Wondering where this little piece of paradise is?  Did you guess Florida? You guessed right!  Anna Maria Island and Marco Island, both on the west coast of Florida are two places that you must visit.  Anna Maria Island is located just below St. Petersburg in the Sarasota area.  Marco Island is about 3 hours south of Anna Maria, right below Naples.  These islands are well known for their white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters.  There are so many misconceptions about the west coast of Florida; one being that it is only for people who have retired.  The west coast is no Miami if that is your style, but here you will find pure relaxation and serenity, which I am sure most of you are looking for.

First recommendation is to check out HomeAway, where you can find over 225,000 vacation rental homes around the US.  Renting a home or condo can make you truly feel like you are living the west coast lifestyle.  You can pick up some locally caught seafood and dine around the comfort of your own table when opting for a rental home.  This is not to say that there aren’t delicious restaurants on every corner, because there are!  If you are staying in Marco Island try the world famous Snook Inn if you are looking for a fun, live music-filled experience; or at Ristorante Da Vinci for a more quiet authentic Italian dinner.  If you find yourself in Anna Maria Island, the Beach Bistro is literally right on the beach and is one of the most acclaimed restaurants on the West Coast. There is also The Water Front Restaurant for fresh seafood and a bit more of an upscale feel.

Want to know the BEST ways to see these islands?  Marco Island’s Off The Hook Adventures is a 2-3 hour catamaran trip where you land upon sand bars to gather the most beautiful seashells; watch dolphins, manatees and sea turtles swim beside you; and even catch the occasional view of bald eagles and baby pelicans!  Anna Maria Islands Zegway By The Bay tours are a fun and thrilling way to see this island.  You will be guided on Segway’s around the island, given a historical background on Anna Maria and be shown some of the greatest spots that you may not have been able to find on your own!

Wake up and live people!  Life is too short for you to miss visiting these islands!  Up next on the “No Passport Required Island Tour” are two islands located about 30 minutes from one another.  These islands are well known for being the home to many plantations in the 1800’s.  They are considered two of the four “Golden Islands”... and that is all I will say- until Sunday!

MKlinger

           

                 

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