Things To Do on Anna Maria… A Complete Guide to History, Adventure, and the Best Dining at Hurricane Hanks

Introduction: Why Anna Maria Island Captivates Visitors Year After Year

Anna Maria Island is one of Florida’s most beloved beach destinations—a seven-mile stretch of sugar-sand shores, turquoise Gulf waters, vibrant wildlife, and a timeless Old Florida charm that keeps visitors returning generation after generation. Located just west of Bradenton and accessible via three bridges, Anna Maria Island (AMI) is home to the cities of Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, and Bradenton Beach. Each offers its own personality, but all share the same warm spirit, pristine beaches, and passion for preserving local heritage.

Whether you’re visiting for the beaches, outdoor adventures, small-town shopping districts, or the incredible food scene, AMI is a place where relaxation, natural beauty, and island hospitality come together. And in the heart of Holmes Beach sits one of the island’s most dependable and beloved restaurants—Hurricane Hanks—a must-visit stop for lunch, dinner, cold drinks, and friendly service after a long day of exploring everything Anna Maria has to offer.

A Deep Historical Look at Anna Maria Island

Pre-European Inhabitants: The Island’s Earliest Story

Long before beachgoers, tourists, and vacation rentals, Anna Maria Island was home to Indigenous peoples for thousands of years. Among the earliest known inhabitants were the **Timucua** and later the **Calusa**, two powerful tribes who thrived along Florida’s coastal regions. Archaeological evidence shows that these early residents used Anna Maria Island and the surrounding barrier islands as seasonal fishing and shelling grounds. Shell middens—large mounds of oyster, clam, and lightning whelk shells—are some of the earliest physical reminders of their presence.

The Calusa in particular were known for their impressive fishing techniques, building complex estuary traps and using dugout canoes to move throughout the mangroves and shallow Gulf waters. They worshiped marine life, relied heavily on seafood, and were among the most influential Indigenous nations in the southeastern United States. Their deep spiritual and cultural connection to the Gulf Coast laid the foundation for the island’s longstanding identity as a place shaped by the ocean.

European Exploration and Settlement

Spanish explorers first recorded the Anna Maria region in the 1500s, and by the 1700s the island appeared on nautical maps as navigators moved regularly along Florida’s Gulf Coast. The name “Anna Maria” is widely believed to have been given by Spanish and early settlers in honor of the Virgin Mary and possibly a family member of the region’s early explorers.

By the 1800s, the island had only a handful of homesteaders, fishermen, and farmers. Travel was challenging—there were no bridges—and the island remained quiet and remote. It wasn’t until 1893 that George Emerson Bean became one of the first permanent settlers and filed for a homestead on the island’s northern end. His influence helped shape what would eventually become the City of Anna Maria.

The Early 20th Century and the Boom of Beach Tourism

In 1921, the first wooden bridge connecting the island to the mainland was built, sparking a new era of tourism and development. Visitors suddenly had easy access to the beaches, and Anna Maria Island quickly earned a reputation as a hidden paradise for fishing, swimming, and relaxation.

The 1950s through 1970s saw even greater growth as vacation homes, mom-and-pop restaurants, and small retail shops opened across Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, and Bradenton Beach. Despite modernization, the island has always fiercely protected its small-town charm. Today, strict building codes limit high-rise construction, ensuring that the island retains the laid-back personality that locals and visitors adore.

Top Things to Do on Anna Maria Island

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for your annual family vacation, AMI offers endless experiences—from beach lounging to wildlife exploration to boutique shopping. Below are some of the most popular things to do while you’re here.

1. Explore the World-Famous Beaches

Anna Maria Island boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the United States. The Gulf water is warm and clear, and the sand is powdery and bright—a true tropical paradise. Popular beaches include:

• Manatee Public Beach (Holmes Beach): Family-friendly with restrooms, lifeguards, and nearby shops.
• Coquina Beach (Bradenton Beach): Known for tall Australian pines, walking paths, and excellent shelling.
• Bean Point (Anna Maria): Quiet, serene, and famous for dramatic sunsets.
• Bayfront Park: Overlooking Tampa Bay with gentle waters and beautiful picnic areas.

Whether you prefer active beach days or peaceful nature walks, the coastline stretches offer something for everyone.

2. Enjoy Wildlife Watching and Natural Adventures

Anna Maria Island is surrounded by diverse wildlife in the Gulf of Mexico and the estuaries of Tampa Bay. Visitors often spot:

• Dolphins playing in the surf
• Manatees gliding peacefully near the docks
• Sea turtles nesting during the summer months
• Ospreys and pelicans soaring above the shoreline

For structured experiences, consider:

• Nearby state parks for hiking, birding, and kayaking.
• Sea Turtle conservation efforts during nesting season.
• Guided fishing charters, parasailing, and paddleboard rentals.

3. Visit the Historic Anna Maria City Pier

Originally built in 1911, the Anna Maria City Pier is one of the island’s most iconic structures. Today it offers fishing, sightseeing, bird watching, and panoramic views of Tampa Bay. Dolphins often swim beneath the pier, providing an unforgettable experience for everyone who stops by.

4. Rent Bikes, Golf Carts, or Paddleboards

Transportation is part of the fun on AMI. Many visitors ditch their cars and rent:

• Bikes – Perfect for cruising through Anna Maria’s quiet streets.
• Golf carts – A popular island-friendly alternative for families.
• Paddleboards & kayaks – Explore mangroves, canals, sandbars, and wildlife-rich areas.

The island is relatively flat and very walkable, making it easy to explore without stress.

5. Shop at Local Boutiques and Arts Markets

Anna Maria Island is filled with charming boutiques, artisan markets, and family-owned stores offering handmade goods, coastal apparel, jewelry, décor, and unique souvenirs. Popular shopping districts include Pine Avenue, Bridge Street, and the Holmes Beach area.

The Heart of Holmes Beach: Hurricane Hanks

Why Hurricane Hanks Is the Perfect Place to Eat on Anna Maria Island

After exploring the beaches, shops, and historic sites, you’ll want a place where you can relax, cool down, and enjoy a fantastic meal—and **Hurricane Hanks** in Holmes Beach is the ideal choice. A longtime local favorite, Hurricane Hanks is known for its warm atmosphere, outstanding service, and consistently delicious food. Whether you’re stopping in after a day on the sand or grabbing dinner after sunset, this iconic restaurant is a must-visit.

What Hurricane Hanks Has to Offer

At Hurricane Hanks, you’ll enjoy:

• A full menu of island favorites – from fresh seafood to handcrafted sandwiches and salads.
• A full liquor bar – expertly mixed cocktails, cold beers, wine, and refreshing specialty drinks.
• A welcoming atmosphere – casual, comfortable, and perfect for families, couples, and large groups.
• Top-tier service – customers consistently praise the friendliness and professionalism of the staff.

No matter what you order, the culinary team is dedicated to quality, freshness, and flavor. It’s a place where locals love to gather—and where visitors instantly feel at home.

The Importance of Tourism to Anna Maria Island

Tourism fuels the local economy of Anna Maria Island and Holmes Beach. With no high-rise hotels and strict preservation rules, the island depends heavily on:

• Family-owned restaurants like Hurricane Hanks
• Local retail shops and markets
• Fishing and water-excursion companies
• Small lodging providers and vacation rentals

Visitors help sustain the unique environment and the businesses that make the island special. Supporting local restaurants, respecting wildlife, and enjoying the island responsibly ensures that AMI remains a beloved vacation destination for generations to come.

Plan Your Perfect Day on Anna Maria Island

A perfect day on AMI might include a morning walk on Bean Point, a paddleboard adventure through the canals, shopping on Pine Avenue, and—most importantly—a great meal and ice-cold drink at Hurricane Hanks in Holmes Beach. The island’s charm lies in its simplicity, its natural beauty, and its people. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or a month-long escape, Anna Maria invites you to relax, explore, and savor every moment.

Conclusion

From its deep Indigenous history to its modern appeal as one of Florida’s most charming beachfront destinations, Anna Maria Island is a place filled with stories, adventures, and unforgettable experiences. And with Hurricane Hanks as your go-to restaurant for lunch, dinner, and drinks, your time on the island becomes even more memorable. Explore, relax, dine well, and enjoy everything that makes AMI a treasure on the Gulf Coast.