What can I say about Anna Maria Island Florida...."Beautiful"...I have never been to such a perfect beach and community. From the time we crossed over the Palma Sola Bay on Manatee Ave onto the Island we were pleasantly surprised by the laid back island atmosphere. As we landed at our first stop which was Holmes Beach we were in awe of the powdery white sand and the clear, warm, emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico. We spent hours splashing, floating and shelling on this beach before heading north to Anna Maria City Beach. Here we had a fabulous lunch at The Sandbar Restaurant. There was a fabulous gift shop and bar area with an outdoor beachfront dining area which is where we were seated to a table where we could dine with our feet in the sand. After lunch we explored this part of the island and we were not disappointed. From the quaint inns and hotels to the fabulous homes all the way around to Bimini Bay and the City Pier, it all felt so tropical and "old Florida style" which I loved. Later we headed down to Bradenton and Cortez Beaches where we found a lot of shells as the tide washed in. A drive down to Longboat Key and a decision was made that this will be our new winter or early spring vacation spot from now on. No need to use your car either. You can bike or ride the free island trolley everywhere. Siesta Key Beach and Sarasota are just a few minutes to the south and St. Pete and Tampa Bay to the north. Definitely put this destination on your Bucket List people. You will not be disappointed. I am dreaming of the day we go back. It can't be soon enough.
