The best-kept secret of the Florida Suncoast is out.
Thanks to a wave of recent publicity, travel articles and the Internet, the previously little-known paradise in north Sarasota Bay called Anna Maria Island is fast becoming one of the world’s most popular vacation spots.
This hot new travel destination is actually a cool old place: “cool” as in the relaxed, laid-back beach lifestyle and the powdery white sand beaches that never get too hot; and “old” as in the quaint, “old Florida” charm that residents have worked hard to preserve.
Less developed than its island neighbors to the south, Longboat and Siesta Keys, Anna Maria Island has no high-rise buildings or large chain hotels or restaurants. Instead, visitors stay in private beach cottages, motels or villas surrounded by lush tropical landscaping, and they flock to individually owned cafes and eateries for authentic island cuisine. Even residents of Sarasota and Bradenton drive over to Anna Maria Island regularly to enjoy dinner and a sunset over the aqua-blue water at one of the island’s many award-winning restaurants.
Originally settled by Indians and then discovered by Spanish explorers in 1530, Anna Maria Island retains its “old Florida” influence. On the north end of the seven-mile-long island, in Anna Maria City, visitors can explore the Historical Complex and old city jail. In the middle of the island is the business center of Holmes Beach, and at the southern end is Bradenton Beach, where historic Bridge Street and its fishing pier have been restored. All three cities offer an eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, boutiques and art galleries. The art community thrives here, which is no surprise, given all the local beauty and colorful “old Florida” character of Anna Maria Island. |
