4 Reasons to Visit Anna Maria Island for Spring Break
With seven miles of gorgeous beaches, unique coastal cities, and plenty of family-friendly attractions, Anna Maria Island is the perfect destination for your next spring break getaway. Our spacious and private vacation homes and condos allow friends and family to fully rest and relax while on vacation. Learn more about what makes Anna Maria Island an ideal spring break destination!
Unique Coastal Cities
Anna Maria Island is made up of three cities – Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach, and Holmes Beach. While all offer guests breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico and white sandy beaches, each has unique characteristics and charm that make them special. Visitors to the City of Anna Maria are treated to incredible sunsets, friendly locals, and the quintessential Old Florida town feel. Bradenton Beach, another charming small beachside town, is perfect for those who want to bring their pup, as it’s a very pet-friendly destination. Holmes Beach, centrally located, allows you to explore the island on a whim without issues.
Take advantage of Anna Maria Island’s free trolley system that connects you from Holmes Beach all the way to the Anna Maria City Pier. The Anna Maria Island Trolley operates daily from 6 AM to 10:30 PM and runs every 20 minutes. The trolley is a great way to experience each city during your vacation.
Anna Maria Island Family-Friendly Attractions
Anna Maria Island offers plenty of family-friendly attractions that you can’t miss during your stay. Visit Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach, known for its calm and shallow waters, which make it ideal for families with younger children. The beach also features picnic tables, five pavilions, playgrounds, restrooms, and Coquina Beach Cafe, making it an excellent one-stop beach destination. Manatee Beach, in Holmes Beach, is another popular spot for a relaxing beach day. You’ll find picnic tables, restrooms, grills, the Anna Maria Island Cafe, and more for a stress-free beach day.
When you’re not spending your day swimming in the crystal clear waters of the Gulf, explore the incredible indoor and outdoor adventures that Anna Maria Island offers. Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the calm coastal waters to spot wildlife like dolphins and manatees, or book a fishing charter to reel in local catches. If you prefer to stay dry, head to Pine Avenue and go shopping! You’ll find a variety of shops for clothing, furniture, accessories, souvenirs, beach wear, and more.
Delicious Coastal Cuisine

The Waterfront Restaurant
The many local restaurants that fit any palate will delight Anna Maria Island guests. The Waterfront Restaurant and Craft Bar, surrounded by stunning bay views and filled with cozy vibes, is an AMI favorite. Enjoy local and fresh seafood dishes, tacos, specialty cocktails, and more. Dine at the Anna Maria Island Oyster Bar on the Pier in Bradenton Beach. This coastal eatery features a family-friendly atmosphere, a patio for dining al fresco, and an indoor dining room. Or, if you are seeking a more relaxed dining experience, you can’t go wrong with Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe. Treat yourself to casual, beachfront dining and an extensive breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu. A few options include pancakes and waffles for breakfast or burgers, salads, and fish tacos for lunch and dinner. Delight your taste buds as you explore the numerous eateries found along Anna Maria Island!
Stay in a Gorgeous Anna Maria Island Vacation Home
Make your Anna Maria Island spring break vacation even more memorable by staying in an exclusive Anna Maria Island vacation rental! Choose between amenities such as private pools, pet-friendly properties, and beachfront properties. We also offer an extensive selection of vacation rentals in Bradenton. Book your Gulf vacation directly with Island Dreams Realty and save!