Anna Maria Island, Florida, allows you to experience the best of what Florida has to offer without crowds and tall buildings obstructing your view and invading your space. Better yet, when you are looking for Anna Maria Island things to do, there is no shortage of options.
Some of the best activities include a little soaking in the sun and exploring the neighboring nature.
Many of our guests at Mainsail Vacation Rentals are interested in Anna Maria’s outdoor activities, which is why we often leave them with information about the many outdoor parks near Anna Maria Island. You don’t have to travel too far to become one with nature, wherever you are in Florida.
Island Parks
There are three main area parks our team highly recommends.
Leffis Key Preserve
One of the finest preserves that you’ll find in the area, offering sweeping views of Sarasota Bay, is Leffis Key Preserve. It is a saltwater wetland with spectacular views and amazing plant-life, such as Jamaica dogwood, sea grapes, and Southern red cedars. There are platforms to obtain a better vantage point of the preserve, which was constructed for your viewing pleasure.
Robinson Preserve
Drive just 20-minutes outside of Anna Maria Island, and you’ll come across Robinson Preserve, 700 acres of preserved mangroves, lovely coastal wetlands, and tidal marshes. Visitors to the preserve enjoy kayaking and hiking along the trail. If you’re coming for an educational visit, make sure you go to NEST, where you’ll learn about the animal and plant-life at the preserve. It’s one of the more rewarding Anna Maria Island things to do.
Beach Park
It isn’t surprising that you don’t need to go too far to enjoy nature along our coast of Florida. You can even enjoy the best of the outdoors while visiting local Anna Maria beaches, such as Bean Point, Holmes Beach, Manatee Beach, and Coquina Beach. When arriving early, be sure to enjoy the many birds that also enjoy the beaches of Anna Maria. You have the advantage of seeing them in their natural habitat.
Plan Your Anna Maria Island Vacation
Spend your afternoons relaxing in sugar-white sands on your next vacation, view our amazing beachfront rentals, and start planning your getaway today!
Nearby State Parks
If you’re interested in visiting a state park near Anna Maria Island, FL, visit Hillsborough River State Park, close to the city of Tampa. Many consider it a living history park where there are still guns and cannons on full display. It has a reconstructed fort that gives visitors a glimpse into history when the Seminole Indians had to fight for their land. Visitors can also go kayaking, canoeing, or hiking along the beautiful nature trail. The trail is seven miles long and will lead you to the park’s pool, which is ADA accessible . Camping is also permissible at Hillsborough River State Park. Arranging a tour enables you to get the most from your time spent visiting Hillsborough River State Park.
Recommended Hiking/Walking Trails
If you are tired of just frolicking on the beach, it’s time to pack-up, put on your walking shoes, and head to a nearby trail in Anna Maria Island, Florida.
Bayway Trail
The Bayway Trail is amongst the most popular trails near Anna Maria Island, FL. It is between St. Petersburg Beach and the city of St. Petersburg, FL, and is a smooth asphalt trail. The trail is lined with lovely palm trees, which passes beautiful coral-colored homes across the bay. There is also a crossing that takes you to incredible Boca Ciega Bay azure!
Perico Preserve
This preserve is a great place to visit when you want a natural environment to enjoy, away from the hustle and bustle of nearby Bradenton. Hiking in the preserve won’t take long, as it is a small; yet peaceful park.
Whether you are staying in one of our Mainsail Vacation Rental 3-bedroom villas or one of our 2-bedroom luxury condos, you’re never too far from the beautiful parks and trails of Anna Maria Island, FL.