Anna Maria Island

Why Anna Maria Island Should Be Your Florida Destination

2013-09-17T08:32:44-07:00

Florida remains one of the most popular tourist states in the nation. And with the windswept beaches, ocean waves and bright sun overhead, that really isn't a surprise. We have a diverse number of spots that cater to what pretty much anyone might be looking for. Resorts, big cities, smaller locales, fishing trips, golf vacations, theme parks, we have it all.

Yet even in a state so well known among tourists, there are hidden little gems just waiting to be found. Anna Maria Island is one of those gems. With no chains on the island, no buildings higher than three stories, and a laid back atmosphere that sees flip flops accepted in almost any store or restaurant you visit, this is a different sort of place. It isn't as well known as some of the other state vacation destinations, so why not take a look at a few reasons that you might want to make Anna Maria Island your spot for relaxation this year?

Sand and surf are everywhere in Florida. Yet the white sand around Anna Maria Island's seven mile length are completely unhindered by barriers. You won't find restricted sections of beach owned by big resort properties here. The only thing that might limit your ability to wander the soft white sand in any way might be protected are areas that the sea turtles choose during nesting season. That's it.

Anna Maria Island doesn't merely benefit from the beauty of Floridian nature all around it, this place embraces that nature as a part of its core. No tall buildings block out the rays of the sun here. Palm trees mingle easily and comfortably with buildings in town. The Gulf waters offshore are a stunning clear blue. Enjoy everything that nature has to offer. One local Anna Maria Island business offers ways to get up close and personal with nature by either kayak, stand-up paddle board, or by bike.

With no chains allowed on the island, everything you experience is unique. Locally owned stores and eateries abound to cover every interest and taste. Get out there and explore something new at every corner you turn.

Since we aren't a destination overflowing with college students or theme park visitors, prices tend to be more affordable than you'll find elsewhere. For the cost of a typical Florida hotel room, you have a good chance of staying in a rental house providing the comforts of home and the ultimate flexibility in how you go about your stay. Prices are low enough that Anna Maria Island is an affordable destination for anyone.

And that's the best part about coming here : we truly are for everyone. A couple looking for a romantic getaway? Absolutely. A family needing to escape from the hectic life back home? Definitely. A few friends wanting to rent out a house and spend their days exploring the water? Perfect. We don't try to cater to just one group. We cater to all of you. So come down here and check out something a little bit different on your vacation. We'd love to have you.

Finding Anna Maria Island Property the Right Way

2013-09-09T11:52:37-07:00

The Florida real estate market has always attracted attention from long distance buyers. Those looking for a warm escape are often willing to take a shot at acquiring property in a long distance sale. And as Anna Maria Island real estate begins to receive more attention as a destination, those buyers are increasingly casting an eye to our shores.

Of course, making a long distance housing purchase is often a very foreign concept to the buyer. How do you find the right place for you if you aren't here to check it out in person? How can you ensure that your investment dollars are being spent on a great getaway for the cold months, or a solid vacation rental to help earn you some extra money? That's what we're here to help you figure out.

The most important piece of advice that we can give is very simple: Hire a real estate professional who knows the local market. They're going to be able to get a jump start on new properties as soon as they become available. And if you aren't going to be able to check out possible buys in person, you need a reliable pair of eyes to take a look at them for you before you spend your money. Who better to judge the quality of a property than a Anna Maria Island real estate agent who does this for a living?

A good Holmes Beach real estate broker can help you out regardless of where you're buying from. You can be a few states over, or across an international border or ocean, and that realtor will serve as a reliable judge of property on your behalf. They can take all of your wants and needs in a home and determine whether or not something fits your criteria, or if it's a better idea to back away and keep looking. Sure, you have to pay them a commission. But that beats the alternative of constant travel to and fro as you make trip after trip to take a look at yet another house.

A reputable Bradenton Beach real estate firm can also help you out by providing a free Comparative Market Analysis. This report will highlight past and current sale prices for the type of property you're considering, as well as for the neighbourhood that you're interested in. That's the sort of vital information that keeps you from needlessly spending thousands of dollars over market value.

Save yourself the time, money and hassle of an endless quest for the right property that feels like a never-ending journey. By finding a realtor with whom you get along, and who has the right contacts and market knowledge to find what you're looking for, you can find what you need quicker and likely at a better price. And anything that can speed up getting a warm getaway here on Anna Maria Island come the middle of winter sure seems like the right play to us.

Anna Maria Island wedding festival 2013 summary

2013-05-14T03:31:14-07:00

Annual Wedding Festival Draws Future Brides and Grooms to Anna Maria

If you were a Groom or Bride-to-be, chances are good that you were at the recent Wedding Festival hosted by the Anna Maria Chamber of Commerce. The festival gives those who are planning a wedding in Anna Maria Island the area a chance to meet with local vendors and help start their marriage off on the right foot. A wedding is stressful enough, so why not try to take the heat off of the planning? That's why the festival is such a hit, allowing couples to enjoy a relaxed atmosphere while making sure that the details are going to be right for their big day.

And the potential for an event such as this to bring in tourism dollars is huge. After all, who hasn't dreamed of a wedding on a beautiful, sandy beach as the sun beams down on the beginning of their new life together? Not only can something like this be huge for couples, it can also present a financial windfall for area business. VP of the local Chamber of Commerce Deborah Wing explained how this is a great way to bring more business to the area.

“It brings people to the island. It helps tourism. It helps our businesses, it helps out hoteliers getting people to stay the night planning their weddings. People come from all over the country to get married on this island or in Bradenton,” Wing said.

With the sorts of dollars potentially available to local businesses from weddings, vendors flocked to the festival again this year. More than fifty showed up in all. Spas, photographers, caterers, event venues, florists, hair and make-up professionals, bakers and more were all on hand to pitch their business to the couples in attendance. Cakes, wines and food were available to sample. Photo sessions were offered. Full hair and make-up demos were held. Even full fashion shows and a mock wedding were put on to allow brides and grooms to see what these businesses had to offer. And over $20,000 in prizes were handed out to some of those who attended. The entire day seemed to be a hit with everyone in attendance.

So if you've always dreamed of a fantasy beach wedding, please make sure you get yourself down here for next year's Wedding Festival on Anna Maria Island.

Watch this video on Weddings on Anna Maria

Free transportation on Anna Maria Island

2013-05-09T07:20:06-07:00

Island Beach Monkeys – Free Rides on Anna Maria!

WHAT?

Island Beach Monkeys is a free golf cart transportation service! Drivers work off tips so they are greatly appreciated! They currently have two golf carts: a 6 passenger and an 8 passenger. You can recognize the carts by their thatched roofs and surf board logos.

WHERE?

Anna Maria Island! Island Beach Monkeys will pick you up anywhere on the island!

WHEN?

Open 10am to 3am 7 days a week!

HOW TO CATCH A RIDE?

Call 941-565-6542
Flag them down like a taxi
COMING SOON: “Tweet for a ride” Soon drivers will have smart phones so you can tweet them for a ride @IslandBeachMonk

ACCOMODATIONS

Can accommodate passengers using wheel chairs, walkers, canes, and crutches. Drivers are happy assist passengers with boarding. All of the carts are low to the ground making them easy to board.

SPECIAL SERVICES

Special Event Services: such as island festivals
Wedding Services: a limo alternative
Island Tours
Designated Driver Services
Errand and Shopping

To arrange future event services call 941-254-7875 If you wish to rent a golf cart on Anna Maria Island call 941-462-2719 or click www.Golfcartrentalsannamariaisland.com

Traffic to Anna Maria Island

2012-06-02T14:24:12-07:00

Summer is a busy time on Anna Maria Island. Some advice for travellors is come to the Island before 11 am. From 11 am the traffic could be backed up 5 miles or more

Vacationing on Anna Maria Island

2012-02-25T14:50:13-08:00

Anna Maria Island is a great Florida vacation destination. Seven miles of sand from tip to tip and made up of Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, and Bradenton Beach. This island has an old Florida feel and is a great place for those family vacations. The shops are quaint, restaraunts are good, and drinks are cold. Rent a bike on Anna Maria Island, that's how laid back it is. You will find water sports ranging from kayaking to charting a fishing boat. There are piers to walk, a therater to visit and a museum for you to learn. The island is full of activity. You can create your own adventure at your own pace and have the best vacation ever!

Bike Rental Anna Maria Island

2012-02-08T10:28:13-08:00

Getting around Anna Maria Island can get crazy, especially now when vacationers are coming in masses to visit this beautiful Florida destination. Why not enjoy this old Florida Island by bicycle and live like a local? Rent a bike while vacationing on Anna Maria Island. The Island is only 7 miles long and is made up of Anna Maria, Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach. In each of these three cities there are restaurants, shops, and plenty of sand for you to enjoy and easily get to by bike. By jumping on your beach cruiser instead of in your car, you will also be doing something good for the environment and yourself! Fun and More Rentals is a local company that rents bikes (beach and baby equipment too) for your enjoyment and delivers for free where ever needed on the island. www.funandmorerentals.com Give us a call at 941-462-2719

Top Ten Things To Do When Vacationing on Anna Maria Island

2012-01-28T13:15:53-08:00

I love the family-oriented, quaint, old Florida feel of Anna Maria Island! All of these things listed can be done whether you are staying in Anna Maria, Holmes Beach or Bradenton Beach. Here is a top ten list of things I enjoy doing while visiting this Florida destination.

# 1-Biking-I personally love getting the family out and about biking to explore different parts of the white sandy beach along Anna Maria Island.

#2-Ice cream-There are a few shops to choose from. My personal favorite is.....what am I saying?....They all are my favorite! Two Scoops, Dips, Holy Cow, Cafe on the Beach, Big Olaf Ice cream shop, Joe's Eats & Sweets, Tyler's (just over Cortez Bridge).........

#3-Kayaking-So much fun and the whole family can enjoy!! And go tandem, especially with your kids!

#4-Paddle Boarding-So fun and surprisingly not that hard!!

#5-Dining Out-Bike, drive, free trolley, golf cart, however you want to travel, and go enjoy a meal at some of Anna Maria Island's many restaraunts.

#6-Shopping-I love looking at the unique and souvonir shops up and down the island!

#7-Bowling-AMF Bradenton Lanes located 4208 Cortez Rd. Bradenton, FL 34210 Bowling a game or two is always fun especially on those cloudy/rainy days!

#8-DeSoto National Memorial-8300 DeSoto Memorial Hwy Bradenton, FL 34209 I always see sea creatures while exploring here!

#9-Ellington Outlet Mall-5461 Factory Shops BLVD, Ellenington, FL 34222 It is about 30 minutes away but is a fun filled day of finding deals!!

#10-BEACH-I love hanging out at the beach all day. Dolphin sitings, sand castle building, picnicking, playing beach games, and just being never gets old!

Anna Maria Island Restaurants That Serve Breakfast

2012-01-25T12:26:23-08:00

Eating a good breakfast sets the tone for the rest of the day. So what restaurants on Anna Maria Island can you eat breakfast? Whether you are in Anna Maria, Holmes Beach or Bradenton Beach, here is a list to choose from. Several of these restaurants serve lunch and dinner too. Try them out and let us know what you think! (They are listed in no particular order.)

Restaurants on Anna Maria Island that serve Breakfast:

Island Creperie in Bradenton Beach (127 Bridge St, Bradenton Beach, FL)

Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe (Cafe on the Beach) in Holmes Beach (4000 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach, FL)

Peach's Restaurant in Holmes Beach (3240 E Bay Dr, Holmes Beach, FL)

Village Cafe at Rosedale in Anna Maria (535 Pine Avenue, Anna Maria, FL)

Gulf Drive Cafe in Bradenton Beach (900 Gulf Dr N, Bradenton Beach, FL)

Minnie's Beach Cafe in Holmes Beach (5360 Gulf Drive North, Holmes Beach,FL)

Ginny's & Jane E's Bakery Cafe in Anna Maria (9807 Gulf Dr, Anna Maria, FL)

Sign of the Mermaid in Anna Maria (9707 Gulf Dr, Anna Maria, FL)

Rotten Ralph's in Bradenton Beach (200 Bridge St, Bradenton Beach FL)

The Gathering Place in Bradenton Beach (101 7th St N, Bradenton Beach, FL)

Two Scoops in Anna Maria (101 South Bay Boulevard Anna Maria, FL)

Anna Maria Island City Pier

2012-01-21T14:02:44-08:00

Anna Maria City Pier was built back in 1911 to allow visitors to come visit by ship. It still stands today and you can stroll the 678 feet and view the turquoise waters and/or Skyway Bridge in the distance. At the end of your walk, you will find there is a restaurant, a bar, and a couple of coin operated viewing machines. It is a popular fishing spot to many and is fun to walk the pier to see everyone's catch or to spy sea life in the water. Be warned that there is no railing on the pier so it can make some nervous. When visiting Anna Maria Island, you must come and walk the planks!

Anna Maria Island update

2010-08-05T14:19:43-07:00

Things are going great on Anna Maria. The horrible BP oil spill never made our beach. Our hearts goes out for all the other regions of the Gulf Coast that were effected. From peoples livelyhoods to all the wildlife and toxic consequences for the environment. As I go for my morning walks I pass over 30 turtle nests. I have included some pictures below so you know what they look like. The nest should not be disturbed under any circumstanes as these baby turtle have a difficult time surviving already.

I have also attached a wonderful picture of the beach from the air courtesy of Troy Morgan. Mr Morgan's company is called photos from the air and he specializes in aireal photogrphay from an airplane or helicopter.

ABC's of Baby rentals on Anna Maria Island

2010-05-20T05:38:55-07:00

Anna Maria Island baby supply rentals makes travelling with your baby, toddler or child as easy as A B C ! This almost sounds like a sesame street skit.

Here are some easy steps to do after you have picked your dates and vacation rental home on Anna Maria Island. Quick note for those who are not familar with Anna Maria Island that the Island is made up of 3 cities Anna Maria, Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach. The reason I bring this up is because we have guests ask us if we deliver to, for example, Holmes Beach, when they don't realize that Holmes Beach is a city on Anna Maria Island.

1- Vist the baby equipment rental website and choose what you need for your vacation

2 - Call the baby rental company and place your order or go online to their rental website and place an order online

3 - Your baby crib or highchair or whatever you ordered will be delieverd to your beach vacation home and set up and waiting for you upon your arrrival.

4- When on Anna Maria and you discover you need other baby rental items give FunandMoreRentals.com a call at 941-462-2719 and they will deliver your additional items within an hour or 2.

5- When you are done with your baby rental items and your vacation, just leave the rental items where they were dropped off and the rental company will automatically pick them up.

Article compliments of www.FunAndMoreRentals.com Anna Maria Island bike rental, baby rental, kayak rental and beach supply rental company.

2010-04-26T09:45:19-07:00

Save money at many local retailers on Anna Maria Island. Rent a bike at www.funandmorerentals.com , go to the Sandbar for lunch or dinner, or rent a scooter...many coupons inside www.Sunsavercoupons.com

Florida Beach, Bike and Baby Rentals

2010-04-08T16:40:14-07:00

Beach, Bike and Baby Rentals for the Florida Vacation of a Life Time...

Vacationing in Western Florida has just gotten easier.

With the help of Fun and More Rentals, you don't need to bring a thing with you.

This new and exciting Florida Beach, Bike and Baby Equipment Rental Company is locally owned and operated right here on Anna Maria Island.

Based on Anna Maria Island, it also provides vacation supply rentals to the Longboat and Siesta Key areas, and have plans for expansion into other geographic regions of Florida state.

Fun and More Vacation Rentals offers exactly what you need to have the Florida Vacation of your Dreams...

Boogie boarding to kayaking, men's women's and children's bike rentals, bocce ball to extra beds, beach coolers to beach chairs, food and snacks, spa treatments, fishing charters and a whole lot more!

Fun and More Baby, Bike and Beach Rentals provide top quality vacation equipment rental products complete with friendly, local knowledge and unsurpassed customer service.

All their vacation rental products can be delivered and picked up FREE of charge... currently, to and from anywhere on Anna Maria Island.

They even offer an 'express delivery service".. Now how is that for local service?

Florida bike and kayak rentals, beach products and supplies, recreation and sports gear, water sport and everything you need for your baby or young child.

'Fun and More Rentals' will even do your grocery shopping for you and deliver your food and stock up your fridge and cupboards if you like. That way you'll have food on hand when you arrive and will be able to begin enjoying your dream vacation in paradise from the moment you arrive!

This one of a kind Anna Maria Island based rental service is all you need to ensure you and your family will get the most out of your Florida vacation time.

Florida Bike, Baby and Beach Vacation Rentals

Fun and More Vacation Rentals is here to help you enjoy your Florida vacation to the fullest!

Forget running around town looking for bikes and paddle boards to rent, beach chairs, coolers and baby rentals for the newest member of your family.

All you have to do is sit down, and relax - it’s your vacation.

Anything and everything you'll need for you and your family to have fun and get the most from your Florida holiday vacation is just a click away... simply go to Fun and More Rentals and start planning your next Florida vacation today!

You do not have to be present for to have your vacation rental order delivered. Items are delivered to the exterior of your rental unit, except for condo unit deliveries, which will be left inside the unit, and they can be there for you when you arrive.

All you have to do is unpack your bags and head to the beach - we will even stock your fridge and cupboards with any foods and beverages of your choice!

Fun and More Vacation Supply Rentals offers FREE DELIVERY and FREE PICKUP and are proud to do so. Everything available is listed online, so you can easily browse our extensive list of great items and fun accessories for every need imaginable... and you can do it right from the comfort of your own home.

Contact Fun and More Rentals directly if you require something for your Florida vacation that is not listed on the website. "We'll do everything within our power to get it for you. Our goal is your carefree enjoyment, and we achieve that by doing what we can to enhance your stay in Paradise!"

Cheers from Anna Maria Island!

Planning an Anna Maria Island Vacation

2010-04-07T15:26:29-07:00

Enjoy an Anna Maria Island Vacation
Rental With All The Creature Comforts of Home...

If you and your family are looking for a Florida vacation experience of a life time, come to the Florida Gulf...

Come to beautiful Anna Maria Island?

Everything you and your family need, to enjoy your Florida vacation to the fullest, is right here at your disposal... on Anna Maria Island!

Vacation Rental Accommodations With a Difference

What if you and your family could go on vacation to a tropical island paradise, like Anna Maria Island, without giving up all the creature comforts of home?

That would be like the ultimate vacation experience... right?

Well, you can, and its easy to do. It's called an Anna Maria Island vacation rental!

Go to our Anna Maria Island Community Forum and tell us what you think. When visiting beautiful Anna Maria Island, why stay in a hotel, when vacation rentals provide you with all the comforts of home.

Why stay in a hotel room where you and your family will literally be living out of suitcases?

Wouldn't you and your family enjoy yourselves more staying in a rental accommodations with all the creature comforts of home?

Of course you would.

It's easy to find and book the perfect vacation rental home on Anna Maria Island.

Simply visit the Anna Maria Island Accommodations website and choose from the largest and best selection in the area. Each listing comes with all the information you'll need to make the right choice... and in many cases, for less than the cost of hotel rooms?

Now that's pretty special. For around the same price as a hotel room, you can stay in a private vacation rental that includes all the amenities of home.

The typical Anna Maria Island vacation rental home listed on the Anna Maria Island Accommodations website is finely appointed with everything you would have in your own home, and more!

Most of the rental homes listed are located right on, or within walking distance of the worlds best beach areas.

Oh, and did we forget to say.... most vacation rental homes on Anna Maria Island have luxurious pools and spas as well. That way you don't need to live on the beach to enjoy your vacation.

Anna Maria Island Accommodations offers nothing but the very best for the vacationer and family that wants to relax at home in style.

Anna Maria Island is warm, with temperatures in the high 70's and 80's, and its like that pretty much daily all year round. You're going to be grateful for the ever present gulf coast breeze that assures that even the hottest days of the year are still comfortable.

Whether you choose to stay in one of the three main island communities or somewhere a little more rural, most of the vacation homes featured are close to the ocean, yet still close to world class restaurants and shopping.

And if night life is something you are interested in, Anna Maria Island has that to offer as well.

Really folks, the only thing better than spending your vacation in a clean, fully furnished, spacious and meticulously maintained vacation home on Anna Maria Island... is actually living there!

Remember, go to our Anna Maria Island Community Forum and let us know why you should stay in a hotel, when a vacation rental comes with all the comforts of home.

Visit Anna Maria Island Accommodations today, to view the best selection of vacation rental homes available anywhere on Anna Maria Island.

Driving to Anna Maria Island

2010-04-06T16:26:00-07:00

How to Get to Anna Maria Island By Vehicle...

OK, you've got vacation time coming, you've read all the great stuff about Anna Maria Island... and now you wanna experience Anna Maria Island for yourself!

So just where in the heck is it exactly, and how do I get there?

Easy, go to How Do I Get To Anna Maria Island for detailed instruction.

You'll find a full description of where Anna Maria Island is located and how to get there.

From Orlando and Tampa in the north, and from Sarasota-Bradenton, as well as Ft. Meyers, Naples, Miami and Ft. Lauderdale in the south.

Welcome to Anna Maria Island Life.

Show Me The Fish Charters

2010-04-05T15:23:53-07:00

Wanna Catch Some BIG FISH?
Then You'll Wanna Talk to Larry McGuire...

When it comes to catching BIG FISH, Mr. McGuire knows what he's talking about!

Larry is a native Floridian that comes from a family of hardcore fisherman. He grew up fishing in the Tampa Bay, Manatee River and on the flats.

Eventually he decided that offshore fishing was his true passion in life.

These days Larry fishes offshore from Tampa Bay to the Florida Keys.

"Thinking like the fish, and having those instincts, I know how the fish are and how they are biting at that time of year," Larry says, "it’s the key to being successful."

Well, successful is an understatement in Larry's case.

"Being on the water constantly, I’m always trying to improve techniques. When fishing is tough, that is when I fish the best... making it happen for all my clients!"

That's what you wanna hear if you're looking for a fish charter to take you out and show you the real fish. But don't take our word for it. Go to his blog and see for yourself... those are some mighty BIG FISH!

The Show Me The Fish Charters blog is located at http://captlarrymcguire.blogspot.com.

Larry says, all are welcome. The children & ladies get help & the men, well... they get their catch!

"If you are the type who wants to battle the biggest of the fish caught, I’ll get you on them."

Now that's confidence!

Larry is also an avid photographer and sends catches to multiple media outlets. That means you and your BIG FISH just might be in one of them.

If you don’t have a picture of it, then it must have never happened!

Larry is captain of a 31 foot Morgan Sportsfish, with a new 450 HP Cummings Diesel, state of the art electronics, & a high tech radar system... one fine fishing machine, giving a fast, safe, comfortable ride.

You're going to be hearing more about Larry McGuire and the catch's he makes, right here on the Anna Maria Island Life blog.

So, if you're ready for the BIG one, then get off your butt, move away from the computer and give Captain Larry McGuire a call... you'll be glad you did!

Show Me The Fish Charters

Cell: 941-720-6475
E-mail: captlarrymcguire@gmail.com
Operating out of the Cortez Fshing Center, Bradenton, Fl.

Read what Captain Larry McGuire has to say about Fishing the Gulf in December.

Bike Longboat Key

2010-04-04T14:12:18-07:00

See Anna Maria Island and Longboat By Bike...

If you are into bicycling Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key, there is a website you need to visit... Bike Longboat Key!

If you want to rent a bike on Anna Maria Island or Longboat Key, there is a site for that too... Fun and More Bike Rentals.

The Bike Longboat Key website is dedicated to the bike paths and shoulders on the Islands of Longboat Key and Anna Maria Island.

Lets face the facts. There are not many places left in Florida to ride a bicycle safely, so Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key are a real blessing to us cyclists.

Regardless, please ride safely!

Most of your peddling will still be on the road, and even in the laid back communities of Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key... cars Will on occasion pull out in front of you... even on the sidewalks!

So wear your helmets and be safe!

Bike Longboat Key has maps to help you get started and they even have a video called Bicycle Anatomy for Beginners. They also have a section identifying problems areas, organized rides, a guest book and lots and lots of cool photos!

Excerpt from the website... "The Gulf of Mexico Drive, also referred to as State Road 789 or G.M.D., is the only main thoroughfare and runs north-south through the island. The Town is accessed by bascule (draw) bridges, from the south by New Pass Bridge connecting Longboat Key and Lido Key and Longboat Pass Bridge on the north connecting Longboat Key to Anna Maria Island."

"Longboat’s little know fact is that the sidewalk is actually a Bike Path laid down in 1967."

"Longboat's laws for the sidewalk is a 10mph speed limit and you must have a ding bell to warn pedestrians. For sidewalk riding, be very careful of automobiles pulling out of driveways and side roads. Most accidents occur from motorists pulling out without looking."

"Longboat Key residents take pride in the bike path that runs the length of Gulf of Mexico Drive. Longboat Key's bike paths on the shoulders attract long clusters of bikers who belong to the region's bicycle clubs."

Go here for a list of Bicycle Clubs in the Longboat Key area.

"In the summer (when there aren't as many cars on Gulf of Mexico Drive), more than 100 cyclists at once often can be seen racing up the key on Thursdays at dusk."

On Anna Maria Island, bike paths are complete, thus linking the two Island Communities together. This is thanks to the F.D.O.T. and the Island Governments of Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach on Anna Maria Island.

Any time of year is a great time to go biking on Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key.

If you would like to learn more about bicycling in this area... visit www.BikeLongboatKey.org.

Also you may want to check out a related post... Bike Your Way From Anna Maria Island to Sarasota and Back Via Longboat Keys and Siesta Keys.

The Ultimate Family Vacation Experience

2010-04-03T23:35:26-07:00

Beach Combing, the Mote Aquarium and Sarasota Jungle Gardens...

Just came across a cool blog post of a family vacation to beautiful Anna Maria Island, and as is usually the case... everyone had a great time!

This particular Anna Maria Island vacation experience was very recent, in March actually. The weather they said was not too hot, and not too cool with a little rain just one day.

Wow, how's that for March ;-)

According to the post, and judging by the ton of pictures posted, they had a great time at their vacation rental, which of course came with pool.

Being located just two blocks from the beach meant they spent a lot of their vacation time on the beach.

Isn't that what Anna Maria Island is all about, heading straight to the beach?

Well, of course not. In fact if you frequent our Anna Maria Island Life blog then you know there is no shortage of things to do while vacationing on Anna Maria Island.

A visit to the Mote Aquarium brought them face to face with some rescued dolphins, a shark tank, manatees, sea turtles and lots of jellyfish.

There were touch tanks for the youngest member of the crew and the... "beautiful jellyfish were mesmerizing."

The first touch tank, they said, had crabs, urchins, and sea snails. The second touch tank, sting rays that were so friendly!

"We have them at our science center and they often won't come too close, but these ones would come right at you!"

"They had a special sea horse area too - they basically had a hatchery where there were babies only 3 days old!"

The best part they said where the manatees.

"They were enormous, and I think they were the only animal there that I had never seen before, which was cool."

Then it was off to the historic Bridge Street area, with their shops and restaurants as well as an old fishing pier... "We saw jellyfish in the water and pelicans."

From there it was off to Sarasota Jungle Gardens, a really cool place for kids. They had a great time checking out the exotic birds.

"The next morning we rented a boat for 4 hours and took it all around Anna Maria Sound. It was such a great experience, and we just all had such fun!"

You sure can't argue with that, can you.

Like I said, they posted a ton of great pictures. It's fully accessible and if you are thinking about visiting Anna Maria Island... we recommend you check it out at:

http://gradyeric.blogspot.com/2010/03/anna-maria-island-trip-part-1.html
http://gradyeric.blogspot.com/2010/03/anna-maria-island-trip-part-2.html

So all in all it sounds like they had a great trip!

The youngest met some new family and had lots of new experiences like holding a gator, driving a boat and feeding flamingos!

... and as always he just loved the beach and pool.

Sound like they'll be back again next year, but then so would you ;-)

Anna Maria Island Photography

2010-04-02T16:59:33-07:00

Looking for a Photographer to Shoot Your Wedding or Special Event?

If so, give Billi a call,
At Memories by Billi, on Anna Maria Island.

With the 2010 Anna Maria Island Wedding Festival having come and gone, many of you may already be well into the planning stages of your dream wedding... right here on beautiful Anna Maria Island.

Anna Maria Island after all, is one of Florida's best kept secrets and has quickly become one of the top ranked wedding locations in America today. And if the success of this years Wedding Festival is any indication, Anna Maria Island wedding vendors are about to experience their busiest season yet.

For those of you still in the planning stages, its important to understand that of all the different aspect of your wedding, the photographer and wedding pictures are something you simply do not want to leave to chance.

Photographic services are one of the most important services you will employ on this very special day.

With this in mind, you'll want to take your time in selecting a wedding photographer that is just right for you... and you'll want to book them well in advance of your wedding day.

Our currently featured Anna Maria Island Photographer is www.MemoriesByBilli.com.

If you are planning a wedding on (or near) Anna Maria Island, then you simply have to talk to Billi at Memories by Billi.

Memories By Billi

Billi is one of the finest Anna Maria Island wedding photographers available today... and she has the portfolio to prove it.

Photographic Services - The thrill of taking pictures of all things beautiful, exciting and moving, has been something I've loved for as long as I can remember.

Being able to capture the true essence and beauty of a moment enables you to tell your story and keep it alive forever... and we each have many stories to tell.

Wedding and Special Event Photographer - From your Wedding Day, or other Special Celebration or Occasion, to anything else you want to capture the true essence and beauty of with photos.

"I love them all and take great care in getting to know you and what you feel is important."

"Tell me your vision and we'll capture it on film."

Allow 'Memories by Billi' the opportunity to help you tell your story and keep it alive forever!

Go to Anna Maria Island's best wedding photographer to learn more.

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