Tag: bridge street

Categories
Top Ten Things to do

The Best Jewelry Stores on Anna Maria Island

Jewelry Stores On Anna Maria Island
Find Great Jewelry On Anna Maria Island

Are you looking to find a unique gift from one of the local jewelry stores on Anna Maria Island?  Luckily, there are many locally owned and operated shops and boutiques to choose from!

Top Five Jewelry Stores on Anna Maria Island

From Pine Avenue to Bridge Street, there are many shops carrying high quality, hand-crafted, beach, wedding and destination jewelry. For your convenience, we have carefully selected our Top Five Jewelry Stores on Anna Maria Island.  Though it was tough trying to narrow down the list, We think these are the best jewelry stores on Anna Maria Island.

Creations by L

Creations by L is in Holmes Beach and will delight those who must have that special “one-of-a-kind” piece. Lois incorporates semi-precious stones, Swarovski crystals, freshwater pearls and gorgeous beads into her designs. She also offers classes from May through October, and you can take home your own hand-made memory. Her very special wedding collection is amazing and she will customize jewelry to your wishes. So please stop by Creations by L to browse the selection at our number 5 pick!

Restless Natives and Back Alley

The number 4 choice for jewelry shopping actually has 2 locations, Restless Natives in Holmes Beach and the Back Alley in Bradenton Beach.  About 25 local artists display their pieces, including beer bottle cap pendants and “green” jewelry.  One peek in either shop and you will know why we love them!Sand Dollar necklace

The Sand Dollar

The Sand Dollar comes in our third favorite place for jewelry on Anna Maria Island.

Known more for their unique beach style home goods and gifts, this “must” visit store on every list. But the jewelry at the Sand Dollar is amazing too!  Here you will find accessories like nowhere else on the island…rings, bracelets, earrings and necklaces, many of these are statement pieces to wear and you will want to come back again! The Sand Dollar has a great online store too, for your fix when you are not in Holmes Beach: Sand Dollar.

The Hive Gifts and Arts

Once located in The Old Post Office Plaza of Anna Maria, The Hive is now one of the merchants of Bridge Street. Special selections of imported silver jewelry from Bali, Denmark, Italy, South Africa, and Tibet as well as locally hand-made jewelry will suit your individual personality.

Bridge Street Jewelers

Finally, the number one choice for jewelry shopping on Anna Maria Island is Bridge Street Jewelers.  They brought the first certified master jeweler and gemologist to the island and were the first to introduce the Anna Maria Island destination bracelets which are patented and trademarked. To coordinate with the destination jewelry line, they also have Anna Maria Island rings, earrings and pendants.  Bridge Street Jewelers also carries a selection of fine jewelry from diamond engagement rings to sapphire starfish earrings.

Categories
Activities Bradenton Beach Family Fun Out of Town Recreation Shopping The Things that Locals Know!

Farmer’s Markets On and Off Anna Maria Island

Coquina Beach Market on Anna Maria Island

Farmer’s Markets, who doesn’t love them? I know I sure do! Below you will find some great information on a few of our local Farmer’s Markets.

Anna Maria Island:

  • Bridge Street Market (107 Bridge St. in Bardenton Beach):
    The outdoor Bridge Street Market runs every Sunday, November – April, form 10AM – 3PM. This Bradenton beach tradition is a great place to find local artwork, jewelry, produce, and live music.
  • Coquina Beach Market (2650 Gulf Dr S, Bradenton Beach, Florida):
    The beach market at Coquina Beach takes place two days of the week, Sundays and Wednesdays. The Sunday market starts in November and is held every Sunday through July. While the Wednesday market takes place December – April or May. Both last from 10AM – 4PM. This is the only beach farmers market in the area, so don’t miss out. The Coquina Beach market is wheelchair and stroller accessible. Dogs are NOT allowed within Coquina Park. Stop by to find some great food, fresh produce, purses, pottery, and more!
Vintage Flea Market Anna Maria Island

Bradenton

  • Bradenton Farmers’ Market (Old Main Street/ 12th St W.):
    The Bradenton Farmers Market in Downtown Bradenton is hosted every Saturday in October through May, from 9AM – 2PM. This farmers market is very popular with the community and is a great way to start your Saturday. Fresh produce, live upbeat music, free activities for the family, etc. On the 3rd Saturday of each month during the farmers market season, they do “Mainly Art”, where local artists/craftsmen display and sell their work.
  • Red Barn Flea Market (1707 1st St.):
    At this market everyone in the family is sure to find something they want. The Red Barn Flea Market is located about 25-30 minutes away from Anna Maria Island. But the drive is worth it, and its bound to be a few hours of shopping and walking. This Market has over 600 vendors! Out of the 145,000 sq.ft area, 80,000 sq. ft. is indoor and air-conditioned. The indoor area includes shopping, fresh produce, entertainment, and a food court. Trust me, the Red Barn Flea Market is worth a visit while you’re in the area!

Sarasota:

  • Sarasota Farmers’ Market (Main St. & Lemon Ave.):
    Established in 1979, the Sarasota Farmers Market continues to carry the tradition of providing the community with plants, local produce, prepared foods, and artisans. With 80 vendors, there is quite a bit to check out here. Rain or shine, the Sarasota Farmers Market is open all year round, from 7AM – 1PM. This market is about 40-45 minutes away form AMI, though because this market is held earlier in the day, traffic shouldn’t be an issue.

Want more ideas on what to do in the local area, check out some of our other blogs, including; Big Cat Habitat & Gulf Coast Sanctuary, Myakka River State Park, and Fun Children Attractions near AMI .

Categories
Activities Anna Maria Anna Maria Island Featured Blog Bradenton Beach Family Fun Fishing Restaurants Shopping The Things that Locals Know!

Sightseeing Anna Maria Island Piers

Sightseeing Anna Maria Island Piers is a great activity during your visit. All located on the bay side of the island, there are three different piers to see.

Sightseeing Anna Maria Island Piers
The Bradenton Beach Pier is great for Fishing and Sightseeing.

Sightseeing Anna Maria Island Piers

Each of the three island piers has a little something different to offer, but all have beautiful views. Enjoy a peaceful stroll along with a respite from time on the beach.

Rod & Reel Pier

The Rod & Reel Pier is the northern most of the three. Here you’ll enjoy views of Tampa Bay and the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. At the end of the pier you’ll find the Rod & Reel Restaurant. The small downstairs bar is a great stop for a beer. Grab a drink and sit down on one of the outdoor benches. Upstairs you’ll find the dining room with both indoor and outdoor seating.

For a small fee you can fish off the pier too! This is a great place for family fun with a view. If you are looking for a taste of old Florida, you’re sure to find it on this pier.

Anna Maria City Pier

The Anna Maria City Pier is located just a few blocks south of Rod & Reel pier. Here you’ll also enjoy views of Tampa Bay and the Sunshine Skyway. The city pier is a historical site with an important past. This is where boats would drop off “Day Trippers” from the mainland before a bridge was built.

At the end of the city pier is a restaurant and small gift shop. The menu here offers a little of something for everyone. Find the city pier at the end of Pine Avenue. There are also some bay beaches to visit around the base of the pier.

Bradenton Beach City Pier

On the south end of the island you’ll find The Bradenton Beach city pier at the end of Bridge Street. The pier is in the location of what was the first bridge connecting the island to the main land.

Here you’ll enjoy views of Sarasota Bay and the old fishing Village of Cortez directly across the Intracoastal Waterway.

At the base of the pier is the Anna Maria Oyster Bar restaurant. The menu has great seafood in addition to chicken and burgers. Anna Maria Oyster bar offers a full service bar along with both indoor and outdoor seating.

The Bradenton Beach City Pier is a popular spot for fishing too. Bring your own pole, or rent one from the bait shop. You can also catch a dolphin watching boat tour here.

Be sure to enjoy a walk on one of the three island piers on your next visit to Anna Maria Island.

Categories
Bradenton Beach Events

Blues Brews and BBQ in Bradenton Beach

Blues Brews and BBQ

Join the Bridge Street Merchants for their second annual Blues Brews and BBQ on Bridge Street May 21st from 3-9pm. Admission is $5 with children under 12 free. The gates open at 2pm, and patrons are welcome to bring blankets and chairs to set up their spot.

Blues Brews and BBQ

Gene “Sarasota Slim” Hardage will be headlining the event with Blues Pig and Mac McConnell as the opening acts.

Island Time Bar and Grill will be serving barbecue ribs and pulled pork platters along with Fire and Stone offering barbecue pizza. Bradenton’s Motorworks Brewery will have craft beers. There will also be a full liquor bar along with non alcoholic beverages.

Outside food, drinks and coolers will not be permitted through the gates; however, patrons may come and go from the event to explore all the shops and restaurants on Bridge Street.

For more information about the event head over to the Bridge Street Merchants website.

 

Categories
Bradenton Beach Shopping The Things that Locals Know!

Historic Bridge Street Bradenton Beach Merchants on Anna Maria Island

Bridge Street Bazaar and Shops

In 1922 the first bridge was opened from the Village of Cortez to Bridge Street Bradenton Beach, on Anna Maria Island.  Before this time visitors could only get to Anna Maria Island by boat.  This made Bridge Street the center of the bustling island community, as it remains today.  The old wooden bridge was saved, and turned in to the Bridge Street fishing pier.

Here is a list of all the restaurants, shops, galleries and activities.  Please click on the colored names below to take you to their web site for more information(not all the businesses have a web site).

Shops and Merchants on Bridge Street on Anna Maria Island:

Bridge Street Bistro – 111 Gulf Drive South Bradenton Beach, FL 34217

Art Attack(no website) – 119 Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217

Back Alley Gifts – 108 Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217

Island Fresh(no website) – 110 Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217

Sea-renity Beach Spa & Eco Boutique – 112 Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217

Bridge Street Interiors – 114 Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217

Blue Marlin Grill – 121 Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217

Bridge Tender Inn – 135 Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217

Bridge Street Jewelers – 129 Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217

Island Creperie – 127 Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217

The Hive Gifts & Art – 119 Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217

Bridge Street Bazaar – 115 Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217

The Fish Hole Adventure Golf – 115 Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217

CostaVille Pizza Grill – 200 Gulf Drive South Bradenton Beach, FL 34217

The Bridge Street Merchants have coined the phrase “SHOP*DINE*PLAY from Beach to Bay”.  This is such a fitting description of exactly what you can do from end to end.  There are so many things to do you will need more than a day to enjoy them all.  Shop – There are a variety of boutiques, galleries, local art and fine jewelry shops.  Dine – Grab a burger on the Bay, enjoy delicious fresh Florida cuisine or sunset dinners.  Play – Go fishing, play adventure golf, go on a Segway tour or relax with yoga or massage.  I have to say from beach to bay Bridge Street has it all.

Categories
Bradenton Beach Shopping

Check Out The Back Alley Cafe And Gift Shop In Bradenton Beach On Anna Maria Island!

As I walked through the front door of the Back Alley on Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach I was greeted by the friendly staff.  Soon I found out that the Back Alley was much more than just a café.  In the gift shop I found some very cool paintings and prints done by local artists.  There were also lots of books from local authors on Anna Maria Island.

There are necklaces and hand crafted jewelry hung throughout the Gift Shop.  In the back of the gift shop they have a bar area where you can order snacks, sandwiches, pub pizzas, coffee, cold beer, or a glass of wine. The pub pizzas are $5.00 and the sandwiches are all around $7.00 they take cash or major credit cards and you can grab a table out back for your dining experience.

Live Music at The Back Alley

The Back Alley has live music every Friday night.  You can catch local bands like: Firedoor, SR64, The Florida Mountain Boys, Human Condition and many more.  You may have seen some of these bands at Anna Maria Island’s 10TH Annual Bayfest on Pine Avenue this past weekend.

The staff at the Back Alley is all about promoting local bands.  They also champion local authors, artists and good causes like WildLife Inc. WildLife Inc is a nonprofit organization and runs solely on donations and volunteers.  They help injured and orphaned animals return to the wild. Attend this fun event and help animals in need.

So when you are planning your Florida vacation or looking for the perfect Anna Maria Island beach rental, restaurant, shopping, artwork, or a place for live music, check in with one of our Anna Maria Island vacation rental specialists and make sure that you get the most out of your Anna Maria Island Vacation. We have beach house rentals all over Anna Maria Island.  Call Island Real Estate today 877-778-6066 and book your island getaway!

The Back Alley
121 Bridge Street
Bradenton Beach, FL
Anna Maria Island
941-778-1800
 

Categories
Bradenton Beach Restaurants Shopping The Things that Locals Know!

Welcome to Bridge Street on Bradenton Beach

Welcome to historic Bridge Street on beautiful Anna Maria Island.  After the first bridge was built in the 1920’s Bridge Street was the center of the island community. Today the island side of that old wooden bridge still stands, and Bridge Street is a great place for walking, Shopping, Dining, Family Activities, and breath taking views of both the Gulf of Mexico and Sarasota Bay.

There are plenty of things to do on Bridge Street from morning to night. Start your day off with breakfast at the Island Creperie on Bradenton Beach Pier, and then keep on top of your putting game at The Fishing Hole Adventure Golf.  When you’re in the mood for shopping, stop at Two Sides of Nature for some island wear, or walk over to Hive Creations for handmade jewelry and exotic décor.

Grab a Steak or some fresh seafood at The Bridge Tender Inn or Island Time Restaurant as the sun slowly slips away into the Gulf of Mexico and island night life is about to begin. Blow off dinner completely and go for drinks at the Sports Lounge or the Drift Inn.

After you have finished your perfect day on  Bridge Street let one of our Anna Maria vacation rental specialists help you get the most from your Anna Maria Island vacation. We have beach houses around the corner from Bridge Street, or anywhere on Anna Maria Island.  Call Island Real Estate today 877-778-6066 and book your Island getaway!