Best Things to Do in Anna Maria Island, FL With Kids
Anna Maria Island's best family days are Coquina Beach (the widest, lifeguarded swim beach), the free island trolley loop ending at the historic Anna Maria City Pier, a kayak or paddleboard rental at nearby Robinson Preserve, an Egmont Key dolphin-and-shelling boat tour, and a jet ski or parasail outing at Bradenton Beach for the big splurge day.
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1Coquina Beach
Photo: Ejmamawama / CC BY-SA 3.0
The widest public beach on the island — lifeguarded in season, calm Gulf surf, a playground and picnic pavilions right there. The default swim-beach pick for a family day.
Watch out: The parking lot fills by mid-morning during season — arrive early. Little natural shade without a rental umbrella, and the sand gets hot midday; water shoes help.
2Free Trolley Loop & Anna Maria City Pier
Photo: Ann Caron / CC BY-SA 3.0
The free trolley loops the entire island, the easiest way to see all three towns without the parking hassle. It conveniently ends near the historic City Pier, a relaxed fishing and sunset stop.
Watch out: The trolley runs a fixed schedule and can fill during peak season — leave buffer time. Pier bait shop and restaurant hours vary by season.
3Robinson Preserve Kayak & Paddleboard Rental
Photo: Forest & Kim Starr / CC BY 3.0
A mangrove-lined preserve just off the island near Bradenton, with calm, protected water — a real chance of spotting manatees or dolphins without the currents of open Gulf paddling.
Watch out: Afternoon wind and heat build up fast — book a morning slot. Life jackets are mandatory for kids. Bring bug spray for the trailhead parking area.
4Egmont Key Dolphin & Shelling Boat Tour
Photo: Forest & Kim Starr / CC BY 3.0
A boat tour to a historic lighthouse island only reachable by water, with dolphin sightings common in the pass and a sandbar stop for shelling — a full-day outing without the crowds of a bigger attraction.
Watch out: No shade or facilities on the island beyond the lighthouse ruins — bring your own water and sun protection. Some tours anchor offshore and require wading in.
5Jet Ski or Parasail (Bradenton Beach)
Photo: State Library and Archives of Florida / Public domain
The big splurge day — parasailing gives a bird's-eye view of the whole island, and jet skis are the faster-paced water option for older kids and teens.
Watch out: Most operators require jet ski drivers to be 16 or older to drive solo; younger kids ride as passengers only. Parasailing isn't a good fit for kids afraid of heights. Both are fully weather-dependent.
Frequently asked
Best beach for families with young kids?
Coquina Beach — lifeguarded, wide, and calm surf.
Do you need a car?
Not for getting around the island itself (the free trolley covers it), but you'll want one to reach Robinson Preserve or the Egmont Key boat departure point.
Is the Egmont Key tour worth it with young kids?
It's better suited to kids 5 and up who can handle a boat ride and a shadeless island stop. Skip it with toddlers.
Budget for 3 activity days, family of 4?
$700–$1,100 covers a beach day, the Egmont Key tour, and one splurge activity like parasailing or jet skis.
Same destination, where to stay
Booking these activities? Pick the right resort first.
Activity days work best when your resort is the right launch pad. Our Anna Maria Island family-resort guide ranks the whole-family-experience winners.
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Plan a full Anna Maria Island family trip
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