Many of our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals are situated in the town of Holmes Beach. It’s the largest community on Anna Maria Island, nestled between Bradenton Beach and Anna Maria. But just why is Holmes Beach so popular?
To start, some of the island’s best restaurants are in Holmes Beach. Enjoy international cuisine prepared by world-famous chefs or sample some of the local seafood. No matter where you decide to eat, your meal will come with a view of the sunset! It’s also hard to resist the shops. You’ll find local artisans, along with high-end boutiques. Even if you don’t find a must-have item, it’s still fun to browse.
Holmes Beach is a mecca for water activities. Anyone that loves spending hours in the water needs to plan a visit!
Along with swimming and snorkeling, you can rent a boat for fishing or go parasailing. You’ll even find bicycle paths and bikes to rent when you’re tired of playing in the water. Don’t forget: Sarasota is right across the bay. Tampa, St. Pete, and Orlando are also nearby.
Still not sure if you should stay in our Holmes Beach rentals for your next vacation? Here are a few reasons why you want to visit here.
Gorgeous Weather
It doesn’t matter if your Holmes Beach vacation is in the winter or summer. The weather is great year-round. Florida is nicknamed the Sunshine State, and Anna Maria Island weather only serves to prove why. Escape from the cold and snow in the winter or spend your summer days at the beach. No matter when you stay, you’ll be glad that you did!
Spring and fall weather gives you a bit of a mixture. Rain chances are higher, especially in the early part of the seasons. Mornings are a little chilly, but daytime temps typically get into the 70s. Late spring and early fall are the start of the dry seasons. Rain is less frequent, so you don’t have to worry about canceled plans.
Summer is the busy season on Anna Maria Island. Bright sunshine and temperatures in the 90’s draw everyone to the beach. It’s the perfect way to stay cool during the day. Brief afternoon showers give you a chance to cool down. The short rains also help keep humidity down.
Even though temperatures rarely get out of the mid-70s, Anna Maria Island is still a great vacation getaway in the winter. Beaches are less crowded, so you can sit on the sand and watch the sun setting over the Gulf without a lot of company. Evenings get into the 50s, so bring a light jacket when you visit Holmes Beach in the winter.
The Beach
Out of all the Anna Maria Island beaches, Holmes Beach boasts some of the most gorgeous shorelines. Most vacation rentals are two blocks away or closer to one of the beaches!
Beaches are quieter here, making it a great place to relax. You’ll also find plenty of amenities that include wagons to carry your gear. Key Royale is the area’s exclusive beach. Homes either face the canal or Tampa Bay. The only golf course on Anna Maria Island is also on Key Royale. However, it’s exclusive; only neighborhood homeowners are members of the 9-hole course.
A beach with more access and with something for everyone is Manatee Public Beach. Visitors and residents are welcome, and the Anna Maria Island trolley makes a stop at Manatee Beach. You can ride the trolley for free from a stop near most Holmes Beach rentals.
Along with water activities, Manatee Beach also has restrooms, showers, water fountains, and changing cabanas. Benches scattered along the beach are a great place to relax and enjoy the stunning view. You can have a picnic at the beach, as there are tables and grills for visitors to use. Don’t feel like cooking? The Anna Maria Island Beach Café offers affordable and delicious fare.
If you want to venture away from Holmes Beach for a bit, visit Bayfront Park to the north or Coquina Beach to the south. While you’re exploring any of the area’s beaches, fishing and parasailing are popular outdoor activities. The island has several spots where you can toss out a line. Another option is to charter a boat. You can see the island from the water and hopefully bring back dinner!
Things to Do in Holmes Beach
You won’t run out of things to do in Holmes Beach, FL! Rent a bike from Just 4 Fun and tour the island at your own pace or rent beach buggies to explore the dunes. Any beach or baby gear you need during your stay you can find at ABC Baby and Beach Equipment Rentals.
Close to your Anna Maria Island Beach rental is the Island Shopping Center. You’ll find everything you need and more for your trip at one of the center’s shops. Looking for souvenirs to bring home? The Sand Dollar Gift Shop has just what you’re looking for.
Plan Your Visit
Are you ready to come to see us in Holmes Beach yet? Contact us today to book your Anna Maria Island rental!
When it comes to dining, the problem is all of your options! Luckily, our Holmes Beach rentals are located within walking distance from many of the most popular eateries in town. No matter what you’re craving, chances are you’ll find it at one of the island’s restaurants.
Minnie’s Beach Café is the perfect place to go for a classic breakfast. Enjoy a plate of waffles or eggs before heading to the beach. Need a cup of morning coffee? The Island Coffee Haus is the place to go. They even have pastries that go perfectly with your drink!
Tortilla Bay serves delicious Tex-Mex food in a relaxed atmosphere for lunch and dinner. Vinnie’s Italian Kitchen is another celebrated Holmes Beach restaurant. It offers classic Italian dishes the whole family will enjoy.
Anna Maria Island house rentals aren’t far from several local favorite watering holes. Hurricane Hanks offers both cocktails and a stunning view. While The Doctor’s Office pours craft cocktails in a unique atmosphere where the bar is housed in the island’s first physician’s office! You’ll find live music and cold drinks at the Freckled Fin. If you visit on St Patty’s Day, be sure to wear green to the island’s Irish bar!
Places to Stay
Holmes Beach is the largest of the three communities on Anna Maria Island, and there are plenty of places where you’ll feel at home. Along with small one-bedroom beach rentals, you’ll also find larger Anna Maria Island rentals that can accommodate groups.
Anna Maria Island house rentals come with bedrooms and ocean views. You can even find vacation rentals with grills and swimming pools, perfect for entertaining a whole crew of people right from the comfort of your vacation home.
Bradenton Beach rentals are also minutes from Holmes Beach. You can explore both communities and never worry about running out of fun activities. Whether you stay in a Holmes or Bradenton Beach rental, you’re guaranteed to have a fantastic stay. You can even find Anna Maria Island pet-friendly rentals so your whole family can vacation together!
