh air when you didn't even know you needed one. It's true, our island is a magical place to visit no matter the time of year - however, spring brings a sense of liveliness and excitement that is unparalleled.
Come experience the blend of relaxation and adventure that our island offers during the spring season. Get in touch with us to discuss your needs and book your Anna Maria Island vacation rental today!
