Welcome to Anna Maria
A private, relaxed beach community with fun activities and beautiful waterfront real estate
Anna Maria, Florida is one of three cities on Anna Maria Island. Obviously the most famous of the three, Anna Maria is a tranquil coastal community with a laid-back lifestyle on the island's north end. Located south of Tampa and St. Petersburg, Anna Maria Island is a barrier island that offers residents a unique perspective of the Gulf of Mexico. The coastal community boasts picturesque views, natural island habitats, white sandy beaches, and a friendly small-town community atmosphere. The architecture on the island ranges from old-style Florida bungalows to modern beachfront homes. Many homes have beautiful Gulf or Bay views with features like floor-to-ceiling windows, outdoor living spaces, private docks and rooftop decks.
Bean Point, located on the very north end of the island is a beacon for travelers here. Named after George Bean, one of the first residents on the island. There is limited public parking in this area, but most folks take a walk from their home out the North Bay or Gladiolus Street access points. Anna Maria Island is renowned for its gorgeous beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it an excellent destination for beach-goers and sun-seekers. Sunsets from this viewpoint can be found across social media.
Visitors can reach the island via Tampa International Airport, St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport, or Sarasota Bradenton International Airport. Anna Maria Island is over seven miles long, and you can stroll along the north-south beaches along the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay. For added convenience, the Anna Maria Trolley goes up and down the island, stopping every few blocks to get residents wherever they need to be.
In the heart of the City of Anna Maria is Pine Avenue. Local festivals are held here. Days are spent shopping along the Avenue and nights are cool to stroll after dinner to the Anna Maria City Pier. The perfect place for multi-generational families to enjoy.
What to Love
Local Lifestyle
With
Kathy Harman at your behest, you can find a place that fits how you see yourself in Anna Maria or anywhere on Anna Maria Island. The island has become a highly desirable destination for visitors and residents due to its small-town charm and direct beach and bay access. Home to permanent residents and vacation homes, Anna Maria Island provides a uniquely welcoming atmosphere and is a great place to relax and enjoy the quintessential Florida lifestyle. Residents appreciate the variety of outdoor activities, including beach walking, sailing, boating, paddle boarding, windsurfing and, of course, fishing.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
The downtown area of Anna Maria is known for its local boutique shops, restaurants, and casual cafes. On the island, residents can find many delicious restaurants that feature fresh seafood and fine dining experiences. For instance, the beachfront seafood restaurant
Sandbar Seafood & Spirits known as The Sandbar, prioritizes fresh and sustainable local ingredients, always delivering a quality dining experience.
Up the street and on the other side of the island,
The Waterfront Restaurant serves global seafood dishes and gives you the option of sitting at the bar, inside, or outside facing Tampa Bay. Early mornings make your way to
The Donut Experiment, where patrons choose from dozens of unique pastries, like the maple bacon donut, caramel sea salt donut, and vanilla Oreo donut. The Donut Experiment shares Pine Avenue with several shops: try well-reviewed stores like
Shiny Fish Emporium (souvenirs and errata),
Olive Oil Outpost (gourmet groceries), and
Pineapple Marketplace (women’s clothing). These are just a few of the spots and more are being added all the time.
Things to Do
Anna Maria Island is surrounded by some of the most beautiful beaches in Florida. Visitors and residents can spend endless hours in the sun. Fishing, kayaking, sailing, surfing, beachcombing, and turtle-watching are popular activities for residents. With its slow pace, Anna Maria is Old Florida at its most relaxed. As sunsets approach the island shifts as everyone moves to the west side in hopes of seeing the green flash, a local tale of good luck.
Bayfront Park is one of the most visited parks on the island due to its scenery and array of activities. The park features a playground, fishing spots, pavilions, and kayak and paddle board rentals. It is a short walk to the historic
Anna Maria City Pier. where live music can be found most evenings and an easy spot to watch the locals fish or to try your hand at it.
While the community boasts a tranquil and serene atmosphere, it is home to the Bayfest, a fun-filled, free annual event on Anna Maria Island. Visit for the live music, fantastic foods, drinks, and more.
