Anna Maria Island

Florida is a major tourist destination and more people are discovering one of its gems. Anna Maria Island, sitting on the Gulf of Mexico offers stretches of perfect beach, outdoor sports, wildlife and leisure and shopping amenities. The cuisine available on the island is varied and there are some of the best restaurants and cozy bistros. Seafood is a local specialty and diners can sample French, Spanish, Asian and Italian food. There are also British outlets to cater for the many British visitors who come here.

There is no shortage of things to do here for the active visitor or those who just want to chill. Local shopping is noted for its jewelry made by resident craftspeople and for its fine linen goods. There are bicycles for hire to explore Anna Maria Island or different kinds of boat. Fishing enthusiasts can charter a deep-sea boat. Bird watchers love to come here to view the range of colorful, tropical birds. Kayaking is popular and scuba divers are attracted to the beautifully clear green waters. Golfers and tennis players like to come here too, for the high standard of facilities and there are world famous golf and tennis academies for anyone wanting to improve their game.

The area has several museums that will appeal to both adults and children. The South Florida Museum and Aquarium has displays on the history of settlement in the state and on the natural history and geology of Florida. There are impressive light shows at the Planetarium and the Aquarium is well known for its successful breeding program of manatees. The nearby G-Wiz Science Museum is a must for families coming to Anna Maria Island. It has interactive exhibits that teach about the weather, electricity, robotics, magnetism, engineering and mechanics.

The natural world is proudly presented in Florida and tourists on an Anna Maria Island vacation are in a good spot to visit the nearby attractions. Selby Gardens are botanical gardens where orchids and flora and fauna native to the rainforest thrive. The Jungle Gardens are zoological gardens with a number of nature trails to take in the tropical plants, flowers and trees. There are birds of prey, snakes and crocodiles and other reptiles. Both these destinations give the visitor the opportunity to learn how the Florida region got its lush terrain and exotic animals. There is too much to see on just one vacation and many visitors return again.