Jet Skiing on Anna Maria Island: My Insider Guide

Updated: June 2026

Jet skiing around Anna Maria Island is one of the best ways to experience Florida’s Gulf Coast from the water. Glide past stretches of white sand beach, wind through mangrove tunnels, and keep an eye out for dolphins and other marine life, all while soaking up the sun on the open water.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned rider, renting a jet ski here is an exhilarating addition to any island trip. This guide covers rental companies on and near Anna Maria Island, including what equipment they use, age requirements, and whether you need a reservation.

Jet skiing is one of many ways to get out on the water here. For a complete guide to every water activity available on the island, see my Water Activities on Anna Maria Island: My Insider Guide. Planning a trip with kids? Check out my Best Family Activities on Anna Maria Island: My Insider Guide.


Florida Boater License Requirement

Before booking, know the rules: anyone born on or after January 1, 1988 must hold a valid Florida boater’s license to operate a personal watercraft. If you were born in 1987 or earlier, you’re exempt. All licensed operators must carry both their boater’s license and a government-issued photo ID on the water. Complete the required test before your rental date, as you cannot take it on-site.

Jet Ski Companies

Anna Maria Island Dolphin Tours

  • 941-281-4458
  • Meeting Place · 5325 Marina Drive · Holmes Beach
  • Reserve online

A great option if you want a guided experience on the water. Their guide leads a sightseeing tour with a stop at a sandbar, a perfect introduction for first-timers or anyone who’d rather explore with a local showing the way. Jet skis seat two riders and renters must be 18 or older. They offer a standard jet ski rental with guide as well as a guided tour that includes a sandbar stop.

Anna Maria Jet Skis

Anna Maria Island - Jet Ski
  • 941-462-6579
  • Meeting Place · 11510 36th Avenue West · Bradenton
  • Reserve online

Their Yamaha VX-C jet skis come equipped with a touchscreen display, ample storage, and a boarding step for easy water entry, seating two riders comfortably. Renters must be 21+. Drivers aged 16-17 may ride with a parent or guardian, and solo drivers must be at least 18. They offer a guided tour through Palma Sola Bay with free ride time, and an extended version that adds a sandbar stop.

Coastal Watersports AMI

  • 941-778-4969
  • Meeting Place · 1301 Gulf Drive · Bradenton Beach
  • Does not accept reservation · first come, first serve

The only company that rents directly on the Gulf side, giving you immediate open-water access. They use Sea-Doo GTI SE 170s, which seat up to three riders, and you can swap riders in and out during your rental. Must be 16+ to operate.

Costa Coast Powersports

  • 813-362-1509
  • Meeting Place · 8400 Manatee Avenue · Bradenton
  • Reserve online or via phone

Their 2024 Yamaha WaveRunners seat up to three people, offer plenty of storage, and come with Bluetooth audio. The jet skis fit two riders. Renters must be 18+ and riders as young as 14 may drive with parental consent.

Freedom Jet Ski Rentals

  • 941-681-1267
  • Meeting Place · 8385 Manatee Avenue West · Bradenton
  • Reserve online

Freedom rents Yamaha WaveRunners EX and EX Deluxe models, seating multiple riders with room to spare. Renters must be 18+ and riders 14 and older may drive with a parent or guardian’s consent.

Little Philly Sea Adventures

  • 941-274-1575
  • Meeting Place · Kingfish Boat Ramp · 752 Manatee Avenue · Holmes Beach
  • Reserve online

One of the most scenic guided options on the island. Their private tours head out to Egmont Key, home to a historic lighthouse and hidden Civil War-era forts, and continue through mangrove tunnels and sandbars where you might spot dolphins. They rent Yamaha VX Cruisers and both renters and drivers must be 18+.

Triple G’s Golf Cart Rentals

  • 828-575-4922
  • Meeting Place · Palma Sola Parkway · 1465 Gulf Drive South · Bradenton Beach
  • Reserve via text or phone call

Don’t let the name fool you, they also rent Yamaha WaveRunners. Drivers must be 16+ and anyone under 21 must be accompanied by an adult at check-in. They offer a standard rental, a guided tour, and a marine life tour that takes you to see sea life and sandbars with a local guide leading the way.


Sun Protection

A day on the water is a full day in the Florida sun, even more intense when you’re moving at speed. Reef-safe sunscreen, UV-protective rash guards, and polarized sunglasses are all worth bringing. Shop my favorite sunscreen products at my Amazon storefront.

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Coastal Close

Whether you’re racing across open water or cruising through mangrove tunnels on a guided tour, jet skiing around Anna Maria Island is an experience worth adding to your trip. With several rental companies to choose from, it’s easy to find the right fit for your group, your budget, and your comfort level on the water.

· izzy