When you think about a Florida vacation, you probably picture hot summer days on the beach. But the summertime isn’t the only time you can enjoy an incredible destination like Anna Maria Island! In fact, there are plenty of fun things to do on Anna Maria Island throughout the year. You might find that you enjoy AMI in the fall even more than in the summer!
Discover some of the best local activities below, then browse our inventory of luxury Anna Maria Island vacation rentals!
Enjoy Less Crowded Beach Days on Anna Maria Island
Most people vacation in Anna Maria in the summertime since it’s easier to get time away from work, and the kids are already out of school. But if you can plan for a vacation in the fall, you may have the AMI beaches all to yourself! The weather on Anna Maria Island is still pleasant enough in the fall to enjoy the beach all day long if you wish.
Anna Maria Island has three main beaches for you to choose from, each with its own unique atmosphere and activities. In the north, visit Bean Point Beach to see where the island’s first settlers lived or plan a romantic picnic on the shore with your sweetheart.
In the middle of the island in the town of Holmes Beach, you’ll find Manatee Public Beach. This destination is perhaps the most family-friendly spot on the island and offers something for everyone. You’ll have plenty of room to spread out and enjoy all kinds of watersports.
Finally, you should plan to visit Coquina Beach. Here, you can gather seashells or splash in the waves, knowing that there are plenty of souvenir shops and restaurants just a short walk away.
Support Local Businesses at the City of Anna Maria Farmers Markets
One of the best things to do with kids on Anna Maria Island is to attend the local farmers’ market. Not only will you be supporting the small businesses of the area, but you can also grab some fresh food to take back to your vacation rental and get to know some of the locals.
Anna Maria Island holds its farmers’ market from October through May on Tuesdays from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Find organic produce, sauces and seasonings, local honey, fresh cut flowers and so much more. You’ll find the market at the corner of North Bay Boulevard and Pine Avenue.
You can also make a trip to the mainland to experience the Bradenton Farmers’ Market on Saturdays. Of course, you can get produce and freshly baked bread, but it doesn’t stop there! Check out the handmade jewelry, unique oils, fresh seafood, and more. You’ll also enjoy live music and fun kids’ activities while you’re there.
Plan Your Visit
Take a relaxing fall vacation on Anna Maria Island with Lizzie Lu’s! Contact our team today to plan your beach getaway!
Halloween at Selby Gardens: Selby Spooktacular
Take a day trip over to Sarasota to get in the Halloween spirit at the Selby Spooktacular hosted by the Selby Gardens’ Downtown Sarasota Campus. Bring your kiddos in their costumes to enjoy the beauty of the botanical gardens. There are typically plenty of activities scheduled for the day, including an inflatable corn maze, storytelling, arts and crafts, and, of course, trick-or-treating! Keep an eye on the Selby Gardens website for more details about the annual event.
Kids of all ages are welcome to attend this celebration, which is included with the price of general admission to the Gardens. It just goes to show that you don’t have to miss out on your favorite Halloween traditions just because you’re on vacation!
Hunsader Farms’ Pumpkin Festival
About 40 minutes away from Anna Maria Island in Bradenton, you’ll find Hunsader Farms. This destination is popular all year long, but you don’t want to miss the Pumpkin Festival in the fall! This longstanding annual event never fails to draw visitors and locals alike.
Included with your admission are dozens of family-friendly activities, including a craft show, live music and performances, hayrides, and a barnyard playground for the little ones. Watch a juggler, visit the petting zoo, and make your way through the scarecrow displays.
There are also optional activities with small additional fees. Arm painting is a great alternative to face painting, especially if you plan on indulging in pumpkin pie or farm-roasted sweet corn! Let your kids enjoy pony rides, a corn maze, and an incredible butterfly experience. Keep in mind that this festival is cash only, so be sure to visit the ATM before you arrive.
The Trail of Treats
Of all the fall events on Anna Maria Island, the Trail of Treats is perhaps the most beloved. The AMI Chamber of Commerce hosts this annual event, offering a costume contest and trick-or-treating from dozens of businesses across the island. All ages can enjoy collecting treats and seeing whose costume reigns supreme! No matter where you’re staying in on Anna Maria Island, you’ll be able to find a participating business. The Trail begins at the AMI Chamber of Commerce’s building. If your kids (ages 0-12) want to participate in the costume contest, arriving early to register is recommended.
Book Your Anna Maria Island Vacation Rental with Lizzie Lu’s Island Retreat
These Anna Maria Island events are just a few of the fun things going on every fall. But there are plenty of other exciting things to do on Anna Maria Island while you’re in town! We invite you to make our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals your “home away from home.” Lizzie Lu’s is happy to help you choose the rental that’s right for you and your family. Contact us today with questions!
