Anna Maria Island was recently featured in USA Today in an article entitled The 'Old Florida' feel of Anna Maria Island by Kitty Bean Yancey. In addition to extolling our virtues and listing some of our favorite places, the article calls Anna Maria Island "an unassuming, wallet-friendly 'Old Florida' vacation spot."

In addition to the multitude of cultural arts events, museums and festivals that abound on Anna Maria Island, the surrounding areas enjoy more than its share of outdoor recreational opportunities. The white sandy beaches and sparkling blue water of Florida's Gulf Coast are perfect for boating, fishing and just relaxing. The area's golf, spring training baseball and more ensure that Anna Maria Island and Manatee County’s visitors and residents enjoy year-round entertainment.

We are also within driving distance of America’s Top Beach for 2008, Caladesi Island State Park in the St. Petersburg/Clearwater area named by Coastal expert Dr. Stephen Leatherman, a.k.a. “Dr. Beach,”. Another area beach, Siesta Beach on Siesta Key in Sarasota was 3rd on the list.

http://www.drbeach.org/drbeach/best_beach_list_2008.htm

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap_travel/20080522/ap_tr_ge/travel_brief_best_beaches

Florida Gulf Islands - This is the Official Website of the Bradenton Area Convention & Visitors Bureau and Florida’s Gulf Islands of Anna Maria Island, Longboat Key, Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch. Sugar white beaches, teal blue waters and fresh local cuisine are just a sample of the authentic experiences this gulf coast destination offers visitors.

Anna Maria Island Life - Welcome to our Anna Maria Island Business Directory and Information Guide... and everything that is Anna Maria Island!

Visit one of three waterfront restaurants and enjoy a variety of native seafood, chicken, salads and steaks. Breathtaking views, courteous service and a casual atmosphere make it the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a refreshing Pina Colada and an exceptional meal. Watch dolphins play while you soak in the sun and sink your toes in the sand. The areas top three spots to watch the sun go down, ending another perfect day in paradise. www.groupersandwich.com

“The best little restaurant in Florida…”
 
The Beach Bistro boasts one of the highest Zagat ratings for food and service in the state of Florida. Their intimate dining room located on the beach itself makes it a favorite spot for both romantics and gourmands alike. As a seven-time recipient of Florida Trendmagazine’s Golden Spoon Award, the Bistro is a restaurant that will provide you with one of the highest quality meals you will ever experience. Coupled with their superior service, the Bistro’s Gulf coast cookery cuisine is sure to make your visit memorable. Their recent induction into the Golden Spoon’s “Hall of Fame”, as well as achieving a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, makes the Beach Bistro a very hard place to miss.
 
All this and a breathtaking surfside, island location.