GULF COAST,FLORIDA · BEST MAY-OCTOBER
Anna Maria Island
Gulf Coast perfection — beautiful, low-key, and exactly what a beach trip should feel like.
Why we love it
—A genuinely beautiful Gulf Coast beach — that soft white sand and warm turquoise water
—Super family-friendly without the crowds, highrises, or chaos of Destin or 30A
—Great restaurants right on the island — a different dinner every night without going far
—Easy drive to St. Pete or Siesta Key when you want more to explore
—The kind of place you can imagine coming back to every year — or never leaving
Our tip
This is one of those spots that rewards going slowly. Rent a golf cart, eat at a different waterfront spot each evening, and spend your days on the beach without an agenda. St. Pete is a genuinely great city just across the bridge when you need a change of pace — the art museums and Pier District are wonderful for a half-day trip.