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Deserted Beach

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The Blue Ark Island Guide

Below are some of my favorite things to do (and eat!) while on Anna Maria Island.

Things To Do

The Blue Ark Dock

Discover your own private oasis at The Blue Ark Dock! Here, you can unwind and connect with nature, watching fish, manatees, and dolphins, and kayaking, surrounded by the natural beauty of Jones Bayou, Anna Maria Island's hidden gem. Visit the "Keyes Marina" website for more info on renting fishing gear (bamboo fishing poles are available at the house for your use to enhance your island experience).

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Island Trolley

Traveling to Pine Avenue, a popular spot on AMI, is easy and enjoyable. There are free trolleys that run up and down the island every 20 minutes, and the trolley stop is just around the corner from the Ark (turn right when you leave the house and walk along the road until you see a bench).

Beach Bums Recreational Rentals and Gift Shop

There are several rental places for bikes, golf carts, paddle boards and kayaks/ kayak tours. Mention you are a guest of The Blue Ark to get 10% off from Beach Bums!

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Shelling at Bean Point

One hidden gem on Anna Maria Island, where people like to go shelling is a beach called Bean Point. Beautiful white sand and lovely views, bean point is a bit of un-touched Old Florida. If you can find parking along the street, it's worth the effort.

Gulf Islands Ferry

The Gulf Island Ferry connects Anna Maria Island to downtown Bradenton and offers multiple stops for exploring the Bradenton Area coastline. The Bradenton Riverwalk Dock is situated in Downtown Bradenton, within the Riverwalk area featuring walking paths, a splash pad, cafes, and more.

Don't forget to download the myStop app from the Apple App or Google Play store for schedules and information.

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Pickle Ball Court

Pickle Ball is a fun activity for the whole family. We have paddles and balls for you on the second floor right outside the elevator. The pickle ball courts are located in Holmes Beach by the tennis courts and skate park.

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Manatee Public Beach

Manatee Public Beach is easy walking distance from The Blue Ark, and offers all you can eat pancake breakfast, lunch, and live music most evenings. There are lifeguards, volleyball nets, beach gear rental and a souvenir gift shop.

Horseback Riding on the Causeway

Just before you cross the Anna Maria Island Bridge, most days you'll see horseback riding, as well as jet-ski and other water sport rentals.

The Salty Dolphin

Experience island adventure at its best with The Salty Dolphin, Anna Maria Island's #1 tour, featuring dolphin tours, sunset cruises, snorkeling, and guided ski rentals. Alternatively, spot dolphins from The Blue Ark, as seen in the picture above!

LED Kayak Tour

On some nights, kayaks can be rented for night kayaking tours. This picture was taken from the top deck of The Blue Ark. It's a magical sight!

H20 Water Sportz

H20 Water Sports has jet ski and boat rentals, as well as charter fishing. Fun fact - this picture was taken of my dad, brother and I over 20 years ago at the same place H20 water sports is now!

Food and Drink

Anna Maria Island Coffee Shack

Hands down, my favorite coffee and breakfast sandwich shop on the island. My go to order is the white chocolate iced latte and sausage egg and cheddar cheese on a ciabatta roll!

Poppo's Taqueria

Poppo's is a family-owned chain restaurant, but their tacos are my favorite quick lunch when at the north end of the island.

Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe

Just down the street from The Blue Ark and our closest/less crowded 45th street beach, is the well-known and loved AMI beach cafe. The perfect place to relax and eat delicious breakfast, lunch, or dinner when you're spending time at the beach. The all-you-can-eat pancakes are a local favorite. You can also find live music, an ice cream shop, gift shop, tiki bar, and volleyball here.

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Tide Tables Restaurant & Marina

Get ready, seafood lovers! Tide tables is my top pick for a relaxing meal of fresh seafood. Its picturesque waterfront setting is the perfect spot to dine. While it's not located directly on Anna Maria Island, crossing the Cortez Bridge is well worth it. The fish tacos are amazing - who wouldn't love fish tacos? This restaurant is definitely a contender for my all-time favorite...

North Shore Cafe

North Shore is a popular cafe on the popular Pine Avenue. This cafe has all your coffee and acai bowl needs. (Also has one of the best murals in all of AMI!)

Pizza Social

Delicious brick-oven pizza made with fresh ingredients. Located on the popular Pine Avenue. My order is a simple but delicious pepperoni and basil!

Waterfront Restaurant

A more elegant option for dining is the Waterfront restaurant, located on the beloved Pine Avenue at the north end of the island. Take the free trolley to Pine Avenue, spend some time shopping or checking out Bean Point Beach, then head over to the Waterfront restaurant (Yes, the view is as good as it sounds!).

Sandbar Restaurant

Sandbar Restaurant is a longtime tourist favorite because of its location on the beach and its fabulous sunset views. Fun fact... My wedding reception was located here!

Two Scoops

Ice cream, breakfast and lunch. Although there are many ice cream shops on the island, this is my favorite by far. (Blueberry Pie and Banana Pudding are my go-to when they have them!)

Skinny's Place

A popular dive spot for burgers and hot dogs after a long day at the beach! Cash Only. Also, there is a fun surf shop across the street!

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Ugly Grouper Seafood Restaurant

A very popular seafood and hang-out spot with delicious food and live music. Family-friendly and just a short drive from The Blue Ark.

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Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant

Mar Vista is located on Longboat key, just a short drive from Holmes Beach, just past Coquina Beach. It's known for its fresh seafood and farm-to-fork produce and its waterfront location.

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