When you own or rent a boat, you get to see the hidden beauty that Anna Maria Island has and is just waiting to be discovered…by you. There are many places to visit by boat around Anna Maria Island, and we’ve got a few spots to tell you about that are locals’ favorites.
1. Visit a Dockside Restaurant or Bar
We have such wonderful restaurants in our area, and many of them have docks where you can just boat in, tie up and enjoy some fresh Florida seafood and maybe a slice of Key Lime Pie. Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant and Pub has been a local’s favorite at Longboat Key’s North end – practically our neighbors! You can sit out on the beautiful deck overlooking Sarasota Bay and enjoy some Smoked Fish Dip and a brew! Other great boat-up restaurants include Star Fish Company, Cortez Kitchen, Rod & Reel Pier, Tide Tables and Anna Maria City Pier.
2. Snorkel or Scuba Dive
Anchor your boat by “Regina,” an old sugar barge that wrecked off of Bradenton Beach in 1940. The wreck is now a Florida Heritage Site and has become a wonderful reef that attracts hundreds of tropical fish. It is definitely an underwater sight to see!
3. Fish!
There’s nothing more relaxing – and thrilling – than fishing the Gulf waters. Bring along a fishing pole and bait up at our ship’s store just before you take off. Catch and release a Tarpon just offshore on Anna Maria or troll the bay to catch a Redfish. Make sure to go online and buy your fishing license before you depart!
4. Picnic at Egmont Key State Park
A short trip off of Anna Maria’s North end, Egmont Key is the ultimate day trip to do with your boat rental. A tropical paradise! Primarily a wildlife refuge, this pristine island is has incredible beaches, a historic lighthouse, fort ruins (from the Spanish-American War) and old brick paths that are perfect for hiking. Pack a picnic and enjoy this amazing island.
5. Spot Wildlife
By cruising the waters on a rental boat, you’ll have a much better chance of seeing dolphins, sting rays and sea turtles. Be on the lookout and please be safe when boating in manatee areas.
Your boat rental is waiting. Contact Cannons Marina and we will have you out on the water in no time!