I'm planning a trip to Florida with my husband and almost two year old daugther. We are on a budget (don't want to spend more than $1200 on accomodations). I saw many beautiful websites of Anna Maria Island, but I've heard the accomodations there can be a bit "seedy", and that's the reason for such low prices during peak season. Is this true? Does anyone have suggestions as to where to stay there?

My husband's parents just bought a place on Anna Maria this past year. When we went for closing we needed a place to stay and found this great hotel - Tortuga Inn (on the Island, but the address is Bradenton Beach). http://tortugainn.com/ Recently renovated, the service was outstanding and the rooms were immaculate. Some came with kitchenettes, which were great for a family. There is a pool and beach access. The only downside is you have to cross the street to get to the beach.

If you are more interested in a Bed and Breakfast type place, here is one... http://harringtonhouse.com I have not stayed here, but it is a great location and seems to be quite nice.

As an aside, I would not call any part of the Island "seedy." The north end is more residential (Anna Maria and Holmes Beach) the south end is more touristy and beachy (Bradenton Beach). Just my two cents.

Hi, We stayed on Anna Maria Island a couple of years ago and it was fantastic! They passed a law not permitting buildings of more than 3 or 4 floors, so there not many big hotels. This makes the beach--which is Beautiful--much less crowded. We stayed in a lovely condo we rented through a local realtor (I think it was Wagner Realty). It was directly on the beach with a gorgeous view. They will send photos. And the cost was less than the more developed islands. There was also a pool for use of the residents. Again, small building, so not crowded.

Hope you find something you enjoy! Pat

Coconuts Beach Resorts is a very nice place for families. They have a pool and it is directly on the gulf. They have regular motel type rooms up to a rather large apartment. Pretty reasonable for the area. Resort 66 might be out of your price range, but it is nice also. Harrington House B&B is very nice, but more adult oriented. They do have a bunalow next door that might be good for a family.

In addition to Wagner Realty, try Island Realty. I don't know if they have a rental division, but they're very nice and can direct you where you need to go.

I'm glad Sharon pointed out that this is not a "seedy" island community. As in most beach communities, you will have some areas that are worn, but the island maintains its Old Florida charm very well. I think you will enjoy it's laid-back atmosphere. There is plenty to do in the area (Bradenton and Sarasota) on days you don't spend at the beach.

For the best burgers anywhere, go to Duffy's (one of the "worn" looking spots on the island). And don't miss breakfast at the Public Beach Pavillion on Holmes Beach. For a nice evening, eat on the deck at the Sandbar or go the Bistro at Island's end. All are very family friendly.

Have a great time!

Sharon, Pat and Sal:
Thank you so much for your responses. We have decided we will be going to Anna Maria Island on our vacation in March, thanks to all of your responses. I have checked into all the places to stay mentioned by all and waiting back for a reply regarding availability. From the websites I visited, Anna Maria Island truly looks like paradise...very excited!! Thanks again.
Lisa
Boston, MA

My aunt has lived directly across from Holmes Beach for thirty years and my patrents have spent the winter there for the past ten years. All of Anna Maria is nice by most people's standards but there are is probably an independently owned motel or two that is is a bit thread-worn. Some folks use the term "seedy" to describe such a place but reserve "seedy" for truly questionable places in marginal areas. You're sure to enjoy yourself there - it's an unhurried and laid back place that lacks the glitz (and congestion) of some of the larger, more developed communities in the area.

Hi Lisa
Since you're coming in March, make your reservations now! That's a heavy tourist time because it overlaps with spring break and the time our northern visitors are here. I would suggest coming as late in March as you can--you'll get warmer beach days. The Gulf is still too cold for swimming, (at least for natives!) but your daughter will enjoy playing at the edge of the surf.

Sal:
You are absolutely right...I'm having a hard time finding availability in Anna Maria in March. I checked out all the places mentioned above, and all are booked for March. I did find availability at Bungalow Beach. Have you heard of them? Any other suggestions? Lisa

Just bringing my post back up to the top.

Lisa, they have a small website, www.bungalowbeach.com. Check the links there to a press release as well. The one picture looks cute, but note that the bungalows are both bayside and Gulfside, if that matters.

We don't live far and often will go just for a drive. Have never noticed Bungalow Beach Resort, but this isn't the first time I've seen it mentioned on this board. Will have to be on the lookout next time we are down.