If you are planning a trip to Anna Maria Island, you are most likely dreaming of the crystal clear water, sugar sand beaches, and spectacular sunsets that the Florida Gulf Coast has to offer. You would be right of course, but Anna Maria Island has so much more to offer making it the ultimate beach vacation! It is a vibrant community bustling with incredible restaurants, bars, one-of-a-kind art, unique shops, and of course amazing farmer’s markets.
Plan a day visiting the local farmer’s markets on Anna Maria Island where you can mingle with the locals, buy fresh locally sourced fruits and veggies, pick up a piece of art made by a local artist, and listen to music played by local musicians. Then enjoy your evening preparing and eating an amazing meal at your Anna Maria Island rental.
Some of these farmer’s markets are open year-round, while others open seasonally. Check here all the great farmer’s markets in the area and create your own unique experience buying local goods and fresh produce. It doesn’t matter which one you visit, you will find amazing treasures and products.
Anna Maria Island
Bridge Street Market
Considered one of the best Anna Maria Island farmer’s markets, and a town tradition, you need to check Bridge Street Market out. Located in the city of Bradenton Beach on Historic Bridge Street, this market takes place every Sunday from November through April, from 10 am through 3 pm.
Bring the whole family and take a look at all the goods the vendors have to offer, such as local produce and seafood. Browse the souvenir and jewelry offerings made by local artisans while you enjoy live music.
Spend some time exploring all major tents, grab a bite to eat, and purchase art or jewelry that is beach-themed and will make you remember your amazing Anna Maria Island vacation. The rotation of artists changes often enough to offer slightly different experiences each time you go. Don’t forget there is a convenient trolley stop right at the market.
Coquina Beach Market
Located on the Southern end of Anna Maria Island (just before the bridge to Longboat Key), you will find a great market with a fantastic view. Walk through the market, where you will find local produce, baked goods, arts and crafts, jewelry, and homemade beauty products. The parking is free, but you can also ride the free trolley and enjoy the views of the route. Don’t forget to explore the white sand Anna Maria Island beaches just next to the market!
You can visit on Sundays in November, Sundays, and Wednesdays from December to March, and Wednesdays and Fridays from April to July; this is normally less crowded than other farmer’s markets making it easier for the entire family to walk around, though pets are not allowed in Coquina Park.
You will find it open for most of the year except for the months of August, September, and October.
Bradenton
Located 20 minutes away from Anna Maria Island, along Florida’s Gulf Coast, south of the greater Tampa Bay area, and north of Sarasota, Bradenton lies alongside both the glimmering Gulf of Mexico and the slow-moving Manatee River. This city is called the Friendly City because of its incredible residents, and easy access to Anna Maria Island.
Bradenton Farmer’s Market
This market takes place from October through May, beginning at 9 am and ending at 2 pm. It’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local community.
This market is relatively new, but it has grown to become one of the most diverse markets in the area, with more than 50 vendors showing their goods, providing a variety of places to shop for arts and crafts, jewelry, local organic fruits and veggies, plants, fresh seafood, and delicious desserts.
If you like to cook, you can also enjoy local chefs from restaurants doing live demos. You can try to do the recipes with the products you buy right there at the market. If you are a fan of music, you can come by on the third Saturday of the month to enjoy live music. There are also free activities for the family on Old Main Street.
Red Barn Flea Market
Located at 1707 First Street East, this is not just a traditional farmer’s market. It has a flea market, food court, shops, and the farmer’s market all at once. It hosts 650 vendors in total! The stores located at the flea market are closed on Mondays but open the rest of the week. You can visit from 9 am until 4 pm. The rest of the vendors are open only on the weekends.
There’s never a dull moment because there is much to see. It has been owned and operated by the same family since 1981.
Just visit and take a look around; there is plenty to see, from clothing, collectibles, kitchen supplies, jewelry, arts and crafts, local produce, and places to buy gifts. Then head to the food court and enjoy live entertainment while you have some food.
Luckily there is plenty of parking for this popular event!
Plan Your Anna Maria Island Vacation
Discover the perfect Anna Maria Island accommodation with Mello on the Beach. Book your stay with us and enjoy the beautiful beach views, comfort, and luxurious amenities.
Sarasota
Sarasota is about 20.5 miles (or a 48-minute drive) south of Anna Maria Island via US-41 N. You can drive yourself, take a taxi, or call an Uber to get you to and from Sarasota.
Sarasota Farmer’s Market
The Sarasota Farmers Market was established in 1979. This market is one of the few open all year long, every Saturday, rain or shine, from 7 am to 1 pm, with more than 80 vendors. It is a vital part of the culture and economy of Sarasota. In just two blocks, you can find locally grown veggies and fruits, sweet treats, fresh seafood, arts and crafts, clothing, jewelry, plants, and even handmade soap.
Artisans are skilled people that produce phenomenal work. When you finish shopping, you can take a city tour in Sarasota.
Stay with Mello on the Beach
If you are coming to Anna Maria Island, you should stay at our Anna Maria Island beachfront rentals. Recently renovated, Mello on the Beach presents a hip and fun retro vibe and offers one-, two-, and three-room Anna Maria Island vacation rentals.
With on-site amenities like a pool, lounge spaces, barbecue grills, fire pits, bike rentals, full kitchenettes, and direct access to the beach, our vacation rentals are one of the most convenient places to stay on Anna Maria Island. You will be nearby some of the most popular things to do on Anna Maria Island.
From our Anna Maria Island rentals, you are within walking distance of the public beach. The units are for small families or groups of friends that want a truly unique vacation on the beach without breaking your budget. Close to our rentals, you can find plenty of restaurants, shops, watersport rental companies, and more; you can explore the rest of the island by hopping into the free trolley or using the bike rentals located in front of the building. Contact Mello on the Beach to book your getaway to paradise today!
