Anna Maria property & accommodation

Anna Maria Island

The Florida Gulf Islands are renowned for nesting loggerhead turtles. Every year the advent of spring and summer marks the arrival of hundres of female loggerhead turtles. Mother turtles are intent on reaching the shore to lay their eggs along the sandy beaches of Anna Maria Island.

A huge conservation effort by the beach community has spawned the Anna Maria Island Turtle watch, ensuring that a secure area is provided for nesting turtles and the surrounding beach environment.

Here you will also find a colourful array of birds that inhabit the shoreline and inland waterways. Frequently spotted are spponbill, cormorant, flamingo, brown pelican and the snowy egret.

For many years the only way to reach the Island was by boat but in 1921 a wooden bridge that was erected that extended westward from the fishing village of Cortez to the Island. Two bridges now link Bradenton to Anna Maria Island, whose sandy shoreline, backed by dunes, is largely undeveloped but is washed by breakers big enough to attract surfers. In the north stands the picturesque Anna Maria Pier, which was built in 1910. It has a snack bar, small restaurant and shop.

For the shopoholic there is no end to the unique island boutiques and galleries allong Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key. With plenty of indoor and outdoor activities all within walking distance there is no shortage of things to keep you occupied. Travelling around the island is easy by making use of the free Island Trolley.

Located on Florida's West Coast, seven-mile long Anna Maria Island is situated south of Tampa Bay, the entire island is surrounded by fantastic water views where you can catch a glimpse of bottlenose dolphins.