Planning a trip to one of Florida’s most charming islands? This guide to where to stay on Anna Maria Island will help you find the perfect hotel.
I’ve put together a list of the best hotels, sorted from most to least expensive, along with a quick overview of the main tourist areas and what each one offers.
Psst, since Anna Maria Island is a favorite among visitors, I recommend booking your stay early, as the best spots tend to fill up quickly.
Quick Picks for Your Stay
An Island Getaway at Palm Tree Villas
Best affordable accommodation in the center
Are you ready to book your accommodation right now? Then have a look at this list of the best resorts on Anna Maria Island, FL:
Contents
Overview of the areas
Before we jump to the hotel part, let’s check out some of the main tourist areas on the island.
Anna Maria, the main town on the island, is the best area to stay on Anna Maria Island if you’re a first-time visitor as there you’ll find many restaurants, shops, and attractions.
For those looking for a more tranquil spot, then Holmes Beach may be for you. You’ll find some fun water sports to try there. Lastly, there’s the Bradenton Beach area which also has a more laid-back atmosphere.
Luxury (US$400 and up)
- Waterline Marina Resort & Beach Club – check out this cool resort set on Holmes Beach that overlooks the ocean! Each suite is equipped with modern amenities, including private balconies and a kitchen. When you’re not out on the beach, you can chill by the pool and enjoy some drinks from the bar.
- Pelican Post at Anna Maria Island Inn – this accommodation is set in Bradenton Beach, Florida and it has family rooms with a furnished balcony where you can enjoy your mornings and a garden. Here you can spend your days sunbathing by the pool and relaxing in the jacuzzi.
- Anna Maria Beach Resort – sunbathe under the wonderful Florida sun on the sandy shores at this resort that’s set on Holmes Beach. Featuring rooms with modern amenities, the accommodation offers complimentary beach chairs and a hot tub. End your day by gathering up near the outdoor fireplace and enjoying that soft ocean breeze at night!
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Mid-range (US$300 – US$400)
- Bungalow Beach Resort – I love these vintage cottages set on Bradenton Beach. Each is fully equipped and it comes with lots of space, a kitchen, a lounge area and a furnished balcony. The accommodation also offers a private beach area, an outdoor swimming pool and free parking.
- Tropic Isle At Anna Maria Island Inn – chill by the outdoor pool of this accommodation set on Bradenton Beach that offers free private parking. The resort comes with studios and apartments that have a small kitchen and many other facilities.
- Cedar Cove Resort – located on Holmes Beach, not too far from Bradenton Beach, this resort offers large apartments with full kitchens, comfortable beds, and some even have a balcony facing the beach. The resort has a private beach area and it provides guests with free bikes, which are perfect for exploring around.
- Playa Esmeralda Boutique Inn – this inn is set on Bradenton Beach and it has such a cool design. Its small garden has a pool and some comfortable sun loungers where you can relax. All the rooms come with a lot of space, a seating area, and a balcony where you can admire those stunning Gulf views!
Budget (up to US$300)
- An Island Getaway at Palm Tree Villas – check out these villas which are equipped with full kitchens, beach chairs, and a heated pool. The accommodation also offers free parking and a garden. You’ll find plenty of restaurants nearby, but it’s definitely worth using the barbecue facilities while you’re here and having a fun home-cooked dinner on the patio one of the nights!
- Compass Hotel by Margaritaville Anna Maria Sound – I love resorts that put you in a vacation mood the minute you arrive there! This accommodation has super comfortable rooms that come with air conditioning and a balcony from where you can admire the great views! Guests can start their day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel and then head out to the pool to sunbathe and swim.
- Silver Surf Gulf Beach Resort – set within walking distance from the beach and Bridge Street, this resort has it all! Great deals, a private beach area and an outdoor pool. Their rooms are modern, comfortable and are equipped with all the facilities you’ll need including a kitchen.
👑 Luxury price: | US$450 |
🏨 Mid-range: | US$350 |
🛏️ Budget: | US$300 |
🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | Waterline Marina Resort |
🧳 Best mid-range hotel: | Bungalow Beach Resort |
👛 Best budget hotel: | An Island Getaway at Palm Tree Villas |
FAQs about Anna Maria Island lodging
🏝️ What part of Anna Maria Island is the best?
The best part of Ana Maria Island is Ana Maria Beach, this serene area is set on the central side of the island and it’s perfect for swimming, relaxing, and simply enjoying the island vibes!
🤩 Is Anna Maria Island a nice place to stay?
Yes, Anna Maria Island is a great place for a vacation on the Gulf Coast! It has scenic beaches, crystal clear waters, plenty of water sports, and incredible nature preserves!
🚶♀️ Is Anna Maria Island walkable?
Yes, Anna Maria Island is pedestrian-friendly and you will also get to use the island’s free trolley, or rent bikes, in order to get around.
❓ Is Anna Maria Beach crowded?
No, Anna Maria Beach is usually not crowded, so if you’re looking for a place where you can relax and enjoy some tranquility, then visit this beautiful island in Florida.
👪 What is the best Anna Maria Island resort hotel for families?
Pelican Post at Anna Maria Island Inn is one of the best resorts on Anna Maria Island for those traveling with kids as it offers spacious suites and a swimming pool.
⚖️ Is Anna Maria or Marco Island better?
It depends. Anna Maria island has a more laid-back atmosphere while Marco Island is more crowded and popular with tourists.
🌊 What part of Anna Maria Island has the clearest water?
Manatee Public Beach has one of the clearest waters on Anna Maria Island.
🚗 Do you need a car in Anna Maria?
No, not really as you can use the free trolley or rent bikes to get around.
🏙️ What city is closest to Anna Maria Island?
Sarasota is the closest major city to Anna Maria Island and it’s located a 40 min car drive away from it.
Final thoughts
Who’s feeling more than ready to prepare for their trip after reading this guide on where to stay in Anna Maria Island, Florida?
There are some incredible Anna Maria Island hotels in this post but I recommend booking them in advance, as the great ones always sell out fast.
If you’re still not sure which accommodation to pick here are my 2 top-rated favorite places:
- Waterline Marina Resort & Beach Club – a fabulous resort near the beach that offers the most amazing views and a sun terrace
- Bungalow Beach Resort – this resort offers a private beach area and an outdoor pool
Have fun exploring the island and if you have any questions on this destination, you can drop them in the comment section below.
Safe travels,
Victoria
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Than you for all the information. We are looking for walkable accommodations to restaurants and bars.
Hey Sue,
You are most welcome! If you are looking for accommodations that are within walkable distance to restaurants and bars I suggest staying in Anna Maria Town. Here you can find some amazing options such as this entire holiday home called Grant’s View or get a room at the Sunrise Garden Resort.
I hope you enjoy your stay!
.