6 Most Recommended Anna Maria Island Activities

Cruise through the waters. Delicately float in the canals. Golf by the beach or sail through the skies. There is an unending list of possible things to do for families on Anna Maria Island.

Hopefully, the below will give you and your family some much-needed information to plan a nice vacation that suits everyone’s needs and interests.

Capt Mike Charters

Captain Mike Charters brings you big family-friendly fishing anywhere from Tampa Bay to the coast of Sarasota. Mike has almost four decades of experience fishing the local waters of AMI.

He likes to make the trip as enjoyable as possible, focusing more on the fun of the adventure than the technical parts of catching fish- and you will catch! He uses light tackle and is more than happy to take you and your family off-the-beaten-path for some dolphin cruising and sightseeing.

AMI Paddleboard

Rent a board and wing it. Go on a guided tour. Get lessons so you don’t end up lost in the Everglades. AMI Paddleboard Adventures gives whatever experience on the water you want. Trips usually last an hour or two and group discounts for families are available.

Get out on the water in the most accessible way possible. Standup paddleboards are their specialty, but you can also find some kayaks and canoes, tandem or solo. These providers are often within a short walking distance of the waterfront homes for rent on Anna Maria Island.

person paddle boarding on the ocean
Photo from Pixabay

Coastal Watersports

Coastal Watersports gives you the tools for an adventurous romp on the water. While they do have paddle boards available for quieter trips, this activity provider makes sure you know all about the fast-paced thrills and more ambitious options available. These include a sailboat adventure for the family.

All ages are welcomed and kids are encouraged to ask questions and learn. You can also hop aboard a jet ski and sail the waters in a different way. Jet skis allow two people, so you can even grab a kid, tuck them in front of you, and pull that jet ski handle hard.

Fishing Hole Golfing

If you want to slow things down for the afternoon or evening, take a stop on over at Fish Hole Golf. What will undoubtedly capture your imagination right away is the gorgeous layout. The course has this breathtaking lushness you won’t find at any old mini-golf zone. The koi pond is a dazzling display. It needs to be. It gives the locale its name!

You will find some surprising challenges, some cool misters to take the edge of the heat off, and a lovely Florida décor to keep you engaged.

The location is open from 9 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. every day, so it is a fun activity to squeeze in any day, any time.

golf ball
Photo from Unsplash

YOLO Parasailing

Parasailing is such a wonderful activity. Firstly, it’s adventurous and not something you can easily do any old day of the week.

Secondly, it’s accessible by just about all ages. YOLO carries you high above the waters by Cortez Beach. You can glide effortlessly in the air and even go for some dips in the water as you soar right atop the surface.

Groups of three can go up at a time. Parasailing trips are available seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Horseback Causeway Rides

You wouldn’t think that a Florida island has horseback riding. Yet here it is, right on the gulf coast beaches. Horseback adventures include a walk on the beach. Take the whole family out for a group romp.

After a 15-minute learning period, guests will head to the beaches and back for about two hours out under the sun. You may even get a chance to do a little horse surfing (this is a real activity!). Horses love getting to the beach and hopping in the waves.

Plan Your Visit

Hopefully, the above has helped introduce you to some new vacationing ideas and kid-friendly activities. Book one of the Anna Maria vacation rentals today for your whole crew and realize how much fun you can have on your next family getaway.