Get Out & Explore
Things to Do
From mangrove kayak tours to golf-cart cruises and sunset sails — make the most of Anna Maria Island.
The best wildlife encounters happen at a respectful distance. Follow your guide, avoid chasing or feeding animals, and obey posted nesting and slow-speed zones.
Wildlife GuideExploring Pine Avenue, Bridge Street or the beaches? Check where to park before you go and follow the signs at each location.
Parking GuideRecommendations
Mini guides from our island visits
With Children
Family daysCalm beaches, the free trolley, dolphin trips and a storm plan, for toddlers to teens.
Read the guide
A Romantic Evening for Two
CouplesSunset sails, quiet beaches, dinner on the sand and a golf-cart cruise home.
Read the guide
Rainy Day Ideas
Indoors & shelteredA free museum, a show, a long lunch, and coloring books for the kids.
Read the guide
Wheelchair-Friendly Days
Easy accessBeach access mats, beach wheelchairs, paved nature trails and step-free planning.
Read the guide
Free & Low-Cost Fun
BudgetFree beaches, the free trolley, a free museum and the island's best free show: the sunset.
Read the guide
Your First Day
Start hereHow the island fits together, where to start, and a simple plan for day one.
Read the guideWater Sports & Adventures
2 spotsGet out on the Gulf
Happy Paddler Kayak Tours
Guided Kayak Tours & RentalsGuided kayak tours and rentals around Anna Maria Island and nearby keys. Confirm the launch location for your chosen trip.
AMI Paddleboard Co.
Paddleboard & Kayak RentalsPaddleboard and kayak rentals with delivery options. Check the operator's current service area and booking terms.
Golf Carts & Bike Rentals
2 spotsHow locals get around
Beach Bums Recreational Rentals
Golf Carts, Bikes & Beach GearBikes, golf carts and beach equipment from Beach Bums on Pine Avenue in Anna Maria. Check delivery terms for the equipment you need.
Fun & More Rentals
Golf Carts & Beach CruisersGolf-cart and bicycle rentals with free delivery and pick-up, with helmets, locks and baskets included with bikes.
Parks, Nature & Family Fun
4 spotsTrails, towers & history
Robinson Preserve
Nature Preserve & Kayak TrailsOver 600 acres of restored coastal wetland with paved biking paths, kayak launches, and a 40-foot observation tower with panoramic Gulf views. Free admission.
AMI Historical Museum
Local History MuseumA charming free museum with the old icehouse, the tiny historic 'Belle Haven' cottage, and the famous one-cell city jail out back. A quick, delightful Old Florida stop.
Leffis Key Preserve
Coastal Nature TrailsA hidden gem of elevated boardwalks and shell trails winding over a man-made hill with bay views. Great birding, quiet lagoons, and a peaceful break from the beach crowds.
Anna Maria Bayfront Park
Bayside ParkBay views, picnic tables and restrooms on the bay side of the island's north end. Follow posted hours. It is a separate destination from Anna Maria City Pier.
These listings are summaries from our island guide. Hours, pricing and availability can change; check the operator's current information before visiting.
Make It a Day
Rent a golf cart in the morning, paddle the mangroves at midday, and toast the sunset from a sailboat. On Anna Maria Island, the hardest part is choosing what to do first.