4 Anna Maria Island Attractions to Visit, Learn and Play

Anna Maria Island offers a small coastal town feel paired with stunning Gulf views. This barrier island offers miles of warm, white beaches that provide a more serene escape from the hustle of busy beach life. However, vacationers will find plenty to do and not have to travel far. For those who want to stay nearby, here are four Anna Maria Island attractions.

4 Anna Maria Island Attractions for Homebody Vacationers

Learn About Anna Maria

Anna Maria Island Historical Museum shows the island’s growth from a small farming/fishing community into a tropical paradise where On An Island With You (1948) was filmed and baseball players once practiced in the spring. The museum displays interesting artifacts and pictures of early structures. For an added journey, take a biking or walking tour of Anna Maria Island.

Watch for Dolphins

Coquina Baywalk is a small park that has natural mangroves and a spacious beach. While hiking, watch for herons, pelicans and dolphins in the bay. The entire trail measures only a mile, and platforms over the bay provide opportunities to see fish swimming in the water.

Picnic in the Park

Bay Front Park offers a great place for a picnic with covered tables, grills and a playground on the beach for kids. In addition, enjoy views of the Sunshine Sky Way Bridge, a popular route in the Anna Maria-Bradenton area.

Play at the Beach

Manatee Beach Park also has picnic tables, restrooms and a kids’ playground situated on the beach. This top among Anna Maria Island attractions also has a place to play volleyball, go swimming or just relax. Bicyclers will find a place to store their wheels, and grab a bite from the on-site cafe. Families are also welcome to bring beach chairs and umbrellas.

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