When planning your well-deserved vacation, it’s key to not only hit the tourist highlights but to head off the beaten path. Anna Maria Island and Sarasota, Florida offer an unforgettable escape that doesn’t have to be filled with long waits or crowds. From ecological adventures to indulgent delights, these two destinations perfectly blend exclusivity and charm.
Recommended by locals, we’ve curated a list of four unique experiences in Anna Maria Island and Sarasota. Here’s your insider's guide to why you should choose this beautiful stretch of South Florida for your next vacation.
Anna Maria Island is known for its stunning natural beauty and wildlife. One way to engage in the local conservation effort is to join a turtle watch. Local conservationists set out to protect nesting sea turtles from predators and other natural dangers to ensure their safe journey to the sea.
You can volunteer your time to help in the effort or join the Turtle Tracks and Shorebird Facts talk every Tuesday morning throughout the summer at 9:00 AM. This free educational program meets at Coquina Beach South and runs from May through October. It's a truly enriching activity for nature lovers and a great educational opportunity for kids.
Don’t forget to pack your skateboard! For the young and young at heart, the Holmes Beach Skate Park is a free-to-use space that is perfect to let your kids get their energy out. The well-maintained facility caters to skaters of all levels, providing a safe and dynamic environment to hone your skills. Recently updated in 2019, the park is open from 10am to sunset and especially great for beginners!
No trip to Anna Maria Island is complete without dining at The Ugly Grouper. This local gem combines casual island vibes with incredible cuisine. The restaurant and bar are 100% outdoors, so you can really enjoy island life. The open-air setting, live music, and dishes made from fresh ingredients combine for an unforgettable lunch or dinner
Sip on a signature cocktail while listening to the live music every Friday, and you'll see why locals love it. Expect to spend around $15-30 per person for lunch or dinner, with appetizers starting at $12 and fresh grouper sandwiches at $18. Don't forget to take your photo with the massive ugly grouper statue! Located at 5050 North Shore Drive, they're open daily from 11:30 AM to 10 PM. Don’t forget to take your photo with the massive ugly grouper statue!
Bridge Street is at the heart of the historic district and one of the top things to do on Anna Maria Island. Offering a blend of shops, restaurants, and entertainment, any evening is perfect for a stroll through Bridge Street.
Walk down this picturesque street and pick up some excellent souvenirs or find the latest in beach boutique fashion. The historical feel and wide selection of Bridge Street make it the perfect activity on Anna Maria Island. Check out Blue Marlin Seafood and have dinner inside an original 1920s cottage! Try their famous grouper fingers or stone crab claws when they're in season. Stop by The Sandbar Restaurant right on the beach for sunset cocktails and live entertainment seven nights a week.
Coquina Beach offers one of the most beautiful stretches of sand on Anna Maria Island. This family-friendly beach features picnic areas, grills, volleyball courts, and restrooms. Parking is $2 per hour and the beach is open from sunrise to sunset. The iconic Coquina Beach Café serves breakfast, lunch, and snacks right on the sand, making it easy to spend the whole day here.
At the top of our list of things to do in Sarasota is a very unique coffee shop. Begin your morning in the heart of Sarasota at Rise & Nye's. This chic café is more than just a place to grab your morning fuel. Enjoy a crafted latte (with an extra shot of espresso) or a tasty pastry in a setting that exudes warmth and sophistication. Coffee drinks range from $4 to $ 7, and pastries are around $4 to $6. Located at 1000 North Tuttle Avenue, they're open Monday through Saturday from 7 AM to 4 PM. While you're exploring Sarasota's coffee scene, you can also check out these other top cafés:
A visit to Sarasota isn’t complete without exploring the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium. This research institution offers a behind-the-scenes look at marine science and conservation. You can get an up-close look at the local wildlife that inhabit the Gulf of Mexico and beyond, all while you and your kids learn about the importance of conservation.
General admission is $28 for adults and $20 for children ages 4-12 and you can opt for a private tour to delve deeper into the world of marine biology, including a morning routine walkthrough to see what it's like to run an aquarium or an encounter with turtles. The Immersion Cinema experience is included with admission and features stunning 3D films about marine life. This unique experience not only entertains but also educates, making it a must-visit for families and nature lovers alike.
Owned by the legendary Tiger Woods, PopStroke Golf is a revolutionary golf and casual dining concept that elevates the beloved game of mini golf. Test your putting skills on two 18-hole putting courses designed to challenge golfers of all levels. This is not like your typical themed mini golf courses, you’re going to feel like you’re putting on the tour.
Pricing starts at $15 for adults and $12 for children for one round, with combo packages available. The upscale environment, complete with a full-service restaurant and bar, provides an incredible time for making new memories. Try their signature burgers, flatbreads, and craft cocktails while watching others putt on the championship-style greens. It's the perfect blend of recreation and relaxation for those who appreciate golf and time well spent with loved ones.
For a true taste of Sarasota, take a tour of the Siesta Key Rum distillery. Discover the art of rum-making with a guided tour that reveals the process and science (yes, chemistry) behind crafting this local-favorite spirit.
Average tour prices are $15 per person and include tastings of their award-winning rums. You can also sample the different flavors like Toasted Coconut Rum, Spiced Rum, and Coffee Rum, and appreciate it so much more knowing how it's made. Tours run daily and last about 45 minutes. This peak behind the curtain is excellent for couples or adult groups before heading back to your Sarasota vacation rental and calling it a night.
There are endless unique activities in Anna Maria Island and Sarasota, so the only thing left to do is book your vacation rental. To ensure your stay is as exceptional as your experiences, book your vacation rental with our 100 Collection™ partner, Seabreeze Vacations. Their handpicked selection of luxurious homes and condos will guarantee your time in South Florida is above and beyond.
Seabreeze Vacations offers a carefully curated collection of charming coastal homes and condos that capture the authentic island lifestyle. From cozy beachside cottages to modern waterfront retreats, their properties emphasize comfort, character, and convenience. Ideal for couples and families who want a more intimate, home-away-from-home experience with personalized service.
Both partners provide handpicked selections of luxurious homes and condos that guarantee your time in South Florida is above and beyond. The bright interior designs remind you of beach life at every turn, and the pool is always there to welcome a break from the Florida heat. Beyond the luxury finishes and furnishings, Seabreeze Vacations will ensure your stay is comfortable and relaxing. Top-notch hospitality and a welcoming environment make it feel like your home away from home. Book your vacation rental today!
