Father’s Day Weekend

Question

Hi 👋🏼

I’m new to the forum. We’ve (myself, husband and teen) been to Florida many times but never to AMI. So excited to come visit this year! Unfortunately we’ve only booked one night 15-16 June (starting to regret not booking longer, but it is what it is!). We usually go to Clearwater and looking for some recommendations for similar things to do that we enjoy there….

We’re staying at Silver Surf Gulf Resort, which I understand is in Bradenton Beach. We like quite a lively beach atmosphere, maybe somewhere we can hire jet skis and grab a cocktail (not at the same time lol). What beach would be best to base ourselves at for the day?

Also looking for some recommendations for nighttime please. Ideally somewhere with good vibes, maybe some live music, food and cocktails.

Thank you ☀️

Answer

Welcome to Anna Maria Island! Even though your stay is short, you can definitely make the most of your Father’s Day weekend with a mix of beach fun and lively local vibes. Since you’re staying at Silver Surf Gulf Resort in Bradenton Beach, you’re well positioned for both relaxation and activity.

For a lively beach atmosphere and water sports like jet skiing, the best beach to base yourselves at for the day would be Coquina Beach. It’s one of the larger beaches on the island, has ample parking, and usually offers rental options for jet skis and paddleboards nearby.

Coquina Beach: Wide sandy beach, calm waters, public facilities, picnic areas, and vendors for jet ski rentals.
Bean Point Beach: For a more secluded morning stroll or photography, but less commercial activity.
Bradenton Beach Public Beach Access: Close to Silver Surf Gulf Resort, smaller beach but convenient for walking to nearby shops and restaurants.

For daytime activities, you can rent jet skis from local vendors such as Banana Boat or Anna Maria Watersports, which typically operate on Coquina Beach or nearby marinas. After your water adventure, you can grab a casual bite or a refreshing drink at nearby beachfront spots.

For nighttime and Father’s Day celebrations, there are several spots with good vibes, live music, and cocktails:

The Beach House Restaurant: Located on Bradenton Beach, great for dinner with sunset views and occasional live music.
Pine Avenue’s The Waterfront Restaurant & Marina: Relaxed waterfront dining, live music on select nights, and cocktails.
The Sandbar Restaurant: Casual dining on the beach with lively atmosphere and sunset cocktails.
Island Time Bar & Grill: Fun bar for cocktails and music, popular with both locals and visitors.

Even with just one night, you can enjoy a combination of beach fun, water sports, and a memorable evening with good food and drinks. Since AMI is a small island, walking or short Uber rides make it easy to get around without worrying about heavy traffic.