Mornings on Anna Maria Island
Dress || Sandals ($50 off with code SARAHFLINT-BAKATIE) || Handbag || Earrings
Have you ever had a moment when you just wanted to get away? It happens to me every once in a while. Sometimes, I get so stir-crazy that even a few hours away with different scenery seems like a vacation. Lucky for me, I live close to so many incredible beach towns that my options are endless. So on Saturday, David and I hit the road for a lovely and quiet morning on Anna Maria Island. Even though it’s just 45 minutes away, it was just what I need to feel recharged and ready for a new week!
Have Breakfast at Ginny’s and Jane E’s Cafe
If you’re just getting away for the morning, finding a great breakfast place is a Mission: Critical. AMI has so many great options, from the low-key to the more upscale. We opted for the former and landed upon Ginny’s and Jane E’s Cafe. The interior is cozy and quirky, inside a local boutique. Our breakfast was incredible, I loved my quiche, and was the perfect way to get fueled for the day.
Relax at the City Pier.
After breakfast, we took our coffee to go and started exploring quaint Anna Maria Island. Like most barrier islands on the Gulf of Mexico, it’s very walkable. You can see almost everything in a quick hour stroll. Our ultimate destination was the City Pier, which reopened just this summer. Even though we just sat, admiring the view and watching the local fisherman at work, it was so calming. Close by, you’ll find the AMI Historic Center, including the “city jail” that was meant to ward off rowdy tourists in the 1920s.
Shop along Pine Avenue.
Even for such a small town, there seems to be a never-ending list of boutiques. The majority of them are nestled among Pine Avenue, but all are worth exploring. My personal favorite was The Island Cabana, which serves as the local Lilly Pulitzer destination, and Pink and Navy. Right next door is AMI Outfitters, which offers more outdoorsy wardrobe choices. Don’t forget to shop for some beach decor pieces at the White Egret.
Explore the Beach Cottages.
As many of you know, David and I recently bought our own little bungalow in St. Pete. Ever since, I’m constantly on the lookout for inspiration a la Coastal Living Magazine. AMI was a feast for the eyes in terms of curb appeal. There were so many beautifully loved beach cottages and I took some serious notes on color combos and accents. If you happen to live on AMI and saw me take pictures of your home, thank you so much for the inspiration!
Even though we only spent a few hours here, I already want to make a repeat trip. As soon as I got home, I started looking at beach rentals and may convince my parents on a quick family vacation. Sometimes you don’t have to go far to feel a world away! Explore what’s close by and happy travels!
Love from Florida,
Katie
As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.