travel maria

Travel Services

• About Maria
• Travel Notes

Travel Packages

Travel is easy when you join a pre-planned trip with Maria as your tour director. As an adventurous and expert traveler, Maria creates new and different itineraries that explore nature, history, food and culture, building healthy bridges between people of different backgrounds and ethnicities. Join a trip and enjoy an unforgettable vacation full of memories that will last a lifetime. Click a tile below to explore current offerings.

TRAVEL PACKAGE

Travel thailand.

Cabo Verde Sailing Adventure

Book Your Own Trip

Ecuador Awaits You

Portugal, Spain & Morocco

Madeira, Porto Santo & Sail to Lanzarote

São Tomé and Príncipe

Small ship cruises.

As a Vacation Consultant for Expedia Cruises, Maria can assist you in finding the best small ship or riverboat cruises. Land-based vacations are also available. Visit Expedia Cruises to explore the many options.

The small-sized American Queen riverboat on the Mississippi River.

Visit exotic locations with Maria as your expert tour director and local guides. Avoid the stress of traveling alone and enjoy a relaxing yet adventurous trip with an experienced traveler and gastronomy expert.

Groups of 4–10 people | Expenses, plus $250/day

A guided tour can enhance any trip.

Custom Itineraries

Get a custom trip itinerary designed just for you, that meets your specific interests and budget. Maria excels at listening to your travel desires and building an itinerary that will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Custom itineraries are carefully curated for you and include reservations for hotels and excursions, as well as support before and during travel for two travelers in one region for seven days, for $350. Additional regions are $197 each. Additional travelers and/or days of travel are priced per consultation. Air services are not included. The domestic air fee is $39 per ticket issued. The international air fee is $59 per ticket issued. Additional travel information for independent travelers is available at a cost of $147.

To get started, read and sign Maria’s Travel Service Fee Agreement and book here to meet with Maria.

Where do you want to go?

Cultural Gastronomy

Are you curious about what people eat in other countries? How do they prepare their food? What do their table settings look like? When do they eat their meals? Maria’s background as a personal chef and her passion for travel have made her a cultural gastronomy expert. Explore the customs around food prep and mealtime within a specific culture, with a cultural gastronomy add-on to your custom itinerary.

Wherever you travel to, explore the cultural around mealtime.

Or call Maria at (206) 334-4014

Let us know how we can help make your travel dreams come true.

Maria Explores

All of my travel entries.

With photos!

A quick look at where I've been.

Send an owl! I also accept ravens.

Read about me if you're

interested.

Welcome to Luxury Travel by Maria

Your expert advisor, bespoke experiences, authentic adventures, colorful cities, magnificent memories.

DREAMS COME TRUE

Actually, the best gift you could have given each other was a lifetime of adventures. -Lewis Carroll

Couples and Family

WE TRAVEL NOT TO ESCAPE LIFE

but for life not to escape us

Travel is a gift that entices us to stop, relax, and take notice of our surroundings and inner-self. We are a service travel advisory firm that provides personal travel experiences. We craft unique experiences in which we hope leave you with some of the most special and fond memories of your life.

BESPOKE EXPERIENCE

REST & RELAX

Private Islands

Enjoy & Remember Great times with us

Inclusions when booking through us

Room upgrade on arrival, daily breakfast for two, food and beverage credit, early check-in/late checkout, special experiences.

As seen on the Knot , Wedding Wire, and BOLI (Brides of Long Island)

Luxury is not just a Price Point. Luxury is the Experience.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes

Maria Diego

T+L TOP TRAVEL ADVISOR | U.S. AND THE CARIBBEAN SPECIALIST

Courtesy of Maria Diego

Diego Travel, IC of Departure Lounge

Rancho Santa Fe, CA

[email protected]

786-525-3350

instagram.com/diegotravelagency

For a family of five road-tripping in northern California, Diego curated a mix of adventurous and educational activities, like a guided UTV ride through the redwoods, as well as the chance for the kids to plant seedlings. Meanwhile, the parents got to relax with a tasting and art tour of Donum Estate, which has works by Ai Weiwei.

Additional Specialties: Indonesia, Japan, and Cruise

Languages Spoken: English, Spanish

Average Daily Spend: $1,000

Trip Planning Fees: $400-$1,200 per trip

Testimonial

"I have always been a self proclaimed travel planner for the family so having Maria plan this trip was very new to me. I put my complete trust in Maria and she definitely delivered. I am forever grateful for the lifelong memories my family made on this trip, all thanks to Maria." — Deb H.

Curated Voyages

Maria`s philosophy.

Your voyage begins the moment you say “yes” to your extraordinary adventure.

Prioritize your well-being

Oh, the places you`ll go! —Dr. Seuss

Travel can be a transformative experience that leaves you feeling renewed and revitalized. Traveling to a new destination to explore the local culture, food, and customs can be a great way to broaden your perspective, stimulate your senses, and inspire your well-being.

As your personal travel advisor, I guide you to discovery — exploration, rejuvenation, and celebration. Let me take care of the fine details for you .

What do you want to experience?

Immersive Travel Experiences

Where would you like to go to feel inspired?

Travel Moments

Imagine the feeling of…

Ask Maria a Question

Explore the possibilities! 

Contact me to set up an appointment. Let`s talk about where you want to go. Let`s plan your transformative trip. Together, we can curate a travel experience that nourishes, rejuvenates, and inspires you.

Looking forward to talking with you!

Travel Tips and Destination Guides

Travel is the only thing that you can buy that makes you richer. Get inspired to take a trip, daydream about exotic locations and get behind-the-scenes tips on nearby and exotic locations. From luxurious resorts to the best street food, cruises and planning tips, here you’ll find inspiration and tips to make your next trip your best one yet!

Ready to pack your bags?

• 11 Things to Do in La Paz Bolivia

by MariaAbroad | Jun 21, 2019 | This Post May Contain Affiliate Links , Travel | 4 Comments

Guest Post by Mal from RawMalRoams: Things to do in La Paz Bolivia For many travelers, La Paz is mostly a transit place between visiting Peru and Salar de Uyuni. However, the city itself offers many interesting things to do such as visiting the Witches' Market,...

• Places to Visit in Ladakh, India

by MariaAbroad | Jun 6, 2019 | This Post May Contain Affiliate Links , Travel | 5 Comments

Guest Post by Radhika Sharma from Nomllers.com: Things to Do and Places to Visit in Ladakh Ladakh is a dream destination not just for international tourists but also for Indians. It is known as the cold desert and once you enter this place, the entire scenery and the...

• 21 Travel Mistakes Made By Seasoned Travelers

by MariaAbroad | Jun 1, 2019 | Living Abroad , Travel | 0 Comments

Absolutely everyone makes mistakes, even people that are considered experts. Just as robots malfunction, seasoned travelers make mistakes sometimes. The good news is that amateur travelers can learn from their mistakes as they did. Traveling can be a hectic thing so...

Best Things To Do In Jamestown, New York

by MariaAbroad | May 21, 2019 | This Post May Contain Affiliate Links , Travel | 2 Comments

Top Things to Do in Jamestown, NY Jamestown is an iconic city in New York that is over two hundred years old, and it is one place in America that you absolutely must see. Jamestown is an hour and a half, just 75 miles, from Buffalo, and it is about six hours from the...

Top Things to Do in Upstate NY

by MariaAbroad | May 3, 2019 | This Post May Contain Affiliate Links , Travel | 3 Comments

The state of New York is forever associated with its greatest city, New York City. And it’s easy to understand why, as the sprawling metropolis is one of the great cities in all the world. Last fall, I left New York City behind and got to explore some of the top...

San Diego Staycation: Temecula Getaway

by MariaAbroad | Apr 23, 2018 | Travel | 4 Comments

San Diego Staycation: Temecula Getaway After recently moving back to San Diego, the husband and I treated ourselves with a little San Diego Staycation. We headed to the beautiful Temecula wine country to check out some wineries, breweries, cool bars and more. I love...

A Mix of Influences – Discovering Arab Culture in Indonesia

by MariaAbroad | Feb 7, 2018 | Culture , Travel | 3 Comments

  This post first appeared on EuropeUpClose.com.  Discovering Arab Culture in Indonesia Indonesia is a popular travel destination in Southeast Asia. No, actually, Bali is. While Bali is gorgeous and definitely worth a visit, Indonesia has so much more...

On the Corner of Fat and Happy – Restaurants in Mobile Alabama

by MariaAbroad | Jun 18, 2017 | Food , Travel | 16 Comments

Best Restaurants in Mobile AL If you come home from a trip without photos of delicious food and more restaurant recommendations than museum stubs, this article may not be for you. But if you are the kind of traveler that picks destinations based on local dishes,...

Best Vacation Spots in Mexico

by MariaAbroad | May 20, 2017 | Travel | 5 Comments

Best Vacation Spots in Mexico How to Make the Most Out of Your Visit to Mexico Going to Mexico with no itinerary plans? We got you. Today, we’re listing down the best vacation spots in Mexico. Today's post is by Louise. She blogs over...

Discovering the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta: Kayaking vs Airboat Ride

by MariaAbroad | May 15, 2017 | This Post May Contain Affiliate Links , Travel | 13 Comments

Kayaking vs. Airboat Ride - Discovering the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta I just came back from an awesome Alabama road trip that took me from Huntsville down to the beautiful coastal city of Mobile, Alabama. What a neat little town with lots of character and fun things...

About MariaAbroad

Top 100 Travel Blogs on:

Recent Posts

• Nagoya Food: Top 8 Dishes You Have to Try in Nagoya, Japan
• Edible Insects – A Push Outside Your Comfort Zone

Where I’ve been:

• Book reviews
• My Experience in China
• For a Good Cause
• Internship Abroad
• Living Abroad
• MariaAbroad Info
• Motivation Monday
• Photo of the Day
• Photography
• Study Abroad
• This Post May Contain Affiliate Links
• Travel Blogging

• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Magnificent Moscow Masha - Maria Moscow Tours

• Europe    
• Russia    
• Central Russia    
• Moscow    
• Moscow - Things to Do    
• Maria Moscow Tours

Maria is a wonderful guide and she gave us a very beautiful, informative tour of the Metro. She... read more

So our trip with Maria was superb, she did not just roam us around the city but also discussed... read more

Magnificent Moscow Masha

Masha is a gem. She is one of the best guides I’ve ever had, and I’ve traveled all over the world. Her incredible passion and love for her city, it’s history and it’s culture is matched only by her expertise in language and incredible ability to relate to people. If you want the best version of Moscow, you need to go with her!

We spent two days on a private Moscow Tour with Masha. She was a spectacular guide. She is an excellent communicator and knows her city intimately. We discussed several itineraries and schedules via What’s App. Her Breadth of knowledge and English skills make her the PERFECT Moscow guide. We found her to be so gracious, caring and friendly. Not only can she take you to all the clearly important landmarks and provide you with extensive commentary she knows several options to take you off the tourist track and see the Moscow of the native Russian. She thinks quickly on her feet and was able to take our somewhat vague requests/ ideas and turn them into experiences of gold. I have traveled extensively and hired private guides in many other cities. I can truly say Masha ranks as the top. You will not be disappointed!

Masha speaks fluent English, very competent and has amazing personality. We spent awesome time with her. It was informative and exciting, not boring at all! She knows all must see places. I totally recommend her if you want to get cool,memorable and enjoyable experience of Moscow!

Maria is definitely one of the best tourist guides I’ve seen in my many trips around the world! Professional, speaks fluent English, punctual, and very accurate in terms of must-see places and best hangouts in the country! We had a memorable trip to Moscow and visited some of the best attractions not to mention the finest place ds to lunch and dine. All thanks to Maria! Highly recommended if you’re planning your next trip to Moscow!

Maria provided us with a lovely 2 hour tour of the Moscow Metro. She was very knowledgeable and shared information that we found interesting. I have lived in Moscow for several years and now my trips on the Metro are so much more interesting! I wish that I had taken this tour years ago.

Excellent! We liked our tour in Moscow, the guide was informative and frindly and very lovely. Very good!

25 Awesome Things to Do in Anna Maria Island You’ll Love

Posted on Published: October 25, 2023  - Last updated: February 26, 2024

Filled with small-town charm, picturesque cottages and beautiful beaches, this Florida island will take your breath away. There are so many things to do in Anna Maria Island, you won’t get bored! 

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

And when it’s finally time to go home, you’ll be filled with sadness as this beach town will leave a special place in your heart. So whether you’re heading to Anna Maria Island for a family vacation, couples getaway or a girls’ weekend, you’re in for a great time!

👉Don’t have time to read the whole article? This is the best clear kayak tour and the  best parasailing tour , which is a fun way to see the island.

After hearing about this super fun beachy spot for years, I finally visited this beautiful place. Here are the absolute best things to do in Anna Maria Island.

Where is Anna Maria Island?

It’s a question often asked. With all the hype of this beautiful island, it’s good to know where it is!

Anna Maria Island is southwest of Tampa, on the western side of the Florida peninsula. The closest airport to fly into is Sarasota. It can take around an hour’s drive from the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport, depending on traffic.

It’s also an hour southwest of Tampa and about 30 minutes north of Siesta Key, Florida .

Plan your Anna Maria Island trip like a pro

Get your FREE 5-day Anna Maria Island travel planning course delivered straight to your inbox!

I won’t send you spam. I hate spam. Unsubscribe at any time.

Map of things to do in Anna Maria Island Florida

Here’s a map with the location of this beautiful vacation destination, as well as many of the Anna Maria Island attractions on this list.

Tips for visiting Anna Maria Island

Before we get to the list, here are a few tips that I wish I would have known before vacationing to this beautiful island.

• The island has limited parking. Take a bicycle, golf cart or get there early if you have a rental car . And by ‘there’ I mean anywhere. 🙂
• Join this Anna Maria Island Facebook group for more insider tips. You’ll see real-time events, wildlife sightings and can chat with locals.
• If you’re staying on the island for a week or a few days, you don’t really need a rental car. You can rent bikes, a golf cart or use the free trolley to get around the island from 6am to 9pm. If you want flexibility to travel to the surrounding areas, grab a rental car !
• If you’re driving to the island from Sarasota, Siesta Key or anywhere else, be sure to hit the road early. The traffic into the island can be really heavy stop-and-go.
• Do the ‘stingray shuffle’ as you enter the water so you don’t step on one of those. In other words, don’t step straight into the ocean, shuffle your feet instead to wake any sleepy guys up.

What to bring to Anna Maria Island

Here are a few items that you will likely want to bring to Anna Maria Island. 

• Reef safe sunblock – protect those ocean creatures while you enjoy the water!
• Sunglasses cloth. The humid, salty air will fog over your glasses. I had to clean mine often with a high quality cloth (way better than a t-shirt). Pack a few in your beach bag!
• Water shoes if you prefer. Most of the beaches are soft, but a few spots you (or your kids!) might be more comfortable in water shoes .
• Dry bag. Keep your phone or other electronics dry while you’re on the beach! I have this dry bag in orange.
• Beach towel with hidden pocket. Perfect for keys, or money, this quick-drying beach towel has a zipper pocket that’s just the right size for your valuables.
• Underwater GoPro. Snap photos of yourself, fish, manatee or more as you explore the underwater world around Anna Maria Island Florida. Don’t forget the float strap . 🙂 This GoPro has gone with me to Hana Hawaii, the best beaches in Thailand and so many more destinations!

Anna Maria Island checklist: get the perfect packing list!

I won’t send you spam. I hate spam. Unsubscribe at anytime.

Alright, already! Let’s get to the list!

Things to do in Anna Maria Island

These are the best activities and things to do in Anna Maria Island. It’s such a relaxing beach destination, you’ll have a fantastic time!

1. Visit the best beach Anna Maria Island

Of course this is the first thing on this list of what to do in Anna Maria Island! If you’re not a beach lover, you’re likely not spending a vacation here. The nice thing about the beaches here is that the sand is so soft! 

If you want to know which beach is the best beach in Anna Maria Island, it’s the one with a parking spot nearby! Kidding, of course.

Most of the beaches on the island are picturesque and perfect for a beach day. If you’re looking for a beach with amenities – like restrooms, washing stations and food, my favorite was Manatee Public Beach. 

Here’s a list of the best beaches in Anna Maria Island:

• Holmes Beach
• Manatee Beach
• Beach at Bean Point
• Cortez Beach
• Coquina Beach
• Bradenton Beach
• Bayfront Park Beach

Watch for a few of these beaches in detail below!

2. Anna Maria City Pier

A fun spot for fishing or just checking out the wildlife, the city pier is a must on your list. While I was there, I witnessed a school of fish rushing the surface over and over. Just a few days before my visit, a resident with a drone saw dozens of Cownose Rays congregating near the pier . 

You’ll also find the City Pier Grill and Bait Shop , picnic tables and benches for fishing. It’s a fun spot to relax and enjoy the water and marine life without the sand. It’s definitely a must-see and one of the best things to do on Anna Maria Island.

Location:  100 N Bay Blvd, Anna Maria, FL 34216

Side note: the Rod and Reel Pier is a really popular spot nearby for food!

Save money on travel with points: Check out the best credit card offers to save big money by using rewards points for flights and hotels. They’re so good; I regularly have 2-3 in my wallet and book most of my travel with points!

3. Poppo’s Taqueria

Guyssssss! Make it a point to come to Poppo’s Taqueria! The tacos are amazing and budget-friendly too! Walk in the door and based on the aroma, you’ll immediately know it’s going to be delicious! 

They have tacos, quesadillas and burritos, chips and salsa – all the good stuff! It’s made to order right in front of you. Seriously, go here. You won’t regret it!

Location: 212C Pine Ave, Anna Maria, FL 34216

4. Bean Point Anna Maria Island (one of the absolute best things to do Anna Maria Island)

One of the most relaxing spots, and best things to do on Anna Maria Island is visit Bean Point Beach. With very little parking, the crowds are limited on this part of the island. You’ll have more of the beach to yourself!

The northern end of Bean Point at the end of the island has more seaweed, but as long as you stick the west side, the beach is clear and beautiful! The sand under foot is super soft on the western side of Bean Point Beach, too.

Because parking is challenging, my best advice is to navigate to Bean Point then look for street parking. These are neighborhoods though, so make sure to follow the no parking signs and be courteous to the residents. This is where renting bikes comes in handy…

Location: navigate to Bean Point, Anna Maria, FL 34216

5. Rent bicycles

I mean, is there anything more fun than biking around an island? It reminds me of the time I did a Miami to Key West road trip . There were definitely more bikes than cars on Key West, too.

Anyway, use them to get from your vacation rental to the beach, restaurants, etc. If you’re staying in the town of Anna Maria, this is an ideal way to get around. You won’t have to worry about parking, either. Rent bikes for a day or multiple days while on the island.

Looking for a vacation rental? I’ve found really good rates and a lot of variety using Booking.com . Here are some options for Anna Maria Island .

6. Visit Bradenton Beach

The white sand beaches here will draw you in! Bradenton Beach in Anna Maria Island is one of the more popular beaches because it has ample free parking within walking distance.

The sand is filled with more seashells than Bean Point, but it’s not too overwhelming. If you prefer to use water shoes for this beach, these are the water shoes that work awesome for beaches like these.

With lifeguard stations and amenities nearby, Bradenton Beach is one you’ll love when visiting Anna Maria Island!

Location:  navigate to the beach at 200 Gulf Dr S, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217

7. Historic Bridge Street Pier

While you’re in the Bradenton Beach area, be sure to visit the clocktower and the pier. It’s a great fishing pier and you can see the harbor and bay side from it. 

One of the most well-known restaurants in this part of Florida is also right on the pier. The Anna Maria Oyster Bar is the place to get oysters on the island! They also have awesome fish and chips, shrimp and plenty of other seafood options.

Location: 1-15 Laverne Dr, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217

8. Shop at Bradenton Beach (another fun one on this list of things to do on Anna Maria Island)

A cute little main street with shops and restaurants, Bradenton Beach is perfect if you need a break from the beach, and is one of the best things to do in Anna Maria Island! From jewelry to clothing, beachy home décor and souvenirs, this cute little town has something for every shopper!

Morning, noon and night this area is alive. From the first coffee of the morning until closing down the bar at night, this area is a fun spot for a day trip from Anna Maria city or even to stay in a vacation rental near Bradenton Beach.

Location:  navigate to Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, Florida 34217

9. Farmers market 

What’s more authentic and local than visiting a farmer’s market? One of the most unique things to do in Anna Maria Island is hitting the farmer’s market. The Bridge Street Market in Bradenton Beach adds a local vibe on your vacation.

Find local produce for a beach picnic, sculptures and artwork or souvenirs from your trip. As of the time of this publication, the farmer’s market in Bradenton Beach runs November – April, Sundays 10am – 3pm.

Location: navigate to Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217

10. Ice cream at Small Town Creamery

Love ice cream? Coming from someone who booked a vacation around ice cream (true story), I love the stuff. So when I recommend this next place, I mean business!

This is THE perfect place to spend an hour on a hot afternoon while on vacation.

At Small Town Creamery , there’s ice cream, fudge and sweet treats to please every adult and kid in your group. But since my heart is in the ice cream, I’d highly recommend the cookies ‘n cream, cheesecake, chocolate and pistachio. Just be sure to eat it fast before it melts!

Location:  5404 Marina Dr, Holmes Beach, FL 34217

Here’s more things to do in Anna Maria Island

Seen enough yet? This lovely little island offers so much more. Let’s keep going!

11. Kayak through the mangroves

A bit further down the road on the very south end of this island chain is Lido Key. You’ll need a tour reservation and a rental car to get there, but it’s absolutely worth the trip, and by far one of my favorite things about this area!

Mangrove trees grow directly in the water and the tunnels built through these trees are so much fun to explore in a kayak! Tour guides can fill you in on the local wildlife and plant life you’ll see as you kayak through these tunnels. Bring your water shoes , sunbloc k and water-safe camera for this kayaking tour .

This was one of my highlights of my trip to Anna Maria Island!

Location:  Ted Sperling Nature Park, 259-201 Taft Dr, Sarasota, FL 34236

Book it now : kayaking tour through the mangroves.

12. Visit Coquina Beach

Coquina Beach is a wide, deep beach that’s perfect for an afternoon on the beach. Less crowded than Holmes Beach or Manatee Beach, come here if you want to enjoy the surf but get away from large groups!

The sand was a bit more rocky and has lots of small shells as you walk, but it’s not typically overrun with seaweed. The beach is that beautiful white sand that you’ll see all along Anna Maria Island!

Location: navigate to public parking at Gulf Dr S, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217

Oh and by the way, if you’re looking for more Gulf Coast beaches , be sure to check these out for your next getaway!

Anna Maria Island Packing List

Download the FREE checklist now!

I won’t you send you spam. I hate spam. Unsubscribe at anytime.

13. Check out the Beach Market 

A fun break from the ocean, the Beach Market at Coquina Beach is a really fun spot to shop for artisan crafts, souvenirs, snacks and live music! I enjoyed looking at the trinkets and jewelry and smelling delicious candied almonds while walking through the beach market.

One of the nice parts about visiting the beach market is that it’s in the shade, giving your face and shoulders a break from the powerful sun.

As of the time of publication, the Coquina Beach Market is on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays at Coquina Beach. Note this can change seasonally so check their page for updates before you go!

Location:  2650 Gulf Dr S, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217

14. Build sand art

Whether you’re 2 or 102, does playing in the sand really ever get old? The sand on this island is perfect for building sand castles, mermaids or whatever your mind can think of!

If you’re traveling with kids, pack those beach toys and dig in! Pack sand crafting tools like this kit in your luggage!

Location: any beach!

15. Take a dolphin or manatee tour (a favorite on this list of Anna Maria Island things to do)

One of the best ways to spot wildlife near Anna Maria Island is by boat! Dolphins, sting rays and manatees are popular wildlife seen in the area, and taking a tour is a fun option for a couple, group or family.

An unforgettable experience is to take a private yacht tour for half a day, perfect for groups up to 6 people. Or take a shorter two-hour dolphin sighting tour . Either way, you’re sure to have a great time on the water!

Taking a dolphin tour may just be a trip highlight, as it’s one of the very best things to do in Anna Maria Island. 🙂

16. Hunt for seashells

This part of Florida is filled with so many unique seashells! Whether you’re a collector or just find it fun to search for them while on vacation, you’ll have plenty of them to find here. It’s a fun activity for all ages, and gives kids something to do on the beach when boredom sets in.

The best beaches for hunting seashells on Anna Maria Island are Bradenton Beach and Coquina Beach.

17. Meaney’s Mini Donuts

This place is an absolute must! I know so many items on this list of things to do in Anna Maria Island are food-related. But trying new foods is one of the best things about vacation, right?

These delicious pastries actually remind me of eating malasadas, one of the best things to do in Kihei Hawaii !

You NEED to try Meaney’s Mini Donuts. They’re completely addicting and definitely a food your whole group or family will love. With specialty flavors like strawberry cheesecake, apple pie, chocolate delight and turtle cheesecake, it’s hard to choose.

You’ll have to travel a bit further down the island to get here, but it’s worth the drive!

Pro tip: order the cinnamon and sugar ones. You’ won’t regret it!

Location: 386 St Armands Cir, Sarasota, FL 34236

More fun things to do in Anna Maria Island

So far this list of Anna Maria Island activities has covered some great white sandy beaches, awesome food, natural gems and some of the best spots on the island. Let’s keep going to see what else there is on this cute little island!

18. Sunset on the beach

I know, I know it’s cliché. But honestly beach sunsets are the best! They certainly now how to draw a crowd. And since the beaches all along Anna Maria Island face west, this is literally the perfect place to catch a sunset.

Be sure to charge up that phone, you’ll want to document this beauty!

Location: favorite spots for a sunset here are Manatee Beach or Bean Point

19. Catch live music

Anna Maria Island is not a huge island with a lot of nightlife. It has more of a family-friendly vibe. So live music isn’t always the easiest to find. But live music helps you let loose a bit more on vacation!

Great spots to find live music on Anna Maria Island are:

• The Ugly Grouper
• Bamboo Island Bar
• Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe
• Island Time Bar and Grill
• Freckled Fin Irish Pub

20. Cocktails at Daiquiri Deck

If you love frozen cocktails, you’ll love this one! The Daquiri Deck in Bradenton Beach is a fun hangout and delicious adventure.

Frozen drink machines that line the bar, these cocktails are delicious! With fun names like ‘The Karen’ “Decksickle’ and ‘Floozie’ this is definitely the place to be for cocktails.

Of course, they have food too. After visiting Daquiri Deck multiple times, I definitely recommend to try the Blackened Mahi Bites. They are absolutely amazing!

Pro tip: be sure to go during happy hour for your biggest bang for your buck, 1/2 price drinks!

Location: 107 Bridge St, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217

21. Lounge on Longboat Key Beach (another favorite on this list of things to do near Anna Maria Island)

One of my favorite spots in the Anna Maria Island area is Longboat Beach. Way more relaxed and with zero amenities, this beach is perfect if you like a more peaceful, natural beach setting.

With soft, white-sand beaches and very little seashells, it’s a gem! It would be a perfect spot for a picnic, set up a tent for shade and just relax and enjoy the day.

Location: public beach access at 2825 Gulf of Mexico Dr, Longboat Key, FL 34228

22. Visit Saint Armand’s Circle

Located on the way to Anna Maria Island from Sarasota, Saint Armands Key is an upscale community with a fun history. If you’re a history buff, this is your spot!

John Ringling was partially credited for the creation of St. Armands City. The circle layout was inspired by the circus and considering it was a winter home to the Ringling Brothers and Barnum Bailey Circus, it has monuments and statues all throughout in memory of circus greats.

Bonus – with over 100 stores, this is a great place for shopping and dining, too!

Location: navigate to Saint Armand’s Circle, Sarasota, FL 34236

23. Go parasailing

No more wondering what to do in Anna Maria Island…

If you’ve got a sense of adventure and no afraid of heights, parasailing tours offer visitors the chance to see the island from a unique perspective . Enjoy the scenic island while flying through the air! Perfect for families with older kids, couples or even larger groups, this will surely get your adrenaline going!

I was nervous my first time parasailing, but it’s actually a super fun experience. And Anna Maria Island is the perfect spot to do this high-adventure activity.

Location: departs from Bradenton Beach, FL 34217

Book it now: Anna Maria Island parasailing

24. See some wildlife

Okay I cannot guarantee any of this, but I will say that Anna Maria Island has a ton of wildlife to be seen! Most commonly are sting rays, manatees, dolphins, herons, sea turtles plus the obvious fish and birds.

The city pier is a fun spot to see wildlife. We’ve seen manatees at Bean Point and dolphins on the bay side. Plus a turtle at Manatee Beach. But basically, keep your eyes peeled at all times for unexpected surprise!

Viewing wildlife is definitely one of the top things to do in Anna Maria Island Florida!

Location: anywhere

25. Picnic on the beach

I mean, does life really get any better than spending a whole day on the beach? Grab a cooler from your vacation rental properly (or pack a collapsable cooler ) and hit the beach.

One of my favorite ways to stick to my vacation savings plan is to hit a grocery store as soon as I roll into town. Pack a cooler with sandwiches or salads to go, or whatever sounds great to you! Spend the day relaxing on the beach and eat when you’re hungry. Perfection, right?

Top things to do in Anna Maria Island Florida

Well there you have it! This beautiful island is full of fun sights, activities and beaches. What it lacks in size it makes up for in charm and adventure!

Let’s recap that list again, in a much quicker format!

Anna Maria Island: things to do

• Visit the best beaches
• Anna Maria City Pier
• Poppo’s Taqueria
• Rent bicycles
• Visit Bradenton Beach
• Historic Bridge Street Pier
• Shop at Bradenton Beach
• Farmers market
• Ice cream at Small Town Creamery
• Kayak through the mangroves
• Visit Coquina Beach
• Check out the Beach Market
• Build sand art
• Take a dolphin or manatee tour
• Hunt for seashells
• Meaney’s Mini Donuts
• Sunset on the beach
• Catch live music
• Cocktails at Daiquiri Deck
• Lounge on Longboat Key Beach
• Visit Saint Armand’s Circle
• Go parasailing
• See some wildlife
• Picnic on the beach

Whew! What a fun list! I hope you have a fantastic Anna Maria Island vacation. It’s a gorgeous little island worthy of a visit!

By the way, if you’re planning to rent a car for your vacation to this gorgeous island, check out the discounted rates on Discover Cars . I typically save 10-30% using their free service. They search top car carriers to find the best deals at no extra cost. Here’s that car rental link again.

Quick note: we all love the turquoise green water at Anna Maria Island. But in recent years there’s been red tide, toxic algae blooms, seagrass die-offs and fish kills due to 150-year old decisions of water mismanagement in Florida.

Captains for Clean Water is trying to change that by providing education and funding for the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan , which restores Florida’s natural waterways, and reduce these toxic (not to mention unpleasant) extreme algae occurrences. Consider supporting this non-profit to ensure future trips to Anna Maria Island are enjoyable. (And bonus – they’re rated amazing by Charity Navigator , so give with confidence. 😊)

Related content to read next: Destin vs. Gulf Shores: Which is Your Perfect Vacation Spot? 22 Stops on a Miami to Key West Road Trip Tips for Flying with Kids

Find this post helpful? Save it for later or share it on social media.

Tracey Kifford

Thursday 9th of November 2023

I love the look of this beach! It reminds me of one I visited many years ago, also not too far from Tampa ... Sanibel? Shell Island I think it was called - and the dolphin tours from there were epic. I love the sand art elephant on Anna Maria!

Saturday 18th of November 2023

Cool Tracey! Sometimes it seems like all FL beaches are the same - but they offer different experiences. It's worth visiting many of them :)

This place looks stunning! Great list of things to do and some good tips too, never heard of the stingray shuffle before!

Glad you found this guide helpful Emma!

Saunter With Sanika

Looks like there is endless fun to be had! Kayaking through the mangroves will definitely be at the top of my list of things to do here.

Yes yes yes! It was one of my favorite experiences on AMI. Thanks for visiting the blog :)

Wednesday 8th of November 2023

I've never heard about Anna Maria Island before reading about this island! I can't believe how crystal clear the water is and how soft the sand is! I'd love to visit and try all the water sports. Thanks for sharing all your helpful tips!

Yay Kelly! It's such a fun place to visit and do alllll the water activities. Hope you make it there someday.

I am a little embarrassed that I had not previously heard of Anna Maria Island, but oh my goodness it looks so lovely! Those beaches look incredible and I would looove to see the mangroves and manatees!

Oh Josy it's a small island that has been growing in popularity over the last 10-20 years. But certainly worth visiting if you like beaches and adventure!

• Work With Jen
• USA Bucket List
• Follow Us On Instagram

33 Best Things to Do in Anna Maria Island, FL

This post may contain affiliate links, view our disclosure policy .

Are you looking for a list of the best things to do on Anna Maria Island?

In this article, we highlight the best family-friendly activities on Anna Maria Island, as well as show you the many reasons that this United States vacation destination is the ultimate beach-lovers paradise.

Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, go fishing, watch dolphins, or dine on delicious seafood, there are literally so many fun things to do on Anna Maria Island.

Look no further for the 33 best things to do in Anna Maria Island to find your piece of paradise!

Table of Contents

Things to Do on Anna Maria Island

Anna Maria Island, Florida, is a barrier island located on the southwest coast of Florida in the Gulf of Mexico.

Anna Maria’s 7-mile long coastline is home to three laid-back, beachy communities: the City of Anna Maria (to the north), the City of Holmes Beach (in the center), and Bradenton Beach City (home of Beach Bridge Street Pier/Bradenton Beach City Pier, to the south).

All three cities provide access to spectacular beaches, accommodations, and amazing outdoor activities that offer a friendly Old Florida feel.

Regardless of whether you’re dining and drinking on the shore or dipping your toes into the aquamarine waters of the Gulf of Mexico, an Anna Maria Island vacation will have you feeling relaxed, rejuvenated, and refreshed.

1. Head to the Beach

As the absolute best free thing to do on Anna Maria Island…head to the beach!

After all, there are a total of 6 pristine beaches on Anna Maria Island to choose from.

Though each beach on Anna Maria Island is unique in its own way, they all offer the same picturesque aquamarine-colored water, as well as luscious, pure-white sand that is always cool to the touch.  

You can’t go wrong in choosing to go to either of these beaches, though your choice(s) may come down to their proximity to your overnight accommodations or where you can find parking.

Here’s a quick snapshot of each Anna Maria island beach:

Bean Point Beach

• Located on the northernmost tip of the island.
• The most secluded and tranquil of the island’s beaches (a hidden gem!).
• Street parking only.
• Breathtaking views. Best place to watch the sunset.
• Quiet atmosphere with little around but natural beauty. 
• Great for beachcombing. 
• No lifeguards.
• No amenities.

Bayfront Park

• Located on the northern tip of the island between Anna Maria City Pier and Rod n Reel Pier.
• Views of Tampa Bay, Egmont Key, and the famous Sunshine Skyway Bridge.
• A large park area with a playground, pavilions, picnic tables, and grills.
• Great spot for birdwatching and exploring. 
• Free public parking.

Holmes Beach

• Located in the middle of the island.
• Best beach for surfing.
• Most utilized by nearby condo and vacation-rental beachgoers.
• Limited parking is found here.
• White sands are perfect for sunbathing.

Manatee Public Beach

• Busiest beach on the island with the most public amenities.
• Best beach for shelling (go early to find the best shells!).
• Home to AMI Beach Cafe.
• Large public parking area.
• Beach equipment rentals are available (chairs, umbrellas, cabanas).
• Lifeguards present.

Bradenton Beach

• Located in the small community of Bradenton Beach near its historic Bridge Street.
• Best spot for snorkeling on the island.
• Home to The Beach House and Gulf Drive Cafe restaurants.
• Has a picturesque fishing pier. 
• Very limited public parking.

Coquina Beach

• Located at the southern tip of the island.
• A long, narrow beach that is good for shell picking.
• Long stretches of white sand to enjoy. 
• Similar amenities as Manatee Beach but often less crowded.
• Has an awesome boardwalk that you can walk, run, or ride on.
• Home of the Beach Market (outdoor market with local vendors) and located right across the street from Leffis Key Preserve.
• Amenities make it a great family-friendly option. 

Though parking at the beaches is free, it can be hard to get a spot, especially on the weekends or holidays. Plan to arrive at the beaches early in the morning or later in the afternoon (after 3:00 PM) when people are beginning to leave.

In addition, don’t forget to bring along these must-have beach essentials that will maximize your fun and safety while on the beach!

2. Bike the Island

Similar to when visiting Siesta Key and other small beachside communities, one of the best things to do in Anna Maria is to rent bikes!

Being that vacationing on the island is all about getting away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, bike rentals allow you to never have to start your car engine once you’re settled in.

In fact, there’s no easier way to get around Anna Maria Island and avoid the stress of having to find a parking spot than to bike to and from all of your favorite spots.

Along with being a convenient mode of transportation, biking is a fun entertainment option too!

Popular Anna Maria bike rental companies such as Beach Bums , AMI Beach Fun Rentals, and Fun and More Rentals offer free delivery of their bikes, rentals for one or multiple days, and complimentary helmets and locks.

3. Take a Dolphin Tour

Hands down, one of the best Anna Maria Island activities is to take a guided dolphin tour offered by our favorite, The Salty Dolphin !

Anna Maria Island is known for its large population of bottlenose dolphins that love to frolic and play in their local waters.

The best part about taking a guided dolphin cruise is that your captain will know just where to find them!

For both adults and kids alike, there’s something so special about seeing dolphins in their natural habitat, swimming and playing alongside one another.

For only $35/person, we loved getting to spend 1.5 hours learning about the local wildlife, watching seabirds, searching for manatees, and being treated to the beauty and splendor of Anna Maria Island’s resident dolphins.

This is an experience you don’t want to miss!

4. Build Your Own Donut!

Now and again, you taste something so delicious that your taste buds will never let you forget how great it was.

In comes what you will experience when customizing your own freshly-made cake donut at The Donut Experiment ! Bonus – it’s one of the most unique things to do on Anna Maria Island.

This ultra-adorable hang-out located on Pine Avenue is filled with friendly staff just waiting to assist you at the donut bar and to serve you up a cup of piping hot coffee or other specialty drink.

After the donuts are cooked right in front of you, they’re dipped and dunked into the icing, toppings, and drizzle of your choice, making for a completely fun and unique experience.

Biting into these fresh and delicious donuts tops our list of things to do in Anna Maria Island, FL!

Additional planning tip: If there’s a line to order, hold tight. These melt-in-your-mouth donuts are well worth the wait. Plus, for only $1.35 per donut and $13.75 per dozen, they make for the perfect, affordable snack!

5. Dine With a View at Anna Maria Oyster Bar

Our favorite restaurant on Anna Maria Island is Anna Maria Oyster Bar, otherwise known as ‘AMOB’.

Along with its prime location on the Bradenton Beach Pier, AMOB has a fun and family-friendly atmosphere, amazing staff, and a food and drink menu that is off the charts (be sure to try the White Sandy Beaches or Toasted Monkey cocktail)!

You can’t go wrong in ordering their Calamari, Tuna Stack, or Jumbo Chicken Wings as an appetizer, followed up with perfectly cooked seafood, Gulf-fresh fish, oysters, steaks & chicken, hearty soups, or pasta.

For a chance to dine right on the ocean and eat amazingly fresh food in a great atmosphere, we definitely count a visit to Anna Maria Oyster Bar as one of the best things to do on Anna Maria Island!

There is limited parking directly in front of the restaurant. Simply pull up to the hostess stand, and a staff member in a golf cart will assist you in finding their nearby available (free) parking.

6. Sink a Putt at The Fish Hole on Anna Maria Island

Located just a short walk from Anna Maria Oyster Bar, play a round of mini-golf at The Fish Hole located on Bridge Street.

This 18-hole miniature golf course is surrounded by tropical plants and shade trees and features a fun, nautical décor that fits in with the vibe of Anna Maria Island.

Though the course itself is not challenging, it is both affordable ($9.49 per person) and well-maintained, as well as provides the perfect opportunity to have some family fun.

Additional planning tip: Bring along some change! There is a fish food dispenser located next to the gigantic 3,000 Koi pond found at the course. Our kids loved seeing and feeding the dozens of resident Koi here!

Walk and go mini-golfing after dining at AMOB, and you won’t have to find a new parking spot.

7. Take the Free Island Trolley or Monkey Bus

We mention utilizing free transportation as one of the best things to do in Anna Maria Island for its convenience and awesomeness.

With a few differences, both the Anna Maria Island Trolley and Anna Maria Monkey Bus offer free rides and stops up and down the island to avoid the hassle of driving, traffic, and parking.

The Island Trolley operates 7 days a week on a fixed route and starts service at 6 AM. It runs at 20-minute intervals until 9 PM, then every 30 minutes until 10:30 PM. Trolley stops can be found every 2 – 4 blocks.

Island Beach Monkeys, “The Monkey Bus”, on the other hand, travels all over Anna Maria Island by request only. You can call 941-565-6542 to schedule a ride anywhere on the island (and beyond) from 12 AM to 3 AM, 7 days a week.

“Rides for Tips” is their slogan, as there is no official charge for this service.

Additional planning tip: For the Island Trolley, look for teal-colored, open-air trolleys. Monkey Buses are brightly colored, covered mini buses.

8. Go Fishing

Whether you’re an avid fisherman looking to book a deep-sea adventure or simply want to test your luck and throw in a line from shore, Anna Maria Island offers great fishing opportunities.

First off, Anna Maria Island is home to several companies that offer chartered fishing trips where the bait, tackle, rods, boat, and guide are all provided at a cost.

Many people rank these experiences as some of the best money they’ve ever spent fishing, however.

For a land-based experience, both the Rod and Reel Pier and the City Pier, along with Bradenton Beach Pier, are excellent spots to fish from. At all three of these places, you can rent rods and purchase bait for low hourly rates.

At Rod and Reel Pier, for instance, we paid $2.00/person to fish, $2.00/hour for pole rental, and $3.50 for a bag of frozen shrimp bait. We excitedly caught snook and snapper.

All in all, fishing from the piers is truly one of our favorite things to do in Anna Maria Island for the endless smiles that it provides.

Additional planning tip: Those in your group who are 16 years or older will need to purchase a local license to fish. If fishing from a pier as a non-Florida resident, however, you do not need a license; you are covered by the pier’s license.

9. Browse the Island’s Specialty Shops

There aren’t many things to do in Anna Maria Island when it rains, so your best bet may be shopping!

Luckily, the area is home to an abundance of dessert shops, jewelry stores, boutiques, clothing stores, art galleries, and other specialty gift shops.

The hand-made goods and boutique items are ones that you simply won’t find elsewhere!

Both Pine Avenue (near Anna Maria City Pier, Bayfront Park, and the Rod and Reel Pier) and Historic Bridge Street (in Bradenton Beach) are home to unique and creative shops that are some of the most popular and fun places to visit on Anna Maria Island.

Here’s a list of our favorite shops that you won’t want to miss:

• Olive Oil Outpost (Pine Ave.)
• Three Island Monkeys (Pine Ave.)
• Pink & Navy (Pine Ave.)
• Bridge Street Bazaar (Bridge St.)
• Back Alley Treasures (Bridge St.)
• The Uptown Lot (Bridge St.)

10. Dine and Watch the Sunset at The Sandbar

The Sandbar is another hugely popular restaurant and tops most people’s lists as one of the most romantic things to do on Anna Maria Island.

Located on the north end of the island, the Sandbar is situated on the sandy shoreline of the Gulf, meaning that it is no joke that you literally ‘dine with your toes in the sand’.

Not only does The Sandbar offer an epic dining experience in an unbeatable location, but it is also the perfect spot to watch an iconic Anna Maria sunset.

There is nothing quite as breathtaking as watching the gigantic sun sink below the horizon over the Gulf of Mexico (with unobstructed views).

This is something you definitely need to do each and every night when visiting here.

Additional planning tip: Expect long waits to be seated at The Sandbar, especially during peak tourist seasons. Be aware that the food is just as great as the view!

Other great restaurants on Anna Maria Island include:

• The Wicked Cantina – Amazing Tex-Mex food and the best margaritas!
• Waterfront Restaurant – Awesome dinner option with a huge porch; great food and cocktails!
• Shore (on Longboat Key) – Memorable higher-end dining experience with amazing food and views (be sure to make reservations)!

11. Explore the Local Area

When talking about fun things to do at Anna Maria Island, it is necessary to mention its close proximity to so many other amazing coastal and local communities.

The best day trips include the fishing village of Cortez, Longboat Key, Bradenton (check out Cortez Beach!), Sarasota, and Siesta Key.

For some ideas on things to do near Anna Maria Island, check out both our favorite things to do in Sarasota and the absolute best things to do in Siesta Key , as these are two of our other favorite family vacation spots.

Needing a theme park fix?

Travel 2 hours and 30 minutes northeast, and you’ll find plenty of things to do in Orlando , including Magic Kingdom , Universal Studios , SeaWorld, and Legoland.

In short, you will definitely not be at a loss to find things to do when visiting Anna Maria Island and the surrounding area!

12. Try a Watersport

Because of its relaxed, non-commercial setting, Anna Maria Island is the perfect spot for a serene vacation. 

That being said, you can definitely still find thrills on your trip!

There are tons of exciting water sports to try on Anna Maria, with adrenaline-pumping options including parasailing, jet skiing, kiteboarding, and windsurfing.

For more low-key options, we recommend snorkeling, kayaking, or a gentle paddleboard around the calmest waters. 

Find more information on watersports on Anna Maria Island , including rental options, here. 

Things to Do on Anna Maria Island: Insider Tips

• Parking ordinances are strictly enforced on Anna Maria Island. If it says ‘No Parking’, don’t do it unless you want a ticket. Likewise, if you park on the roadside, be sure your tires are off the asphalt street, or you will get a ticket.
• Drive slowly on Gulf Drive , as pedestrian crosswalks are everywhere. Florida law requires that you stop and give the right of way to pedestrians
• The months of May to October are considered ‘Turtle Season’.  All outdoor lights must be dimmed, beach toys/equipment removed from the beaches, and holes filled in. This prevents nesting turtles and their hatchlings from running into hazards or from becoming disoriented.
• Be mindful of ways to beat the Florida heat if visiting during the sweltering hot months of June, July, or August.
• In addition, be sure to consult our Florida packing list so that you can pack the appropriate clothes, accessories, and fun Florida extras!
• The closest major airport to Anna Maria Island is the Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport, but it offers limited service. Tampa International Airport (TPA) is larger and is located one hour and 15 minutes north with interstate access.
• Anna Maria Island in Florida is not to be confused with Santa Maria Island, which is located in Portugal.

People Also Ask

Anna Maria Island is located southwest of Tampa, Florida. It is a barrier island bounded west by the Gulf of Mexico. Anna Maria Island is located close to the cities of both Bradenton and Sarasota.

Anna Maria Island is a low-key place. There are amazing vacation rentals, beautiful beaches, unique seaside dining venues, local art, and plenty of outdoor activities. In other words, there is truly something for everyone here!

Anna Maria Island is most known for its gorgeous beaches, complete with soft white sands, turquoise waters, and plenty of activities to choose from.  The area is also well-known for its Old Florida charm; it has impeccable small-town vibes, prioritizing local businesses and fostering a deep sense of community. 

The best months to visit Anna Maria Island are from January through March, and then again in October. The humidity is much lower than during the summer months, and it is usually not as busy either.

Because there are no fast-food chains or high-rise hotel chains, you’ll spend more on food and lodging in Anna Maria Island. Also, most accommodations here have ocean or beachfront views making prices higher than when staying inland.

From dive bars (Drift-In) and sports bars (Slim’s Place) to stylish dockside bars (Bridge Tender Inn), and live music on the weekends (Cortez Kitchen), there are several fun things to do in Anna Maria Island at night. I wouldn’t consider it to have a huge party atmosphere, however. Just laid-back fun.

Yes and no. Many beach towns have a bustling boardwalk complete with vendors, restaurants, entertainment, and more touristy fun. Anna Maria Island is a much more low-key destination. There are, however, some casual piers, including Bradenton Beach City Pier and Bridge Street Pier. Also, some of the beaches do have wooden pathways that weave in between sand dunes as a conservation effort. These paths are wonderful for long beach walks. And if that doesn’t suit you, there are miles of shoreline to explore!

More Fun Things to Do on Anna Maria Island

Here’s a recap, plus some additional things to do that the entire family will love!

This list is a recap of all of the fun things to do in Anna Maria that are listed above – with a few additional activities that we’ve discovered on subsequent visits!

Anna Maria Island Attractions

• Relax at Bean Point Beach
• Picnic and swim at Bayfront Park
• Spend the day at Holmes Beach
• Hang out at Manatee Public Beach
• Go to Bradenton Beach
• Go shell picking at Coquina Beach
• Browse the Beach Market at Coquina Beach
• Rent bikes from Beach Bums and bike the island
• Go on a dolphin cruise with The Salty Dolphin
• Build your own donut at The Donut Experiment
• Take photos from the Bradenton Beach Pier
• Dine with a view at Anna Maria Oyster Bar
• Go mini-golfing at The Fish Hole
• Take the free Island Trolley
• Ride the Monkey Bus
• Go fishing (and rent equipment) from Rod and Reel Pier
• Book a deep-sea fishing excursion for a day on the water
• Go shopping on Pine Avenue
• Go shopping on Historic Bridge Street
• Dine and watch the sunset at The Sandbar restaurant
• Visit nearby towns like Bradenton, Sarasota, and Siesta Key
• Get ice cream at Two Scoops or Small Town Creamery
• The next night, get ice cream at Dips (then compare the two)
• Take a guided kayak tour with Happy Paddler Kayak Tours
• Visit the Anna Maria Island Historical Museum, run by the Island Historical Society: Located on Pine Avenue; get a glimpse of Florida’s history and learn about the rich history of the island; take a photo at the Anna Maria City Jail, one of the most photographed places on the island.
• Visit the Anna Maria Historic Green Village: Also located on Pine Avenue, an art gallery, jewelry and gift shop, village bakery, and outfitter shop that are all run on natural energy.
• Play on the playground at Coquina Bayside Park
• Go parasailing with Anna Maria Island Parasailing
• Rent a pontoon through H2O Watersports
• Take Sailing Lessons on sunfish sailboats from Bimini Bay Sailing
• Get coffee or a fresh smoothie from Ginny and Jane E’s Cafe
• Have barbecue at the Smokehouse
• Rent a kayak from Happy Paddler
• Rent a golf cart from Anna Maria Golf Carts
• Try windsurfing along the crystal blue waters
• Visit a nature preserve like Leffis Key Preserve or Neal Preserve 
• Go birdwatching
• Tour the island by segway with Zegway by the Bay
• Treat yourself to a spa day 
• Relax with yoga on the beach
• Take in the local art at a festival or show

*All photos courtesy of VisitSarasota.com unless otherwise noted.

Thanks for reading! What are some of your favorite things to do in Anna Maria Island FL? Our fellow travel readers would love to know! Jen

If you like our list of the 33 Best Things to Do Anna Maria Island in Florida, click here to read our Related Posts:

• 11 Best Things to Do in Siesta Key While on Vacation
• 11 Best Restaurants in Siesta Key (That You’ll Love!)
• The Ultimate Sarasota Vacation Itinerary Perfect For Families
• 18 Beach Essentials For A Perfect Day at the Beach
• 11 Exciting Things To Do In Sarasota With Kids
• Things to do in Florida (That Aren’t Disney!)
• The Ultimate Orlando Family Vacation Itinerary

*Before leaving, be sure to check our  Travel Resources Page  to find exclusive travel discounts and to book hotels, rental cars, and guided tours.*

Jen Brommer is a family travel expert. She has been featured as an authority on several notable travel websites and is a member of the Family Travel Association (FTA), Midwest Travel Network, and TravMedia global media network.

A prominent content creator and influencer on Instagram, Jen has over 150K unique monthly blog readers from countries all over the world. She has spent the last 16 years planning fun, and hassle-free family vacations for her family of 5.

Similar Posts

Disney World on a Budget: 15 Genius Ways on How to Save Money at Disney World

The Best Indoor Waterparks in Minnesota (+ Waterpark Hotels in MN!)

Loews Royal Pacific at Universal Orlando: 9 Reasons to Stay

Florida Heat: How to Stay Cool in Florida While on Vacation

Disney World Magic Kingdom Wait Times (Shortest & Longest Lines)

15 Easy Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park for the Whole Family

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

16 Comments

Sounds like the perfect family getaway for a week! Especially for us Canadians dying to head south right now.

Yes…anywhere in Florida is a hot spot right now! Thanks for checking out my article!!

Been dying to visit this area – you know I am always in Naples and SWFL – but where does one stay on AMI? Up in Sarasota? are there only beach house rentals and not hotels? I need to explore this area – I mean beach and make your own donuts, Im sold!

It is beautiful! There are several resorts and condo complexes (VRBO or direct rental) on AMI. We haven’t stayed in any, and instead, always stay on Siesta Kay and do day-trips to AMI. If you ever go and stay there, let me know your recommendation 🙂

I have been wanting to get to Anna Maria Island for some time now! We spend a lot of time on 30A in the panhandle and it seems to have a very similar vibe! Saving this post for our trip!

You will love it there! The beaches and restaurants are fantastic!!

What a neat little island! How have I not heard of this; it looks absolutely amazing. Like a secret gem! Thank you for sharing! Definitely adding this to my list 🙂

It is truly a hidden gem – so close to more talked about places like Sarasota and Siesta Key. Thanks for reading!

We’ve had Anna Maria island on our list for a long time!! I’m all about the dolphin tour…and we can’t pass up a good donut!!😆

Yes, the dolphin tour was awesome! To see so many dolphins out in their natural habitat was great – the kids loved it!!

My kids would love the build-your-own-donut place! And, I would love staring at those gorgeous water views!

Yes! I tell ya…our kids LOVED it there! I would love to go back someday and explore more!!

Why hadn’t I ever heard of Ana Maria Island before?! It looks so beautiful!

Yes! It is a hidden gem…yet so close to so many other amazing destinations in Florida. The island is great even if just for a day trip!

We love Anna Maria island and it is such a great place to visit for families. We haven’t tried the dolphin tour yet, but it is such a great idea to add to our list for the next visit!

What was cool about the dolphin tour is that there are so many different pods of dolphins that call Anna Maria home. They are everywhere!

Find Even More

Find your next vacation destination!

Connect on Instagram

Find out where we’re traveling now!

Make the memories now

You don’t have to wait until your kids are more grown up or you have a ton of money saved to start traveling.

With a little planning and a lot of love, lifelong family vacation memories can be made at all ages, stages – and places both near and far.

Destinations

• Attractions
• Girls’ Trips
• U.S. Cities
• All-Inclusive Resorts
• Universal Orlando

Free Printable

Free packing list printable when you subscribe for the latest travel updates!

Travel With A Plan is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

Family Vacation Packing List!

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

Maria Island Day Trip Itinerary – How to Spend One Day on Maria Island

A short ferry ride from Tasmania’s east coast will bring you to the wild and rugged Maria Island. Discover some of Tasmania’s most pristine untouched landscapes, immerse yourself in the rich convict history and meet some of the island’s adorable wildlife.

Taking a day trip to Maria Island was a huge highlight of our 10-day Tasmania road trip and based on our experience, I can highly recommend adding this place to your Tassie bucket list! Whether you plan to visit on a day trip from Hobart or include this as a stop on your travels around Tasmania, Maria Island National Park is a gem you absolutely shouldn’t miss.

With endless possibilities of wildlife encounters, unique natural scenery and beautiful beaches, spending the day on Maria Island is an experience that you’ll never forget! The best part about visiting Maria Island is that it’s never very busy. We spent most of our day feeling like we had the island to ourselves.

This detailed guide has everything you need to plan the perfect Maria Island day trip. Read on to discover how to get there, the best day tour from Hobart and all the main highlights that you can’t miss on the island.

The best part of Maria Island, wombats!

Table of Contents

Maria Island Day Trip Guide

How to get to maria island.

Travelling to Maria Island from the mainland requires catching a 30 minute ferry ride from Triabunna. Ferries depart from the Triabunna Ferry Terminal at several time slots throughout the day. The ferry schedule changes depending on the season so be sure to check the updated departure times when planning your day trip.

As no cars are allowed on the island, the ferry takes foot passengers only. You can leave your car in the free parking lot at the ferry terminal for the full day. If you are taking a day trip to Maria Island from Hobart, allow 1.5 hours to drive to the ferry terminal.

Booking your return tickets to Maria Island can be done online in advance from the Encounter Maria Island ferry website . If you don’t already have a National Parks Pass for Tasmania, you’ll need to purchase one in order to visit the island. This can be included as a one-off with the purchase of your ferry ticket or you can visit the National Parks website here .

Getting Around Maria Island

The best way to see the highlights of Maria Island on a day trip is by renting a bike. You can either bring your own bike across on the ferry for an extra $10 or you can rent one when you get to the island for $33.

You can reserve a bike when booking your ferry ticket and collect it from the bike rental shop when you arrive on the island. This is what we did when visiting Maria Island and found it to be the perfect way to explore the island and see the main highlights listed below.

Exploring the Painted Cliffs

Day Trip to Maria Island from Hobart – Full Day Tour

Discover the beauty and native wildlife of Maria Island on this highly rated full day trip from Hobart. The tour includes a 4 hour scenic boat cruise, a guided walk around the Darlington convict settlement, a chance to see the island’s wildlife such as wombats, kangaroos, fur seals, dolphins, whales and more!

You’ll also get snacks, lunch and the chance to spend some free time exploring the island. Option to include pickup from your Hobart accommodation if needed.  Find more info about tour prices and availability here.

Where to Stay for Your Maria Island Day Trip

The best place to base yourself to reach Maria Island is in the small town of Triabunna. If you’re planning a full day trip to Maria Island, you’ll want to catch the early morning ferry. This is much easier to do if you wake up near the ferry terminal.

Triabunna Caravan Park – Ideal for those camping or on caravan trips, this holiday park offers a choice of cabins or campsites. It’s an easy walk to the ferry terminal making it convenient for your day trip.

Triabunna Barracks – This beautiful accommodation is set in a historic building and includes a delicious breakfast. With comfortable rooms and a great location, you can’t go wrong with this choice.

Tips for Visiting Maria Island

• If you don’t plan to see the island on an organised tour, you will need to pack a lunch and snacks for the day. The island is pretty remote and there are no restaurants, cafes or shops. Make sure to bring everything required for the full day on the island, this includes a water bottle (drinking water can be found at Darlington campground).
• Don’t forget to pack warm/waterproof clothing as the weather can be unpredictable. When we visited Maria Island in March we saw all four seasons in a single day. If you visit during summer, you should also bring a swim suit, towel, sunscreen and snorkelling gear. The beaches are gorgeous on the island offering the perfect chance to cool off while cycling.
• You won’t be able to charge your phone or any electronics while on the island so it’s worth bringing a portable battery pack just in case. If you’re like us and end up filling up your camera roll with wombats all day, this will come in handy!

Beautiful scenery of Maria Island

Can You Stay On Maria Island For More Than One Day?

There are many great things to do on Maria Island, staying longer than a day will make it easier to explore more of the island. There are a few great camping spots and one basic accommodation for those who wish to stay overnight. Find more info about planning your stay on Maria Island here .

Maria Island Accommodation

• Darlington Campground – Located near the ferry terminal at the Darlington settlement, see info about prices and bookings here .
• French’s Farm – Free camping a 3 hour walk from the ferry terminal. Ideal for those who want a more off-the-beaten-path experience.
• Encampment Cove – Another awesome free camping spot located near old convict ruins. Nice views and lots of potential wildlife sightings.
• Maria Island Penitentiary – A basic bunk-bed style accommodation in the Darlington settlement offering a unique opportunity to spend the night in a historic convict site. Find info about booking your stay here .

More Things to do on Maria Island

In addition to the day trip itinerary below, here are a few more Maria Island attractions that can be seen on longer stays.

• Hike Mount Maria  – A challenging 6-8 hour hike that requires rock scrambling to reach the summit of the tallest peak on Maria Island. This hike is best for clear weather as the view from the top is pretty spectacular.
• Bishop and Clerk Hike – The more popular and scenic hike on Maria Island, reaching the top of the Bishop and Clerk pinnacles can be done in under 5 hours. Following a path along the clifftops, the hike becomes increasingly more difficult as you approach the summit. The panoramic view from the top makes it all worthwhile.
• Explore McRaes Isthmus – The skinny section of land that connects the upper and lower halves of the island is a great place to explore. There are some beautiful beaches to swim at that you will likely have all to yourself seeing as it’s harder to reach this part of the island. You can ride your bike just passed French’s Farm until the track turns to sand. Park your bike there and walk for a few kms to reach the isthmus.
• Take a scenic flight – Departing from Cambridge on the mainland, this 3-hr scenic flight is the best way to experience the beauty of Tasmania’s east coast. Not only do you get to fly over Maria Island, but this flight also includes a trip to the spectacular Wineglass Bay. The plane also lands on Maria Island for a guided walking tour and picnic lunch. See prices and availability here .

Spot wombats grazing all over the island

Maria Island Day Trip Itinerary – How to Spend the Perfect Day on Maria Island

Discover maria island’s convict history.

Maria Island’s history dates back over 40,000 years when Aboriginal people first called the island home. Once European explorers first discovered it in the 1600s, things slowly began to change.

In 1825, the first convicts arrived on the island and were held in the Darlington penal settlement. Maria Island originally held prisoners who reoffended whilst already in the colony and were sentenced to hard labour. By 1832 the settlement had to shut down due to frequent escape attempts and all convicts were moved to other locations including Port Arthur on the mainland.

Nowadays you can explore the fascinating World Heritage Convict Sites on Maria Island by visiting the Darlington Probation Station. You’ll find this complex of buildings right after arriving on the island.

The first building you will come across is the “Commissariat Store” which is actually the oldest building on Maria Island. It is now home to the island’s visitor centre where you’ll find informative displays for visitors to learn about the history. This is a great place to gain some insight into Maria Island before beginning your day of adventures.

There are a few other spots on the island to see convict ruins such as Encampment Cove, located on the island’s southwest corner. This is easy to reach if you’re planning to cycle around the island on your day trip.

The historic Darlington settlement on Maria Island

See the Painted Cliffs

The most popular thing to see on Maria Island is the incredibly unique and impressive Painted Cliffs. Over the years, a combination of wind and wave erosion has resulted in the most beautiful and vibrant patterns on these limestone cliffs.

Getting to the Painted Cliffs is easy to do by following the signs from the Darlington Settlement. If you’re cycling around the island, this should be your first stop and it’s only a 10 minute ride away. If you plan to explore some of the island by foot, it will be a 30 minute walk to get there.

The best time of day to see the Painted Cliffs is when the tide is low, otherwise it can be tricky to walk here as the tide comes right up to the base of the cliffs. As you can see in the photo below, we actually visited during high tide. If you feel comfortable walking on the lower ledge of the cliffs then you can still explore them and take photos.

If you arrive first thing in the morning and the tide is quite high, just return to the Painted Cliffs on your way back to the settlement at the end of the day. This is such an impressive natural landmark that makes for the most unique photo opportunities!

Painted Cliffs, Maria Island

Hit The Beach

Depending on the season that you visit, you’ll want to hop in for a refreshing swim at one of the island’s beaches. Maria Island is home to some exceptionally beautiful beaches with white sand and brilliant blue water.

Once you finish up at the Painted Cliffs, hop back on the bike and continue your explorations further. An easy cycle along the path will bring you to the next stop on your Maria Island day trip itinerary, Four Mile Beach. We came across many beaches on our travels around the island and this one stood out as one of the prettiest!

The inviting water of Four Mile Beach provides the perfect chance to cool off during your island adventures. Make sure to bring your snorkelling gear if you plan to go swimming.

Maria Island is part of a protected marine reserve meaning this is a great place to spot a diverse range of sea life. Other popular snorkelling locations are near the Painted Cliffs and around the Darlington Bay.

Even if it isn’t summer when you visit, Four Mile Beach is worthy of a stop to admire the pristine scenery. Park your bike and enjoy a stroll along the squeaky white sand.

Four Mile Beach, Maria Island

Wildlife Sightings

As you cycle around Maria Island, it’s only a matter of time until you come across the island’s cutest residents. The best part of anyone’s day trip to Maria Island is getting close to these adorable wombats who don’t seem to be phased by humans.

As you venture around the island, you’re likely to come across wombats, wallabies, kangaroos, pademelons, possums, many species of birds and if you’re really lucky a Tasmanian devil!

In the 1960’s, a number of endangered Tasmanian animals were introduced to the island for conservation purposes. Free of predators and cars, these animal populations have thrived making Maria Island one of the best places in Tasmania for guaranteed wildlife sightings. The island soon became known as the “Noah’s Ark of Tasmania.”

If you’re lucky you might spot a Tasmanian devil!

In more recent years, a healthy group of Tasmanian devils were released onto the island in the hopes that they would continue to breed. Over the years, this has been a successful program resulting in a disease-free population of devils.

Tasmanian devils on the mainland are affected by a form of contagious facial cancer which sadly makes them an endangered species. The healthy devils on Maria Island ensures the future survival of the species.

The best chance to spot a Tasmanian devil would be at night. Keep your eyes peeled for devils if you’re planning to camp on the island overnight.

As you continue on your Maria Island day trip, the next place you’ll want to stop is the Wombat’s Paradise . This is where you’ll have a good chance of seeing groups of wombats grazing in the field.

Another great spot for wombat sightings is at French’s Farm . We spent quite a lot of time there taking infinite photos and videos while watching the wombats run around the grass. You can get close to them but it’s important not to touch or feed them!

Come face to face with the sweetest wombats on Maria Island

Encampment Cove

A short cycle south of French’s Farm will bring you to yet another historic convict site that once made up the Long Point Probation Station. This is where you’ll find the island’s original convict cells which are now in a state of disrepair. You can still explore the ruins and read various signposts to learn about the history.

Encampment Cove is also an excellent place to camp surrounded by pristine nature. There is a free wilderness campground located on the waterfront. This is the perfect spot to pitch a tent if you are planning to stay for a night on Maria Island. There are composting toilets here as well as a limited supply of drinking water on hand.

Find more information about spending the night at Encampment Cove here .

A mom and baby wombat grazing on Maria Island

Fossil Cliffs

If you still have time left on your busy day trip schedule, the Fossil Cliffs are definitely worth checking out. Begin the 45 minute cycle back to Darlington Settlement from Encampment Cove.

The Fossil Cliffs are located on Maria Island’s northern coast. From the Darlington Settlement, follow the 4.5km loop which brings you to the the Fossil Cliffs and then back to Darlington. This shouldn’t take longer than 10 minutes (one way) if you’re cycling however there are some steep sections which may require walking your bike.

The scenery along the path is pretty spectacular featuring stunning coastal views and dramatic cliff drops. Once you arrive at the Fossil Cliffs, park your bike and make your way down the hill.

Marvel at the 300 year old fossils embedded in the limestone rocks, they are some of the best preserved fossils in Tasmania. You’ll find all kinds of fossils here such as shells, scallops, corals, and clams. Read the informative displays to learn more about this fascinating ancient history.

Discover the amazingly well preserved fossils at the Fossil Cliffs

We hope that you have found our guide useful when planning your own Maria Island day trip. For an off-the-beaten path adventure that will leave a lasting impression, we can’t recommend this place enough! We think it deserves a spot on everyone’s Tasmania itinerary.

If you’ve followed our itinerary, don’t hesitate to share your thoughts on this incredible island in the comments below. Planning a trip to Tasmania? Be sure to check more of our detailed travel guides to help you plan the perfect trip!

Discover More Tasmania Travel Guides

• The Perfect 10-Day Tasmania Road Trip Itinerary
• 10 Best Things to do in Stanley Tasmania
• 11 Epic Day Trips from Hobart 
• 9 Best Things to do in Strahan, Tasmania
• Hiking Cradle Mountain – The Ultimate Guide
• 9 Great Things to do in Richmond, Tasmania
• 15 Must-See Natural Landmarks of Tasmania

Enjoy This Maria Island Day Trip Itinerary? Pin It For Later!

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links. At no extra cost to you, we may receive a small commission on purchases made through these links. By making any purchase, you are directly supporting The Road Is Life Travel Blog which allows us to continue providing you with free high-quality travel guides. We only recommend products or services we have personally tried/love! 

Share this:

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)

Hello and welcome to my blog!

I’m Ann, a free-spirited Canadian adventurer who quit my 9-5 to hike mountains, chase waterfalls and live life to the fullest!

A lover of road trips, good wine and off the beaten path destinations – you will find these topics covered in depth on my blog.

Travel has changed my life for the better and I want to show you how it can do the same for you!

Welcome to my journey 🙂

Join my community! Subscribe to my mailing list for insider travel tips & inspiration, blog updates + more!

You may also like.

By Stephanie Rosenbloom

• Sept. 22, 2017

After two major hurricanes tore through the Caribbean in less than two weeks, some of the most idyllic — and tourism-dependent — destinations have been devastated.

Ferocious storms are nothing new to these islands, but Hurricanes Maria and Irma were some of the most powerful Atlantic basin storms ever recorded. Cities, and some islands, are almost entirely in ruins. Puerto Rico and St. Croix, two places that were in good enough shape after Irma to be relief hubs for their neighbors, were subsequently pummeled by Maria. In Puerto Rico, at least 10 people died. The storm brought catastrophic flooding, destroyed homes and infrastructure, and left people without power, clean water and essential services. In Dominica, at least 15 people were killed.

In the hardest-hit places, including Dominica, Puerto Rico, Barbuda, St. Martin and the U.S. Virgin Islands, a slow and arduous recovery lies ahead.

Tourism is the most important economic driver and the main foreign exchange earner for the region, according to the Caribbean Tourism Organization . Some places — including St. Kitts and Nevis, Antigua, Haiti, the Dominican Republic, the Bahamas, Sint Eustatius and Martinique — emerged mostly unscathed. In the Guadeloupe Islands, there was no damage to infrastructure, though two people were killed.

“Within two to three days, things will be back to normal in the Islands of Guadeloupe,” Annick Girardin, the French Minister for the Overseas Department of France, said in a statement.

Yet the damage in other places was so extensive that despite the projected loss of crucial revenue, government officials this week were not focused on tourism; they were still struggling to ensure people’s health and safety. Puerto Rico, for instance, is grappling with catastrophic flooding and widespread damage and power outages. American Airlines said that it would resume partial operations there on Friday to deliver supplies and bring more personnel to assist in restarting its operations at San Juan Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport. The airline said its operations are still suspended to the Turks and Caicos Islands, St. Croix, St. Maarten and St. Thomas. Indeed, the U.S. Virgin Islands said visits should be postponed until further notice.

How badly the tourism industry will suffer is still being determined; in certain places the storm’s reverberations will likely be felt for years. On some islands, hotels have closed for repairs until next year and cruise lines are changing itineraries for at least the next few months. Royal Caribbean International said that future sailings will not stop at ports in Sint Maarten, St. Thomas or Key West until those islands have recovered. Norwegian Cruise Line said that all Norwegian Escape eastern Caribbean sailings until November will be changed to a western Caribbean itinerary. Following Irma, the ships went from being floating playgrounds to rescue vessels.

The situation varies greatly from island to island, and is changing day by day. The Florida Keys, for instance, are not quite ready for tourism, though they are moving closer. Highway repairs have been made, and residents have returned to the islands. Puerto Rico, on the other hand, dodged Irma only to be undone by Maria.

Below, a look at how the islands are faring.

Puerto Rico

Days before Maria slammed the island, knocking out power and turning roads into rivers, Puerto Rico was open for business. Most hotels were in good shape. José Izquierdo, the executive director of the Puerto Rico Tourism Company , the government agency in charge of tourism, said the island was focused on helping its less fortunate neighbors get food and medical assistance, and assisting in arranging travel back to the continental United States. “We’re in a position to help those in greater need,” he said.

Now, Puerto Rico is in need. On Thursday the island was declared a federal disaster zone . That evening it was estimated that some 3.4 million people — nearly the entire population — were without power. The energy grid was essentially destroyed , and hotels are shutdown and waiving cancellation fees.

The United States territory, which has been in a recession for more than a decade, has looked to tourism as something of a bright spot. In the last year, the island has seen record numbers of cruise ship visitors, as well as record hotel occupancy rates. But Gov. Ricardo Rosselló of Puerto Rico is predicting a long period of recovery. Cruise ports are currently closed, but, according to the tourism authority, most airlines are aiming to resume operations at the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport tomorrow (Sept. 23).

Antigua and Barbuda

This two-island nation, which has been struggling since 2009 amid the recession, depends heavily on tourism. Antigua was spared the worst of Irma. Its V.C. Bird International Airport has been open and most hotels (including Carlisle Bay , Cocos Hotel and Keyonna Beach Resort ), restaurants and businesses were largely unscathed. Tour operators, bars and restaurants — including popular beach spots such as BeachLimerz , Coconut Grove , Sheer Rocks and Turners Beach — are welcoming visitors.

Barbuda, Antigua’s little sister 28 miles to the north, on the other hand, is in ruins. Gaston Browne , the prime minister, has said that 90 percent of the island’s properties were damaged or destroyed. Cell towers snapped. The Barbuda Codrington Airport is unable to accommodate flights. “It is absolutely heart-wrenching,” Mr. Browne said on CNN.

Barbuda’s hotels were also damaged, but because there were fewer than 100 rooms on the island, the overall effect on tourism is minimal, the Caribbean Tourism Organization said.

Barbuda’s population is much smaller than Antigua’s, though its unspoiled land made it an attractive getaway. The actor Robert De Niro and James Packer, the Australian businessman, were in the process of transforming the island’s former K Club Resort into the Paradise Found Nobu Resort when the hurricane struck.

“We are beyond saddened to learn of the devastation in Barbuda caused from Hurricane Irma and look forward to working with the Paradise Found Nobu Resort team, the Barbuda Council, GOAB and the entire Barbuda community to successfully rebuild what nature has taken away from us,” Mr. De Niro said in a statement to Deadline.com. He participated in a hurricane relief telethon broadcast on Sept. 12, and spoke this week in New York to United Nations officials and leaders from Caribbean countries at a meeting about Irma in advance of the U.N. General Assembly, The Associated Press reported.

U.S. Virgin Islands

Tourism, particularly from cruise ships, is an economic mainstay here. In a statement today, Gov. Kenneth E. Mapp called for “all hands on deck” to speed up recovery efforts. St. John and St. Thomas took a beating from Irma, while St. Croix was largely untouched. Its Henry E. Rohlsen Airport was open, seaports were operational, and hotels said they were ready for guests. But then came Maria, and St. Croix was pummeled, especially the western and southwestern portions of the island. Power has been significantly damaged. The airport is still being assessed. And a 24-hour curfew is in place (with the exception of a few hours on Friday, so that people can pick up supplies from distribution centers).

Maria also worsened conditions on St. John and St. Thomas. Hotels there had already suffered major damage from Irma: Sugar Ray Resort and Spa , an all-inclusive hotel on St. Thomas, is planning to remain closed until next year. Windward Passage Hotel , overlooking Charlotte Amalie Harbor on St. Thomas, will be closed for six months. The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas and Frenchman’s Reef & Morning Star Marriott Beach Resort are waiving hotel cancellation and change fees for certain arrival dates. Airlines are offering ticketed travelers area waivers through late October.

According to Central Intelligence Agency data, the economy of the Virgin Islands, while reliant on tourism, is a bit more diverse than other Caribbean islands. Additional sources of income include rum exports, trade and services. But first, the islands must rebuild.

“It’s going to be a long road to recovery,” Gov. Mapp said. “We have to prepare ourselves mentally, manage our expectations realistically and we will get through it.”

British Virgin Islands

These 60 islands east of Puerto Rico, which include Tortola, are also extremely dependent on tourism and benefit from visitors from the nearby United States Virgin Islands. That’s unlikely to happen with St. Thomas and St. John in shambles. And the British Virgin Islands were themselves walloped by the storms. Sharon Flax-Brutus, the director of tourism, said in a statement that there are many homes without roofs, power outages and downed cellphone towers.

Luxury tourism is essential for this British dependency. However, some 90 percent of the electricity infrastructure was damaged, along with the main water supply, according to the Caribbean Tourism Organization. Humanitarian aid experts from the United Kingdom are assessing the situation. The chief minister, the Honorable Victor Banks, said the island plans to open for business before the all-important Christmas season.

St. Kitts and Nevis

St. Kitts is open for tourism. The tourism authority said shortly after Irma that St. Kitts was essentially unharmed. Its Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport, as well as hotels and tourism providers are open (the Park Hyatt will open in November as planned). And cruise ships are on their way. In Nevis, the Vance W. Amory International Airport is also open. Hotels, including the Four Seasons Resort Nevis , The Hermitage and the Great House and cottages at Nisbet Plantation Beach Club , which is open, are in good shape.

St. Barthélemy

A European Union territory and hideaway for the rich and famous, St. Barthélemy took a beating, including its first hotel, Eden Rock , where guests have included Greta Garbo, Howard Hughes and Bono. The resort, owned by David and Jane Matthews (Pippa Middleton’s in-laws), was closed for annual maintenance when Irma hit, but the damage was such that its early October has been postponed until further notice. The scramble is on to rebuild for the winter high season.

St. Martin / Sint Maarten

Most visitors arrive through the Princess Juliana International Airport in tourism-dependent Sint Maarten (on the Dutch side), which suffered severe damage. Sonesta Hotels said its resorts were damaged, and reservations from now through the end of the year have been canceled. Many hotels, including the Westin Dawn Beach Resort and Spa , Esmeralda Resort , Belair Beach Hotel , Oyster Bay Beach Resort , Riu Palace St. Martin and Summit Resort Hotel , reported significant damage.

Turks and Caicos Islands

First, Irma flooded roads, ripped off roofs, and took down trees and power lines. Then came Maria, packing 125 mile-per-hour winds. After Irma, many hotels reported being without power and water on this British overseas territory, which, besides tourism, also relies on offshore financial services and fishing, according to the Central Intelligence Agency . The Palms and the Shore Club had said that they planned to reopen on Sept. 30. Club Med Turkoise said it was not taking new guests through Sept. 30. Alexandra Resort , Blue Haven Resort and Beach House said they would be closed for arrivals through Oct. 8. Gansevoort Turks & Caicos is scheduled to reopen Oct. 5. Further damage from Maria is still being assessed.

On Sept. 13, the State Department issued a travel warning , advising U.S. citizens to avoid travel to Cuba while hurricane recovery efforts are underway. The Department said that large parts of the country, including around Havana, are without power and running water, and that getting around is difficult.

Irma was yet another setback for the Communist nation, where the burgeoning tourism industry has provided much-needed income. North-central Cuba, home to a number of resorts, suffered severe damage.

“The storm hit some of our principal tourist destinations but the damage will be repaired before the high season,” President Raúl Castro wrote in a public message, according to The Associated Press.

Florida Keys

The island chain is temporarily closed to visitors as infrastructure repairs are being made. The first cruise ship port call is expected on Sept. 24 or Sept. 26. And American, Delta and Silver Airways have resumed commercial air service into Key West International Airport. Nonetheless, government officials are asking overnight visitors to postpone immediate vacation plans. There are curfews in place. Some residents are still without power. And the Key West International Airport and Florida Keys Marathon International Airport are being used as staging areas for relief supplies and personnel.

In a statement on Sept. 18, tourism officials said that Key West expects to be open by Fantasy Fest , the annual costume festival, slated to begin Oct. 20.

An earlier version of this article, using information from the Caribbean Tourism Organization, misstated the reopening date of the Gansevoort Turks & Caicos hotel. It is scheduled to reopen Oct. 5, not Nov. 1.

A picture caption on Sept. 24 with an article about Hurricane Irma’s effect on Caribbean tourism, using information from The Associated Press, misidentified the area shown. It is a section of the British Virgin Islands, not the United States Virgin Islands.

How we handle corrections

Come Sail Away

Love them or hate them, cruises can provide a unique perspective on travel..

 Cruise Ship Surprises: Here are five unexpected features on ships , some of which you hopefully won’t discover on your own.

 Icon of the Seas: Our reporter joined thousands of passengers on the inaugural sailing of Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas . The most surprising thing she found? Some actual peace and quiet .

Th ree-Year Cruise, Unraveled:  The Life at Sea cruise was supposed to be the ultimate bucket-list experience : 382 port calls over 1,095 days. Here’s why  those who signed up are seeking fraud charges  instead.

TikTok’s Favorite New ‘Reality Show’:  People on social media have turned the unwitting passengers of a nine-month world cruise  into  “cast members”  overnight.

Dipping Their Toes: Younger generations of travelers are venturing onto ships for the first time . Many are saving money.

Cult Cruisers: These devoted cruise fanatics, most of them retirees, have one main goal: to almost never touch dry land .

The Best Restaurants and Cafes in Moscow