Discover the best of Anna Maria Island, a charming coastal escape known for its powder-soft sand, turquoise waters, and Old Florida charm. From boutique shops and local eateries to dolphin tours and breathtaking sunsets, AMI is the perfect place to unwind. Find more travel tips and island inspiration in the blogs below.
Local Coffee Shops & Best Pastries Worth Visiting During Your Beach Vacation From Anna Maria Island to 30A, Destin, Navarre & Panama City Beach A beach vacation and great coffee go hand-in-hand — but the real magic happens when you pair that latte with the perfect pastry. Across Anna Maria Island and Florida’s Emerald Coast, local coffee shops double as…
Seeing dolphins along Florida’s Gulf Coast is one of those vacation experiences you never forget. From Panama City Beach and 30A to Destin, Anna Maria Island, and Longboat Key, bottlenose dolphins are frequently seen in bays, passes, and nearshore Gulf waters. While many visitors search for “swimming with dolphins,” it is important to understand that wild dolphins are protected marine…
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…
From the Emerald Coast to Anna Maria Island & Bradenton If your idea of a perfect beach vacation includes fresh Gulf seafood, craft beer, and sunset wine tastings, you’re in the right place. Across Florida’s Gulf Coast—from Panama City Beach and 30A to Destin, Navarre, Pensacola, and south to Anna Maria Island and Bradenton—the calendar is packed with food, beer,…
Spring is one of the best times to experience the charm and beauty of Anna Maria Island, Bradenton Beach, and Longboat Key. From local farmers markets and live music festivals to Easter celebrations and art shows, Florida’s Gulf Coast comes alive with family-friendly events and outdoor fun. This guide highlights the top spring 2025 events happening across the island and…
Spending Thanksgiving on Florida’s Gulf Coast is hard to beat: sugar-white sand, emerald water, and a kitchen that doesn’t have to be spotless at the end of the night. Whether you’re staying in one of our Best Beach Getaways vacation rentals from Pensacola to Panama City Beach or on Anna Maria Island, you’ll find plenty of restaurants ready to handle…
Beachfront Condo vs. Beach HouseHow to Choose the Perfect Coastal Stay Planning a beach vacation sounds simple—until you reach the big decision: Should you book a beachfront condo or a beach house? Both offer incredible coastal experiences, but the right choice depends on how you vacation, who you’re traveling with, and what kind of beach lifestyle you want to enjoy.…
From Anna Maria Island and Bradenton Beach on Florida’s central Gulf Coast to Panama City Beach, Scenic Highway 30A, and Miramar Beach in Northwest Florida, the Gulf Coast hosts an impressive lineup of music festivals and live performance events throughout the year. Whether you’re planning a winter escape, spring beach trip, or summer vacation, these events combine live music with…
Summer on the Florida Gulf Coast has a way of calling people back year after year. Warm Gulf waters, sugar-white sand, beautiful sunsets, fresh seafood, family-friendly attractions, and relaxed coastal communities make this one of the best places to enjoy a summer beach vacation. Whether you are planning ahead or looking for a last-minute beach getaway, July and early August…
Whether you’re staying close to the beach or just a short walk from Gulf waters, the local shopping options here help make your stay both practical and delightful. From surf shops with resident parrots to charming boutiques, here’s a refined list of favorite spots — walkable, trolley-friendly, or a quick drive away. Shopping Highlights (Walking or Trolley Distance) 1. Island…
Summer may get most of the attention, but fall can be one of the best times of year to plan a Gulf Coast beach vacation. The beaches are still beautiful, the Gulf is still inviting, and the pace becomes noticeably more relaxed once the peak summer crowds begin to thin out. From Panama City Beach and 30A to Destin, Okaloosa…
Planning your escape to the Florida sugar-white sands? Whether you’re heading to Destin, 30A, Panama City Beach, Pensacola or Anna Maria Islan, packing smart makes all the difference. Here’s our top 10 must-pack items to help you soak up the sun, avoid surprises, and enjoy every beachy moment. 1. Sunscreen (and lots of it!) Florida sun doesn’t play around. Go…