What To Do Over Winter On Anna Maria Island

From December to March, Anna Maria Island sees an influx of travelers from other parts of North America looking to escape sub-zero temperatures. While Florida’s Gulf Coast is warmer than the frigid northern states that border Canada, it’s not quite as hot as a Caribbean island.

Winter Weather on Anna Maria Island

With temperatures hovering in the low-70s, Anna Maria Island isn’t exactly the tropical paradise that some people expect. During the summer months, the Gulf of Mexico waters are warm. But during the winter, water temperatures fluctuate between about 65 and 70 degrees, meaning that only the brave get in the water. Despite slightly cooler winter weather, there are a plethora of activities that visitors can enjoy during their stay at this time. Here, we will outline all of the winter activities that travelers can expect to experience during their winter stay at Anna Maria Islands.

Events and Things To Do on the Island

Winterfest

To kick off the winter season on Anna Maria Island, there is the annual Winterfest. Winterfest is an arts and crafts festival that is full of entertainment, food, and arts courses to hone your skills. Commemorate your trip to the island by purchasing work for art from one of the many artists and artisans that attend Winterfest. Be sure to enter the gala raffle that occurs every year. Proceeds from the raffle go toward supporting vendors and providing classes for all of the visitors to the festival.

Christmas on Bridge Street

Christmas on Bridge Street is another local favorite. This event is full of live music and holiday choirs to get you into the spirit of Christmas. if you need help with your Christmas shopping, there are a ton of holiday markets with coastal-inspired gifts, food, ornaments, and decorations. There are also many decadent goodies for you to try, like locally made chocolate bars and hot chocolate. Best of all, the event is free. Grab your family or friends and head down to this great community event. 

Mote Aquarium Kids’ Camp

The Mote Aquarium Camp is a great option for the children in your group. It is the perfect opportunity for your children to learn about aquatic life in the area, as well as socialize with kids their own age. If your children are looking to interact with and learn about marine mammals and other sea life that inhabit the Gulf Coast waters, this is the place for them. This winter break day camp includes plenty of activities, fun, and learning. 

New Year’s Eve Celebrations

Are you spending New Year’s Eve on Anna Maria? This quaint island is a fun and relaxing place to ring in the new year. Many of the local restaurants and bars are open for you to eat, drink, and be merry with your loved ones. Be sure to make reservations in advance where possible.

About the Resort

Before planning your Anna Maria Island winter activities, you need to find the perfect room for you and your family among the many Anna Maria Island beachfront hotels. The Anna Maria Beach Resort stands out from the other Anna Maria Island motels, offering convenience, style, and comfort to guests young and old.

Rm 201 is a 700-square-foot, gulf-front corner suite that offers oversized windows facing the crystalline waters on both sides, a large balcony, and top-of-the-line amenities. This unit sleeps up to five and features a king-sized bed. You’d be hard-pressed to find another resort this close to the beach and with this beautiful of a view.

We have a number of gulf-view suites that overlook the ocean, each with its own private balcony. These rooms are elegant, modern, and exquisitely decorated. All of our rooms are equipped with fully furnished kitchens, high-speed internet, walk-in showers, and large lounge chairs. All have access to a large shared pool, as well as outdoor games and deck chairs.

If you’re looking for true luxury this winter, you’ll find it at The Anna Maria Beach Resort.