Nestled in the Gulf of Mexico, Anna Maria Island offers all the charm of a relaxed beachfront lifestyle with access to all the vibrant attractions and amenities of Central Florida. The small barrier island features three distinct towns with its own flavor and character, so you’ll need a realtor near Tampa who’s deeply familiar with the local area. Consider these 12 reasons to add Anna Maria Island real estate to your dream property purchase list, whether you’re looking for a vacation home or a full-time abode.
12 Reasons to Explore Anna Maria Island Real Estate With Your Realtor Near Tampa
1. Incredible Weather
Anna Maria Island boasts nearly 250 days of annual sunshine. Many people move here for the island’s cool, mild winters, with most of the annual rainfall occurring as brief showers during the summer months.
2. Fast Urban Access
Although it feels like a world away, Anna Maria Island is just a 30-minute drive from Sarasota and about an hour from Tampa. You can easily head into the city for a concert or event, and you’ll find it’s a fast commute to get almost anywhere in the metro area. Your realtor in Tampa will help you find a home that makes sense with your regular routine without disrupting the serene island lifestyle.
3. Proximity to Nature
Investing in Anna Maria Island real estate lets you get up close and personal with the local wildlife, from the manatees, sea turtles and dolphins that glide through the waves to the countless bird species. Sandpipers, terns, gulls, ospreys, green parrots, and many other birds make their homes here, so it’s one of the state’s most popular spots for avian enthusiasts.
4. Buyer-Friendly Housing Trends
With home prices going down in the area, it’s a smart time to step into the competitive Anna Maria Island real estate market. According to Redfin data, the area’s median sale price decreased by 16.5% from December 2022 to December 2023. Properties spend a median of about 62 days on the market. The average home currently sells for about 7% below its listing price and most properties drop their original listing price by more than 19%.
5. World-Class Beaches
Florida has some of the most beautiful beaches on the globe, and Anna Maria Island lives up to the state’s reputation for turquoise waves and glistening sugar sand. Manatee Beach in the Holmes Island section of the island is wheelchair-accessible. It spans 7 acres and features amenities like picnic tables, barbecue grills, restrooms, and changing areas. You can grab a bite at the beachside café or enjoy a few games of volleyball.
6. Limited Commercial Development
Building codes on the island limit high-rise condos, hotels and office buildings, protecting both the ocean views and the laid-back culture. Instead of big-box stores and fast-food chains, you’ll find locally owned boutiques and restaurants. The island has just under 1,100 full-time residents, although the population increases during vacation season.
If you’re looking for a more relaxed way to live, you’ll find it on Anna Maria Island. The strict rules about commercial development also shield the abundant native plants and animals on the island from harm, and with such a low skyline, you won’t see a better sunset anywhere.
7. Abundant Fishing
If you love to fish, you’ll love life on the island. If you have a valid license, you can angle from the beach as well as on the island’s various public piers. Just some of the species found in the clear blue Gulf waters include hogfish, redfish, cobia, tarpin, mahi, grouper, snapper and amberjack. For a true sport fishing experience, consider hiring a local charter to show you the ropes.
8. Specialty Shopping
You won’t miss your favorite mall destinations after you spend time shopping on Anna Maria Island. Start at the south end of the island on Bridge Street, where you’ll find interior design shops, themed gifts, jewelry stores, and stylish boutiques. Ask your realtor near Tampa to show you around while you’re checking out homes nearby.
Browsing Pine Avenue is another perfect way to pass an afternoon on the island. Stroll from City Pier Park to Anna Maria Island Beach to see some of the area’s iconic old Florida history. Along the way, shop for specialty foods, snack on hot homemade donuts and Italian delicacies, and stop in a few of the art galleries. End your journey by looking for seabirds and dolphins on the pier.
9. Eclectic Gourmet Dining
Like the shopping scene, the dining scene on Anna Maria Island doesn’t need big names to shine. Foodies in the know appreciate the mom-and-pop favorites and gourmet gems all over the island, which has some of the freshest seafood you’ll eat anywhere. Beyond locally sourced fish, Anna Maria Island features Italian fine dining, fresh bakery goods, authentic tacos, casual beachfront oyster bars, and so much more.
10. Historical and Cultural Attractions
Immerse yourself in Florida’s past and present on Anna Maria Island. Just a few of the intriguing spots to explore include the Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum, the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, and Palma Sola Botanical Park.
11. Convenient Transportation
It’s easy to get around Anna Maria Island and beyond with the free trolley system. It runs north to south down the whole island along Gulf Drive. The Anna Maria Island trolley even connects to the Sarasota County and Bradenton County transit systems, allowing you to explore the entire area without the need for a car.
12. Breathtaking Residential Properties
When you’re looking for a new home on Anna Maria Island, you’ll find everything from historic beach bungalows to new-build condos and resort-style waterfront spreads.
Explore this 7-mile stretch of sand and find the best Anna Maria Island real estate with an experienced local. Make an appointment with the RE/MAX Florida Team today so you can finally make the move you’ve been dreaming about for years with your trusted realtor in Tampa.
