Surrounded by the sparkling Gulf of Mexico waters, Anna Maria Island is a seven-mile-long slice of paradise that combines Old Florida vibes with white sand beaches. Best explored on two wheels or the island’s Island Trolley, you can spend your time sunbathing, kayaking or browsing local markets, boutique shops and art galleries, then refuel at mom and pop shops and gourmet restaurants. Read on to discover our picks for the best hotels on Anna Maria Island, perfect for recharging for another day of outdoor adventures.
Cedar Cove Resort & Cottages
Located right on the beach, Cedar Cove Resort & Cottages boasts a collection of quaint Gulf beach accommodations that won’t break the bank. Tucked away amongst towering palms, the beachfront suites and cottages here offer plush bedding, fully-equipped kitchens and outdoor living spaces with water views. Soak up the sun on a beachside hammock or read a book in the tropical gardens, while those looking for adventure can sign up for deep-sea fishing or sea kayaking tours. Celebrating something special? Stay in the opulent Sand Castle Penthouse or Palm Penthouse for luxury amenities and panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Silver Surf Gulf Beach Resort
You’ll find only 50 charming units at Silver Surf Gulf Beach Resort, which means you can enjoy peace and quiet from the private beach. Located on Bradenton Beach, the rooms feature three-inch toppers for a comfy night of sleep and have a full or mini kitchen in addition to coffee makers, flat-screen TVs and a Daily Continental “Grab & Go” breakfast. After an afternoon at the beach with complimentary beach towels, chairs and umbrellas, cool off with a dip in the on-site pool or visit SeaRenity Spa tiki massage and Coastal Watersports boat rentals.
BridgeWalk a Landmark Resort
A perfect hotel for families, many of the rooms at BridgeWalk a Landmark Resort are over 800 square feet, which doesn’t include the spacious outdoor verandah. Relax in your private Jacuzzi tub or go swimming in the hotel’s outdoor pool, then take a complimentary umbrella and chair and visit the beach. There’s also a restaurant and island bar on-site that’s great for sunset cocktails, in addition to a pampering day spa and a variety of retail stores.
Tortuga Beach Resort
You’ll have plenty of places to unwind at Tortuga Beach Resort, especially from its private white sand beach where you can spot sea life such as dolphins and manatees. In addition to three heated pools and a boat dock for guests, there are a variety of room configurations to fit your needs. If you need extra space, stay in the Two-Bedroom Bay Front North with its private pool, while Gulf View Studios are cozy love nests with partial views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Bungalow Beach Resort
Bungalow Beach Resort offers a premier Gulf-front accommodation, featuring a classic 1930’s island style resort nestled amongst the white sand dunes of Anna Maria Island. You’ll find lounge chairs and umbrellas to enjoy the private beach area and a cabana at the on-site pool along with two grills for cooking up meals in the sunshine. The Coquina bungalow has views of the Gulf with a shower bath that has Jacuzzi jets and a pillow top bed, while The Starfish is a two-bedroom bungalow comes with flat-screen TVs, a half kitchen with a mini fridge and a full-sized sleeper sofa.
Sunrise Garden Resort
An intimate accommodation option in Anna Maria with only 15 suites, Sunrise Garden Resort is located between the beach and the bay, a short walk from the Waterfront and Sandbar restaurants. The Crow’s Nest Studios offer the most budget-friendly option with a private patio area and mini fridge, while the Poolside is just steps from the sparkling pool and the Family Suite offers two bedrooms, sofa bed and a patio.
An Island Getaway at Palm Tree Villas
An ideal choice when staying in Anna Maria, An Island Getaway at Palm Tree Villas boasts a variety of studios, one and two-bedroom accommodations with king-size beds and dishwaters as well as access to two grill areas and a heated swimming pool. The Two Bed/Two Bath is the most spacious and include upgraded appliances, pillow-top mattresses and flat-screen TVs, sleeping up to six with its sleeper sofa and has an option to connect with the Studio unit next door.
Harrington House Beachfront Bed & Breakfast
You’ll feel right at home in Harrington House Beachfront Bed & Breakfast with its daily breakfast selection, cozy living room and tropical surroundings. Each of the rooms here includes a private bathroom, cable TV and free Wi-Fi, while many also have French doors leading to balconies that overlook the pool and Gulf of Mexico. They also have charming beach bungalows that sit just a short walk from the Main Inn and white sandy beaches.
Tradewinds Beach Resort
Tradewinds Beach Resort is a charming, old-fashioned resort with pretty pastel-colored cottages covered in jasmine and bougainvillea. Lining both sides of a private street, the cottages are surrounded by a sparkling pool that sits among palm trees. There are 33 one and two-bedroom condo apartments and cottages to choose from, with queen sleeper sofas in the living room and access to BBQ grills with picnic tables.
Haleys Motel and Resort
A fantastic choice for budget-conscious travelers, Haleys Motel and Resort is an adults-only retreat that provides old Florida 50s and 60s style accommodation. You’ve got a prime location to enjoy Anna Maria’s beautiful beaches, while this family-owned resort has rooms, studios, cottages and duplex units to meet your needs, which come equipped with flat-screen TVs, microwaves and separate living spaces, while some also include private furnished patios, Jacuzzis and private pools.