Things To Do

Anna Maria Historic Green Village

Saint Armands Circle

Great shopping!

Bean Point

Cannot say enough about how much we enjoyed Anna Maria Island and especially Bean Point. Go early for parking. This beach is gorgeous - a wide stretch of white sand and beautiful blue-green water from where the Tampa Bay and Gulf of Mexico meet.

Poppo's Taqueria

If you’re looking a quick bite that’s guaranteed to be good, then look no further than Poppo’s Taqueria (also called Poppo’s Tacos.) All of the meat is juicy and flavorful plus they have some great vegetarian selections (the tempeh is delicious!). I prefer the Poppo’s Tacos topped with honey-lime slaw, pico, and feta cheese. Also, do yourself a favor and order the house-made chips with guac. They’re made to order – doesn’t get much fresher than that.

Kayak Jacks Paddlesports Kayak & SUP Rentals Anna Maria Island Longboat Key Robinson Preserve

AMI Paddleboards offers paddleboard and kayak rentals with free delivery as long as you rent for a half-day or more (this may seem like a long time but remember you’re likely going to be in a bathing suit most of the trip and you’ll want to stay active so you can eat. all. the. food.) I recommend trying either in the Gulf of Mexico. It’s wavier and more challenging which makes for a way more interesting experience. Though, there’s nothing wrong with putting in at the Bay where you’ll go through the mangrove tunnels and see plenty of wildlife.

The Doctor's Office

Craft cocktails have become a big hit over the years and finally broke ground in AMI when The Doctor’s Office was opened by two long-time residents and restaurant owners. It literally used to be the Doctor’s office on the island hence the name and they kept with that theme. The menu is broken out into what ailment you’re looking to cure and the doctor’s “preferred medications.” If you don’t know what you want, just ask the friendly and knowledgeable staff. Despite the crowds, they give each person the attention they need and answer any and all questions you may have. They go the extra mile by serving complimentary potato chips and a shot of house-made rum punch. They also make the best Mai Tai I’ve ever had!

Rod and Reel Pier

You can’t beat eating a fresh grouper sandwich while overlooking the water at Rod and Reel Pier. While dining outside on the porch, I’ve seen a dolphin, stingray and plenty of fish. Again, the grouper sandwich is the way to go. A giant filet of fresh grouper cooked to your liking on a toasted bun served with a side. The clam chowder is also great if you’re there when it’s not scorching outside. If you go for breakfast, try the pancakes. It’s a crowded place being that’s popular among tourists and locals alike so it’s likely you’ll have to wait (they don’t take reservations). While you wait, grab a beer downstairs where they have $1.50 drafts (you can eat down there if you find a seat but it’s pretty cozy) or take a lap around the building and observe the many people fishing off the pier.