Explore, Eat & Drink

Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

Animal lovers should head to Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium — you'll see manatees, sea turtles, sharks, otters, and even have the opportunity to touch some of these creatures in the touch pools.

Sea-renity Beach Spa & Bou-tiki

For a truly relaxing island experience, book a massage at Sea-renity Spa. It's the only place on the island where you can get a massage right on the beach in their tiki hut — perfect for a couple's treat.

Gypsea Tides Beach Boutique

For a bit of sparkle, check out Fairy Hair by Gypsea Tides. They tie shimmering strands into your hair that can last for weeks. It's surprisingly addictive and really fun for bridesmaids or kids.

Myakka Elephant Ranch

Myakka Elephant Ranch is unforgettable. (must book in advance, and it is expensive) It's a non-profit conservation center where you can learn about and even interact with elephants.

Ringling Museum

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

Myakka River State Park

Myakka River State Park is perfect for hiking, airboat rides, or spotting alligators.

Island Girl Boat Tours AMI

If you only do one boat trip, make it Island Girl Boat Tours. They're friendly locals who'll take you out for dolphin watching, sandbar hopping, or sunset cruises.

Gulf Islands Ferry

It's inexpensive and a clever way to get to downtown Bradenton's Riverwalk or even Bridge Street without worrying about parking. It's also a fun and very inexpensive boat trip. They are also working on adding tour guides.

Shore Thing Tiki Cruises

For something a little more festive, try a Shore Thing Tiki Cruise. You bring your own drinks, they provide the tiki boat vibes — it's a floating party.

Cponies Beach Horseback Rides

C Ponies will let you ride horses in the water at Palma Sola Bay.

AMI Coconuts

They deliver fresh coconut drinks right to you, even on the beach, or you can visit their retail shop on Pine Ave.

The Waterfront Restaurant

Fresh, creative food.

The Porch Restaurant Anna Maria

Great for a nice dinner without being too formal.

Beach House & The Sandbar

Both right on the beach, owned by the same company. Go for the view and a cocktail. (For foodies, save your dinner plans for Waterfront, Blue Marlin, or Shore)

Freckled Fin Irish Pub

Live music, a lively atmosphere, and their ahi tuna is a must-try; great happy hour prices.

Blue Marlin Seafood Restaurant

Historic cottage owned by a long-time island family.

The Doctor's Office

It's tiny and cozy, 21+ only, and the drinks are upscale and creative. Try their Painkiller.

Graze Street AMI

Fresh boards and upscale sandwiches

Duffy's Tavern, Bar, and Grill

No-frills burgers, cash only. (Fight on the island for the best burger, we love Duffy's, but other locals are Skinny's fans, so try both!)

La Crêperie

French and fresh breakfast

The Donut Experiment

Fun, customize-your-own donuts and excellent iced coffee.

Star Fish Company

Old Florida feel, cash only. Local Famous and on the water.

Slicker's Eatery

Hidden gem with great cocktails

Swordfish Grill

Live music on the water.