It was one of those places that we had read about but hadn’t really put at the top of our priority list to visit, but a chance meeting with a couple of Americans while we were waiting for the Illuminations, Reflections of Earth firework display in Epcot  helped us to change our minds.

The two Bradenton residents enthused about Anna Maria Island so vehemently that they persuaded us to take the two hour drive to the south of Tampa Bay the very next day.

This was a world away from the Orlando theme parks and really was a paradise in the sun with just about every conceivable water sport attraction within easy reach. For us, the starting point was a leisurely stroll along the pristine white sands with the occasional paddle in the crystal clear water to cool the feet. The Americans had told us this was once one of Florida’s best kept secrets and it’s not difficult to understand why.

There is a distinctly private feel to the island, almost as if you are invading the space of some of the luxury mansions complete with immaculately manicured lawns that sweep majestically down to the beach.  We were happy to mind our own business and enjoyed a period of quiet solitude amongst the sea turtles and the playful dolphins who, it seemed, were putting on a special performance just for us.

Unfortunately the secret’s well out and although you can still find your own piece of paradise, the island is now a Mecca for day trippers seeking outdoor activities and a popular destination for honeymooners and film crews. 

We certainly found walking to be quite a gentle pursuit and it enabled us to explore not only the shell lined shoreline but also to get close up and personal with a variety of tropical birds and other wildlife, all within the city limits of Anna Maria on the northern most tip of the island.

Of course, there are alternatives. The island runs a free trolley service between the three main towns of Anna Maria, Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach so it is very easy to get around quickly. More sedate forms of transport include bike rentals which are plentiful, or if you prefer to sightsee from the water, canoes and small charters are readily available.  

We really were impressed with what we had seen and could only thank our American cousins for their recommendation. We will definitely be coming again.

• The Trail is only open during daylight hours, and alcoholic drinks are prohibited.
• Pedestrians and handicapped have the right of way, wheelchairs should use the pedestrian lanes and electric handicap wheelchairs are always permitted
• Bicyclists are required to obey all traffic controls and signals
• Cyclists are not permitted to wear headphones at any time and under age 16, they must wear a helmet
• Electric bicycles and motorised vehicles (except wheelchairs, maintenance, law enforcement and emergency vehicles) are not allowed on the Pinellas Trail, nor are horses
• Bicyclists and skaters should obey the posted speed limits. No racing or race training
• Skaters should use the bicycle lanes, and both skaters and cyclists should give an audible warning when passing
• Pets must be kept on a max. 6 foot leash and under control

 BIG TOHO AIRBOAT RIDES

Big Toho Airboat Rides

100 Lakeshore Blvd

Kissimmee, Florida, 34741

Tel 321-624-2398

Big Toho Airboat Rides is very easy to find, and there is plenty of parking available. The rides depart from the public marina located on the northern tip of Lake Tohopekaliga (known locally as Lake Toho), which are the headwaters for the Florida everglades – the closest swamp and everglades area to Walt Disney World.  The little creek where the everglades actually start is seen on the tour.

The airboat pilots are experienced guides and US coast guard master captains, and operate 2 x 15-passenger boats, and 1 x 6-passenger boat, to accommodate either large groups or a family group wanting a boat to themselves.  The pilots are very knowledgeable about the area, its history and the environment.

It is an unforgettable chance to see the real Florida, and marvel at the breathtaking scenery and territory that can only be seen from an airboat.  As well as the thrill of skimming over the marshes, there is a slow trek through Shingle Creek, a very serene and beautiful expanse of water. Go early if you want to see lots of alligators, as come noon, they are often caught sleeping. There is also a wide variety of birds to be seen, such as eagles, osprey, sandhill cranes, and egrets, and wildlife such as wild deer and pigs.

Prices (@ Jan 09):

Adults: 1 hour tour                               $41.00

                         ½ hour tour                             $25.00

Children:           1 hour tour                               $31.00

 (3-10)            ½ hour tour                              $20.00

Under 3’s are free.

Night Tours:                                                     $60.00 (all ages)

Directions

About 3 miles past marker #15 on US192 going east, turn right at Space Coast Pkwy onto N Main Street for 0.6m, continue on Broadway for 0.3m, turning left at Ruby Ave for 0.2m, and finally turn right at Lakeshore Blvd.

Gator Hunting

For something a little different, they also offer gator hunting trips (when in season), for which you must have a gator hunting permit from the state of Florida – see website for further details, rates and trophy fees, and rates for observers only.