AMI Travel Tips: Local Airports

Serendipity has the privilege of hosting guests from all over the world in our luxury vacation homes on Anna Maria Island. If you are planning a stay on Anna Maria Island and you’re traveling by plane, here is what you need to know about the five airports in our area.

Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ)

The Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport about a 30-minute drive from Anna Maria Island. This airport has short-term and long-term parking options, as well as a shaded parking lot. SRQ also offers a free shuttle service from the car rental area and long-term parking which runs 5 am through the last scheduled flight. Short-term parking is located directly in front of the terminal making it a great place to be picked up. Sarasota-Bradenton International is the most convenient our local airports to fly into when traveling to Anna Maria Island, however you may not find your preferred airline with flights to this location.

Tampa International (TPA)

At roughly an hour’s drive away, Tampa International Airport is a little farther than Sarasota-Bradenton International. This airport is much larger than the Sarasota and St. Pete airports, and offers a few more airline options. However, plan to arrive at least two hours early if flying internationally, especially during the holiday season. The drive from TPA to Anna Maria Island takes you over the incredible Sunshine Skyway Bridge, where you’ll get a breath-taking bird’s eye view of Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.

St. Pete – Clearwater International Airport (PIE)

If you’re flying Allegiant, Sunwing, or Sun Country, the  St. Pete – Clearwater International Airport is a great option. Fly right into the heart of Tampa Bay, just a few miles north of exciting downtown St. Petersburg. Here, you are only about a 45 minute drive from Anna Maria Island. While the airline options are limited, this small, laid-back airport makes traveling a breeze.

Punta Gorda Airport (PGD)

If you’re planning to fly with Allegiant airline, you may want to look into Punta Gorda Airport. This small local airport is about an hour and a half drive away from Anna Maria Island. However, Allegiant ticket prices might make the longer drive worth it depending on where you are departing from. Though the selection is small, PGD does offer rental cars, but don’t wait to eat or purchase snacks before arriving as there is just a small concessions stand in the main terminal.

Orlando International Airport (MCO)

If you choose to fly in or out of Orlando International Airport, there are a few things to note. First, it is the furthest from Anna Maria Island. It is about a 2-hour drive, and be prepared for traffic on I-4. Second, Orlando International is a major international gateway for the mid-Florida region, so you can fly from almost anywhere! Some guests may be interested in spending some time at the popular Orlando attractions before heading to Anna Maria Island. Disney, SeaWorld, Universal, several waterparks, and other attractions are located in and around Orlando!

Serendipity offers luxury beachfront vacation rentals on Anna Maria Island, where the only thing you have to worry about is making memories. Click here to view our properties.