Updated: May 2026
If you’re wandering through Holmes Beach, you might hear them before you see them — bright, chatty parrots perched outside the Sun and Surf Beach Shop, holding court on the sidewalk like they own the place. It’s one of those unexpected island moments that catches you off guard in the best way.
The Shop
Sun and Surf Beach Shop sits in the Island Shopping Center in Holmes Beach, stocked with all the coastal favorites — T-shirts, cover-ups, souvenirs, swimwear, and beach décor. It’s a solid beach shop stop on its own. But the real reason to visit is right outside on the sidewalk.
Meet the Feathered Locals
Romeo says hello.
Along the front of the shop, a flock of colorful parrots has become one of Anna Maria Island’s most beloved unofficial landmarks. African grey parrots, macaws, and other exotic birds — each with its own name, its own personality, and its own agenda.
Some are calm observers. Others are bold and playful. A few are full-on entertainers who clearly enjoy the attention. And then there’s Romeo — who might just surprise you with a loud and completely unprompted “hello.”
Locals say the birds have been part of the Island Shopping Center for decades, quietly becoming one of those you-just-have-to-see-it Anna Maria Island experiences. They’re also one of the most fun photo stops on the island — I featured them in my Best Instagram Spots on Anna Maria Island for exactly that reason.
A word of Warning
They do come with a warning!
Each bird has its name displayed on its cage alongside a very honest reminder — “I will bite.” Macaws in particular are incredibly strong birds, so admire from a respectful distance while they chat, squawk, and show off their colors. The entertainment value is high. The risk of ignoring the warning is real.
New & Updated Parrot Signs
The parrots outside Sun & Surf aren’t just colorful — they each have their own little bio posted right on their cages. The newly updated signs share details like their names, hatch dates, personalities, diet, and even how long they’re expected to live.
It’s a small touch, but it turns a quick stop into something people linger over — reading, comparing, and inevitably picking a favorite.
When to Visit
The birds are outside during store hours and brought indoors safely at closing time. Morning visits tend to be quieter and the birds are often at their most talkative. Stop in, browse the shop, and let the parrots do the rest.
Coastal Close
If you enjoyed this little glimpse of the island’s feathered locals, you might also like my Ultimate Guide to Birdwatching on Anna Maria Island for more wildlife spots around Anna Maria Island.
Until next time…
· izzy