Fall in Florida: Visiting Beautiful Anna Maria Island

While most areas around the county are starting to see temperatures that dip into the lower 40’s and 50’s (and several even anticipating the first (or second!) snow storm of the season), the central Florida Gulf Coast is still averaging temperatures in the lower-mid 70’s.  Beautiful Anna Maria Island, located 45 minutes south of St. Petersburg, is home to 6 gorgeous, sandy white beaches. Mike and I decided to plan a quick daytrip from Palm Harbor. it was an easy daytrip from the Tampa metro and well worth it for the peaceful off season vibe.

A step back in time…

This laid-back, charming beach town offers a quiet ambiance, far away from the congestion of the Tampa metro area.  Instead of of big businesses, hotel chains, chain restaurants, and endless apartment complexes and housing developments, you will find charming local cafes, beach side cottages, and beautiful, colorful waterfront homes. We have visited most of the tourist beaches around Tampa since moving to the region. Visiting this beach was a nice change of pace from some of the more commercial options tourists flock to. This is what they call “Old Florida” here – basically old school places that don’t seem so over commercialized.

One of the things I loved the most about this beach was the amazing birds we got to see. Honestly, we saw more birds than people – a good thing considering we live in busy Pinellas County. This beach, as well as many of the preserves in the area are great for birdwatching. Species commonly seen include: Roseate Spoonbills, Great Blue Herons, Plovers, Snowy Egrets, and American Oystercatchers. If you are really into birdwatching, I also recommend visiting Robinson Preserve while you are in the vicinity. It’s a quick 20 minute drive.

This gorgeous beach features beautiful soft, white sand and relaxing views. While most Gulf beaches are known for their trademark white sand, it was even smoother here. There are not a lot of shells, and thus, you can toss off your flip flops and enjoy a nice walk without stepping on rocks and hard shells. It’s the perfect place to visit during the cooler fall months.

When I first moved here, I was really surprised that the waters were too cold for swimming during the fall and winter months. I always imagining being a beach bum all year. Sometimes, it’s too cold during the winter season to even wear flip flops and on occasion I’ve needed a jacket.

Fall is a great time weatherwise for beach strolls – my favorite time of the year. It’s also a great time to relax and sunbathe as the sun is typically not as intense and the humidity has finally dropped a little. While the waters will be too cold for swimming this time of year, the temperature outside is perfect for taking a nap, relaxing with a good book, enjoying a romantic stroll, or watching a gorgeous Gulf coast sunset.

Check out this crystal clear water. Of course, all Gulf Coast beaches are known for their beautiful clear water where you can see your feet. This is what draws so many people to this area. As someone who is afraid of sharks, I like being able to see everything around me – it just feels safer. Interestingly enough, according to this article, sharks are less likely to mistake you for prey the clearer the water. The water is pretty shallow too so you would have to go pretty far out to even cover your shoulders.

This sand is so sugar soft to the touch which means it is not the best for beachcombing. I recommend heading to Caspersen Beach to look for shark teeth or Sand Key next to Clearwater if you want to find a lot of colorful shells. This beach is best for soft walks along the sand.

Fall…the best season on the Gulf for beach walks

In my opinion, the summer months in Florida are not the best time to visit the beaches. Oftentimes, your entire visit consists of trying to find enough shade, repeatedly slathering yourself with sunscreen, and finally jumping in the water because you are completely overheated (only to find that the bath temperature water does absolutely nothing to cool you down). Add in noisy crowds and oftentimes “impossible to find” parking and your fun beach day becomes a stressful beach day. Winter, on the hand, is surprisingly too cold too swim and sometimes to lay out comfortably.

Autumn, on the other hand, is a nice cool time of the year and also the least crowded. Too cold for swimming, but the best time for strolls and sunbathing. We were able to spread out and relax on the beach with barely another person in sight. We enjoyed a long walk on a milder day with mostly cloudy skies, a welcome treat from our usual hot, sunny, and humid summer walks.

If you are looking for a bit of relaxation this autumn, look no further than Anna Maria. I recommend planning your visit right after the summer crowds die down, and right before the snowbirds arrive – it’s the best time! Don’t expect to find a lot of chains and beachfront attractions here – just a relaxing, clean beach with plenty of local dining gems to choose amongst. The Sandbar is one option – this highly regarded beachfront restaurant serves great seafood and offers spectacular views at sunset.

Location & Parking

This beach is located at the corner of Spring Ave and Gulf Drive. Free parking is available. Be aware that no restrooms, lifeguards, or any other facilities are available.

Island directory and events lineup

Have you ever visited Anna Maria? Share your experience at this beach and other Gulf Coast favorites on our Facebook page.