There are many fun little stores, boutiques, specialty shops and outfitters to explore for shopping on Anna Maria Island. Anna Maria Island does not offer large retailers or department stores. It is a really unique and charming shopping experience. In many of the shops you’ll be greeted by friendly shop owners and locals. They are all willing to help you find that perfect something! Find everything from clothing, jewelry, art, outdoors equipment, gifts and tons of island themed wares on the island.
With so many options for shopping on and around Anna Maria Island, we have put together our Top 10 Guide to Shopping on and around Anna Maria Island.
1. Shopping on and around
Maybe you are just looking for groceries, house hold items or a pharmacy. Anna Maria Island offers all the basics; however, if you are looking for a larger big box retailer you will have to go off island. Bradenton is the city located just inland, and offers all the big box and chain retailers you are accustomed to.
2. Must Shop
The locals will tell you there are just some spots on Anna Maria Island you MUST visit during your stay. An eclectic list of specialty shops, check out these 10 awesome spots across the island.
3. Shop ’til you drop
Arrive at opening and leave at closing, there are some fabulous spots for you! From the Island Real Estate team Reservations Manager, Carol has personally hand picked 9 places for you to shop ’til you drop!
4. Souvenirs
There are tons of places to buy Anna Maria Island souvenirs and memorabilia. Finding that one special thing to remember your trip by is important, and with so many options you can’t possibly just pick one! From tacky to classy, and everything in between, you will definitely find the perfect little something for yourself.
5. Boutiques
There are several really adorable little boutiques on Anna Maria Island that we just think you will love. First, you’ll Pink&Navy, Bella By the Sea and Shiny Fish Emporium in the city of Anna Maria. Then last, head south to Bradenton Beach to visit Back Alley and all the fun little places on Historic Bridge Street.
6. Farmers Markets
There are fabulous Farmers Markets located near Anna Maria Island. Visiting in the late summer months markets you will also enjoy Anna Maria Island off season without the busy spring crowd.
7. Jewelry
Finding the perfect piece of Anna Maria Island jewelry is a fabulous way to spend your time shopping. We have put together a list of Top 5 Jewelry shops on Anna Maria Island.
8. Shopping in Sarasota
To find high end boutiques, and luxury shopping take a trip into Sarasota. A beautiful city with tons of outdoor sculptures, a fabulous downtown and amazing restaurants, Sarasota is about 30 minutes south of Anna Maria Island. We suggest driving south along Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key for a gorgeous scenic trip.
9. Ellenton Outlet Mall
The Ellenton outlet Mall is a great outdoor mall offering just about all the department stores and chain shops you love. Don’t let the term outlet detour you, Ellenton is a very accommodating and lovely shopping experience. Ellenton is about a 30 minute drive east from Anna Maria Island.
10. Lakewood Ranch Shopping
A new and upcoming area, Lakewood Ranch offers a quaint little shopping district on their Main Street. With great little shops, restaurants and a movie theater, Lakewood Ranch is about a 45 minute drive from Anna Maria Island.
We hope you enjoy shopping on Anna Maria Island just as much as we know you’ll love the beach. Get your wallet ready and enjoy a little vacation retail therapy like an Island Local!
