Engel & Volkers http://www.evannamaria.com Anna Maria Island Real Estate Agency Thu, 05 Jun 2014 19:30:27 +0000 en-US hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=430 Now is a Perfect Time to Buy on Anna Maria Island http://www.evannamaria.com/now-is-a-perfect-time-to-buy-on-anna-maria-island/ http://www.evannamaria.com/now-is-a-perfect-time-to-buy-on-anna-maria-island/#comments Thu, 26 Dec 2013 18:24:41 +0000 http://www.evannamaria.com/?p=1810 With so many vacation spots, whether or not you enjoy yourself depends on the weather. Arrive at the wrong time of year and your visit might be spoiled by a wintry blizzard or by bone-chilling winds. It’s enough to make many people question whether they should go on a trip at all.

You won’t have that problem on Anna Maria Island. Long considered one of the world’s best getaway destinations, it offers warm temperatures and plenty of year-round sun. Of course, it is missing a few things you may have become used to – like snow, ice, and freezing temperatures. But, then again, no place has everything.

Where Summer Spends the Winter
Think of all the holiday seasons you’ve lived through. Can you recall a Christmas Day when the weather was mild and the mercury hovered somewhere around 75 degrees? To many people that’s too far-fetched to imagine. But it’s business as usual during most Decembers here.

Of course, the daily temps vary somewhat. Nighttime it may get as low as 50 degrees, more or less; and it can top out around 80 in the middle of the day on New Year’s Eve. But no one here ever shovels snow or put chains on their tires.

In the summer you’ll find weather that’s about the same as you’ll find elsewhere in the state. Of course, a cool, refreshing dip in the ocean is always a moment away, as is the air-conditioned comfort of our many restaurants, taverns and shops.

If you are looking to get away from harsh winters and summer crowds, purchase your next vacation home on Anna Maria Island. Browse our real estate listings and give us call if you would like additional information.

]]> http://www.evannamaria.com/now-is-a-perfect-time-to-buy-on-anna-maria-island/feed/ 0 Anna Maria Island: the Perfect Spot for Your Wedding http://www.evannamaria.com/anna-maria-island-the-perfect-spot-for-your-wedding/ http://www.evannamaria.com/anna-maria-island-the-perfect-spot-for-your-wedding/#comments Thu, 26 Dec 2013 18:13:03 +0000 http://www.evannamaria.com/?p=1806 There are plenty of reasons to visit Anna Maria Island: pristine beaches, unforgettable sunsets, and lots of fun activities. But the isle is best known as a favorite place for couples to tie the knot. Whether you want a traditional ceremony with all the appointments or a simple service with a few loved ones around you, this is the best place on earth to start life with the one you love.

Getting Married along the Gulf
More than anything else, Anna Maria Island is known for having the purest, whitest sand found anywhere. Imagine looking into the eyes of your beloved and exchanging your vows as the sun goes down, alongside the coast’s emerald waters. This is one of the most popular ways to get married on the island, and it can be as ornate or as casual as you like. Local vendors can add food, live music, seating, or any other amenities you choose.

Getting Married in a Church or another Setting
If you’d like to join together in a rich structure filled with heritage and history, then Anna Maria Island has what you need. The local architecture features splendid examples of Spanish, British and American architecture, including houses of worship representing dozens of faiths. In addition, you’ll also find hundreds of other scenic structures to choose from, along with public halls, meeting rooms and other venues.

You’re invited to our Annual Wedding Festival
If time allows, we encourage you to attend our annual wedding festival. This yearly event brings together dozens of world-class photographers, caterers, and other professionals, all of whom would be delighted to help make your special day all the more unforgettable.

Browse our beautiful real estate properties and find your next permanent or vacation home today.

]]> http://www.evannamaria.com/anna-maria-island-the-perfect-spot-for-your-wedding/feed/ 0 590 Putter Ln, Longboat Key http://www.evannamaria.com/590-putter-ln/ http://www.evannamaria.com/590-putter-ln/#comments Wed, 20 Nov 2013 22:19:31 +0000 http://www.evannamaria.com/?p=1686 Serene Bay views and tranquil surroundings will mesmerize you from this lovingly maintained 3 bedroom, 2.5 baths residence only one property in from Sarasota Bay. Located in the highly desirable Country Club Shores community, situated in a quite cul-de-sac and tucked away from Gulf of Mexico Drive you can really enjoy the relaxing atmosphere this fabulous location offers. Entering the double doors you immediately notice that this south facing home is designed to capture sunlit bay views. Light and bright, offering cathedral ceilings in the spacious living areas, along with a split floor plan to assure privacy. The large kitchen is centered between family and living areas and there is a spacious laundry room and plenty of storage. The master bedroom suite opens up to the inviting hot tub and the huge screened lanai enhanced by a sparkling heated swimming pool. This tropically landscaped property offers 110′ feet of protected sailboat water and there is a 10,000 lb boat lift along with a spacious dock and lounging area to take in all the natural beauty. A convenient path leads to the deeded beach access opening to the unspoiled white sandy beaches of the Gulf of Mexico which is only a short walk or bike ride away. Country Club Shores is surrounded by the fine amenities of the Longboat Key Club & Resort including a 45 hole championship golf course, state-of-the-art tennis & fitness center, a luxuries spa and several restaurants & St. Armand’s Circle with it’s fine shops, boutiques & dining is minutes away.
Listing # A3987942
Price: $1,485,000
Address: 590 Putter Ln
City Name: Longboat Key
State: Florida
Zip: 34228
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 2
Partial Baths: 1
Square Ft.: 2,195
County Name: Manatee County
Subdivision: Country Club Shores






]]> http://www.evannamaria.com/590-putter-ln/feed/ 0 For the Best in Fine Dining, Visit Vinny & Cheryl’s Italian Kitchen on Anna Maria Island http://www.evannamaria.com/for-the-best-in-fine-dining-visit-vinny-cheryls-italian-kitchen-on-anna-maria-island/ http://www.evannamaria.com/for-the-best-in-fine-dining-visit-vinny-cheryls-italian-kitchen-on-anna-maria-island/#comments Tue, 19 Nov 2013 22:02:38 +0000 http://www.evannamaria.com/?p=1673 What do Italy and Anna Maria Island have in common? Three things:

1. Warm, sunny weather.
2. Great people.
3. Incredible Italian food!

You’ll find the first two anywhere you go on the island. But, to discover the third. you’ll have to visit Vinny & Cheryl’s Italian Kitchen, located at 314 Pine Avenue in the City of Anna Maria. There you’ll find world-class cuisine, an amazing atmosphere, and service so friendly you’ll think you’re with family.

Led by Chef Vincenzo “Vinny” Esposito and famed baker Cheryl Grecco, this charming bistro offers outstanding selections like the following:

● Mouth-watering pizza prepared to perfection in a wood-burning oven.
● Scratch-made ravioli and pasta.
● Elegant specialties like ravioli, manicotti, Eggplant Roma, and Chicken Marsala.
● Fresh Italian sausages and meats.
● Shrimp Scampi.
● Flounder Florentine.
● Exquisite artisan breads, pies, cakes, and other baked goods.
● A number of gluten-free dining options.

Vinnie & Cheryl’s Italian Kitchen also has an incredible lunch menu that features delightful soups, salads, sandwiches, and lighter fare. Customer favorites include Italian subs, eggplant parmesan, and New York-style pastrami.

Chef Esposito has over 45 years of experience preparing the finest cuisine for discerning palates. In addition to his restaurant, he also provides catering services of any size, ranging from romantic dinners for two to gala affairs with as many as 5,000 guests. He also offers his services as a fine dining consultant to grateful restaurateurs, who benefit from his skills and sagely advice. Click here to view menu.

After enjoying an unforgettable feast at Vinnie & Cheryl’s Italian Kitchen, return to your new permanent or vacation home on Anna Maria Island. Browse our exclusive online listings and find you next home today.

]]> http://www.evannamaria.com/for-the-best-in-fine-dining-visit-vinny-cheryls-italian-kitchen-on-anna-maria-island/feed/ 0 For Down-Home Dining Done Right, There’s Nothing like Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe http://www.evannamaria.com/for-down-home-dining-done-right-theres-nothing-like-anna-maria-island-beach-cafe/ http://www.evannamaria.com/for-down-home-dining-done-right-theres-nothing-like-anna-maria-island-beach-cafe/#comments Tue, 19 Nov 2013 21:53:59 +0000 http://www.evannamaria.com/?p=1670 Anna Maria Island is known the world over for its fine dining options. But sometimes you’re in the mood for good old rib-sticking items like pancakes dripping with maple syrup, juicy burgers, or fried fish dipped in honey-gold batter and fried to perfection. When that’s the case, head on over to Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe. You won’t find lace napkins or French waiters there, just the best down-home cooking in this part of the Gulf Coast.

Click here to view their menu. Customer favorites include the following:

–All-you-can-eat pancakes and sausage
–Belgian waffles
–Biscuits and gravy
–Corned beef hash with eggs
–Spinach, mushroom, and Swiss cheese omelettes
–Greek salads
–Grilled chicken Caesar salads
–Tuna salad platters
–½ pound bacon cheeseburgers with your choice of toppings
–Club sandwiches stuffed mile-high with fresh turkey
–Fish and chips platters
–Coconut shrimp platters
–Conch fritter platters
–Clam strip platters
–Chicago-style hot dogs with all the trimmings

For dessert, enjoy hand-scooped ice cream in a bowl or waffle cone, a root beer float, a banana split, or an old-fashioned milkshake.

Kids are welcome, of course. But after sun sets it’s time for the adults to play. The cafe features live entertainment every night of the week, along with a huge selection of beers, wines, and specialty drinks. Try one of the “island sized” pina coladas, mai tais, or hurricanes on for size and step the night away on the dance floor. There’s no doubt about it: for the best in casual dining and fun, there’s no place like Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe.

After enjoying a great dinner and dessert return to your brand new Anna Maria Island home. Take a look at our Anna Maria Island Featured Real Estate Listings and give us a call if you would like more information on any of our properties.

]]> http://www.evannamaria.com/for-down-home-dining-done-right-theres-nothing-like-anna-maria-island-beach-cafe/feed/ 0 2013 Bradenton Blues Festival kicks off on December 7th this year http://www.evannamaria.com/2013-bradenton-blues-festival-kicks-off-on-december-7th-this-year/ http://www.evannamaria.com/2013-bradenton-blues-festival-kicks-off-on-december-7th-this-year/#comments Mon, 21 Oct 2013 14:43:45 +0000 http://www.evannamaria.com/?p=1662 Have you ever been to Bradenton, Florida during the holiday season? If so, then you know that the weather is a little different from what you might find in most of the country at the same time of year (hint: it’s warm). But what you may not know is that every December the town heats up with some of the coolest blues and jazz you’ll ever hear. In fact, this year’s blues festival promises to be the biggest and best yet, with world-class talent flocking to the area for the December 7th event.

The 2013 festival will be held at the Riverwalk Park next to the Manatee River. Completely renovated last year, the location is an ideal venue for all sorts of festivals. Some of the musicians who will be performing including the following artists:

  • Shemekia Copeland – Shemekia has made quite a name for herself during her young career, having opened for the Rolling Stones and headlining at the world-renowned Chicago Blues Festival. She has shared the spotlight with legends like BB King, Buddy Guy, and Eric Clapton.
  • Eddie Shaw and the Wolfgang – a master saxophonist, Eddie has been central to the Chicago music scene since the 1950s. He has collaborated with giants like Muddy Waters, Otis Rush, and Earl Hooker. His biggest claim to fame is the 17 years he spent playing with the legendary Howlin’ Wolf
  • Trampled Under Foot – this trio of hyper-talented musicians hails from Kansas City. In 2008 they astonished fans everywhere by winning the intensely competitive International Blues Challenge.
  • Anthony Gomes – A Canadian by birth, Anthony blends the blues with elements of country, rock, R&B, and soul. He has performed with luminaries like Chuck Berry, George Thorogood, and the Doobie Brothers.
    Along with the live music, attendees will be able to enjoy great food, art exhibits, and hundreds of vendors. Full detail are available at the official web site.

    • After hearing all that great music, return to you beautiful new home Check out the selections here on our site and contact us today!

    ]]>     http://www.evannamaria.com/2013-bradenton-blues-festival-kicks-off-on-december-7th-this-year/feed/ 0     Fall Harvest Festivals Coming to the Gulf Coast this Year http://www.evannamaria.com/fall-harvest-festivals-coming-to-the-gulf-coast-this-year/ http://www.evannamaria.com/fall-harvest-festivals-coming-to-the-gulf-coast-this-year/#comments Mon, 21 Oct 2013 14:33:36 +0000 http://www.evannamaria.com/?p=1660 One of the misconceptions about the area around Anna Maria Island is that there’s only one season of the year: a long, endless summer. In reality, we experience spring, fall, and winter as well, just like the rest of the 48 contiguous states. In fact, every October and November we celebrate the autumn harvest with a series of festival that offer fun for the whole family. In this post we’d like to talk about two of these annual events: Hunsader Farm’s Pumpkin Festival and Mixon Farm’s Harvest Festival.

    Hunsader Farms Pumpkin Festival
    Held each October, this celebration draws families together from all over the country. This year the Hunsader family is actually sponsoring three festivals throughout the month. Events will include the following activities:

    • Live music
    • Live shows
    • A rock climbing wall
    • Hayrides
    • Pony rides
    • Face painting
    • Children’s train ride
    • Scarecrow displays
    • Chainsaw sculptures
    • Petting zoo
    • Pioneer trades village
    • Jugglers
    • Frog jumping championship
    • Corn maze
    • 100+ craft booths
    • Food vendors
    • Art exhibits
    • And much, much more

    You can find out more about this year’s festival at the official web site.

    Mixon Farms Harvest Festival
    The 2013 festival will be held on November 23rd and 24th of this year. Events will include the following activities:

    • Bungee jumping
    • Pony rides
    • Bounce houses
    • Rides for all ages
    • Dozens of craft booths
    • Art exhibits

    Tons of delicious food, including cheesesteak subs, sausage burgers, pizza, tacos, and fry bread.
    Plenty of live stage entertainment throughout both days, including dancing, drumming, and musical groups.
    You can find out more about this year’s celebration at the official web site.

    If you are looking to purchase a new home on Anna Maria Island, look no further. We are the best and most trusted real estate agency in the area. Browse our properties for sale and choose your next vacation or permanent home.

    ]]>     http://www.evannamaria.com/fall-harvest-festivals-coming-to-the-gulf-coast-this-year/feed/ 0     For Classic Barbecue or World-Class Vegan Cuisine, There’s No Place Like Mr. Bones BBQ http://www.evannamaria.com/for-classic-barbecue-or-world-class-vegan-cuisine-theres-no-place-like-mr-bones-bbq/ http://www.evannamaria.com/for-classic-barbecue-or-world-class-vegan-cuisine-theres-no-place-like-mr-bones-bbq/#comments Thu, 29 Aug 2013 15:54:56 +0000 http://www.evannamaria.com/?p=1651 Anna Maria Island is well-known for its amazing variety of independently owned restaurants. But one place that has no trouble standing out from the pack is Mr. Bones BBQ. Located at 3007 Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach, the menu is as eclectic as the food is delicious.

    “Barbecue AND Vegan?”
    That’s the reaction many people have when hearing about this unique eatery’s bill of fare. Mr. Bones has some of the most tender and succulent ribs found anywhere in the south, prepared in spicy, honey-glazed, mandarin, and Mongolian varieties. Offerings also include the famous barbecue chicken and pork platters, along with sumptuous, overstuffed barbecued pork sandwiches.

    One of the restaurant’s favorite offerings is the ½ pound Bones Burger, a man-sized culinary experience with a huge, perfectly seasoned patty and the diner’s choice of barbecue sauce, American cheese, pickles, onions, lettuce, and/or tomatoes. Also on the menu is the Philadelphia cheesesteak sub, the Italian sub, and the always-delectable New Orleans sub with homemade sausage, tomatoes, lettuce, onions, and pickles on home-baked bread.

    It may sound like Mr. Bones is all about the pleasures of being a carnivore. But, to the surprise and delight of many, this classic barbecue joint also serves some of the best meatless dishes found anywhere. Choices include the Tamari roasted vegetables, the veggie burger, Thai sesame peanut noodles, and black beans and rice served with salsa and onions.

    If that’s not diverse enough for your taste, Mr. Bones also has a full line of Tex-Mex dishes. These include customer favorites like the Burrito Gonzales and the Zesty Quesadilla. Exotic dishes like Congo chicken round out the menu, along with a variety of salads, desserts, and 60 different brands of beer.

    After a meal like that, you’ll want a nice comfortable home to return to. Browse our properties here on our site and find the home that is right for you today.

    ]]>     http://www.evannamaria.com/for-classic-barbecue-or-world-class-vegan-cuisine-theres-no-place-like-mr-bones-bbq/feed/ 0     Sarasota to Host Celtic Festival and Games in February 2014 http://www.evannamaria.com/sarasota-to-host-celtic-festival-and-games-in-february-2014/ http://www.evannamaria.com/sarasota-to-host-celtic-festival-and-games-in-february-2014/#comments Thu, 29 Aug 2013 15:37:46 +0000 http://www.evannamaria.com/?p=1648 The Scotland highlands are a long way from the pristine beaches and crystal waters of Sarasota, Florida. But that’s not stopping the local Scottish heritage society from holding the area’s annual Celtic festival and games on February 1, 2014. Activities will include bagpipe concerts, piping and marching competitions, and traditional events like the Scottish hammer throw.

    The event will be held at the Sarasota County Fairgrounds beginning on the evening of Friday, January 31st with a Celtic rock concert. The scheduled lead group is Albannach, a quintet of ultra-talented musicians born and raised in Scotland. With emphasis on percussion instruments and bagpipes, their music blends traditional Celtic forms with rock elements for an unforgettable experience. Other groups scheduled to perform include North Carolina-based foursome Stirling Bridge, solo performer Scooter Muse, and vocalist Jil Chambless.

    The festival continues Saturday beginning at 9 a.m. Scottish country dancing exhibits and lessons will take place around the corner stage. Scottish country dancing is similar to American square dancing. It involves groups of three to five couples working through a series of formations until they arrive back at their original dance positions.

    Athletic demonstrations and competitions will be held at the main field. Events will include axe throwing, stone tossing, and the caber and sheaf tosses. Trained dogs will show off their canine skills by performing a series of tricks and catching Frisbees flying through the air.

    Also on hand will be a number of vendors selling kilts, books, and all types of Celtic-themed items. Live music will continue throughout the day on Saturday along with food tastings, games, and events for the kids. The 2014 Sarasota Celtic Festival and Games promises to be an event no one who attends will ever forget.

    If you are looking for a new home in the Sarasota area, we are here to help. Browse our selection of many fine homes for you and your family. If you have any questions about a particular home or would like more information, please give us a call.

    ]]>     http://www.evannamaria.com/sarasota-to-host-celtic-festival-and-games-in-february-2014/feed/ 0     Here are Some Tips for Safely Enjoying the Gulf Coast Sunshine http://www.evannamaria.com/here-are-some-tips-for-safely-enjoying-the-gulf-coast-sunshine/ http://www.evannamaria.com/here-are-some-tips-for-safely-enjoying-the-gulf-coast-sunshine/#comments Tue, 16 Jul 2013 15:58:59 +0000 http://www.evannamaria.com/?p=1631 What is it about Anna Maria Island and the surrounding area that draws people to these shores? Look past the wonderful restaurants, shops, and other activities and it all comes down to one thing: the miles and miles of crystal-white, sun-drenched beaches. Nothing can match the simple joy of hearing waves crashing at your feet as you let those golden rays bathe you in their warm, relaxing glow. Of course, sunbathing safely means following some common-sense tips. So here are some things to keep in mind:

    1. Make sure your sunscreen has a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or more, along with both UVA and UVB protectants. Check the expiration date to make sure the product is still effective.
    2. Keep a bottle handy for reapplications throughout the day. Sweat, water, and sand can all remove sunscreen, exposing your skin to harmful radiation.
    3. Remember that the sun is strongest between the hours of 10 and 4; you may want to stay inside during this time and enjoy your sunbathing earlier or later in the day.

    More sun safety tips

    Any time you’re outside you should use common sense precautions to avoid sun-related damage to your skin. So here are some additional tips to remember:

    1. The best fabrics for sun protection are made from loose-fitting, tightly-knit materials.
    2. Most tee shirts have an SPF factor of less than 125, so choose other garments if possible.
    3. Wear a wide-brimmed hat to guard the face, neck, ears, etc. Tightly woven fabrics like canvas and nylon are better than straw for this purpose.
    4. You should use sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays as much as possible. For the best protection, choose models that wrap around the head.

    Visit this site for more information on enjoying the sun safely. But first take a few moments to review our great selection of real estate properties. Please give us a call if you have any questions or would like to receive more information 800-794-9163.

    ]]>     http://www.evannamaria.com/here-are-some-tips-for-safely-enjoying-the-gulf-coast-sunshine/feed/ 0