Anna Maria Island city officials place a renowned focus on environmental conservatism. It is a major aspect of the island’s culture. The area around Anna Maria Island is home to the Robinson Preserve, Neal Preserve, the Coquina Bay Walk, and the Riverview Pointe Preserve.
The Wildlife Education and Rehabilitation Center in Bradenton Beach is also a major player in the conservation and protection of the area.
With so many protected important habitats nearby, eco-tours on Anna Maria Island are extremely popular. These small-scale tours leave a very mild footprint through protected nature preserves and fragile local habitats.
Typical eco-tours include a kayak, canoe, or some other non-motorized water equipment. Eco-tours can also include walking and some incorporate biking or Segways. The island is filled with fantastic ways for you to quietly see the incredible endangered wildlife and the rich natural reserves of this tucked-away escape.
Below is your guide to finding eco-tours that do not disturb the land, and allow you the ability to see the secret alcoves of the island.
Happy Paddler Kayak Tours & EcoVentures
Happy Paddler is your go-to source for several accommodating and varied eco-tours on Anna Maria Island. You can choose one of four thematic tours. The website lists them as follows:
- Coastal Island Tour: This kayak tour places an added emphasis on exploring the immediate coast, on the lookout for dolphins and manatees that circle the waters.
- Wild and Scenic River Tour: Head into the confines of the island through the extensive and gorgeous waterways. Find birds, turtles, otters, and alligators as you navigate often tight corridors and hanging foliage.
- Sunset Tour: The sunset tour is an excellent choice for families and couples alike, as the tour carries you along the northern end of Anna Maria Island under the glow of the fading sun.
- Full Moon Tour: The romantic getaway for your next vacation. Explore the waters after dark on the full moon tour that runs to about 10 p.m.
Happy Paddler also offers other activities and services, including straight equipment rental, event bookings, lessons, and stand-up paddleboard yoga excursions.
The tour provider is available from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Tour details vary, but typical guests will pay $50 to $65 per adult, $40 to $55 for children, over a two to four-hour excursion.
For any more information, contact them at info@happypaddler.com.The team will happily steer you in the right direction. For now, tours are by reservation only.
Plan Your Trip
So many things to see and do are waiting for you on Anna Maria Island. Look into our available Lizzie Lu rentals for your next beach getaway!
More Eco Tours by the Water
AMI Paddleboard Rentals
AMI Paddleboard Rentals (3902 Gulf Dr.) offers an array of tour options, including a popular paddleboarding tour by the Neal Preserve. Tours are available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Beach Bums
Beach Bums (427 Pine Ave) takes a very relaxed approach to kayaking, if it wasn’t already relaxing enough as it is. The team offers one of the most popular eco-tours on the island for trips to the bird rookery and Mangrove Island.
Segway Eco Tours on Anna Maria Island
There are many varieties of guided things to do while exploring the nature of the island. Visitors can choose activities off the water. This could include an eco-tour along the paths and trails on bike, foot or even on a quiet Segway tour.
Zegway By the Bay in Holmes Beach (3220 E Bay Dr.) provides fun family-friendly romps through the immediate area, beaches and the nature trails of Anna Maria Island. Another provider on the island is Segs by the Sea (102 Bridge St).
Take a journey to Anna Maria Island and explore the fascinating local wildlife. Explore our line-up of amenity-rich Anna Maria Island vacation rentals to stay in while you enjoy it all. Contact us for more information on accommodations or attractions on Anna Maria Island at (941)-782-8152.
