2 days at Beach- St. Pete Beach or Anna Maria Island

[VickieMouse]

Which for those of you who have been to both, which do you prefer and why? We are traveling from NY next April with 3 girls aged 14, 12, and 8. Our plan is 2 nights at the beach before our week at Bonnet Creek. We may make a day trip to the one we don't choose, but which one would you want to stay at? Any input is appreciated!! I will say that AMI is much more expensive for lodging for a family of 5, but maybe it is worth it?

 

[java]

I have not stayed at either. We like siesta key. But my friend just got back from AMI and had an amazing time. The pictures of the beach were amazing. Looks very tropical. Very secluded.
I think of AMI as quieter and less crowded than St pete's.

 

[100AcreWood]

I would agree. Based on friends who visit the area, AMI is much quieter than St. Pete's. But you will probably find lodging easier at St. Pete's.

Let us know what you find! I have been looking as well and I'm too far out to book anything but I'm finding it difficult to find a place for our family of 5. Thanks!

 

[NinaBella]

Which for those of you who have been to both, which do you prefer and why? We are traveling from NY next April with 3 girls aged 14, 12, and 8. Our plan is 2 nights at the beach before our week at Bonnet Creek. We may make a day trip to the one we don't choose, but which one would you want to stay at? Any input is appreciated!! I will say that AMI is much more expensive for lodging for a family of 5, but maybe it is worth it?

AMI isn't a traditional tourist beach. In the past it was only residences and a few home rentals. It is growing in popularity, but remains a quieter location.

St Pete caters more to the tourists crowds. Tradewinds resorts would be perfect for your children and most days has an inflatable water island park, high slide slide, etc.

So it comes down to a quiet beach at a premium price, or a more tourist location at a better value. Are your kids the type to like a quiet beach or want a bit more excitement and activities?

 

[mich1073]

You also might look into Siesta Key as well. I personally like it better than St Pete and it has alot more lodging choices. But Anna Maria would be my choice between St Pete and AMI. But I love the quiet no high rise feel of AMI. You can find decent places to stay, I would look into Holmes Beach or Bradenton Beach area of AMI. Also eat at Skinny's Place, great burgers hole in the wall and cold beer