The Best Activities in Anna Maria Island for the Whole Family

Anna Maria Island is the perfect family destination for a fun and relaxing vacation. From white sandy beaches and glistening waters to incredible restaurants and lots of shopping, this small island in the Gulf of Mexico is sure to please everyone in your family. But what activities should you include in your vacation to make the most of your time in Anna Maria Island? Here are the top 12 activities for the whole family that you won’t want to miss out on!

Go Kayaking

Kayaking is a great way to explore the island and take in its beauty, as you can paddle along the shore and get up close and personal with the crystal clear waters. There are plenty of rental companies available that can provide kayaks and other equipment, so you can easily get set up for a day of adventure. You can also find guided tours that will take you to some of the most popular spots on the island, so you can learn more about the area as you explore.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can take a kayak out into the Gulf of Mexico and explore some of the many small islands and reefs that are scattered around the area. This is a great way to get a unique look at the area and experience the vibrant marine life that Anna Maria Island has to offer.

No matter what your skill level is, kayaking is a great activity that the whole family can enjoy. So why not rent some kayaks and explore the island from a different perspective?

Visit the Beaches

Anna Maria Island is known for its beautiful beaches, and there are plenty of them to choose from. From the white sand beaches of Bradenton Beach to the more secluded spots of Holmes Beach, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to relax and soak up some sun. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even rent a boat and take a trip out into the Gulf of Mexico for some spectacular views.

The beaches are also great spots for activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and fishing. Or if you’re feeling more relaxed, you can just sit back and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the island. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars that are located directly on the beach, so you can grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink while you take in the stunning views.

No matter what type of beach experience you’re looking for, Anna Maria Island has something for everyone. So make sure to check out the many beaches that the island has to offer.

Take a Boat Tour

If you want to get an even better look at the area, then why not take a boat tour? There are plenty of tour companies that offer a variety of different tours, from fishing trips to dolphin watching excursions. You can also find sunset cruises and day trips to nearby islands, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

A boat tour is a great way to get an up close and personal look at the area, and it’s also a great way to relax and enjoy some quality time with your family. So why not take a boat tour and explore the beauty of Anna Maria Island from the water?

Go Fishing

If you’re looking for a fun and exciting activity, then why not go fishing? Anna Maria Island is known for its excellent fishing, and there are plenty of spots to cast your line. You can rent a boat and head out into the Gulf of Mexico for some deep sea fishing, or you can stay closer to shore and try your luck in the bays and inlets that are scattered around the island.

No matter what your skill level is, fishing is a great activity for the whole family. And even if you don’t catch anything, you’re sure to have a great time and create some lasting memories.

Visit the Anna Maria Island Lighthouse

The Anna Maria Island Lighthouse is a historic landmark that was built in 1880 and is one of the most popular attractions on the island. You can climb the 99 steps to the top of the lighthouse to get a spectacular view of the island, or you can take a guided tour to learn more about the history of the lighthouse and how it has been used over the years.

The lighthouse is also a great spot for taking pictures, so make sure to bring your camera and get some amazing shots of the island. And if you’re feeling more adventurous, you can even take a dive off the lighthouse for an even better view.

Relax at the Beachfront Hotels

Anna Maria Island has plenty of beachfront hotels that are perfect for relaxing and enjoying the view. With luxurious accommodations and beautiful views of the Gulf of Mexico, these hotels are the perfect spot to kick back and unwind with your family. And many of them also offer pools, spa services, and other activities, so you can be sure to find something for everyone to enjoy.

So why not book a room at one of the beachfront hotels and spend some time soaking up the sun and enjoying the island?

Take a Boat Ride to Egmont Key

Egmont Key is a small island located just off the coast of Anna Maria Island, and it’s a great place to explore. You can take a boat ride to the island and explore the ruins of the old fort, or you can take a guided tour to learn more about the history of the island. There are also plenty of activities to enjoy, such as swimming, snorkeling, and fishing.

Egmont Key is a great spot to get away from the hustle and bustle of the island, and it’s a great place to relax and take in the stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. So why not take a boat ride to Egmont Key and explore this historic island?

Go Shopping

Anna Maria Island has plenty of great shops and boutiques that are perfect for finding unique gifts and souvenirs. From clothing stores to art galleries, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And many of the shops also offer free samples and discounts, so you can be sure to find a bargain.

You can also find great restaurants and bars scattered around the island, so you can grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink while you explore the area. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try some local seafood or experience some of the island’s nightlife.

So why not take a stroll around the island and explore the shops and restaurants that Anna Maria Island has to offer?

Visit the Wildlife Sanctuary

The Anna Maria Island Wildlife Sanctuary is a great spot to experience the unique wildlife of the area. You can take a guided tour to learn more about the local animals and plants, or you can take a walk along the nature trails to explore the area on your own. There are also plenty of spotlights and birdwatching opportunities, so you can be sure to see some amazing creatures.

The sanctuary is also a great place to take pictures, so make sure to bring your camera and get some amazing shots. And if you’re feeling more adventurous, you can even take a paddle board tour to get an even better look at the area.

So why not visit the Anna Maria Island Wildlife Sanctuary and get up close and personal with some of the island’s wildlife?

Visit the Local Art Galleries

Anna Maria Island is home to many art galleries that are perfect for finding unique pieces of art and crafts. From paintings to sculptures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And many of the galleries also offer classes and workshops, so you can learn more about the art and even make your own pieces.

So why not take a stroll around the galleries and explore some of the unique pieces that Anna Maria Island has to offer?

Take a Museum Tour

Anna Maria Island has plenty of museums that are perfect for learning more about the history of the area. From the Maritime Museum to the Anna Maria Island Historical Society, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And many of the museums also offer guided tours, so you can get a better look at the area and learn more about the island’s past.

So why not take a museum tour and explore the many interesting pieces that Anna Maria Island has to offer?

Visit the Local Parks

Anna Maria Island is home to many parks that are perfect for relaxing and enjoying the outdoors. From the Manatee County Park to the Anna Maria Island Nature Center, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. You can take a walk along the trails to explore the area, or you can take a picnic to one of the many scenic spots.

The parks are also great spots for taking pictures, so make sure to bring your camera and get some amazing shots of the island. So why not take a stroll around the parks and explore the beauty of Anna Maria Island?

Summary

Anna Maria Island is the perfect family destination for a fun and relaxing vacation. From white sandy beaches and glistening waters to incredible restaurants and lots of shopping, this small island in the Gulf of Mexico is sure to please everyone in your family. There are plenty of activities to enjoy, such as kayaking, visiting the beaches, taking a boat tour, fishing, visiting the lighthouse, relaxing at the beachfront hotels, taking a boat ride to Egmont Key, going shopping, visiting the wildlife sanctuary, exploring the art galleries, taking a museum tour, and visiting the local parks. So make sure to check out these activities and make the most of your time in Anna Maria Island!