'Old Florida' Lifestyle Still Exists on Anna Maria Island...
Updated May 10th, 2008.
When Florida residences refer to an 'Old Florida Lifestyle,' what they really mean is a lifestyle that existed long before Florida had become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States.
Anna Maria Island is as Close to 'Old Florida' as You Can Get!
Anyone that has been there will tell you that the moment you step foot on one of the beaches of Anna Maria Island, Florida, you feel a sense of that historic 'Old Florida' charm.
Anna Maria Island is like a Floridian time machine, in that it can seemingly transport you to the sugar white sand beaches and laid back attitude so long past in most areas of the state of Florida.
Anna Maria Island is a Gulf Coast community that truly is what it has been for years.
Life on the Gulf, Anna Maria Island Style!
Unlike the more modern tourist areas of Florida, Anna Maria Island remains independ in its approach to life on the Gulf, and is committed to remain so.
The island's urban communities of Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, and Bradenton Beach share this relaxed 'Old Florida' attitude, and they work together in an effort to ensure that both the residents and guests of Anna Maria Island enjoy it's 'all natural' s environment and surroundings.
Anna Maria Island History
The origins of Anna Maria Island go back to the early 1500's when Spanish explorer Hernando De Soto, and others, landed in search of gold. This beloved 'paradise in the sun' continued to be isolated from the mainland until 1921, when the first bridge was built between the Anna Maria Island and Cortez.
Today, there are three bridges connecting Anna Maria to Bradenton (North) and Longboat Key (South).
Learn more about the History of Anna Maria Island.
Things to Do and Things to See While Visiting Anna Maria Island
There is no question that most visitors that come to Anna Maria Island come to relax. After all, Anna Maria is one of the most relaxing destination vacation locations on the planet. However, don't let the 'Old Florida' atmosphere fool you. There is plenty to see and do while visiting this Gulf Coast paradise in the sun.
Although its true that relaxation is the main pastime, recreational activities are available for all who enjoy the outdoors. You can swim, scuba, parasail, deep-sea fish, bird watch nearly 100 different species, sail, jet-ski, play tennis, or shop the unique independently owned stores that line the streets of Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach.
Visit Anna Maria Island Holiday Rentals for all your vacation needs.
It's not likely, but should you desire to leave Anna Maria Island to see what mainland Florida has to offer, you can drive 35 miles to Tampa, or you can head northeast and drive for as little as 90 minutes and find yourself in the most spectacular theme park in the world... Walt Disney Resort.
Learn more about what Anna Maria Island has to offer by visiting our Things to See and Things to Do while on Anna Maria Island categories of our blog.
Visit the Things to See and Do while Visiting Anna Maria Island in our very own Anna Maria Island Business Directory and Information Portal.
A vacation on Anna Maria Island truly is a unique, 'Old Florida' experience. Off the beaten path for sure, and exactly what the doctor ordered to help you relax from the stress of modern day living.
Visit Anna Maria Island today, and once you're there; tell them that you heard about it here on the Anna Maria Island Life Blog.
Recent Comments