From parasailing over turquoise waters to exploring aquariums, zoos, and theme parks, the Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key area offers something for every member of the family. Whether you’re looking for relaxed island adventures or full-day outings, here’s a guide to the best family-friendly experiences, all active as of 2025.
Top Attractions & Day Trips
Adventure Island (Tampa)
Seasonal water park with lazy rivers, slides, and wave pools. Great for all ages—be sure to check hours and weather conditions before visiting.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Thrill rides, animal habitats, and live entertainment combine to make this one of Florida’s most exciting theme parks.
The Florida Aquarium (Tampa)
Interactive touch tanks and immersive Florida ecosystem exhibits make this aquarium a hit with kids and adults alike.
MOSI – Museum of Science & Industry (Tampa)
Hands-on science center with exhibits that encourage creativity and exploration for all ages.
ZooTampa at Lowry Park (Tampa)
Modern zoo known for manatee care, interactive animal encounters, and beautiful shaded walking paths.
Mote Science Education Aquarium (Sarasota)
A world-class marine research and education facility with sharks, sea turtles, and touch-friendly tanks for hands-on learning.
The Ringling (Sarasota)
Home to an art museum, the Circus Museum, and bayfront gardens—great for mixing a little culture with island relaxation.
The Bishop Museum of Science & Nature (Bradenton)
Natural history exhibits, Florida wildlife displays, and the state-of-the-art Bishop Planetarium for astronomy shows.
Sarasota Jungle Gardens (Sarasota)
Old-Florida charm with walk-through gardens, flamingo feeding, and interactive wildlife presentations.
Florida Railroad Museum (Parrish)
Historic trains, themed rides, and vintage railcars—perfect for families with little train lovers.
Local Water & Beach Adventures
Fly Anna Maria Parasail (Holmes Beach)
Soar above the Gulf of Mexico with breathtaking views and optional water dips. Launches from the 63rd Street Public Boat Ramp.
Sea Rocket Adventures (Bradenton Beach)
Family-friendly parasailing with tandem or triple flights—includes fun photo options and water dips.
YOLO Adventures Parasailing (Anna Maria Island)
Trusted local operator offering parasail tours and dolphin sightseeing adventures departing from Bradenton Beach Marina.
H2O Watersportz (Cortez / Bradenton Beach)
Pontoon and deck boat rentals, eco tours, and family-friendly fishing charters—great for exploring the Intracoastal Waterway.
Cannons Marina Boat Rentals (Longboat Key)
Rent a pontoon or center console for cruising, fishing, or sightseeing along the coast. Located directly on Gulf of Mexico Drive.
Off the Hook Boating & Jet Ski Rentals (Bradenton)
Jet skis, boats, and watercraft rentals for exploring Sarasota Bay, Anna Maria, and Longboat Key waters.
Longboat Bay Charters
Private inshore fishing, snorkeling, and sunset tours around Longboat Key and Sarasota Bay.
Fishburger Charters (Longboat Key)
Inshore and offshore trips with family-friendly guides—perfect for both first-timers and seasoned anglers.
Wildman Adventures – Longboat Key Fishing Charters
Local favorite offering inshore, nearshore, and eco fishing charters departing from Longboat Key.
Seafood Charters (Longboat Key)
Deep-sea fishing charters targeting grouper, snapper, and kingfish off the coast of Sarasota and Longboat Key.
Bridge Street Fishing Pier (Bradenton Beach)
Casual fishing pier with nearby shops, restaurants, and beautiful sunset views—great for families wanting to fish or just relax by the water.
Island Transportation & Land Rentals
Robinhood Rentals (Anna Maria)
Offers scooters, street-legal golf carts, bikes, and beach gear. 49cc scooters available for licensed drivers. Located in the heart of Anna Maria.
Just 4 Fun Rentals (Holmes Beach)
Luxury GEM-style golf carts, bikes, and beach gear rentals. Free delivery and pickup available. Located at 5358 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.
AMI Rentals (Anna Maria Island)
4-, 6-, and 8-passenger golf carts available in both electric and gas models with free delivery and pickup island-wide.
Coconut Rentals (Anna Maria Island)
Gas-powered, street-legal golf carts for up to 6 passengers, delivered directly to your vacation address.
ZoomAround Golf Cart Rentals
Electric and gas-powered street-legal golf carts serving Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, and Bradenton Beach. Delivery and pickup available.
Sharky’s Golf Cart Rentals
Premium electric and gas low-speed vehicles (LSVs) serving Anna Maria Island and surrounding areas. Free delivery for multi-day rentals.
AMI Beach Buggys (Holmes Beach)
Polaris GEM-style electric carts that are fully street legal. Serves Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, and Bradenton Beach. Located at 5358 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach.
Outdoor & Nature Experiences
TreeUmph! Adventure Course (Bradenton)
Zip lines, rope bridges, and climbing challenges for all skill levels set among beautiful Florida oaks.
Robinson Preserve (Bradenton)
Scenic park with hiking and biking trails, kayak launches, and the NEST Canopy Zone—an educational play area kids love.
Beach Gear & Island Rentals
Beach Bums – Island Attitude (Anna Maria)
Rent bikes, paddleboards, kayaks, and golf carts—perfect for getting around the island with ease.
ABC Baby & Beach Rentals (Anna Maria Island)
Baby gear, beach chairs, umbrellas, coolers, and strollers delivered directly to your vacation rental.
Planning Tips
- Many activities—especially parasailing, fishing charters, and golf cart rentals—book up quickly. Reserve early during spring and summer.
- Check current hours, weather, and availability before heading out, especially after storms or during off-season.
- Most major attractions are within 45–75 minutes of Anna Maria Island or Longboat Key.
- Mix beach days with cultural or adventure outings for a balanced, stress-free stay.
From peaceful paddleboarding mornings to adrenaline-filled theme park days, the Gulf Coast around Anna Maria and Longboat Key is packed with unforgettable family experiences. Whether you stay close to the island or venture inland, you’ll find the perfect mix of sun, discovery, and smiles for everyone in your crew.