Anna Maria Island has plenty to see and do, from taking a walk on the white sand beaches to visiting the quaint local shops to pick up a souvenir. It all brings you back to that “Old Florida” feeling that so many destinations have abandoned in favor of countless attractions and towering high-rises. Here, you can truly escape your worries and reconnect with a simpler time.
While you’re staying in one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals, you don’t want to miss a trip to the local piers!
AMI is home to three stunning piers, and they’re each worth a visit. Here’s everything you’ll need to know before you stop by!
Anna Maria Island City Pier
The Anna Maria Island City Pier is located on the northern end of the island in Anna Maria. This pier was built back in 1911 and has been an area landmark for more than 100 years. When it comes to Anna Maria Island history, this is one of the best places to experience it in all its glory. This pier first served as a way for fishing boats and shipments to come into the area since there used to be no connection from Anna Maria Island to the mainland. Several storms have rocked the City Pier over the years. After the devastation of Hurricane Irma in 2017, the Pier had to be completely demolished and rebuilt. It just opened back up in June of 2020, so now is the perfect time to come and see the brand-new attraction!
When you arrive on the City Pier, you’ll first be stunned by the view. The Pier extends about 700 feet out into the Gulf of Mexico, giving you absolutely unmatched views of the water from every angle. You can either walk the pier or sit on a bench to watch the waves roll in.
If you want a bit more of a hands-on experience with the water, head to the Bait Shop right on the base of the pier and grab everything you need for an afternoon of Anna Maria Island fishing!
Along with the bait shop, there’s also a convenient restaurant serving mouthwatering meals any time of day. You can enjoy breakfast with a view or have a casual dinner with your family, complete with the classic American dishes we love. There’s no better place to spend a relaxing day with your loved ones than at the Anna Maria Island City Pier!
Rod and Reel Pier
Also located in Anna Maria Island is Rod and Reel Pier, which is often discussed in conjunction with its namesake restaurant. If you’re looking for a fantastic meal, this Anna Maria Island pier restaurant is one of the best places to be! The restaurant has been a staple establishment since 1947 and is just as popular now as it was on the day it was opened all those years ago.
As soon as you step inside, you’ll find a welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff along with a breathtaking view of the water. Choose from menu options including fresh seafood, mouthwatering land options, and even a full kids’ menu if you’re traveling with little ones. Dine inside or head to the covered deck to enjoy a drink with your friends. But as wonderful as the restaurant is, we’re really here to talk about the pier!
The Rod and Reel Pier in Anna Maria Island is situated right next to the restaurant. Thanks to its huge signature sign, you won’t be able to miss it. Tons of spectators come here to enjoy a leisurely stroll before or after their meal, but you can also bring your own pole and fish off the pier for a small fee! This is an excellent place to spend your morning or afternoon away from the downtown area. This pier is about half as long as the Anna Maria Island City Pier but still offers all the fun in the sun that you’re craving.
Bridge Street Pier
Both of the piers we’ve talked about so far are located on the island’s northern end. But even if you’re staying on the southern side, you don’t have to travel far to get to a breathtaking pier! In the city of Bradenton Beach, you’ll find the historic Bridge Street Pier (which is sometimes referred to as Bradenton Beach Pier). This pier was first built in the 1920s and, at one point, served as the sole access point onto the island. Now, it’s full of history, fun attractions, delicious restaurants, and, of course, a stunning view!
As with the other piers we’ve covered, Bridge Street Pier in Anna Maria Island is perfect for those who simply want a great view of the water or those who want to catch some incredible fish. You won’t only find fish here, though; there are tons of other wildlife that like to make itself known in this area. All kinds of birds can be found flying around or making their homes, and if you spend enough time looking out at the water, you might even spot a manatee or dolphin!
Strolling down the way, you’ll make your way to Historic Bridge Street, which is one of the most popular areas for shopping and dining on the entire island. Whether you want a casual dining experience (check out the Anna Maria Oyster Bar on the Pier!) or a more upscale meal (the Bridge Street Bistro is perfect for date night), it’s all just steps away from the pier. You can also find tons of unique stores and boutiques, places to get a sweet treat for dessert, and beach rental companies providing everything you need for a fun day on the sand.
Plan Your Next Visit
Whichever rental you select, you’ll have incredible amenities like high-speed internet access, convenient parking, and spacious accommodations with a great view. You’ll also get the dedicated service of our team. Whether you have a question about your Anna Maria Island rental or you want a recommendation for the best seafood restaurant in town. At the end of the day, we want to make sure your trip to Anna Maria Island is a vacation you’ll never forget. There’s never been a better time to escape to Anna Maria Island, so what are you waiting for? Contact us today to get started!
Where to Stay
No matter which of these incredible Anna Maria Island piers you want to be near on your vacation, we’ve got the rental properties to put you just steps away! We are proud to offer a wide range of accommodations to suit all kinds of groups, from solo travelers to those on a romantic getaway or even giant groups celebrating a wedding or family reunion. We’ve even got specialty options like Anna Maria Island pet-friendly rentals for anyone who wants to travel with their furry friend! Our 1- and 2-bedroom rentals are great for small groups, while our 3- and 4-bedroom rentals on Anna Maria Island are well-suited for bigger parties.
