TripAdvisor ranks Anna Maria Island # 4 in U.S. Top 10
MANATEE COUNTY - Anna Maria Island — which already has notched national write-ups from the likes of USA Today and Southern Living — added another garland, with TripAdvisor.com naming it among the top islands in the U.S. for visitors.
Anna Maria ranked No. 4 on the Travelers Choice Awards U.S. Islands list for its white-sand beaches and laid-back attractions, such as golfing and fishing.
Facts
TOP 10 U.S. ISLANDS
1. San Juan Island, Washington
2. Kauai, Hawaii
3. Marco Island
4. Anna Maria Island
5. Maui, Hawaii
6. Sanibel Island
7. Chincoteague Island, Va.
8. Island of Hawaii, Hawaii
9. Amelia Island
10. Key West
TripAdvisor.com rankings
Anna Maria Island off Manatee County was lauded alongside Kauai and Maui, Hawaii, and San Juan Island in Washington State by the popular travel website.
"To be considered in the same group as two Hawaiian Islands is amazing," said Elliott Falcione, executive director with the Bradenton Area Convention Center & Visitor's Bureau. "Even with Marco Island, who ranked just ahead of us, that's really good company to be in."
Several Florida islands besides Marco were on the list, with the well-known Key West coming in last at No. 10.
The annual Travelers Choice Awards are chosen by millions of tourists from around the world who review destinations on the TripAdvisor site.
"Anna Maria is an absolute slice of laid-back paradise," TripAdvisor said. "Golfing and Anna Maria Island fishing are two of the most popular tourist activities, though an afternoon lounging at Bean Point beach on the North point of Anna Maria Island is a must-do, too."
Anna Maria Island and its three cities — Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach — are known for their quaint feel and charming restaurants and attractions. The Anna Maria Island quiet nature attracts a different type of Florida visitor, often the opposite of those who opt for congested roadways and crowded venues at Orlando's many theme parks or Miami's South Beach.