Where Is Anna Maria Island?
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If you’ve ever caught yourself wondering, “Where is Anna Maria Island?”—I’ve got you. It’s one of my absolute favorite places to visit in Florida and one of my go-to weekend getaways from Tampa, and honestly, I don’t think I’ll ever stop talking about it!
This little slice of paradise is peaceful, charming, and gives you all the coastal Florida vibes. Whether you’re planning a beach trip or just dreaming about your next getaway, let me show you exactly where Anna Maria Island is and why it needs to be on your list!
So…Where Is Anna Maria Island?
Anna Maria Island (AMI) is a 7-mile-long barrier island on the Gulf Coast of Florida. It’s tucked just below Tampa Bay, connected to the mainland by a few bridges, and sits west of Bradenton and north of Sarasota. So yep—it’s super easy to get to whether you’re flying into Tampa International Airport (TPA) or Sarasota-Bradenton (SRQ).
The island itself is made up of three cute little beach towns:
- Anna Maria (at the north end – super chill and walkable)
- Holmes Beach (in the middle – great for beach access and shopping)
- Bradenton Beach (at the south end – a bit more lively but still relaxed)
It’s the kind of place that feels like old-school Florida in the best way. Think small beach cottages, no high-rises, friendly locals, and stunning sunsets every night. Basically… heaven.
How to Get to Anna Maria Island
Getting to Anna Maria Island is actually super easy! If you’re flying in, Sarasota-Bradenton (SRQ) is the closest airport (about 30 minutes away), but if you’re coming from farther out, Tampa International (TPA) is just about an hour and a half drive.
Coming from Tampa or Orlando? You’ll basically shoot down I-75 and follow signs for Bradenton—then it’s just a quick hop over the bridge (literally). There are two main bridges that get you onto the island, but the Cortez Bridge from Bradenton is one of the most popular and scenic options. That view as you drive over? Unreal.
Plus, if you take the Cortez Bridge, you can stop at one of my favorite coffee shops in the area: Foxi Coffee!
What to Expect on Anna Maria Island
The vibe on Anna Maria Island is pure Old Florida charm. No high-rises, no chaos—just chill beach-town energy. It’s the kind of place where people still wave when you walk by, and flip-flops are basically the dress code.
You’ve got beautiful beaches like Bean Point (a must for sunset) and Coquina Beach (great for a full beach day). The whole island is super walkable, and there’s even a free trolley that makes getting around a breeze. You’ll find tons of local shops and amazing restaurants, many of which are tucked into cute little beach cottages. It’s low-key, but in the best possible way.
Is Anna Maria Island Worth Visiting?
Okay, short answer? 100% yes. But let’s get into why.
If you’re the kind of traveler who’s into laid-back beach vibes, nature, and charm over wild party scenes—Anna Maria Island is your spot. It’s super family-friendly, lowkey romantic for couples, and honestly just the perfect place to actually relax. Whether you’re doing a day trip or staying for the weekend, it totally delivers.
There’s also a ton of fun stuff to do on Anna Maria Island if you want to stay active—kayaking, paddleboarding, dolphin tours, watching the sunset with an ice cream in hand (yes, that’s an activity in my book). It’s the kind of place that slows you down.
Are you ready for a trip to AMI?!
So… is Anna Maria Island your next Florida getaway? I think you already know the answer. It’s got everything you need for a peaceful escape—gorgeous beaches, small-town charm, and plenty of sunshine. Whether you’re planning a weekend with your besties, a romantic escape, or a chill solo trip, this island seriously checks all the boxes.
I hope this guide helps you fall in love with it like I did—let me know what you’re most excited for in the comments or if you’ve already been!
Before you go, be sure to follow me on Insta @guidedbydestiny and check out some of my other Florida blog posts:
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