Getting Around the Island
You can always take the golf cart out for a spin anywhere on the island; the golf cart tops out at 25 mph which is the city-wide speed limit and has a 20-25 mile range. It's also able to drive on any roads that are under 35 mph. Keep in mind that all regular rules apply while operating the golf cart. Driver must be 21+ with valid driver's license and car insurance. There are also sidewalks throughout the island, and walking the beach is amazing. There is a free trolly (info Here) that runs up and down AMI and includes a mobile App for tracking, MyStop. We usually fly into Tampa and drive to the island, but if you fly to Sarasota and Uber, you don't need a car while staying at Loggerhead.
Restaurant Tips
Scott's Deli - We love to walk there, but they'll even deliver to the beach! The Coquina and NY Pastrami are our favorites.
The Sandbar - A staple of AMI since 1979! A beautiful place to sit outside and watch the sunset while drinking tropical drinks 🍹. Be sure to get there early, especially during peak season, as wait times can be long.
The Ugly Grouper - A short stroll from Loggerhead - great fish tacos, and a fun vibe that often has live music
Tide Tables - Just over the Cortez Bridge, fresh seafood overlooking the AMI Sound, some of the best seafood around
Anna Maria Beach Cafe - Located at the Manatee Public Beach, it's great for quick bites or drinks right on the beach. For breakfast, they also do an all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast. If you go for drinks, be sure to grab one of the Anna Maria Beach Cafe souvenir glasses from the cupboard to enjoy a discounted price.
The Donut Experiment - Located on Pine Avenue, it's a fun place - especially with kids! Design your own donuts and watch them make them fresh in front of your eyes.
On Island Activity recommendations
Our favorite days on the island with our 8 year old daughter include wake up early to see the sunrise over the bay, then heading to get our coffee/smoothies/breakfast from North Shore Cafe. We spend the morning walking the beach while collecting shells, looking birds, and playing in the sand. We then retreat back to Loggerhead to enjoy lunch/the pool in the afternoon before heading out for dinner at one of our favorite spots. We always end our day with watching the sunset over the gulf.
Kayaking
Kayak Rentals Anna Maria Island, Rent Kayaks | Beach Bums - offers free drop off and pick up. Kayak the channels for an opportunity to see dolphins and manatees up close or explore the ocean or Tampa Bay on a calm day.
Miniature Golf
Anna Maria Island | The Fish Hole
Boating
Experience AMI Escapes Boat Tours Most Popular Adventure!
2025 Anna Maria Island Dolphin Sunset Boat Tour - with Trusted Reviews
Bike Rentals
6 Best Places For Anna Maria Island Bike Rentals! - ALWAYS ON THE SHORE
Off Island Exploration
Fort De Soto State Park - great for exploring and kayaking. Please note that this area is recovering from storm damage, so please research before you go!
Mote Aquarium - note this is currently closed to the public due to upgrades!
Tips
The busiest time to arrive on the island is at ~4 pm on Saturday during peak season, as traffic and the grocery store can get busy. There is a Publix just as you cross over the Manatee bridge to AMI, and also a Publix on Manatee Ave just off the island.
65 St. Beach is one of the closest and quietest spots on the beach. If you walk further south, it becomes even quieter since there aren't many beach access points in that area.
We often pre-order from Total Beer & Wine to get the craft drinks we want that aren't carried on the island.