It is often hard to find that balance between what parents and the kids want to do. While you may want to go shop, the kids want to run around at the park for an hour. Below are ten things to do on Anna Maria Island that both parents and kids will adore.
1. Take an Eco Tour
An eco tour is a low-cost and tour centered around the local ecology and nature. Eco tours encompass kayaks, canoes, segways, and sometimes all three. Happy Paddler Kayak Tours (941) 773-1920) offers some of the most rewarding family friendly trips on the island, and there are many other providers.
2. Shell Hunt on Coquina Beach
You can have a free family adventure at Coquina Beach (2650 Gulf Dr S, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217). This local mainstay is filled with beach activities, including a park and playground area and very accessible parking. Take the kids on a shell or shark tooth hunt and see who can find the biggest one.
3. Miniature Golf
For a fun and competitive activity with the whole family right off the island, stop by The Fish Hole Miniature Golf (115 Bridge St, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217). The koi pond sets a nice ambiance, and lush tropics cover and interfere with many of the 18 holes for some added challenge. The course is open from 9 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
4. Get Some Florida Ice Cream
On the north end of the island, you’ll see a sweet spot for locals and visitors alike. Two Scoops (101 S Bay Blvd, Anna Maria, FL 34216) has about 32 home-made flavors and breakfast and lunch menus for hungry visitors. Stop by any day of the week from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
5. Visit Manatee Public Beach
Manatee Public Beach in Holmes Beach is without a doubt one of the best places to take your family. It has every amenity you will need for a long day out at the beach including restrooms, showers, and a playground for the kids. They’ll love every moment at this scenic beach, and there are plenty of restaurants nearby for your convenience.
6. See a Play
The Island Players Community Theatre (10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria, Florida 34216) is your opportunity to share the arts with the kids. The shows are often family friendly and express a range of artistic talents from local performs. Call the box office for tickets and show details at 941 778-5755 to plan to visit a show during your upcoming trip.
7. Shop for a Bag of Fun Beach Toys
Forget to pack some beach toys or any other gear? Visit Island Bazaar (3304 E Bay Dr, Holmes Beach, FL 34217) for an eclectic span of toys to get more out of your family beach activities. The store is an adventure on its own, and plenty of options are cost-friendly.
8. Go on a Horseback Ride
After a training course with RJ Horse Riding (811 65th Ave E, Bradenton Beach, FL) you and your kids will be ready to go on this fascinating romp through the nearby Palm Sola Causeway. Beach and trail rides are available. Call 941-725-9377 for age details and costs.
9. Dolphin Tour the Island
Kids want to see the dolphins, and who can blame them? Anna Maria Island Dolphin Tours (464 63rd St, Holmes Beach, FL 34217) delivers a sensational water experience. Go on a trip with Captain Ben to some of the most popular dolphin hang-outs. Keep an eye out for dolphins trailing the wake of the boat.
10. Rent a Kayak
Instead of going for a guided tour, you can take kayaks out on the water with the kids, an activity that is perfect for all ages. Tandem kayaks are available for younger children, and the waters around Anna Maria Island are calm and perfect for kayaking.
Beach Bums (427 Pine Ave) has everything you would need for a great kayak adventure and you can choose between guided or self-guided tours, along with lessons. They can also deliver kayaks, bicycles, and other rentals right to your vacation rental for your convenience.
Make an unforgettable trip to Anna Maria Island your introduction to the Gulf Coast. Call us at (941)-778-4178 to learn about our Anna Maria vacation rentals and other things to do here as a family. Find an exciting journey just a phone call away.