Experience an unforgettable journey to the captivating Anna Maria Island, Florida, and discover a multitude of nature preserves that will inspire your appreciation for nature. Among these sanctuaries, Leffis Key Nature Preserve, Neal Preserve, Perico Preserve, Robinson Preserve, and De Soto National Memorial Park are must-visit attractions that will strengthen your connection to nature. When it comes to things to do in Anna Maria Island, you’ll have a plethora of options to choose from. From hiking to kayaking to taking in the coastal beauty, Anna Maria Island offers an array of activities that will captivate all travelers.
Visit Anna Maria Island’s nature preserves, lose yourself in the lush landscapes, and discover the diverse wildlife that calls these preserves home.
As for places to stay on Anna Maria Island, Mello on the Beach provides exquisite accommodations that perfectly complement your beach getaway. Our beachfront Anna Maria Island Inn is the perfect home away from home for guests seeking a touch of sophistication with relaxed vibes. Our beachfront inn offers a stylish and trendy atmosphere, ensuring that every moment of your stay is as cool as our décor. At Mello on the Beach, we pride ourselves on being a family-friendly and pet-friendly establishment. Stay in our charming Anna Maria Island accommodations, and you’ll experience the epitome of luxury and coastal charm.
Leffis Key
Get ready to discover one of the most enchanting Anna Maria Island, Florida, things to do at Leffis Key Nature Preserve. This stunning island preserve, once overgrown with non-native plants, has been transformed into a collaboration between government and private interests in restoring and enhancing vital saltwater wetlands. One of the preserve’s unique features is its prominent hill, standing 26 feet high in the center of the restored area. As you ascend this feature, you’ll get a mesmerizing 360-degree panoramic view of the crystal-clear waters of Sarasota Bay and the majestic Gulf of Mexico. Walk along the 1,500 feet of boardwalks, designed to guide you through the mangrove forest, with viewing platforms strategically positioned for you to soak in the open water views. Along the paths, informative interpretive signs await, providing fascinating insights into the various habitats and the abundant plant and animal life that call this preserve home.
Neal Preserve
Explore Neal Preserve, a remarkable nature sanctuary offering 120 acres of untouched coastal habitats and scenic trails that will awaken your senses. As you wander through the winding paths, appreciate the abundance of wildlife and native flora that surrounds you, from swaying marsh grasses to the movement of colorful birds. You’ll be transported back in time as you encounter reconstructed Native American burial mounds along your route, reminding you of the rich cultural history that saturates this land. Find refuge in exploring the Shell Trail Loop, discovering the surroundings of this peaceful paradise. Stop by the observation tower, standing tall at 20 feet, to take in views of the sanctuary and the surrounding area. Neal Preserve is a nature lover’s dream come true, a place where you can relax, rejuvenate, and reconnect with nature.
Perico Preserve
Prepare to experience the serenity of this tranquil sanctuary and reconnect with nature in a way that will leave you feeling truly alive. The restoration of Perico Preserve is a remarkable tale of transformation, as the land has undergone significant changes from its humble beginnings as farmland to become the stunning blend of habitats that we are privileged to witness today. Explore the diverse aspects of this remarkable site, where coastal wetlands seamlessly coexist alongside carefully planned scrub hills and upland areas that pay homage to the historical essence of coastal Manatee County. And here’s what makes Perico Preserve truly unique: it was the first preserve of its kind to be fully conceptualized as a bird sanctuary. As you traverse the enchanting trails of Perico Preserve, you’ll have the opportunity to begin a memorable cycling adventure.
Robinson Preserve
This expansive 487-acre paradise is brimming with a diverse mix of rare wildlife, from playful manatees to curious dolphins. This waterfront oasis is a true testament to the beauty of our natural world and has undergone extensive restoration to restore its mosaic of mud flats, mangrove swamps, and stunning beaches. Take your adventure to new heights by climbing the impressive 5-story observation tower that offers breathtaking views of Tampa Bay and beyond. Walk along the refuge’s many walking trails, perfect for hikers, cyclists, and paddlers, and indulge in the memorable encounters with wildlife that await you. Experience the harmony between nature and recreation at Robinson Preserve, an excellent coastal destination that offers some of the finest birding on the Gulf Coast. It’s a perfect family-friendly location, with plenty of trails for exploration. Kayak through the enchanting tunnels, where the gentle currents will guide you effortlessly through this ecosystem.
Plan Your Visit
Planning a beach getaway in paradise? Browse our properties to find the perfect Anna Maria Island vacation rental for your stay with Mello on the Beach!
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De Soto National Memorial Park
Discover the history of Anna Maria Island at De Soto National Memorial Park, where Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto’s journey comes to life against a backdrop of stunning natural beauty. Explore the Nature Trail with its scenic views of Florida’s unique ecosystems, including a mangrove forest evoking the past explorations of De Soto’s men. Learn about the expedition through interpretive signage that adds depth to your stroll. Bird watchers flock to De Soto National Memorial Park during the fall and early spring migrations, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts. Keep up with the latest bird sightings at our visitor center and revel in the wonders of nature around you. From January to April, Camp Uzita awaits with engaging talks and interactive demonstrations on the De Soto Expedition and Florida’s Native Americans. Wind down your day with a delightful outdoor dining experience at the adjacent picnic area, soaking in the park’s serene surroundings.
Places to Stay on Anna Maria Island
Rest and rejuvenation await you at Mello on the Beach, the epitome of chic beachfront living. As a stylish and trendy inn, we pride ourselves on providing a family-friendly and pet-friendly atmosphere, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their beach escape to the fullest. Our stylish Anna Maria Island rentals offer the perfect blend of comfort and sophistication, providing a place for relaxation after a day spent exploring the island’s parks and preserves. Choose from our range of charming rooms, each designed to create an oasis of tranquility with breathtaking ocean views. Our personalized service will make you feel right at home, while our convenient beachfront location ensures that the natural beauty of Anna Maria Island is just steps away. At Mello on the Beach, we believe that an unforgettable beach escape encompasses both luxury and warmth. Book your stay with us today and discover the perfect balance of style, sophistication, and a touch of trendy flair. Your journey to Anna Maria Island awaits, promising a beachfront escape that will leave you refreshed, rejuvenated, and yearning to return.
