Beach Cottages in Anna Maria Island, Florida

Anna Maria Island is in west Florida on the beautiful Gulf Coast, an inlet island just past Bradenton, and in close proximity to Sarasota. The gulf waters are an outdoor enthusiast's dream, with emerald green and blue waters that team with various species of fish, making Anna Maria Island a choice spot for sport fishing. There are fabulous gulf-front beach cottages for weekend and weekly rental in Anna Maria that accommodate the active set, with kayak rentals, and are in close proximity to Selby Botanical Gardens.

Shelling is an excellent exercise, and the fabulous sugar white beaches of Anna Maria Island and neighboring Bradenton Beach are known for shelling all along the coastline.This area is also known for sand castle building, due to the excellent packing quality of the area's sand. There is an annual sand castle building competition too.

Summer months may be the best time for reduced rates, for the "snowbirds," what is commonly referred to in Florida as seasonal vacationers and part time Floridian residents, go back north during the hot, summer months. Check online the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce website at http://www.annamariaislandchamber.org/index.cfm for information on lodging, boating, rentals, day tours, eco-tours and outdoor sports in general in the area. Below are some choice beach cottages.

AnnaMariaIslandBeach Resort

Anna Maria Island Beach Resort has private balconies, with breathtaking views of the gulf, and deluxe accommodations for a variety of budgets. There are weekly and weekend rentals. Check out their website for pictures and details.

Cedar Cove Resort and Cottages

Cedar Cove Resort and Cottages is located directly on the beach, with comfortable "boutique" style cottages with all amenities. Voted number one resort on Anna Maria Island by USA Today, and with cottages such as the "Keylime," and "Violet," couples and families can go there for a getaway, or even a wedding. Beach weddings are a specialty of theirs. Details are at their web site. Weddings are limited to no more than ten people. This may be only for guests staying in the cottages in general. There are specials as well. Call phone number on the website to find out about specials, and to see pictures of past weddings on the beach, as well as the interior.

BungalowBeach Resort

A restored 1930s bungalow, the old Florida from a bygone era, makes for one cozy tropical getaway. Located on Bradenton Beach, right outside of Anna Maria Island, the Bungalow Beach resort is a great alternative and place to go in general. Bradenton Beach is only a few miles from Anna Maria Island and teems with fabulous shells, particularly on this section of beach.