Travel
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Best Souvenir Shops on Anna Maria Island: My Insider Guide
Anna Maria Island is a paradise of sugar-white sand and turquoise water and it also turns out to be a great place to shop. The shops here are filled with keepsakes that reflect the place not generic beach merchandise you could find anywhere. Whether you are searching for a hand-painted seashell, a well-worn surf brand…
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Best Barbeque on Anna Maria Island: My Insider Guide
Anna Maria Island is best known for white-sand beaches, fresh seafood, and sunset dining, but tucked between the beach bars and coastal kitchens is a small but satisfying BBQ scene worth seeking out. From smoky ribs and slow-cooked pulled pork to creative tropical-style barbecue, these spots bring bold, comforting flavors to the island in their…
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Baby Equipment Rental on Anna Maria Island: My Insider Guide
Traveling with little ones takes planning, but on Anna Maria Island several local companies make it significantly easier. Baby gear rentals delivered directly to your vacation rental mean you can pack light and still have everything your child needs for a safe and comfortable stay. No bulky gear on the plane, no scrambling when you…
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Beach Wheelchair Rentals on Anna Maria Island: My Insider Guide
Exploring the beautiful beaches of Anna Maria Island is possible for everyone, thanks to the availability of beach wheelchair rentals. These specially designed wheelchairs feature large wheels that glide smoothly over sand, making it easier to access the shoreline. Manatee County offers free beach wheelchairs at Coquina and Manatee Public Beach. For added convenience, local…
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Mahjong on Anna Maria Island: My Insider Guide
Mahjong has found a natural home around Anna Maria Island. It fits the pace perfectly: no rush, good company, and something to focus on besides your phone. Whether you already play or you’ve been curious for a while, here’s where to find a table. What Is American Mahjong? American mahjong is played with tiles rather…
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Best Horseback Riding Near Anna Maria Island: My Insider Guide
Horseback riding near Anna Maria Island means riding along the sand and then into the shallow water of Palma Sola Bay. Palma Sola Bay is on the Bradenton side, a short drive from the island, and three outfitters run guided rides there. The horses wade out until they are swimming, and you stay on their…
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Best Dive Bars on Anna Maria Island: My Insider Guide
Anna Maria Island is loved for its breezy beach vibes and breathtaking sunsets. While there is no shortage of stylish beachfront restaurants, sometimes what you really crave is a cold drink, good conversation, and a place that does not take itself too seriously. That is where the island’s dive bars come in, unpolished, welcoming, and…
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90 Miles and a World Away · Day 10 · Departure
Phone alarm goes off violently. Mario, our casita owner, knocks softly on our side door, the aroma of Cuban coffee densely fills the air…time to pack our belongings and head for the airport. We were moving in fifth gear as we needed to get to the airport three hours prior to departure. I was nervous! …
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Ten Thousand Waves New Mexico: A Stay at Santa Fe’s Japanese-Inspired Spa Resort
During the summer of 2024, my college bestie and I decided to drive cross country from San Diego to Anna Maria Island. When friends heard we were passing through Santa Fe, one recommendation came up again and again: Ten Thousand Waves. Ten Thousand Waves is a Japanese-inspired spa resort tucked into the foothills of the…
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Beach Warning Flags on Anna Maria Island: My Insider Guide
Beach warning flags on Anna Maria Island give you the quickest read on Gulf conditions before you get in the water. The flag at the nearest lifeguard tower reflects the surf and current at that moment, and conditions can shift between morning and afternoon. This guide explains what each color means, where the flags are…
