What it is

An Old Florida-inspired getaway of homey condos and villas, with a 50-slip marina, a heated outdoor pool and activities like parasailing and sunset cruises.

What it isn't

Outfitted with a spa. But with insider access at Acqua Aveda just a few minutes walk away, you won’t miss it.

What we think

There’s something about Florida that welcomes all visitors with open arms, and that counts doubly true here. Guest rooms are all set up so you can stay a while, with the comfy touches of home—including a separate living room, dining area and fully equipped kitchen that would keep even a vacationing Ina Garten happy. Amenities are geared for cozy nights in, with pillow-top mattresses and robes and slippers ready for lounging while perusing the room service menu. Need to spread out more? The resort offers plenty of private home rentals, all of them maintained by Marriott to their impeccable standards.

You're here because

You’ve had deep sea fishing on your bucket list for ages, and Waterline can hook you up with topnotch pros—so you can bring home the bacon of the sea (tarpon, trout, redfish, snapper, kingfish and more).

The Moment

After a few cocktails, dusk has settled fully over the water, turning the sky near the horizon line a tawny pink. You stroll down to the Anna Maria City Pier—built in 1911 and still looking practically brand new—and dip your toes in the lapping water. Island time, indeed.

Restaurants & Bars

Eliza Ann’s Coastal Kitchen - Seafood

Beach Bistro - French cuisine

The Sandbar Restaurant - Seafood

The Beach House Restaurant - Seafood

Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant and Pub - Seafood

Ginny's & Jane E's - Eclectic cuisine

Eat Here - Spanish cuisine

Poppo's Taqueria - Mexican cuisine

Hurricane Hank's - Pub food

Sign of the Mermaid - Eclectic cuisine

The Waterfront Restaurant - Seafood

The Feast Restaurant - American cuisine

Two Scoops Ice Cream Parlor & Coffee - Ice cream shop

The Donut Experiment - Pastries

Location

Just a 20 minute drive from Tampa on comparatively sedate Anna Maria Island (yes, that’s a free trolley scooting down the entire span of the island).