🦃 Christmas Week on Anna Maria Island: 10 Things to Do With Family After Your Clear Kayak Tour

If you’re heading to Bradenton or Anna Maria Island for the holidays, you’re in for more than turkey and pumpkin pie — you’re in for sunshine, sand, and unforgettable family adventures.

While much of the country is bundling up, Florida’s Gulf Coast offers mild breezes, sparkling water, and a relaxed pace perfect for reconnecting with loved ones. Whether you’re visiting family, escaping the cold, or creating new holiday traditions, this guide has you covered with the Top 10 Things to Do on Anna Maria Island and Bradenton during Christmas week — starting with a one-of-a-kind clear kayak experience.

🌊 1. Start the Holiday Off Right with a Clear Kayak Tour

Before the big feast, get outside and explore Bradenton’s wild side with Get Up and Go Kayaking Robinson Preserve.

This family-friendly eco-tour lets you paddle through crystal-clear water in transparent kayaks, where you can see fish, shells, and even manatees beneath you. Your guide shares stories about local wildlife, conservation, and the area’s history, all while leading you through peaceful mangrove tunnels and open waterways.

It’s the perfect way to unwind before the Thanksgiving chaos — and create memories that last long after dessert is gone.

Pro Tip: Morning tours are calm and cool, and wildlife is often more active!

👉 Book your Christmas clear kayak tour early — spots fill fast!

🏖️ 2. Relax on Anna Maria Island Beaches — Coquina, Bean Point, and Manatee Public Beach

After your paddle, head to Anna Maria Island’s top beaches. Each has its own charm:

• Coquina Beach – Wide sands, picnic areas, and calm surf, perfect for family games and watching sunsets.
• Bean Point – A quieter, more secluded spot where you can stroll along the shoreline and enjoy nature undisturbed.
• Manatee Public Beach – Central location with playgrounds, volleyball courts, and easy access to nearby shops and cafes.

November’s mild weather makes these beaches ideal for walking, shell-collecting, or letting the kids explore while avoiding the summer crowds.

🦩 3. Explore Pine Avenue and Bridge Street for Local Shops, Eateries, and Art

For a festive holiday shopping and dining experience, stroll along Pine Avenue in Anna Maria and Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach. You’ll find:

• Local boutiques offering handmade jewelry, coastal décor, and unique gifts perfect for holiday shopping.
• Family-friendly cafés and bakeries, like Paradise Café or The Donut Experiment, for a quick snack or coffee.
• Island art galleries, showcasing local artists’ paintings, sculptures, and photography inspired by Florida’s coastline.

These streets combine charm, creativity, and convenience, making them a fun way to explore the island while grabbing souvenirs or holiday treats.

🏝️ 4. Visit the Anna Maria Island Historical Museum

Learn about the island’s rich history at this small but fascinating museum. From early settlers to local wildlife conservation efforts, it’s a fun and educational stop for kids and adults alike.

🍽️ 5. Enjoy a Waterfront Christams Feast

Skip the cooking this year and treat your family to a waterfront Christmas meal. Local favorites include:

• The Sandbar Restaurant – Classic seafood with bayfront views.
• Ginny’s & Jane E’s Café – Casual, quirky, and perfect for families.
• Beach Bistro – Upscale dining with sunset scenery.

Call ahead to reserve your table — holidays fill quickly!

🌿 6. Bike or Walk the Legacy Trail

Burn off that extra slice of pie on the Legacy Trail, a scenic multi-use path that winds through coastal hammocks, wetlands, and parks. It’s a great way for families to stay active while soaking in Florida sunshine.

🐬 7. Spot Wildlife at Robinson Preserve

Even after your morning paddle, Robinson Preserve is worth another visit. Bring binoculars to spot birds, turtles, and maybe a manatee swimming in the shallows. It’s an eco-friendly way to enjoy Florida’s natural wonders during the holidays.

🎨 8. Experience Local Art, Live Music, and Holiday Lights

During Thanksgiving week, both Bradenton and Anna Maria Island showcase local culture and holiday cheer:

• Towles Court Artist Colony – Explore galleries featuring local painters, potters, and mixed-media artists.
• ArtCenter Manatee – Enjoy exhibitions of Florida-inspired art and seasonal events.
• Holiday lights along Gulf Drive and Pine Avenue – Twinkling decorations and festive storefronts create a magical evening stroll for families.
• Live music performances at local cafés or outdoor venues, often featuring jazz, acoustic, or seasonal holiday tunes.

Combining art, music, and lights makes this a uniquely Florida holiday experience for visitors of all ages.

🏝️ 9. Take a Sunset Stroll on Coquina Beach

End the day with a sunset walk on Coquina Beach, one of Anna Maria Island’s most picturesque spots. Bring a blanket and watch the sky turn orange and pink over the Gulf — a quiet moment to reflect and give thanks.

💛 10. Slow Down and Enjoy Family Time

The holidays are all about reconnecting. Whether you’re kayaking, strolling beaches, or sharing stories over dinner, Florida’s Gulf Coast makes it easy to relax, recharge, and create lasting memories with the people you love.

✨ A Christmas Tradition Worth Starting

Start your holiday with a clear kayak tour at Robinson Preserve, then explore all the magic Anna Maria Island and Bradenton have to offer. This Thanksgiving, combine adventure, relaxation, and gratitude — Florida style.