There are so many ways to explore the wonder of Anna Maria Island. What better way to do so than by treating yourself to a tour? Whether by air, land, or sea, you can choose between a self-guided exploration or opt for a professional guide. The options are nearly limitless. Whether it’s your first or hundredth time on the island, a tour can open your eyes to what makes AMI truly special. With that in mind, Serendipity has put together a sure-to-please guide on just some of the different tours available during your stay.
Take Your Trip to New Heights: AMI Tours in the Air
It’s a bird! It’s a plane! No, it’s you, experiencing the thrill of an aerial tour over AMI, seeing its island paradise glory from a whole new perspective! It’s time to get your head out of the clouds and elevate your view by treating yourself to the excitement of exploring the beauty of AMI from the skies.
833 -LETS- FLY Adventures
AMI North | 752 Manatee Ave, Holmes Beach, FL 34217 & AMI South |1343 Gulf Dr. South, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
Take flight in a two-person trike-style light sports aircraft for a guided tour of AMI like no other. These unique vehicles are a marriage between traditional hang gliders and passenger carriage, and are certified by the FAA. All flights consist of a pilot and a single passenger. There is a 250lb limit for passengers, and secure shoes (or no shoes) are required to fly. No flip-flops allowed. Each flight starts with a mandatory 15-minute safety training course, and a full HD recording of your flight is available as an add-on.
They offer two basic flight packages:
- $159: 30- min Discovery Flight
- $279: 60-min Discovery Flights where YOU take the controls!
They also offer 100% refunds with 48 hours notice and for poor weather conditions. Click Here to Book Now!
Executive Helicopter Tours: Skyway Tour
107 8th Ave SE St. Petersburg, FL 33701
The Skyway Tour offers amazing views of Fort De Soto, Egmont Key, Anna Maria Island, and the Skyway Bridge, with tours lasting approximately 30 Minutes. These tours have a two-person minimum and a three-person maximum, with a 300-lb weight restriction for each passenger. They also offer a number of services, such as in-air proposals and wedding tours, for those who are feeling love in the air and want to add an additional thrill to their romantic getaway.
Executive Helicopter Tours is open seven days a week from 10 am to 6 pm, but they offer after-hours tours at an additional cost. The Executive Tour that includes AMI starts at $169 per person. They ask that you book in advance by at least 24 hours. Contact Executive Helicopter Tours here for more info or to book your tour.
Sarasota Helicopter Tours
1234 Clyde Jones Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243
Sarasota Helicopter Tours offers flight packages for 2-3 people that explore the beauty of AMI from the skies, up to 25 miles inland. The business’s owner is also the pilot, and they are committed to everyone experiencing the adventure of flight in a way that is both safe and memorable. Packages range from $200-$800.
But what really makes Sarasota Helicopter Tours stand out is the wildly creative and unique tour option Cash Copter. Test your trivia skills in a 2-person 15-minute flight-a-la Cash Cab show and answer questions for cash against the cost of the tour. This flight of fun and skill is only $500 and is sure to be memorable. Want to know more? Check out some of the previous episodes here.
When preparing for one of AMI’s many air-based tours, remember:
- Remember to pack and use sunscreen and sunglasses, especially for scenic tours.
- Avoid bringing loose items like hats and scarves that might easily blow away when touring in open cabin environments.
- If you are prone to motion sickness, it is a good idea to consult your physician before participating in the tour.
- For those of you with long hair, remember to tie it up!
- Follow ALL of your guide’s instructions for the tour. Your safety is the most important, and they are there to ensure you have fun and find your way home in one piece!
Ground Yourself in the Hidden Gems of AMI Tours on Land
Get ready to embark on an adventurous exploration of AMI by land! The island offers a variety of thrilling tour options, from trolleys to segways, buses, bikes, and walking tours. Each tour promises a unique way to appreciate the beauty of Anna Maria Island, so stretch those legs and get ready for an enchanting new experience.
The Island Trolley
There is no better way to see what makes AMI so special than by the free trolley system that runs the island. Take a self-guided tour of some of AMI’s most popular spots, with 35 different stops on both the Northbound and Southbound loops. Whether you plan out a tour of some of the best shopping or perhaps a tour fit for a foodie, the trolley is a great way to make it happen. The trolley service runs daily from 6 am to 10 pm and is easy to navigate via the myStop app available on both Apple and Android devices.
The Monkey Bus
Like the freedom of planning your own tour, but would like a guide along the way? The Monkey Bus is a great way to find a balance between the two. Guides on the bus point out interesting information, history, and the best inside tips while you travel the island. They even take music and playlist requests! Plan your destination and let the Monkey Bus be your guide. For just $5/person and kids under 10 for free, there is no better way to have a guide-lite tour of the island.
Self-guided Walking Tours
Stretch those legs (or grab your bike) and get ready to follow one of three walking guides put together by the Anna Maria Island Historical Society to learn more about the history and culture of our island paradise. The guide is offered for each of the three cities on the island: Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, and Bradenton Beach. Best of all, these tours are absolutely FREE.
Download your guide here today.
Segways, Scooters, and E-bikes- OH MY!
Legs feeling tired and need a rest? Or maybe you just want to try something new? Take your walking tour to the next level and added speed boost with a rented segway, scooter, or e-bike. Available for rent from Fun Florida Tours with options for all ages, these vehicles are sure to add extra fun to your day. Contact them here with your party information for pricing and rental options. (Bonus for your self-guided sea tour? FFT also offers glass bottom kayaks that are available for rent!)
When preparing for one of AMI’s many land-based tours, remember:
- Remember to pack and use sunscreen and sunglasses
- Hydrate! Pack your favorite water bottle, and drink lots throughout the day.
- On self-guided tours, make sure to follow posted rules. They are in place for your safety.
- On guided tours, follow all of your guide’s instructions. They are there to ensure you have the most fun while staying safe.
- Don’t push yourself too hard. Take things at a pace that is good for you, and never tackle a tour on an empty stomach.
Looking for inspiration or a theme for your self-guided tour of the island? Check out our favorite markets, the best places to eat, or the island parks!
Aquatic Adventures for New Perspectives: AMI Tours by Sea
Just off the coast of Florida, Anna Maria Island’s pristine waters and stunning views beckon exploration. It’s no surprise that the island is a highly sought-after vacation destination. Prepare to set sail and immerse yourself in the vibrant marine life and natural beauty of Anna Maria Island by treating yourself to a sea-based tour.
Anna Maria Island Dolphin Tours
5325 Marina Drive Holmes Beach, FL 34217
Is there anything more magical than exploring marine wildlife at sea? We don’t think so. And Anna Maria Island Dolphin Tours offers many wildlife-focused tours that will surely please everyone at your party. From dolphin sighting tours, as the name might suggest, to snorkeling trips, catamaran charters, and shell-seeking dives, there is something for everyone. With packages starting as low as $42, there is no reason to miss out on the marine magic that the island has to offer. Each cruise can be customized to your party’s interests and requests, and the staff is friendly & knowledgeable and ready to ensure that everyone aboard has a magical time sailing with them.
Looking to get out on your own? Anna Maria Island Dolphin Tours also offers pontoon boat rentals for those with proper training and licenses!
Fun Boat Tours
5501 Marina Dr, Holmes Beach, FL 34217
Fun Boat Tours is another fantastic local company that offers a range of boating tours from their popular menu, including:
- Donuts & Dolphins: An early morning cruise with donuts and coffee from a local bakery to enjoy while taking in the aquatic wildlife. Is there a better way to start your day? We doubt it.
- Dolphins & Drinks: Enjoy an afternoon cocktail cruise while watching for manatees, birds, and, yes, dolphins.
- Sunset Cruise: For those looking for the picture-perfect way to celebrate your stay. Take in the stunning sunsets that are one of our favorite things about the island.
AMI Escapes
6398 Marina Way, Holmes Beach, FL 34217
Take your loved ones on a fully customizable adventure through AMI Escapes. Plan your tour around wildlife, play with fun inflatables or even fish. Everything is all-inclusive. Packages start at $365, depending on your chosen itinerary. Your guide will show you the waters around AMI and open your eyes to the magic of the island in ways you have never imagined before. The best part of all, though? Underwater scooters! How cool is that?
When preparing for one of AMI’s many sea-based tours, remember:
- Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen! It is even more important to remember when in and near water. For best results, make sure your sunscreen is waterproof.
- Bringing your phone for some awesome photo opportunities? Remember to protect your phone with a waterproof case and floatation grip to keep your phone safe from water damage or sinking.
- Hydrate! (Again!) It is even more vital that you hydrate when keeping active at sea to stay healthy.
- Listen to your guide and follow the rules. Both are there to protect you and ensure your best experience.
No matter how you decide to take in the island, Serendipity is committed to your amazing AMI experience. Did you know that our units include bikes, paddleboards, and kayaks for you to use during your stay? Want help putting together your own self-guided tour of the island? Or more information on professionally guided tours? We are here to help. Reach out today to book your stay and plan your escape to paradise.
Recent Stories.
Tips
Live the Perfect Day as a Local on AMI
Updates
Update 2 on Hurricane Recovery
Updates
Update on Hurricane Helene Recovery
Be the First to Know
Sign up for our Newsletter and be the first to know about our updates and promotions.
We’ll make sure your next vacation is relaxing and fun!