So you’re thinking about visiting Anna Maria Island for the first time? Nice choice. The only tricky part is picking Anna Maria Island vacation rentals that truly work for families and groups without guessing from pretty photos.
This guide makes it simple. We’ll break down the island’s three areas, what to look for in a rental (space, walkability, parking), and the easiest ways to get around once you arrive. And if you want a fun, stress-free way to explore, AMI Golf Cart Rentalscan deliver a cart right to your place, so your vacation starts the moment you check in.
First, here’s what makes AMI different from most Florida beach towns—because it affects where you’ll want to stay.
What Makes Anna Maria Island Different
AMI sits on Florida’s Gulf Coast, a bit south of Tampa. The whole island is about seven miles long.
You know how most beach towns get built up over time with tall buildings and chain restaurants everywhere? AMI said no to all that. There are actual rules here. Buildings cannot be taller than three stories.
What you get instead is old Florida—the real deal. Quiet streets, palm trees, and sunsets over the Gulf that honestly look unreal.
U.S. News ranks Anna Maria Island among the best family beach vacations in the country. The three historic towns give the island an “Old Florida” appeal that encourages families to slow down. It is easy to see why families love AMI rentals. You just cannot beat the extra room and privacy you get with a beach house or condo.
Now let’s break down the three towns, since location is the biggest factor in choosing the right rental.
The Three Towns of Anna Maria Island
Okay, this part confuses a lot of people. AMI has three towns. They are all on the same island, but they are not the same. Here is the breakdown.
City of Anna Maria
This is the town at the very top of the island. If you want quiet, this is it. The streets have big trees. Everything feels slow and cozy.
Bean Point Beach is up here. Super peaceful. The sand is calm and not crowded. Pine Avenue has little shops and breakfast places that locals love. Want to get away from it all? Stay here.
Holmes Beach
Holmes Beach is smack in the middle. It is the biggest town on AMI. The only real grocery store on the island is here, so stocking your rental kitchen is no problem.
Manatee Public Beach is in Holmes Beach. Families really like it because there are lifeguards, bathrooms, and even a little cafe. This town gives you a bit of everything. Quiet when you want it. Shops and food are nearby when you need it.
Bradenton Beach
Bradenton Beach is at the bottom of the island. This one has more going on. Historic Bridge Street has shops, food, and live music at night.
Coquina Beach is down here, too. Great for picnics and splashing around. If your group likes being where things are happening and wants easy access to the mainland, Bradenton Beach is solid.
So yeah. Three towns, three different vibes. Think about what matters most: quiet, convenience, or nightlife, before you pick.
Picking the Right Anna Maria Island Vacation Rental for Families and Groups
AMI vacation rentals come in all sizes such as condos, houses, and cottages. Picking the right fit now saves headaches later.
- Condoswork great for couples or small groups. You do not need a huge space, and most condos have pools, beach access, and views. They usually cost less too.
- Beach housesare better for larger families and groups, especially with kids. More bedrooms. Full kitchen. Probably a yard. Some houses even have pools or docks for boats.
- Cottagesare kind of in the middle. Charming. Private. But not as expensive as renting a whole house.
Think about your group. How many people? How much time will you spend at the rental? What extras do you actually care about?
If you have little kids, maybe pick a place near a beach with lifeguards. If it is just you and someone special, a quiet condo with sunset views sounds pretty great.
With your rental style picked, the next step is deciding how you want to get around the island.
Getting Around the Island
You are probably wondering if you need a car here. Honestly? Not really.
AMI has this free trolley that runs up and down the island. It goes from Bradenton Beach through Holmes Beach to Anna Maria. Stops at beaches, shops, and restaurants. Lots of visitors say the trolley is all they use.
Walking and biking work well, too since the island is flat, mellow, and easy to navigate.
But if you want real freedom, an Anna Maria Island golf cart rentalis a favorite for locals and repeat visitors. Whether you are inHolmes Beachnear the grocery store or down in Bradenton Beach by Bridge Street, a golf cart lets you bounce between towns whenever you feel like it.
Golf carts are street-legal on any road with a 35 mph speed limit or under. That covers the whole island. They are fun to drive, easy to park, and you can go wherever you want.
Here is the thing. Golf carts are part of the AMI vibe now. Picture yourself driving down Gulf Drive with the wind in your face. That is a vacation moment right there. And parking at the beach in a cart versus a regular car? Not even close. The cart wins every time.
Planning Tips for First-Timers
Before you book, keep these first-timer tips in mind:
- Book early if you are coming during busy season.February through April is when everyone wants to be here. AMI vacation rentals fill up fast. Do not wait until the last minute.
- Read the rules for your rental.Some places have minimum stays. Some do not allow pets. Some limit parking. Better to know now than be surprised later.
- Bring groceries with you.Yes, there is a store in Holmes Beach. But if you show up with the basics already packed, you can hit the beach right away instead of shopping.
- Figure out your transportation early.Decide if you want a golf cart, bikes, or just the trolley. If a cart sounds fun, book it soon. They go fast during peak weeks.
Your Anna Maria Island Getaway Starts Here
Anna Maria Island is one of those places you fall in love with. The beaches are beautiful. Life moves more slowly. The sunsets look unreal. Once you pick the right town for your group, booking the perfect Anna Maria Island rentals is the easy part.
Want to see the island like a local? Check out your golf cart options and make getting around part of the fun. Got questions? Need help planning? Contact us whenever.
