The Perfect Weekend Getaway Guide

If you’re looking to get away for the weekend, enjoy the sun, sea breeze, and good food, Anna Maria Island is the place to go for pure relaxation just steps away from the beach.

Anna Maria Island is about an hour and ten minutes from the University of Tampa, you can drive or split an uber with friends. Anna Maria Island has a plethora of homes for rent, hotels and condos.

If you’re from New York like me, you might be familiar with Montauk, from my experience I have found that Anna Maria Island is Florida's equivalent.

Anna Maria is a beachy town past Bradenton Beach, it used to be a hidden gem, but throughout recent years has become a hot vacation spot that is safe and family friendly. Whether you want to relax, paddleboard, go for a sunset cruise, fish, or eat some good food, Anna Maria checks off each of those boxes.

Throughout my life I have been visiting Anna Maria Island, so I would consider myself to be an expert. Spending so much time in Anna Maria is what urged me to get my degree at the University of Tampa.

Looking to hit the beach? Anna Maria is surrounded by water. Whether you visit the beach off the Sandbar restaurant right near the town, or Manatee Beach, the water is crystal clear and the sunsets are dream-like.

Homes in Anna Maria are usually beach homes. Most have pools and the homes are usually fun colors. Homes for rent in Anna Maria range in price, but there are many multiple bedroom, affordable options if you’re considering to stay with friends, while on a budget.

AFFORDABLE PLACES TO RENT FOR A WEEKEND IN ANNA MARIA ISLAND (prices can fluctuate):

• Sleeps 6 at only $205 a night, a visit from Friday to Sunday only costs $104 per person. https://www.vrbo.com/1821441?arrival=2020-11-27&departure=2020-11-29&unitId=2382950

• Sleeps 4 at only $169 a night, a visit from Friday to Sunday only costs $167.50 per person. https://www.vrbo.com/4449269ha?arrival=2020-11-27&departure=2020-11-29&unitId=5035173

Anna Maria is a casual beach town, so pack your flip flops, a beach towel and your bathing suit. Most importantly, don’t forget your sunscreen.

BEACHES IN ANNA MARIA ISLAND:

• Anna Maria Public Beach

  • The sand here is like confectioners sugar, the water is calm, and the sunsets are beautiful. The Sandbar Restaurant is located on this beach.

• Manatee Public Beach

  • This is where a lot of the action is at. This beach has a shop, volleyball nets and an eating area. Both young adults and families go to this beach. You can also buy beach floats and float around in the crystal clear water. Manatee beach is known for serving pancakes in the morning, but they also offer finger foods like chicken fingers and fries.

• Bean Point Beach

  • This is a common area for fisherman and a great spot to go shelling. Water can get rough so be careful. Sunsets are beautiful over here.

• Coquina Beach

  • Nice beach with picnic areas and a cafe.

Anna Maria Island has a wide range of restaurants. If you like seafood, you will have some good luck in Anna Maria Island. Whether you are looking for something more upscale, a sunset view, or a casual beachy spot. There are many options for dining during your stay.

GOOD SPOTS TO EAT AT IN ANNA MARIA ISLAND:

• The Sandbar Restaurant

  • Right on the beach, has the most gorgeous sunset. Great seafood, steak and salads. Cocktails are amazing. The Pina Colada and Rum Runner are the perfect drink to sip on while dining on the beach. You can actually have your toes in the sand while eating your meal. Before sunset the staff asks their tables what time they think the sun will set, whoever is closest gets a free dessert. Moderately expensive.

• The Waterfront

  • One of the best spots near the water. The baked brie appetizer is a must if you visit this spot. This is the perfect spot to try something different that you would not normally eat, but you’re guaranteed to be pleased. Moderately expensive.

• Skinny’s Place

  • The best spot to visit if you’re spending the day at Manatee Beach. Skinny’s Place is a shack across from Manatee Beach with the best burgers, hot dogs and fries. The seating area consists of bench tables and is super casual. Inexpensive.

• Rod and Reel Pier

  • If you want to eat casually and see some dolphins or manatees during your meal, this is the perfect place and is right on the Bay. Inexpensive.

• Hometown Desserts

  • If you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want some yummy desserts, Hometown Desserts has the best carrot cake, key lime pie and other options. Inexpensive.

• Ginny and Jane E’s Cafe

  • The best spot for a quick breakfast, smoothie, pastry or sandwich. Not only is the food good, but it is located in a gift store. This is an atmosphere that you do not find often, it is unique and casual. Inexpensive.

• Island Ocean Star

  • The best spot for sushi. Ocean Star is located right on the water with a beautiful view of boats and yachts. The view is beautiful and dolphins sometimes make an appearance. Expensive.

Now that you have the ultimate Anna Maria guide, book a trip. If you’re curious about how to get around in Anna Maria, or you don’t have a car, most things are in walking distance. If you are looking for alternatives to getting around on foot, Anna Maria offers many golf cart rentals and bike rentals.

The atmosphere in Anna Maria is much different than what we normally see here in Tampa. When you’re there you’re on island time. It is a perfect place to kick back and relax.

If you’re worried about traveling to somewhere new, Anna Maria is one of the safest places I have ever experienced. Everyone on the island is fun and friendly.

If you are interested in pure relaxation, avoid Anna Maria during Easter or July 4th, that is when the island is at its peak for visitors. Anna Maria is a very family friendly place, rather than a party town, so if you’re looking for a Miami Beach vibe, this is not it.

But if you are looking for quality time with friends or family while enjoying the pool or beach, you now have an itinerary. Enjoy.