Anna Maria Island, better known to locals as AMI, has quickly become one of my favorite staycation destinations. The charming beach town boasts gorgeous views of the Gulf of Mexico and sugary white sand. I love the remote feel of the island. It is truly a place you can get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life!
AMI is one of those destinations that is well-known to locals, but not necessarily to travelers. Take advantage of this now, before the secret gets out!
Did I mention there is so much to enjoy on AMI? There are tons of beachfront restaurants where you can take in a gorgeous sunset and even one of my favorite spas! Below are some of my favorite spots on Anna Maria Island:
Where to eat on Anna Maria Island
The Donut Experiment
The Donut Experiment is one of the coolest concepts I’ve ever seen! When you walk in, they have notepads and pens for you to create and record your CHOICE of donuts. Nothing is pre-made there, they craft each donut to your liking. There are seasonal favorites like pumpkin spice filling and tried-and-true combos like maple and bacon.
Check out their menu and see how creative you can get with your choice of donuts! We ordered a dozen which may have been overkill for two people but you bet we finished the box 😉
Location: 210c Pine Ave, Anna Maria, FL 34216
The Sandbar
I’ve been to The Sandbar twice and loved it both times! Perfect spot nestled right on the beach. I had their vegan burger – so good! My drink of choice was a margarita – you can’t go wrong.
Location: 100 Spring Ave, Anna Maria, FL 34216
What to Do on AMI
Get a facial at Leah Chavie’s skincare spa
I recently stopped in to see Leah for a hydrafacial, dermaplaning, and a infrared sauna wrap. My experience was absolutely amazing! Leah is a true industry professional, with 25 years of experience and her own line of skincare products. Stop in for a facial, massage, mani/pedi, or just to shop and sip mimosas with owners Leah and Lance!
Mention me for 30% off your services at Leah Chavie!
Address: 115 3rd St S, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
Enjoy the beach
This area boasts some of the most gorgeous beaches in Florida and arguably in the United States. Take your pick between Longboat Key, Bradenton Beach, and Anna Maria (Holmes Beach). My personal preference is for AMI, but you really can’t go wrong!
Venture Over to Longboat Key
Check out some of my favorite Longboat Key spots below!
Where to Eat on Longboat Key
Whitney’s LBK
Whitney’s had the coolest atmosphere ever. I loved how the owner described it as “beachy, but not tacky.” Totally my vibe. I ordered the pesto spaghetti which was INCREDIBLE and Connor had the mahi tacos – also amazing. I’ve heard great things about the rosé as well. Speaking of the drinks, we both had delicious mojitos – mine was watermelon-flavored!
Check out the Whitney’s menu here!
Location: 6990 Gulf of Mexico Dr, Longboat Key, FL 34228
Shore
I am a long-time fan of Shore – I grew up shopping in their surf shop in St. Armand’s Circle. Surprisingly, I had never tried out their diner in St. Armand’s or their LBK location. Not surprisingly, the LBK location was gorgeous and the food was AMAZING! We started off with the shrimp ceviche and guacamole. I’m just now starting to come around on seafood – trust me, I know this is weird since I’m a native Floridian. I tried ceviche for the first time made FRESH (no, really he caught the fish and immediately made ceviche) and I’ve been sold for life. I loved the combo of the shrimp and guacamole since avocado is my FAVE!
For entrees, I ordered the vegan kale caesar with chicken on the side. I was expecting a smaller sized portion but this one was so big I took it home! Love when that happens. Connor went for classic with the Shore Burger, which he said was awesome. For drinks, he went with the Old Fashioned and I grabbed the Bee Keeper. The Bee Keeper is a mix of tea infused Hudson baby bourbon, apricot liqueur, and lemon honey – so good! And how could I forget about the truffle fries? Always a favorite of mine.
Check out their menu here!
Location: 800 Broadway St, Longboat Key, FL 34228
Places We’d Like to Go Next Time
The Doctor’s Office
The Doctor’s Office is a super cool cocktail bar! I’ve been hearing so much buzz about it lately. With COVID restrictions in mind, I know that they do require a reservation to visit.
5312 Holmes Blvd. #B, Holmes Beach, FL 34217
The Beach House
The vibe of this place just looks great! Located directly on the beach, The Beach House is an AMI staple. I can’t wait to try it next time I’m in town.
200 Gulf Dr N, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
Smoqehouse
Smoqehouse looks like such a cool spot. It definitely has more of a city-feel than a beachy vibe. I would love to try it out!
1701 Gulf Dr N, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
Where to stay on Anna Maria Island
The Bali Hai Beachfront Resort
The Bali Hai Beachfront Resort is where it’s at! If you haven’t seen my latest post about our stay at the Bali Hai, I highly recommend checking it out!
This is located on the private white sand beaches of Anna Maria Island (AMI), Florida. The property is one of Anna Maria’s newest, boasting modern, luxurious beachfront rooms.
P.S. mention my name “Emily” when you book for 10% off your ENTIRE STAY!
Location: 6900 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, FL 34217 USA
Craving an adventure soon? Look no further than AMI! Locals: what are your fave spots around town? I’d love to add them to my list!
