Dreaming of a getaway to the islands? Bring the family to Florida’s Gulf Islands of Anna Maria, Longboat Key and the mainland areas of Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch. Every year, countless visitors make lasting vacation memories in this coastal gem that has somehow managed to hang on to that glorious time in Florida’s past, when small beach towns were the rule and not the exception.
On the dreamy barrier island of Anna Maria, gentle beach breezes and colorful pastel cottages set the scene for a “kick off your flip-flops and do nothing” vacation. Make your way up and down the island on the Manatee Trolley, which shuttles passengers around at no more than 25 mph. The trolley provides convenient access to the many unique boutiques, antique shops and ice cream spots strung along the beach – just don’t bother looking for a Starbuck’s. Nothing is built higher than three stories tall, and most places along Gulf Drive offer stunning views of the Gulf and easy access to the beach, with plenty of public parking. The charming towns along Anna Maria Island cling tightly to their quiet lifestyles and undisturbed beauty.
Drifting over the Longboat Pass Bridge, you’ll find yourself on the 11-mile-long Longboat Key –complete with luxury hotels, world-class dining, and upscale shopping. The island’s chic setting led USA Today to name Mar Vista, a beachside restaurant, the most likely place to sit next to a millionaire and not know it. Shopping on Longboat Key is a favorite pastime, whether seeking designer clothing and jewelry, or a pair of flip-flops and a beach towel.
On the mainland, visitors wander the city of Bradenton, full of antique shops, restaurants and a waterfront district with walking paths and an amphitheater. The Village of the Arts offers a distinctive collection of transformed bungalows where artists live, work, and sell their creations. Nearby is the Cortez Historic Fishing Village, home to the annual Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival. And just off I-75, Lakewood Ranch brings the true meaning of “neighborhood” to life, with dramatic landscapes, world-class recreational facilities, fine dining and numerous shopping venues.
Fulfilling more than just an appetite for fun, these islands serve up more than 50 independently-owned restaurants. From beach shacks to gourmet restaurants, even the pickiest of diners will be satisfied with this menu of award-winning options. Touting the highest Zagat rating for food and service in Florida, the Beach Bistro is a must. And Euphemia Haye’s Haye Loft is referred to as "The stuff dreams are made of..." by the New York Times. Visit The Sun House Restaurant & Bar and join guests in a nightly tribute to the restaurant’s glowing namesake, as it slips into the Gulf waters.
Great weather and events make Florida’s Gulf Islands a family favorite any time of year, with hands-on activities, attractions and outdoor adventure for kids of every age and interest. Visitors can head to the South Florida Museum to visit Snooty™, the oldest manatee in captivity, and see the stars at the planetarium. In July, the Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch hosts guided turtle walks, and the great outdoors don’t get any greater than a hike through the natural habitats of Emerson Point Preserve.
Florida’s Gulf Islands specialize in making guests feel like long-awaited friends. Serene natural beauty and breathtaking Gulf views give the area a style all its own – the perfect setting for an amazingly carefree vacation.
