Island Plaza is one of Anna Maria Island’s Hot Spots

There are some fun and interesting shops and eateries in the area, but some of our favorites are in the Island Plaza located right on historic Bridge Street.

Back in April, the travel bloggers at NewsBreak told us something that we already knew…Anna Maria Island is the best beach destination in the state of Florida. They did a great, informative video along the way that tells you a bit more about why Anna Maria Island was their top choice. You can view that video here.  One of the locations highlighted in the video is the Bridge Street area of Bradenton Beach and the Island Plaza is in the middle of it.

Tintos Colombian Coffee Shop and Bakery

We’ve talked about Tintos before when we listed some of the best coffee shops on Anna Maria Island. Six days a week, patrons can visit Tintos for premium Colombian coffee, Agua de Pina and authentic foods and treats. Tintos is located at 119 Bridge St, Suite 130, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217 and they are open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Beach Life AMI

Beach Life AMI is a fun local shopping experience. The boutique has everything from home décor items and jewelry to beach clothing or books to read while you’re enjoying the beach. Whether you are looking for souvenirs to take home for others or some reminders of your vacation for yourself, Beach Life AMI probably has something you want. Visit their Facebook page to see more.

Bamboo Island Bar

One of our favorite places on the island is Bamboo Island Bar. This family-owned restaurant serves up more than the regular fare you may walk in expecting. One of their specialties is flammkuchen pizza, a crisp, smoked German pizza. Brazilian and Portuguese dishes are the norm at Bamboo Island, including traditional dishes like the Salvador, a dish made with white fish and shrimp. The restaurant is in the Island Plaza and opens every day at 4:00 pm.  Because we love the Bamboo Island Bar so much, we’re offering a $50 gift certificate to our guests so you can find out why we are fans. Visit the website to see the menus and how to make reservations.

Salty Buddha

Another local business we love is the Salty Buddha Paddle and Yoga Company. You may not need to rent their paddleboards since we provide those with your luxury vacation rental, but they do provide beginners classes and guided paddle tours if you like. The Salty Buddha offers different types of yoga classes. They have regular studio classes, classes held on the beach and even yoga done on paddleboards! We’ve partnered with the Salty Buddha in Island Plaza to offer our guests a certificate for a free first-time yoga class! Visit their website to learn more about them and their schedule.

Gelato- Go

Gelato-Go specializes in creating a healthier alternative for you when your sweet tooth needs satisfaction. Their gelatos are made with natural and artisanal components, including locally grown fruit when in season. This makes a delicious treat with fewer calories and ingredients you can’t pronounce. If gelato isn’t what you are craving, they also serve pastries and treats ranging from tiramisu to grilled panini. Gelato-Go is open every day from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm. Visit their website for more information.

Come-N-Go Rentals

If you decide to spend time exploring the Bradenton Beach area, you may decide you want to do a little less walking. Come-N-Go Rentals has the answer for that problem. They rent golf carts, scooters and bicycles to help you get around and find out why Anna Maria Island was picked at the best beach destination in Florida. Also, if you are spending time on the sand, they can rent you chairs and umbrellas. Check out their website for rates and contact information.

We love Anna Maria Island, and we can’t wait to share it with you. Contact one of our vacation experts to help you plan. We can help you select the vacation home that suits your needs and plan what to bring. We hope to see you soon!