Below are some of my favorite things to do (and eat!) while on Anna Maria Island.
Things To Do
Historic Anna Maria City Pier
A local and tourist favorite, the Anna Maria City Pier is conveniently located at the end of the trolley stop with restaurants and ice cream nearby. There is a City Pier Grill and Bait Shop for fishing fun, and the views aren't bad either!
Manatee Public Beach is easy walking distance from The Blue Ark, and offers all you can eat pancake breakfast, lunch, and live music most evenings. There are lifeguards, volleyball nets, beach gear rental and a souvenir gift shop.
The Rod and Reel Pier is located at the North end of the island, not far from the Anna Maria City Pier. There is a two-story restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. There is great fishing here as well, with poles that can be rented.
H20 Water Sports has jet ski and boat rentals, as well as charter fishing. Fun fact - this picture was taken of my dad, brother and I over 20 years ago at the same place H20 water sports is now!
Traveling to the pier is easy and enjoyable. There are free trolleys that run up and down the island every 20 minutes, and the trolley stop is just around the corner from the Ark (turn right when you leave the house and walk along the road until you see a bench).
There are several rental places for bikes, golf carts, paddle boards and kayaks/ kayak tours. Mention you are a guest of The Blue Ark to get 10% off from Beach Bums.
One hidden gem on Anna Maria Island, where people like to go shelling is a beach called Bean Point. Beautiful white sand and lovely views, bean point is a bit of un-touched Old Florida. If you can find parking along the street, it's worth the effort.
Ice cream, breakfast and lunch. Although there are many ice cream shops on the island, this is my favorite by far. (Blueberry Pie and Banana Pudding are incredible).