A Locals Guide to AMI
Anna Maria Island is a world renowned vacation spot but to us here at Emily Moss Designs, we like to call it home. The following blog shares some of our favorite spots in the area that are definitely worth checking out while you're here.
Photo courtesy of Beach House Real estate
Where to Stay
photo by native house photography
Vacation rentals
Vacation rentals are an ideal way to stay on the island for a week. Consider renting an entire house for your family and splurge on one with a pool if you want to embrace island life. You can also have the opportunity to stay in a home we designed, like our beautiful Willow Inn, Santorini Skies, or Gulf Drive Project.
Joie Inn
Unquestionably adorable, this boutique inn, envisioned by Ashley Petrone of Arrows&Bow and The Fox Mercantile, is an absolute delight. Its distinctive rooms and charming pool area elevate it to a cherished favorite. Get ready to be charmed by the sheer cuteness of this unique retreat.
Photo by Arielle Vey for Joie InN
Where to Eat & Drink
Now for the good part… literally! There is no shortage of delicious food and drinks on Anna Maria Island.
Pictured: North Shore Cafe
Featuring great food, beautiful views, and a fantastic margarita, you will not want to miss this local favorite.
Brunch anyone? This outdoor cafe is the perfect spot to enjoy a coffee or mimosa and a delicious acai bowl or avocado toast.
If you are craving a great steak while on vacay, look no further. Their menu is plentiful and every dish is incredible.
Our favorite local sandwich shop! We recommend the Key Royale sandwich and their AMI Bar for a sweet treat. Fun fact: they even deliver on the beach!
Family-owned and started right here on Anna Maria Island, this local taqueria has the freshest burrito bowls and tacos on the north end of the island. Be sure to order chips and guacamole!
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these irresistible made-to-order donuts – an island favorite for a reason! Fresh, delicious, and crafted just for you and the whole family.
Just what the doctor ordered while on vacation, hand-crafted cocktails! We recommend calling to make a reservation as it is small and books out quickly. Our go-to cocktails are the Mai Tai and the Kiss Kiss Bang Bang.
Our new favorite coffee shop has entered the chat. Located off Cortez Road, this is the perfect spot to grab a delicious cup of coffee and browse their curated home goods on your way on or off the island.
Vacation calories don’t count, right? Nothing like a bowl of ice cream to cool off after a day in the Florida sun.
Grab breakfast or lunch, this French restaurant is not only charming but has some of our favorite crêpes & coffee.
The friendliest faces and great coffee - what more could you want?
Things to do
Photo courtesy of Beach suites AMI
If you are visiting Anna Maria Island, chances you are coming to discover our stunning white sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. On one or more of your beach days, skip the setup worries and enhance your day in paradise by renting one of these beautiful beach suites. Book your suite here.
Shop Pine Avenue
Pine Avenue is one of our favorite streets located at the north end of the island. Featuring local shops and vendors, the area has something for everyone. Our suggestion is to start at the Donut Experiment and walk all the way down to the historic Anna Maria City Pier, stopping at all the shops along the way.
Rent bikes or a golf cart from Beach Bums
Although you can walk down Pine Avenue, there is much more to see on the island. We suggest renting bikes or a golf cart for the whole family to discover all beauty the island has to offer. Be sure to look out for our Emily Moss Designs signs to see what projects we are working on.
Book the adorable Jacqueline Noelle through AMI Dolphin Tours to avoid the crowds. This charter will show you the other spots Anna Maria has to offer such as Egmont Key, Passage Key, and JewFish Key.