Posts by Crysten's AMI
Airport Transportation to Anna Maria Island
You’ve booked your flights into Tampa (TPA) or Sarasota (SRQ), and your vacation rental on Anna Maria Island (AMI) is officially waiting for you. Now comes the final logistical puzzle of your trip: How do you get from the baggage claim to the beach? Navigating airport transportation to AMI and the Sarasota beaches doesn’t have…
Read MoreFlight Guide: Airports for Anna Maria Island & Sarasota Beaches
Planning your dream Florida Gulf Coast vacation starts with one major question: “What is the best airport to fly into for Anna Maria Island?” Whether you’re heading to the laid-back, pristine shores of Anna Maria Island (AMI) or the vibrant coastline of the Sarasota beaches (like Siesta Key or Lido Key), choosing the right airport…
Read MoreGentle Giants of the Gulf: Where to See Manatees
One of the most magical experiences of a Florida Gulf Coast vacation is a face-to-face encounter with a West Indian Manatee. Known as “sea cows,” these gentle, slow-moving herbivores are a staple of the Anna Maria Island (AMI) ecosystem. Whether they are nursing calves in the quiet canals or grazing on seagrass in the shallow…
Read MoreUltimate Guide to Food & Grocery Delivery on Anna Maria Island
You’ve finally arrived. The bags are unpacked in your Anna Maria Island vacation rental, the sun is setting, and the last thing you want to do is navigate a crowded grocery aisle or wait two hours for a table at a restaurant. One of the best-kept secrets to a stress-free week in AMI is mastering…
Read MoreThe Art of the AMI Dinner Reservation: Planning Dinner
Dining on Anna Maria Island (AMI) is an experience that ranges from “toes-in-the-sand” casual to world-class fine dining. However, because the island maintains its small-town charm with limited seating and high demand, your dinner strategy can make or break your evening. Whether you are staying in Holmes Beach, Bradenton Beach, or the City of Anna…
Read MoreRise and Shine: The Best Breakfast Spots on Anna Maria Island
There is something about the salt air that makes you wake up hungry. Whether you are prepping for a day of shelling or recovering from a late-night beach bonfire, the Anna Maria Island breakfast scene is legendary. From “all-you-can-eat” beachside pancakes to quirky cafes filled with local art, there’s a perfect morning spot for everyone.…
Read MoreChasing the Green Flash: A Guide to the Best Sunsets on AMI
There’s a reason people gather on the shoreline every single evening on Anna Maria Island (AMI). It isn’t just a sunset; it’s a nightly event. As the sun dips toward the Gulf of America, the sky transforms into a masterpiece of fiery oranges, soft lavenders, and neon pinks. If you’re looking for the best seat…
Read MorePacking for Paradise: What to Bring on Your Boat Tour in AMI
You’ve booked your private charter with Crysten’s AMI, the cooler is ready, and the sun is shining. But before you head to the docks in Holmes Beach or Bradenton Beach, you want to make sure you have everything you need for a perfect day on the water. When you’re out exploring Egmont Key or dolphin…
Read MorePaddle Paradise: The Ultimate Guide to Kayak Rentals on AMI
Paddle Your Way Through Paradise: The Best Kayak Rentals on Anna Maria Island One of the most immersive ways to experience the natural beauty of Anna Maria Island (AMI) is from the seat of a kayak. While the Gulf of Mexico offers wide-open turquoise views, the bayside and nearby preserves are home to a labyrinth…
Read MoreThe Ultimate Anna Maria Island Vacation Guide: Top Things to Do
boat tours anna maria island If you’re looking for a quintessential “Old Florida” escape, Anna Maria Island (AMI) is the crown jewel of the Gulf Coast. With its seven miles of sugar-white sand, turquoise waters, and a strict “no high-rise” policy, this barrier island offers a laid-back charm that’s hard to find anywhere else. Whether…
Read More