Planning a Florida vacation means fun in the sun all year long. Popular vacation destinations like Panama City Beach or Orlando are fun for some, but if you’re looking to truly escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, visit Anna Maria Island. The seven-mile stretch of land is perfect for getting away from it all. You won’t spot high-rises and tons of crowds, but instead, you can ride your golf cart around the island or stroll alongside the locals as you head into town. While Anna Maria is beautiful any time of year, it’s especially nice in the fall, and you’ll get a nice respite from the heat.
Fall Weather in Anna Maria Island
The months of September, October, and November bring pleasant temperatures to Anna Maria Island. Average highs during the day range between 70 and 80 degrees, while low temperatures range from 60 to 70 degrees. October marks the end of the hot season, so temperatures are much more bearable than they are in the middle of summer. Often, you are more than able to jump in the water during the warmer morning and early afternoon, but the late afternoon showers help to cool everything down for a pleasant evening.
Fall in Anna Maria Island is also the start of the dry season, so while you may spot a shower or two, it won’t be enough to ruin all of your plans for the day. Rain chances in September range around 40 to 50%, while that chance drops to about 20% in October and November. When it does rain, Anna Maria Island only accumulates about 2 to 4 inches of rain during the fall months.
What to Pack
Of course, the weather often dictates what you plan to pack for your vacation. Since Anna Maria Island is still warm during the fall, you will be fine packing your usual t-shirts, tank tops, and shorts. However, you may also want to add a light jacket to your suitcase for the evening breezes, and it may be helpful to pack an umbrella as well in case you hit an afternoon shower. While flip-flops are great for the beach, we also recommend bringing a sturdier pair of shoes for walking around the island. Finally, don’t forget sunscreen and a hat to protect you from the beating sun.
Fall Events on Anna Maria Island
Along with the cooler temperatures, fall also means great events in the area for you to partake in. On October 19th, visit the city of Anna Maria for the 19th Annual Bayfest, an all-day street festival full of classic cars, live music, incredible food, and fun for all ages. If you are on the island for Halloween, be sure to bring your kids out for the Trail of Treats, a safe way for your kids to trick-or-treat while you can browse the local businesses.
Visiting in November? Check out Arts Hop, an annual three-day event showcasing local theater shows, arts and crafts, music, and food. Just down the road in Sarasota, the Chalk Festival will leave you in awe by filling the street with a burst of color.
There are so many things to do on AMI, your only problem will be deciding what to do next! Of course, you can always enjoy the beaches, fresh seafood, and unique shopping all year round, but visiting in the fall is a special way to make the most of your trip to Anna Maria Island. For more information on the area and our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals, contact us today!