Best Things Nearby:
Anna Maria is a wonderful beach destination. The beach is incredible and there are incredible places to dine on the sand and watch the gulf.
Best Things About the Resort:
The resort is situated in a convenient area on Anna Maria to shops and restaurants. The unit is large and clean. Staff members are friendly and offer daily activities. It feels more like a personally owned condo than a hotel unit.
Resort Experience:
This was one of my favorite trips! I was a bit skeptical when I arrived at the resort, as I hate staying "off" the beach. However, the unit, resort and surrounding area more than made up for the lack of proximity. The units are three stories with so much space and big windows throughout. There is a nice breeze at night and sunlight all day. They provide more than you can ever use by way of paper towels, soap, towels, etc. The only disadvantage to the unit is that you have to carry luggage up and down two flights of stairs.
The beach is across the road and a half block – it’s a very easy walk. It was not crowded and absolutely gorgeous (reminded me of the Caribbean). The public Manatee Beach is nearby with facilities.
Upon arrival, we were given a welcome packet with area menus, things to do, activities, directions, and maps. The staff seemed to genuinely want for me to have a nice stay and enjoy their island. Everyone on the island was friendly.
We participated in several activities with Kathy, the director: fishing at the sister resort (Smuggler's Cove) where poles and bait were provided, a one-hour trolley ride, and shell photo frame making. There were many other things that we skipped so that
we could enjoy the beach as much as possible Kathy took pictures of everyone and gave them to the guests the following day. All activities were completely free of charge.
The pool was fairly empty for such a busy week and had plenty of lounge chairs scattered around. The water was very warm.
Restaurants on the island were amazing – all were reasonably priced and had spectacular views. If you like to eat on the water, I suggest: the Beach House, the Rod and Pier Restaurant, the Anna Maria Pier Restaurant, Cafe on the Beach, the Sea Shack, Sand Bar, and Rotten Ralph's. Stay away from Bongo's on the Manatee Bridge -- the older hostess was very nasty and the food was a la carte ($2 for mashed potatoes, $2.75 for veggies, etc.). The band was so loud that we couldn't talk. Everywhere else was wonderful.
I love this resort and island and would return without hesitation.
- Unit Type: 2 Bedroom
- Activities: Excellent
- Amenities: Very Good
- Unit Satisfaction: Excellent
- Family Friendliness: Excellent
- Service: Excellent