For those looking to spend more time in nature, or for travelers with active kids who need to keep busy, these Anna Maria Island water adventures are a fantastic way to explore the area!
1. Kayak the Mangroves
Kayaking is one of the best ways to experience the quieter side of nature on Anna Maria Island. Guided AMI kayaking tours take paddlers through mangrove forests and shallow estuaries where wildlife like dolphins, manatees, herons, and other coastal birds are often spotted. Winter and spring tend to offer the most comfortable conditions, though summer mornings can also be beautiful on the water.
The slower pace and tour guide support make kayaking accessible to all types of travelers, bringing it to the top of the list of AMI wildlife tours. Check out Happy Paddler to plan your Anna Maria Island mangrove kayak tour, or one of their other kayak offerings.
2. Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Paddleboarding Anna Maria Island is a fun way to explore the bay while getting a little exercise at the same time. Beginners can usually learn quickly on the island’s gentle waters, and many outfitters offer lessons and guided eco-tours. You can explore at your own pace and spot wildlife like dolphins and stingrays at close range.
This is an ideal activity for families with older kids or teens and anyone who wants to enjoy a more active Anna Maria Island outdoor adventure. Check out AMI Paddleboard for guided tours or paddleboard rentals!
3. Shell Collecting
Hunting for shells along the shoreline is one of the easiest things to do outdoors on Anna Maria Island. Beaches like Bean Point and Coquina Beach are popular spots to search for sand dollars, whelks and other unique shells, especially after storms. Early mornings offer an uncrowded shelling experience, and winter months can produce great finds due to seasonal tide conditions.If you want a fun, low-key activity on AMI, combine your beach time with a little shell hunting adventure. You might even find a neat shell to bring back home with you!
4. Go Fishing
Fishing charters are a great way to get out on the water on Anna Maria Island. Local guides offer inshore and offshore trips targeting species like redfish, snapper, grouper and tarpon. Half-day charters are a popular option with families and beginners, while there are plenty of longer offshore excursions for experienced anglers. Most charters will provide equipment and fishing licenses, so your trip will be seamless and easy.
Captain Nate and AMI Charters are both local, reputable fishing charter companies on Anna Maria Island.
5. Dolphin Watching and AMI Wildlife Tours
Wildlife tours on Anna Maria Island offer the chance to see the island’s marine life and coastal habitats up close. Dolphin watching cruises are especially popular with our guests, with most tours departing from Holmes Beach. Glide through the calm back bay and out toward the Gulf Coast, where pods of bottlenose dolphins regularly surface alongside the boat. Most companies offer private and public dolphin watching trips. Check out AMI Dolphin Tours to plan this memorable activity!
Other eco-tours on AMI focus on bird watching, manatee sightings and mangrove ecosystems. There are also opportunities to interact with the underwater world with snorkeling trips to nearby smaller islands, with some companies offering a little parasailing adventure along the way. There's so much to explore on Anna Maria Island!
6. Watersports
If you want to add a little speed to your beach day, there are some great options for faster-paced AMI water activities. Jet ski rentals are a popular way to explore the coastline at thrilling speeds, while banana boat rides are a favorite high-energy ride across the waves. Parasailing offers a bird’s eye view of the island while you fly above the gorgeous Gulf waters.Adrenaline seekers have lots of ways to enjoy an exciting Anna Maria Island outdoor adventure. View our recommendations for AMI Jet Ski Rentals, Boat Charters, and other fun tours.
7. Sunset Cruise or Boat Rental
Check out one of the most relaxing AMI water activities with a sunset cruise or boat rental. You can rent your own pontoon to explore sandbars or spend the afternoon cruising along the bay. Sunset cruises are also very popular because you can usually spot dolphins while watching the sun set over the Gulf.
This is a great activity for families, couples or groups who want a scenic nature activity without too much physical exertion. Find local charter companies we recommend here.
Plan Your Anna Maria Island Visit
Getting out on the water when visiting Anna Maria Island is always a good idea. Enjoy the fresh ocean air, spot wildlife, and take in the incredible views, no matter which activity you choose! There’s no shortage of water-focused adventures on Anna Maria Island.Book a stay in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals and gear up for an unforgettable trip to this nature-filled, outdoor adventure paradise on the Gulf.
