If you’ve ever gone to the beach for a holiday, you know how amazing it can be. Whether it’s escaping to the sunshine for the winter holidays or getting away with the family on a school break, it’s always the ultimate way to relax and celebrate the occasion. In the spring time the weather is gorgeous, making Easter the ideal getaway this time of year!
Visit the Best Beaches on Anna Maria Island
You’ll find breathtaking beaches all up and down the miles-long coastline of the island, primed for a perfect beach day. As the island isn’t very wide, you’re never far from the shore, and many properties are an easy walk to the sand. Anna Maria Island offers a variety of beaches, so whether you like action-packed spots with eateries and shopping, or prefer something more secluded for an Easter picnic, there’s options for every occasion.
Bean Point is the northernmost point of the island and boasts sweeping views of the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay—ideal for an Easter morning walk! The nearby Bayfront Park sits along the bay, and offers a small beach, playground, and BBQ facilities—pretty much everything you need for an Easter cookout. If you prefer the hustle and bustle of beach cafes and surf shops, try Holmes Beach or Coquina Beach, where you can grab Easter brunch and get in some retail therapy. However you feel like relaxing on your AMI Easter vacation, there’s a beach for you!
Unforgettable Dining and Shopping for a Perfect Easter
Our proximity to the waters of the Gulf of Mexico means that you’ll be in heaven if you’re a lover of fresh seafood. Have Easter dinner at an upscale restaurant with a sunset ocean view or grab fish tacos on your way to a local easter event. If you’re not crazy about seafood, you’ll find countless other options, such as high-quality pizza and burger joints, and restaurants with a wide variety on their menu.
Spring is an optimal time to get in some shopping, whether it’s a new vacation swimsuit or a handmade candle for your room back home. Pine Avenue is the classic spot to shop on Anna Maria Island, as there’s an assortment of boutiques selling all manner of things, including jewelry, home items, beachwear, artwork, and more. There are other popular spots to shop on the island too, such as the Bridge Street District and the beach markets. Spend your Easter weekend shopping on AMI!
Attend a Local Easter Event on Anna Maria Island
From egg hunts to local churches offering Easter Sunday services on Anna Maria Island, you’ll have a variety of ways to celebrate the holiday right at your fingertips. When searching for a local church to attend services, check if they have an Easter egg hunt for the kids, because they usually do. The Kiwanis Club of AMI usually holds a sunrise service on the beach, complete with coffee from the nearby beach café.
If you’re looking for more of a community-oriented Easter egg hunt, there’s likely to be easter egg hunts all over town. One popular option is the yearly Easter egg hunt at The Sandbar Restaurant, which is right on the beach! But for the ultimate Easter egg hunt, plan one in your vacation rental’s backyard. With lush tropical landscaping, you can easily create your own Easter adventure right at home and get in quality time with your loved ones on the holiday.
It’s Time to Book Your Own AMI Easter Vacation Home!
When you’re booking an Easter vacation to Anna Maria Island, you’ll want the perfect vacation home for the holiday—and we deliver at Seabreeze Vacation! With stunning homes in locations all over AMI, you can reserve everything from a charming beach cottage to homes with multiple bedrooms to fit the entire family. If you’re looking to cook your own Easter getaway, rest assured our AMI vacation properties are fitted with fully equipped kitchens. Or even do an Easter BBQ out by your own private pool. We’ll be more than happy to help you find your dream Easter rental on AMI—contact our friendly team today!
In many places in the country, spring can start with a snowstorm, or be full of dreary days that still feel like winter until the flowers finally start blooming. But not on Anna Maria Island! Our little barrier island is truly a paradise in the spring, as the weather warms up a bit from the winter and makes for breezy days spent outside drinking in everything the island has to offer, from outdoor recreation to festive parties and events. When you attend events on Anna Maria Island in the spring, you’ll enjoy a lively time that remains low-key—no spring break madness here! Of course, it’s a popular time to visit still, and once you experience it yourself, you’ll see exactly why.
Once you’re here, you might be curious as to what kind of events might be happening on AMI in the spring time. We’re sure a huge chunk of your time will be spent laying out on the beach, but between that and living it up at your vacation rental, we’ve collected a list of some of the top AMI spring events this 2023, just for you!
Experience the Local Art Scene at the 35th Annual Spring Fest
There’s something special about discovering local art from the area you’re visiting. Whether it’s a watercolor beach landscape or a handmade piece of jewelry made from shells, taking home a piece of art with you can make you feel connected to the place—and we’re happy to tell you that at the AMI Spring Fest you can do just that! Attend for a weekend full of over 80 vendors displaying and selling their artistic creations, in a festival setting with things like live music, food and beverage vendors, and community organizations educating about local history and the unique environment of our barrier island.
You’ll find that admission and parking are free to this event, making it a can’t miss occasion if you’re visiting during this time! You can splurge on raffle tickets for that gala, which has prizes of artwork from the festival, and the proceeds go to a local organization that provides art classes to both kids and adults. Mark your calendars for this year’s 35th Annual Spring Fest, which is scheduled for March 18th and 19th, 2023, from Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at City Hall Field in Holmes Beach.
Enjoy Acoustic Favorites with Local Musician Bill Dundas
Get your groove on at this local event that happens every Tuesday afternoon in the spring, at Harry’s Grill in Anna Maria! Relax on the patio and take advantage of their happy hour menu, while AMI musician Bill Dundas serenades you with classic acoustic favorites—you might even be able to put in a request or two. Spring on Tuesdays in 2023, you’ll find Bill out on the patio at Harry’s Grill, with happy hour happening from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. A perfect weekday activity when you’re looking for something fun to do! If you prefer to see a calendar view of when Bill is performing, you can check out the Chamber of Commerce’s event calendar as well.
Check Out the AMI Farmers Market
When spring is in the air, so is fresh local produce! Spring is one of the best times to check out a farmers market on Anna Maria Island—that’s right, we have more than one. Celebrate the end of the season of the Bridge Street Market, which closes in April before the warmer summer months. You’ll find it open on every Sunday from November 2022 to April 2023, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. It’s also an excellent place to pick up a new piece of art or something crafted locally to commemorate your spring vacation to Anna Maria Island.
If you miss your chance at the Bridge Street Market, be sure to check out the Coquina Beach Market in Bradenton Beach, which takes place not one, but two days of the week! Another huge bonus is that it runs through July, meaning it will be open all spring. It runs on Wednesdays and Sundays, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Coquina Beach. Shop for fresh produce, seafood, arts and crafts, and more. Take home a nautical themed piece of pottery or buy a gift for a loved one back home. This spring 2023 is the ideal time to visit the farmers market on Anna Maria Island!
It’s Your Spring Vacation Done Your Way this 2023 on AMI
Spend the day relaxing at your private backyard oasis, toast to sunset views from your oceanfront deck, sit around a crackling outdoor firepit in the evening. Our AMI vacation rentals have all the features you could want for an island getaway, and there’s one that is the perfect fit for you—we’re here to help you plan your getaway, just call today!
Vacations to Florida have long been a spring break rite of passage, and every March you’re sure to find tons of vacationers from every walk of life hitting the coast. While some destinations have a raucous reputation for spring break, there are plenty of spots in Florida where you can enjoy a stunning spring break on the beach without the overbearing party atmosphere—and Anna Maria Island is the ideal location! Whether you’re taking the family on a spring break trip during time off from school, getting away with your friends, or even embarking on a solo getaway, AMI has something for everyone to enjoy in a more low-key spring break experience that’s sure to create memories that last a lifetime. There’s no doubt that one of the best spring break vacation destinations in Florida is Anna Maria Island!
Spend Your Spring Break on the Top Beaches in AMI
There’s no denying that this is hands down the first best thing about spending spring break on Anna Maria Island. You’ll find heavier crowds than normal of course as it’s peak vacation season, but you’ll find plenty of space on the beach to enjoy without the rowdy activity you might find in a city more popular with the party crowd. Try Bean Point for a chill beach with a natural vibe—as it’s on the northern tip of the island, you can also look out to Tampa Bay as well as the azure waters of the Gulf of Mexico, laying out in the sunshine on sugary white sand. You won’t find many facilities here, but down at bustling spots like Manatee Beach and Coquina Beach, you’ll find things like restrooms, BBQ grills, and picnic tables—perfect for a spring afternoon at the shore. The beaches down in Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach are surrounded by eateries and shopping options as well!
Dine at the Most Popular AMI Restaurants
Sampling the local cuisine is one of the best things about going on vacation, and springtime in AMI is ideal for grabbing a patio seat outside and drinking up the views of the ocean and island scenery. Beachfront restaurants include classic spots like Sandbar Seafood and Spirits, offering an assortment of upscale steak and seafood, along with items like fish tacos, a chicken sandwich, and even a vegan burger. Another terrific beachside spot is Anna Maria Island Beach Café, where you can grab a table right in the sand. Their extensive menu has tons of options, including breakfast till 11:00 a.m. as well as tropical cocktails. If you’re after fresh seafood, try The Ugly Grouper, a family-friendly restaurant serving up an assortment of American fusion dishes including vegetarian, beef, and chicken. Wherever you decide to dine out on AMI, spring is one of the most lively seasons to do so!
Do Some Spring Shopping on Pine Ave
Pine Avenue sits on the northern end of the island and has long been a popular destination for both locals and visitors alike. Here you can shop for that perfect summer swimsuit, or pick up a sea salt candle to take home and remind you of your AMI vacation. There are lots of boutiques selling swimsuits and clothing, but you’ll also find quirky spots like the Pineapple Marketplace, which offers a variety of gifts and goods, as well as home décor. Have fun going out to lunch at one of the many restaurants on Pine Avenue, and enjoy browsing the street for shops in gorgeous weather. You might even find some springtime sales!
Visit the Historic Bridge Street Pier
In Bradenton Beach, you can find the Historic Bridge Street District, home to the pier of the same name. You can walk the pier and admire the views of the eastern side of the island, and if you like to fish, you can get a saltwater fishing license online and fish directly from the pier. Or do things the easy way, and swing by the Anna Maria Oyster Bar at the end of the pier for happy hour instead. Beyond the pier, the streets surrounding it are full of local shops and restaurants, and it can be a beautiful area to explore during spring break! Even more ideal, you can rent a bicycle and adventure around the district by bike—it’s also a great way to explore the rest of the island too!
It’s Time to Book Your AMI Spring Break Getaway!
When you’re booking a spring getaway to AMI, you want your vacation rental to have it all—and that’s exactly what we offer with our spring break Anna Maria Island rentals! Browse our stunning properties for your spring break getaway, and chat with us to learn more about our fabulous Anna Maria Island vacation rentals! Contact us today!
All over the country, Memorial Day is hailed as the unofficial start of the summer, bringing excited travelers to seaside destinations, each searching for their own slice of summer paradise—and Anna Maria Island is no exception. Easily one of the most celebratory weekends of the season, guests to the island will enjoy a festive atmosphere—think beach bars with live music, bustling shop-lined streets, and lively local eateries with cocktails and tacos. When you’re not living it up for the holiday weekend, you’ll find you have your choice of stunning tropical white-sand beaches all up and down the island, as well as a gorgeous stretch of bayfront land where you can frolic in the calm waters of Tampa Bay. Besides the abundance of recreational beach activities, you can spend your days exploring different parts of the island, each with its own distinct character and highlights, from Anna Maria in the north to Bradenton Beach in the south. It’s everything you need for a sublime Memorial Day weekend at the beach!
Explore North End Beaches and Parks
On the gorgeous northern end of the island, you’ll find a collection of beaches and parks perfect for a little Memorial Day R & R. Bean Point is a beach situated at the very tip of the island, where the Gulf flows into Tampa Bay, and has an unhurried and relaxed feel. One of the excellent things about staying on the north end is that you’ll also have access to the bay side of the island. Take a morning swim in clear gulf waters, and in the afternoon have a Memorial Day BBQ with the picnic and grill amenities at Bayfront Park. A convenient network of island canals also gives the chance for recreation such as kayaking and fishing in Bimini Bay.
Stay in the Action in Holmes Beach
Down in Holmes Beach, there’s a lively atmosphere that perfectly lends itself to Memorial Day celebrations. Head to Manatee Beach to find all the amenities you need for some Memorial Day fun, such as bathrooms, picnic tables, and volleyball courts. Manatee Beach is also home to the Anna Maria Island Beach Café, where you can dine right in the sand and order everything from burgers to tropical cocktails.
Discover Bradenton Beach
At the southern end of the island, you’ll find Bradenton Beach, which offers an upbeat atmosphere with lots to keep you entertained. Coquina Beach is a popular spot to catch a bit of sun, with a lengthy swimming area, picnic amenities, and play areas. Check out the open-air Coquina Beach Market on Wednesday or Friday from 10 AM to 2 PM. You can grab a bite to eat and browse clothes, jewelry, home décor, and other goods from different booths. Bradenton Beach isn’t just home to amazing beaches though—there’s also the Historic Bridge Street District, with shops, dining, and a pier with a restaurant, the Anna Maria Oyster Bar.
Treat Yourself to Local Cuisine
We think one of the best parts about the holiday vacation is the cuisine, and here on Anna Maria Island, you won’t be disappointed with your choices! Offering an impressive array of restaurants that span from cool and casual to upscale and refined, there’s something for everyone, whether you’re chasing the best fish tacos or on a hunt for the best appetizers with a seaside view—try The Waterfront Restaurant for the latter! The Wicked Cantina in Bradenton Beach offers casual Mexican fare in a waterfront setting with happy hour and margaritas. The Sand Bar has long been a popular seaside spot, serving up a mixture of traditional dishes with a Florida twist. These are just a sampling of the options you’ll have for your Memorial Day getaway!
emorial Day Festivities
The Chamber of Commerce puts on an annual Memorial Day event, and everyone is invited! At City Pier Park the Memorial Day Symphony Salute takes place, where you’ll be treated to a symphony performance from the Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus and Orchestra, as well as a posting of colors from our local Marine Corps. There will be plenty of seating for all! If you’d like to get into a bit of evening Memorial Day festivities, you’ll find restaurants and bars such as D Coy Ducks Bar & Grille and Island Time Bar and Grill have live music and pub fare. If you like to do a bit of holiday shopping, the shops on Pine Ave have always been popular among visitors, and the free island trolley will easily take you there, as well as up and down the island!
Reserve Your Memorial Day Vacation Rental on Anna Maria Island Today!
A holiday getaway to the beach is always a special occasion, especially on Memorial Day weekend! Take a look at our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals and call us to speak with us about reserving your Memorial Day vacation home, contact us today!