Anna Maria Island

It feels a little like going back in time when you visit Anna Maria Island, a wonderful coastal island resort area. There are endless beaches here, backed by small homes and quiet resorts, and the atmosphere is laid-back.

Anna Maria Island is the ideal destination for a small-town vacation in Florida if you're looking for a perfect stretch of white, sandy shore. This seven-mile-long barrier island is home to one of Florida's top beaches and is located between the Gulf of Mexico and the mainland. White-sand beaches surround the coastline, and the area is a haven for bird enthusiasts. The peaceful town of Anna Maria has been called sleepy by some and laid-back and relaxing by others. The downtown area is crowded with antique stores, art galleries, and seafood restaurants. The 1911-built pier is a great place to wander. When you go to sea for fishing, surfing, or a paddleboard trip, be sure to keep an eye out for dolphins offshore.