Villa Rentals Anna Maria, Fl, Florida

A Little Bit About Anna Maria, Fl

Anna Maria is a beautiful island conveniently situated just about 5o minutes south of Tampa airport or 90 minutes from Orlando airport. Arriving in Anna Maria is like stepping back in time - quaint houses and streets, independent stores and restaurants, no high rise buildings and a free trolley bus driven by friendly drivers who will take you to all your favourite island locations. The beaches are stunning - white sand and clear blue waters. The island is a haven for nature where you will see wonderful bird and marine life including dolphins and manatees and lots more besides. The island has several interesting nature preserves where you can take a peaceful walk or kayak through the mangroves and intercoastal waterways. Fishing is a very popular past time on the island. Villa rentals are in abundance in Anna Maria so you will be spoilt for choice for somewhere to stay.

There are quaint and stylish beachside bars and restaurants that serve locally sourced food and fresh fish. Dining is a real treat on the island! Every evening on Holmes Beach you can enjoy a sun downer and live music for a couple of hours before sunset. Locals and holiday makers gather here for a cocktail and a dance on the beach and to enjoy the wonderful sunsets. Its charming and unfussy! There are plenty of nature walks and cycling opportunities. Kayaking is popular and fishing. There are quaint independent retail stores that are fun to browse around. The island is quite arty so you can find some nice local art . There is a super little theatre that does great amateur drama productions which are worth attending for an authentic American theatre experience. Every Sunday there is a great beach market at Coquina Beach which sells interesting arts and crafts and lots more!

Anna Maria is superbly located to visit other areas of interest if you feel you want to escape the peace and tranquility of the island! Sarasota is the closest city to Anna Maria and is considered the arts and culture capital of Florida. Myakka state park is a wonderful wildlife wilderness just east of Sarasota - here you can book an overnight stay in a traditional log cabin which is great fun! En route to Myakka stop at Yoders Amish Village for a wonderful hearty Amish breakfast- superb! Historically there is De Soto National Park which commemorates the 1539 Spanish landing- it is just a short drive from the island and affords beautiful views across Tampa Bay. Close to here is the Gamble Plantation House built in 1845 with interesting guided tours. A visit to the old Ybor neighbourhood of Tampa and dining at the excellent Columbia restaurant is a nice way to spend perhaps your last day en route to Tampa airport. If you haven't experienced an American Football League match - why not go to watch the Tampa Bay Bucaneers at their Tampa stadium - it is great fun for all the family! Finally Orlando! It is only a 90 minute drive to Orlando and all its attractions - so a day trip is possible! Closer by is Busch Gardens for all those who love white knuckle roller coaster rides and animals! You will not be stuck for fun things to do!!