A 2025 Tropical Getaway Without a Passport: My Return to Anna Maria Island
When I dream of a sunny escape, I picture the kind of place where there’s a warm breeze in my face, and sand between my toes. And honestly? That usually means digging out my passport and hopping on a long-haul flight.
But what if I told you there’s a place with turquoise water, incredible coastal dining, and laid-back island charm — all without ever leaving the U.S.?
That’s what I found (and fell in love with) on Anna Maria Island, part of Florida’s Bradenton Gulf Islands. My first trip in 2024 was breathtaking — not just because of the beauty, but the heart of the locals. It was also before Hurricanes Helene and Milton hit.
Now, in 2025, I’ve returned, and I can confidently say: Anna Maria Island still hold its magic and is better than ever.Let me take you on the journey — from then to now.
✈️ FROM DC TO PARADISE IN UNDER 2 HOURS
As someone based in the DMV who juggles work and wanderlust, I’m always looking for destinations that are easy to reach especially for quick getaways.
In both 2024 and 2025, I flew from Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) to Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) with Allegiant Air. Just under two hours in the air, a quick 20-minute shuttle, and I was on island time.
Travel Tip: Starting May 7, 2025, you’ll need a REAL ID or TSA-approved identification to fly domestically.
🏝️ WHEN I FIRST ARRIVED IN 2024…
My 2024 visit was full of firsts:
I stayed at Mello On The Beach, waking up just steps from the peaceful shoreline of Anna Maria Beach.
Ate the tastiest burger at The Skinny’s Place, a casual island staple perfect after a travel day.
Took a sand dollar painting class at Shiny Fish Emporium, and walked away with a hand-painted keepsake I still display at home.
Explored Anna Maria City Pier, watched locals reel in fresh catch, and spotted dolphins cruising by in the distance.
Booked a sunset dolphin cruise with AMI Dolphin Tours, and it truly delivered the most magical golden hour of my life.
Had my first roasted oysters at Anna Maria Oyster Bar, and fell head over heels for their Grandma Georgie’s Chipotle flavor.
Breakfasted at Ginny & Jane E’s and Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe — two iconic spots where I still dream about the Crème Brûlée French Toast and bottomless pancake mornings.
Post-hurricane recovery, the island’s charm is undeniable, and I spent the most magical 48 hours.
🏖️ THE BRADENTON GULF ISLANDS BEACHES
Anna Maria Island is lined with some of the most beautiful beaches on Florida’s Gulf Coast — each offering its own vibe and charm. There’s Holmes Beach, Bean Point, Manatee Beach, Cortez Beach, Coquina Beach, and Anna Maria Beach — and honestly, you can’t go wrong with any of them.
As a certified beach connoisseur and lover of tropical destinations, I always seek out that perfect combination: crystal-clear water, soft sand, and a peaceful atmosphere. On my first trip, I stayed just steps from Manatee Beach , and I instantly fell in love. The coastal vibes were unmatched. The water was calm, the sunrises were stunning, and everything about it felt like the tropical escape I had been craving — without the need for a passport.
🏨 Where I Stayed: Bridgewalk, A Landmark Resort (+ a Hidden Beach Gem)
This time around, I checked into recently renovated Bridgewalk, A Landmark Resort, and instantly fell in love. My suite — the Royal Palm Studio Aparto — had everything I needed: space to stretch out, a cozy kitchenette, and a balcony perfect for slow mornings. The best part? It’s perfectly located right on Historic Bridge Street and steps from Cortez Beach
If you’re looking for walkability and convenience, Bridgewalk is it. I woke up each morning to the charm of beachside boutiques, the smell of fresh coffee wafting from nearby cafés and the hum of golf carts zipping past palm-lined sidewalks on Bridge Street.
During my stay, I also enjoyed a peaceful beach day at the private shoreline of Silver Surf Beach Resort — one of Bridgewalk’s sister property. While the beach is exclusively for Silver Surf guests, it’s a great option to consider if you want a direct beachfront stay. Their stretch of sand is quiet, uncrowded, and truly postcard-perfect.
So whether you’re staying at Bridgewalk for its central charm or dreaming of waking up right on the Gulf at Silver Surf, both resorts offer two very different — but equally relaxing — ways to experience Anna Maria Island.
🛺 My Favorite Way to Explore: GEM Cart by Beach Bums
Forget rental cars. The best way to see Anna Maria Island is by golf cart — and Beach Bums delivered again. I zipped around the island in my electric GEM cart like a local. It’s eco-friendly, fun, and honestly makes every outing feel like an adventure.
☕ SLOW MORNINGS & SWEET SIPS
My first morning, I grabbed coffee and breakfast at Back Alley Treasures, just steps from my hotel. I love that it doubles as a coffee shop and an art boutique. Their coffee always hits, and it’s the kind of cozy that invites you to stay a little longer. Then I headed straight to the beach — no schedule, no pressure, just a towel, a good playlist, and a coconut in hand (literally). AMI Coconuts delivered the perfect “original” coconut drink right to the beach. I first discovered them in 2024, and their fresh, ice-cold coconuts on the beach became a core memory. This time? The “Original” flavor hit the spot all over again.
🥪 LUNCH with a View (or in a Lounge Chair)
In 2024, I lunched poolside with Cheesecake Cutie & Cafe and dined at local favorites like Beach House Restaurant and Chateau Anna Maria. In 2025, I kept the flavor tour going.
I had lunch delivered on the beach from Scott’s Deli and let me tell you... they do not play about flavor. I had the Italian sub, the AMI Philly, chicken tacos with extra avocado, and two smoothies — Mix Berry _ Island Time. Everything was fresh, filling, and beach-day approved.
🛍️ Bridge Street Bliss
Just like last year, I spent most of my time wandering between the sand and the shops. A quick stroll down Historic Bridge Street brought me to Bridge Street Bazaar — the perfect spot for souvenirs. I even squeezed in a round of mini-golf at The Fish Hole, which made me feel like a kid again.
And speaking of favorites — I had to find Pink & Navy Boutique. They’ve relocated to Downtown Bradenton, and the new location is gorgeous. I even wore one of their dresses for my return dolphin cruise.
🌅 DINNER, SUNSET & COASTAL MAGIC
2024’s standout meal was at Anna Maria Oyster Bar, but my main dinner in 2025? That was at The Blue Marlin, and I still think about it.
They’d just reopened weeks before my trip, and the vibe was coastal perfection — live music, salty air, and standout dishes like:
FLA Cracker Shrimp
Pecan Salad
Blackened Fish Parmesan Fettuccine
Filet Mignon
And the margarita? Just yes.
Afterward, I headed up to the Daiquiri Deck rooftop for cocktails and sunset views that felt straight out of a movie.
🧖🏽♀️ 🛳️ A Day Trip to Bradenton: Coffee, Coastal Views & Total Relaxation
One of the best surprises of my return trip was just how easy it is to explore beyond the island — without giving up those slow, breezy vibes Anna Maria is known for.
On Day 2, I hopped on the Gulf Islands Ferry for a short, scenic ride over to Bradenton’s Riverwalk. The ferry runs regularly, costs just $6 per person, and picks up just a five-minute walk from Bridgewalk Resort. It's the perfect little adventure if you want to experience more of the Bradenton Area without renting a car.
Once docked, I kicked off my Bradenton day trip with a cozy stop at Orange Blossom Coffee. The space is warm, welcoming, and effortlessly cool — the kind of place where you order one drink but end up staying a while. Whether you're a coffee lover or in the mood for something a little adventurous, you’ll find something worth sipping slowly.
I ordered their Blue Brilliance — a vibrant, vitamin-infused drink that offers a natural energy boost without the jitters. It comes in fun, tropical flavors like dragon fruit and starfruit, and honestly? Chef’s kiss. It was refreshing, energizing, and felt like the perfect blend of wellness and indulgence to start the day.
From there, I wandered the Bradenton Riverwalk, taking in the open-air art installations and views of the Manatee River before making my way to Oak & Stone — a chill rooftop bar with panoramic views of the waterfront. I grabbed a drink, watched the boats drift by, and soaked up the sun-drenched moment that felt straight out of a movie.
When I was ready to move again (very slowly, let’s be honest), I booked a ride with FreeBee, Bradenton and Palmetto’s free electric shuttle service. It took me straight to the stunning Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa, where my next chapter of relaxation awaited.
Lunch at The Social — the hotel’s breezy, upscale beach club — was beautiful in every sense: the pool backdrop, the modern coastal interiors, and the fresh, vibrant menu. It felt like the kind of place where you let time slip away.
And here’s a pro tip: you can book a Day Pass to enjoy the full Beach Club experience, even if you’re not staying overnight. Think: spacious pool deck, food trucks, lawn games, mini golf, and sun-soaked vibes that make it perfect for a DayCation. I loved wandering between bites and shaded cabanas, soaking in the energy without needing to rush.
But the real star of the afternoon? A treatment at Revive Spa. I booked a facial and left completely glowing — inside and out. Quiet, calming, and surrounded by coastal luxury, it was the kind of self-care moment that stays with you long after the trip ends.
By the time I boarded the ferry back to Bridge Street for dinner, I felt like I’d just spent a whole day in a wellness resort — and didn’t even need to leave the Gulf Coast to do it.
🌙 Nightcap & Nostalgia Finale
Back via ferry, I headed back Anna Maria Oyster Bar for a final taste: the char-grilled Grandma Georgie’s Chipotle oysters, the Northshore sandwich, and sizzled shrimp dinner with Brussels sprouts and mac‑n‑cheese. It was absolutely flavorful, just as I remembered it.
I went back to Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe on my final morning —it was just as delicious as I remembered. There’s something so comforting about ending your trip the same way you started it: with coffee, and the sound of waves just steps away.
🌴 WHY YOU NEED TO VISIT ANNA MARIA ISLAND
✅ No passport required
✅ Under 3 hours from Washington D.C., Maryland and, Virginia
✅ Gulf Coast beauty without the chaos
✅ Locally-owned restaurants, shops, and experiences
✅ The perfect mix of rest + play
This island has so much soul. It’s not flashy, not hurried, not overbuilt. It’s the kind of place that welcomes you back like an old friend. And now that it’s fully recovered, it’s ready to welcome you too.
💌 FINAL THOUGHTS
I came back to Anna Maria Island thinking it would be a lovely little repeat. I didn’t expect it to move me all over again. But it did — in new ways.
Whether it’s your first trip or your second (or third), I can’t recommend this destination enough for anyone craving warm weather, easy travel, and tropical vibes without international hassle. Make sure to check out Bradenton Anna Maria Island Long Key for your itinerary recommendations.
Got questions about planning your trip? Shoot me an email or DM me on Instagram.
I also shared a full video recap there — check it out!
As always, happy traveling
Xx, Kris