Tortuga Beach Resort

Question

Looking to spend 2-3 nights here over thanksgiving weekend. Mostly for my birthday with 2 sons/wives/young children (1-3 year olds). First, would there be restaurants open Thanksgiving? And secondly is the resort very nice? I do not want to stay at an “economic value” place. Willing to pay max of $500 a night. I saw the 2 bedroom villas, so two of those would be perfect.

Answer

Tortuga Beach Resort on Anna Maria Island is a great choice for a family getaway, especially with young children. It’s well-regarded for its clean, spacious accommodations, proximity to the beach, and relaxing atmosphere. The resort is more upscale than a typical “economy” property, and the two-bedroom villas are ideal for families needing separate sleeping spaces while staying together. With a budget of up to $500 per night, you should be able to comfortably secure two of these villas, especially if you book early for Thanksgiving weekend.

The resort offers:

Direct access to the beach with beautiful Gulf views.
Spacious two-bedroom villas with full kitchens, living areas, and private balconies or patios.
Family-friendly amenities, including pools, BBQ areas, and convenient access for strollers and young children.
Quiet, low-key atmosphere—perfect for a relaxing birthday celebration.

Regarding Thanksgiving dining, Anna Maria Island has several restaurants that traditionally stay open over the holiday, often offering special Thanksgiving menus. You should call ahead to confirm hours and reservations, especially for larger groups.

Some good restaurant options for Thanksgiving on Anna Maria Island include:

The Sandbar Restaurant – Beachfront dining with a casual yet upscale feel, often featuring a special Thanksgiving menu.
Beach House Restaurant – Offers Gulf views, fresh seafood, and typically a holiday menu with traditional options alongside seafood favorites.
Ginny’s & Jane E’s Café – More casual but well-loved, may have limited holiday hours, good for breakfast or brunch with kids.
The Waterfront Restaurant – Upscale dining with seafood and traditional American options; usually open for Thanksgiving with advance reservations.

Overall, Tortuga Beach Resort is considered a comfortable, family-friendly, and upscale option on Anna Maria Island. The location is excellent for young children, and the villas provide the space and amenities you’re looking for. For Thanksgiving, planning ahead and making reservations at restaurants is essential, but you should have no problem finding open venues with beautiful views and a celebratory atmosphere for your birthday.

Tortuga Beach Resort

More Anna Maria Island Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions