Over the years, we've discovered some true island gems!
We're excited to share a few of our favorite restaurants and local tips to help make your stay convenient, memorable, and special.
Restaurants
Anna Maria Oyster Bar on the Pier
200 Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach
Here's why: You absolutely can't go wrong if you love oysters, especially their Garlic Parmesan ones. Snag a seat out back and soak up the beautiful ocean view.
Happy Hour · Daily 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM and 9:00 PM to close
Bamboo Island Bar
119 Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach
Here's why: On the second floor is the perfect place to unwind with appetizers and snacks and a great list of wine-based cocktails.
Beach House Waterfront Restaurant
200 Gulf Drive North, Bradenton Beach
Here's why: Incredible location! You can be seated on the beach, making it the perfect place to catch a great sunset.
Blue Marlin
121 Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach
Here's why: Great seafood in a cute little cottage right on Bridge Street. Head out back to the Trap Yard for live music on the weekends!
Bridge Street Bistro
111 Gulf Drive South, Bradenton Beach
Here's why: If you want an upscale dinner with a sunset view, this is it! The seating on the third floor is absolutely perfect.
Happy Hour · Daily · 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Daiquiri Deck
107 Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach
Here's why: Rooftop views are incredible. You can watch the sunset and the dolphins! Be sure to try a daiquiri; they have a huge variety. Happy Hour makes it even better.
Happy Hour · Daily · 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Drift-In AMI
120 Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach
Here's why: This spot has it all: the best live music, a lively dance floor, and great cheap drinks. You can't beat it!
Happy Hour: Check their website for current happy hour times and specials.
Salt Bar & Table
2519 N Gulf Drive, Bradenton Beach
Here's why: Outdoor seating, craft cocktails, and great food!
Happy Hour · Daily · 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM
Live Music · Friday & Saturday · 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Tide Tables Restaurant & Marina
12507 Cortez Rd W, Bradenton, FL 34210
Here’s why: One of our new FAVS! Walk from Rayn’er Shine and enjoy fresh seafood right on the water with beautiful views. Super casual and a perfect spot for lunch or dinner!
The Bridge Tender Inn
135 Bridge St Marker 49, Bradenton Beach
Here’s why: The perfect combination: fresh air, live music, and incredible fish tacos.
Live Music: Daily · afternoon and evening
The Kokonut Hut
900 Gulf Drive North, Bradenton Beach
Here's why: It's a great choice for any meal of the day! You can sit back and watch the ocean or head to the bar for sports. It's a win-win no matter where you sit.
Live Music: Check their website for the current schedule.
Wicked Cantina
101 7th Street North, Bradenton Beach
Here's why: The Mexican food here is fantastic. You absolutely can't beat it. Don't skip the queso and order a margarita. Delicious!
Happy Hour: 12:00–5:00 PM daily and all day Sunday
Live Music: 6:00–9:00 PM daily plus 2:00–5:00 PM on weekends
Cortez Cafe
12108 Cortez Road W, Cortez
Here's why: Take a relaxing walk across the bridge (0.5 mile) to arrive at the perfect spot for a delicious breakfast.
Hurricane Hank’s
5346 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach
Here's why: Take the free trolley (or Uber it!) and go straight for the chicken parm. It's the best ever!
Skinny’s
3901 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach
Here's why: Take the free trolley to find the best-priced and tastiest burgers and beers on the whole island. A must-do!
The Doctor's Office
5312 Holmes Blvd #B, Holmes Beach
Here’s why: Such a fun and unique spot! Amazing craft cocktails, great food, and a really cool atmosphere. Be sure to check out the Doctor’s Garden too!
The Ugly Grouper
5704 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach
Here’s why: A fun, laid-back island spot with outdoor seating, live music, and some of the best grouper tacos around. Don’t forget to grab a picture with the giant Ugly Grouper!
Live Music: Daily — check their website for the current schedule.
The Waterfront Restaurant
11 South Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, FL 34216
Here’s why: One of our favorite spots when we head to the north end of the island! Great food, craft cocktails, and a beautiful waterfront atmosphere. Perfect for a nice lunch or dinner and then a walk around Anna Maria!
Trolley
Here’s why: Leave the car behind! The FREE Anna Maria Island Trolley makes it easy to explore the island, and there’s a trolley stop right in front of the resort. Ride to Bridge Street, Holmes Beach, Pine Avenue, restaurants, shops, and more!
FREE • Runs daily • Approximately every 20 minutes
Transportation
Monkey Bus
Here’s why: A fun and easy way to get around Anna Maria Island without having to drive! Just give them a call for a ride anywhere on the island. It’s especially great when you’re heading out for dinner, drinks, or live music!
Tip-based service • Call for current availability
🚗 Island Express Golf Carts Bradenton Beach (941) 404-6240
Here's why: It offers a no-fee, tip-only street-legal golf cart service up and down Gulf Drive.
Private Car Services
Kelly's Island Transportation (KIT)
507-259-3080
Here's why: Highly recommended by many around the island.
AMI Shuttle Guy
941-500-3388
https://amishuttle.com
Anna Maria Isle Airport Transportation
941-527-5602 or 941-527-6240
https://annamariaisletransportation.com