Screamin’ For Ice Cream: A Sweet Guide to AMI’s Best Scoop!

Let’s be real: A vacation on Anna Maria Island isn’t just about the white sand and turquoise water. It’s also about finding the perfect treat to beat that Florida heat. We get it. Sometimes, you just need ice cream after a long day of shelling and sunbathing.

That’s why we’ve scooped up the details on the best Anna Maria Island ice cream shops. Whether you’re looking for classic cones, adventurous flavors, or that perfect photo op, AMI (and the immediate surrounding area) has you covered.

Here is your ultimate guide to the sweet spots in AMI!

1. Two Scoops: The Classic AMI Vibe

Located in the heart of Anna Maria (the northern end of the island), Two Scoops is a quintessential stop. This isn’t just an ice cream shop; it’s practically an AMI institution.

The Vibe: Classic American ice cream parlor meets beach town charm. It’s bustling, friendly, and smells amazing.
The Scoops: They feature an overwhelming selection of flavors (often 30+!). We’re talking classics like Mint Chocolate Chip and Cookies & Cream, alongside unique choices and daily specials.
Why You Need It: It’s located just steps from the Anna Maria City Pier, making it the absolute perfect spot for a post-dinner, pre-sunset stroll. Grab a cone and walk out onto the pier for the classic AMI photo.

2. Dips Ice Cream: The Holmes Beach Favorite

Moving south down Gulf Drive, you’ll find Dips Ice Cream in Holmes Beach. This spot often has a loyal local following and is perfectly situated for those staying mid-island.

The Vibe: A bright, happy spot with a little counter and sometimes a line out the door (a good sign!). They often feature cool, retro-style ice cream machinery behind the counter.
The Scoops: Dips offers a great variety of hard-packed ice cream, including dairy-free and sugar-free options. Their flavors are consistently creamy and delicious.
Why You Need It: Dips is known for generous scoops and that authentic, “small town ice cream shop” feeling. It’s an essential Holmes Beach stop.

3. Small Town Creamery: The Family-Friendly Haven

Situated on the Bradenton Beach end of AMI, Small Town Creamery is a haven for families and anyone seeking maximum fun with their frozen treats.

The Vibe: If colors had a taste, this is where you’d find them. It’s brightly decorated, full of positive energy, and very welcoming to families with kiddos.
The Scoops: They serve up locally made, award-winning ice cream. While their classic flavors shine, they are famous for their insane toppings. We’re talking cereal toppings, candy explosions, and fancy waffle cones that are a dessert in themselves.
Why You Need It: Come here if you want to take your ice cream game to the next level. It’s all about creating the ultimate custom sundae.

4. Holy Cow Ice Cream & Other Confections

Another fantastic option on the northern end of the island, Holy Cow isn’t messin’ around when it comes to quality and uniqueness.

The Vibe: A more intimate, charming little spot. You can often watch them making waffle cones right there, filling the air with that irresistible baked smell.
The Scoops: Known for their premium-quality ice cream and innovative flavors. If you’re a foodie looking for something beyond the standard vanilla (like a local key lime flavor or a unique coffee blend), this is your place.
Why You Need It: They often feature hard-to-find flavors and high-end treats like gourmet truffles and chocolates, perfect for a special treat.

Just Over the Bridge: The Cortez "Must-Visit"

While technically not on the island, many AMI locals will tell you that no trip to the area is complete without a stop at Tyler’s Homemade Ice Cream in Cortez.

The Vibe: No-frills, old-school, and authentic. Cortez is a historic fishing village, and Tyler’s reflects that honest, small-town atmosphere.
The Scoops: Homemade is the keyword here. Tyler’s ice cream is exceptionally creamy and dense, cooked on-site in small batches. Their signature flavor, Mexican Chocolate, is legendary (a perfect balance of chocolate, cinnamon, and a tiny kick).
Why You Need It: It’s right off the Cortez Bridge on the way onto or off the island. A stop at Tyler’s is the ultimate vacation tradition.

The crew at Crysten’s AMI Boat Tours loves all ice cream!!! Make sure to book a boat tour wit us before grabbing that next scoop at CrystensAMI.com