We asked Sarah Ozgun with Ellenton Premium Outlets to give us her insights into the best shopping in Florida’s Gulf Islands.

Value and one-of-a-kind finds are what make this destination unique and a favorite among frugal fashionistas. Obviously, I recommend a visit to the Premium Outlets off I-75, but many of our independently owned shops and and boutiques offer great bargains as well.

Ginny & Jane E’s on Anna Maria Island offers everything from vintage furnishings and beach-bum friendly home accents to soaps and bath products. And just down Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach is the Sand Dollar Gift Shop, home to trendy clothing, shoes, handbags, candles and children’s novelties.

Around the corner, the West Coast Surf Shop can suit you up with the latest in swimsuit apparel, flip flops and long boards. And making it easy to explore what the islands have to offer is the free Manatee Trolley, my preferred mode of transportation.

Don’t forget to head back to the mainland, where the Red Barn Flea Market, a destination all its own, offers over 600 booths, and Mixon Fruit Farms provides easy access to shipping fresh Florida citrus.

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