Weddings on Anna Maria Island

Imagine using the beautiful turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico and orange and red hues of the sunset as your backdrop for your dream wedding.

Anna Maria Island has quickly become “The Place” for couples to start their life together. Resort Vacation Accommodations, a ResortQuest Partner, offers you premier properties to host your accommodations in the heart of laid-back Anna Maria Island. Many of our accommodations are within walking distance to the beach, shopping and restaurants. Plus, you and your guests will enjoy fully furnished and well-equipped private homes, condominiums and resort-style properties – some with state-of-the-art amenities, like gourmet kitchens with professional appliances, private hot tubs and swimming pools, private beach access and beautiful Gulf views.

Anna Maria Island offers any wedding party a variety of great amenities, including popular restaurants and reception sites right on the beach, providing a beautiful backdrop for your photos. Your guests will have no problem entertaining themselves before and after the wedding; a free trolley offers a great way to see the island or for the more adventurous types, watersports dot the beaches.

We are sure to have the perfect backdrop for your accommodations needs.

3rd Annual Anna Maria Island Wedding Festival

The Anna Maria Island wedding festival offers brides-to-be and their guests complimentary limousine and trolley service to visit 14 unique wedding sites, hosting over 70 wedding professionals throughout the beach wedding destination, that is Anna Maria Island. This fun and informative day includes live music, wine, cheese and catering tastings, hair and make-up demonstrations, a pre-event brunch, vendor special pricing, lunch, fashion shows, a mock wedding and sunset celebration finale where over $10,000 in prizes will be given away.

This is an excellent way for brides-to-be and their guest to mingle with other engaged couples and wedding amenity providers.

Selby Gardens Free Day, Sarasota, Florida

On January 30, 2010 come and explore the Gardens’ for free! The gorgeous Conservatory boasts, Koi Pond, Mangrove Walk, Banyan Grove, Outdoor Butterfly Garden, Tropical Fruit Garden, Sho-Fu Bonsai Exhibit, Batiks Botanicos Exhibit, and enjoy Tea Tasting in the Carriage House. There will be special activities for children in the Kid’s Corner. The Gardens offers a fun experience to delight all ages.

“Thanks to a generous grant from the Linnie E. Dalbeck Memorial Foundation Trust, we are very excited to be able to share this beautiful place with the public,” said CEO Tom Buchter.

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is a respected center for research and education as well as a famous orchid showplace. The Gardens is located at 900 South Palm Avenue in Sarasota. It is open to the public daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with the exception of Christmas day.

Sarasota and her islands include numerous attractions, from a night at the theater to a fun-filled day at Mote Marine Aquarium -- there is something for everyone.

- Anna Maria Island Attractions
- Longboat Key Attractions
- Lido Key Attractions
- Siesta Key Attractions
- Venice Attractions

Sunrise Garden Resort, Anna Maria Island, Florida

Hidden away on a quiet, residential street in the heart of historic Anna Maria Village, Sunrise Garden Resort offers 16 suites, nestled among exotic gardens, coconut palms, and Tiki huts. This unique property is a half block to Tampa Bay and within walking distance to quaint shops, Island restaurants and the Anna Maria City Pier. The large, heated swimming pool is surrounded by lush flora and fauna and provides the perfect amount of shade from the Florida sun. Located just outside of the ground level suites is a private, tropical patio - the perfect place to plan the day's activities or relax after a long day exploring beautiful Anna Maria Island.

You'll want to pack your contact list; Sunrise Garden Resort offers free long distance calling and high-speed Internet. You'll want to boast to all your friends and family back home about the wonderful time you are having on your Southwest Florida vacation.

Sunrise Garden Resort allows you to gather your friends and family for a wedding, party or a family reunion, in one location.

Book 4+ nights and receive a coupon for free bike rentals OR $20 in merchandise or services at local Beach Bums. (certain restrictions apply)

Amenities:

- Full-size kitchen or kitchenette
- Free high-speed Internet
- Barbeque Grill
- Coin-operated laundry
- Free long distance phone service
- Community swimming pool
- Lush landscape
- Tropical patio
- Pets allowed (with non-refundable fee)

Accommodations:

- Studio: Queen bed, futon, one-bath, full kitchen or kitchenette
- One-Bedroom: Various bedding options, one-bath, full kitchen
- Two-Bedroom: King, queen, futon, one-bath, full kitchen

The Beach Club at Anna Maria, Florida

The Beach Club at Anna Maria has all the amenities of a large resort with the added benefits of a private, uncrowded hideaway. Decorated using clean lines and fresh colors, all while remaining inviting and engaging, this resort includes all that is signature to Resort Vacation Accommodations of Southwest Florida. Each unit features a full-size kitchen, private washer and dryer, large flat-screen plasma TVs, modern decor, granite countertops and pillow top mattresses qualifying it as a gold-rated property using quality standards.

The extravagant lifestyle doesn't stop there - with beach access directly across the street, imagine lazing your days away relaxing in the warm sunshine all while burrowing your toes in the warm sandy beach. At night, open your windows and let the warm Gulf breezes and sounds of crashing waves lull you to sleep. For luxurious accommodations on Anna Maria Island, the only choice is The Beach Club.

Amenities:

- Rooftop Sun Deck
- Pillow Top Mattresses
- Stainless Steel Appliances
- Washer/Dryer Available
- On-site Office
- Community Hot Tub
- Internet Access (available in the lobby during office hours)
- Plasma TVs
- Private Beach Access
- Granite Countertops
- Full-size Kitchen
- Community Swimming Pool

Cabana Beach Club, Longboat Key, Florida

Cabana Beach Club is a wonderful Florida resort located directly on the beach on Longboat Key overlooking the turquoise, placid waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Enjoy warm, sunny days and tropical nights while staying in our one- or two-bedroom condominiums or efficiencies. Every unit features a fully equipped kitchen and patio for the most comfortable, casual stay.

Enjoy the relaxed pace of this intimate resort. Discover miles of white sand beaches, unlimited water sports on Longboat Key or simply take a dip in our large, heated swimming pool. No matter what your vacation pleasure, book with confidence using ResortQuest's rating standards.

Whatever you choose, you will love the comfortable accommodations and beautiful beach views. The attention to detail, from the cleanliness of your unit to the manicured grounds, will be evident the moment you arrive. The glorious sunrises, the romantic sunsets, the lush tropical flowers abloom everywhere - you will believe you have found paradise in the Cabana Beach Club.


Amenities:
- Heated swimming pool
- Private beach access
- Complimentary chaise lounge chairs and umbrellas
- Full equipped kitchen or kitchenette
- Boat docks available on-site (certain units)
- Barbeque area
- Patio
- Community washer and dryer
- Outdoor shower
- On-site management at neighboring Silver Sands Gulf Beach Resort

Accommodations:
- One-Bedroom: Queen or king bed, sleeper sofa, one-bath, full kitchen
- Two-Bedroom: Queen, twin beds, sleeper sofa, two-bath, full kitchen
- Royal Suite: Queen bed, sleeper sofa, one-bath, kitchenette

Turtle Crawl Inn, Longboat Key, Florida

Arouse your senses at Gulf front Turtle Crawl Inn. From the sounds of the waves lapping against the shore, to the sweet smell of the Gulf of Mexico, this resort is a beach lover's paradise. With a wide variety of unit styles and floor plans to choose from, no longer does direct Gulf front mean sacrificing your entire vacation budget.

Known for tasteful luxury and manicured surroundings, Longboat Key is a 12-mile stretch of shoreline that is rich in gorgeous beaches, wildlife, upscale amenities and championship golf. Ignored by spring breakers and devoid of the garish attractions, Longboat Key is one of the quietest barrier islands on the Gulf Coast - and all the more beloved for it.

Turtle Crawl Inn offers a variety of unit styles and locations. Choose between the Gulf front towers with a private deck overlooking the waves, the garden hotel rooms ideal for traveling families on a budget, and the larger two-bedroom villas located in a secluded garden setting.

Amenities:
- Direct Gulf front location
- Community swimming pool
- Complimentary lounge chairs
- Barbeque area with picnic tables
- Fully equipped kitchen or kitchenette
- On-site management
- Shuffleboard
- Putting green

Accommodations:
- Hotel Room: Two full beds, one-bath, kitchenette
- One-Bedroom: One-bedroom, one-bath, full kitchen, sleeper sofa (some units)
- Two-Bedrooms: Two-bedroom, one-and-a-half baths or two-baths, full kitchen, sleeper sofa (some units)

The Beach on Longboat Key, Florida

Located directly on the sands of legendary Longboat Key, The Beach on Longboat Key resort is the ideal foundation for an extraordinary beach vacation. Meeting our quality rating standards as a gold-rated unit, this resort features comfortable, contemporary furnishings and modern decor in an attractive yet subdued South Beach style. These accommodations are a great starting and ending point for days spent on gorgeous beaches, playing championship golf, shopping high-end boutiques, trying five-star restaurants, enjoying cultural attractions and plain-old relaxing.

Whether you're a family, honeymooners or on business, this is the getaway you're looking for. Come to The Beach on Longboat Key and have all of the area's best assets - unspoiled beaches, comfort, easy pace, charm and proximity to Sarasota - right at your fingertips.


Amenities:
- LCD flat-screen TV
- Full-size kitchen or kitchenette with stainless steel appliances
- Granite countertops
- Sleeper sofa in most units
- Private balcony on second floor units
- Heated community swimming pool
- Direct beach access
- Washer/dryer available in some units
- Coin-Operated Laundry
- Picnic area
- Wireless Internet access
- Complimentary bike rentals

Accommodations:
- Studio: Queen murphy bed, sleeper sofa, one-bath, full kitchen
- Hotel Room: Queen bed, one-bath, kitchenette
- One-Bedroom: Queen bed, sleeper sofa, one-bath, full kitchen
- Two-Bedroom: Two queen beds, sleeper sofa, two-baths, full kitchen
- Three-Bedroom: Three queen beds, sleeper sofa, three-baths, full kitchen

Silver Sands Gulf Beach Resort, Longboat Key, Florida

What do you call peaceful pleasure? We suggest walking along a private beach, dipping your toes in the warm Gulf waters or lounging on your private lanai with your favorite book.

Silver Sands Gulf Beach Resort is located on the Gulf of Mexico on beautiful Longboat Key. Many consider this spacious, well-appointed facility the best on Longboat Key. Choose from the newly renovated resort room, the one- or two-bedroom garden units or the one- or two-bedroom beach front units. Whatever your vacation preferences, this resort has just what you're looking for while using our quality rating standards.

Stimulate your senses - from the sound of swaying palm trees to the sweet smell of blooming flowers mixed with the saltiness of the Gulf of Mexico. The tropical grounds at Silver Sands are truly unforgettable - one you've soaked up the calm, turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico, you'll never be the same. We are confident that your first visit with us will be the beginning of many more to come. Let us be your home-away-from-home for the most relaxed and enjoyable vacation you will ever experience.

View Silver Sands Gulf Beach Resort Property Map

Amenities:
- Located on the Gulf of Mexico
- Heated beach front pool
- Putting green
- Shuffleboard
- Barbeque area
- Complimentary chaise lounge chairs and umbrellas
- Daily maid service
- Laundry facility
- Wi-Fi access in all rooms, in the garden area and on the pool deck
- Fully-equipped kitchen or kitchenette

Accommodations:
- Hotel Room: Queen bed, one-bath, kitchenette
- One-Bedroom: Queen bed, sleeper sofa, one-bath, full kitchen
- Two-Bedroom: Queen, two twins, sleeper sofa, two-bath, full kitchen
- Three-Bedroom: Two queen beds, twin bed, sleeper sofa, three-baths, full kitchen

Trade in your Snow Boots for Flip-flops this Winter

For a limited time, receive the 4th night free at The Beach Club at Anna Maria and Sunrise Garden Resort on beautiful Anna Maria Island.

Terms & Conditions: Must mention booking code INT 7FE at time of booking. Four-night minimum stay required and must be consecutive. Promotion valid at Sunrise Garden Resort and The Beach Club at Anna Maria only. Offer valid on reservations booked by 1/31/2010 for stays between now and 3/10/2010. This promotion cannot be booked online and cannot be combined with any other offer or promotion. Valid on new reservations only. Promotion subject to availability.

Venice, Florida

Distinctive architecture and sparkling canals certainly resemble its Italian namesake. You’ll find elegant Italian Renaissance, Mediterranean Revival and Art Deco architecture framing, chic boutiques and cafes. Venice is a slice of classic Americana at its best. A historic shopping district, beautiful beaches and lively street festivals make it a sophisticated destination with all the charm of an Old Florida small town.

Venice’s sugar soft beaches and warm waves are ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing, but they are best known for their shark teeth. Real live sharks are a rare sight in the waters off Venice Beach, but thousands of their fossilized teeth wash up on the sand each high tide, giving the town the nickname “The Shark’s Tooth Capital of the World.” Sports, fishing, and outdoor enthusiasts find plenty to do in Venice. Nestled between the Gulf of Mexico and the winding Myakka River, the locale offers avid fishermen prime offshore and back country fishing.

Designated a Main Street Community by the State of Florida, historic Venice offers gorgeous beaches, fabulous boutique shopping, sparkling canals, and a charming small town vibe. In the 1920’s, Venice was the winter stomping grounds of the Ringling Brothers Circus, and subsequently rose to fame as the home of the nation’s first bona fide clown school. Today, all that remains of that era are the painstakingly preserved historic buildings that line the city’s palm-shaded thoroughfares.

Sarasota, Florida

Formerly sleepy Sarasota has become the "Cultural Capital" of Southwest Florida. With a premier arts scene, top-rated golf courses and the largest state park in Florida, it's an ideal destination for vacationers looking for a bit of adventure with their sunshine.

Sarasota is considered the mainland for some of the most beautiful and sought-after barrier islands. Each island comes unique with it's own personality and attributes. These islands include: Longboat Key, Lido Key, Siesta Key and Anna Maria Island.


Sarasota has come a long way from the swampy frontier camp that it once was, thanks in large part to the efforts of circus magnate John Ringling, who brought his big top to town in the late 1920’s. Then a defunct resort community, the city saw Ringling almost single-handedly turn its aging image around: in rapid succession he built a magnificent Venetian mansion, founded an art museum, developed a shopping plaza, and then began tirelessly promoting Sarasota as Florida’s "Cultural Capital.”

The whole area is rich with culture, with a theater and arts district, the bayfront Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, art galleries along Main Street and Palm Avenue, plus cafes, antique shops and galleries in Herald Square, Southside and the Towels Court Artist Colony. Along the coast is a ribbon of islands renowned for their soft, white sands, marine wildlife, Zagat-rated restaurants and distinct personalities.

Lido Key, Florida

Lido Key, a smaller barrier island located just north of Longboat Key is just across the bridge from downtown Sarasota. The barrier island of Lido Key lures visitors with gorgeous beaches, upscale shopping, and family-friendly accommodations. When circus magnate and ambitious developer John Ringling moved to Sarasota in the 1920’s, he saw Lido Key’s huge potential, and proceeded to use his elephants to haul materials from the mainland to construct the world famous St. Armand's Circle. It is said that John Ringling won the area in a Poker game. Today the rotary and Italian-style garden is peppered with high-end boutiques, gourmet restaurants, and fine art galleries that spill out into the streets.

A stones throw from Lido Key's St. Armand’s Circle, wide beaches and stately palm trees attract swimmers, sun worshippers, and watersports enthusiasts. Mote Aquarium, on the northern tip of the key, offers hands-on exhibits and insight into the area’s fascinating sea life. On the southern tip of key, the South Lido Park and Nature Center offer canoe trails and picnic spots with panoramic views of both the Sarasota skyline and the Gulf.

Siesta Key, Florida

Siesta Key, known for its laid-back attitude and world-famous for its quartz-crystal white sands is a staple on Dr. Beaches "America's Best Beaches List," currently holding the number two position. Although it is just minutes from Sarasota's cultural attractions, Siesta Key has its own identity, with a thriving artist's colony, eclectic shopping village and low-key nightlife. Siesta Key is ideal for vacationers seeking a quiet tropical-island feel with a splash of culture. Siesta Key beach is thriving with plenty of volleyball, jogging, tennis, biking and watersports. Just steps away from the beach is Siesta Village, the key's eclectic town center, is lined with quaint restaurants,outdoor cafes, shops, and fun bars.

Fishing and watersports fans play on the Gulf and bay, and golfers make the rounds on the mainland's fine courses. Just over the bridge, Sarasota's premier arts scene, five-star restaurants, and attractions await. At once upscale and thoroughly relaxed, Siesta Key is an ideal getaway for vacationers seeking a low-key beach vacation with all the frills of a major cultural center minutes away.

Longboat Key, Florida

Known for tasteful luxury and manicured surroundings, Longboat Key is rich in gorgeous beaches, wildlife, upscale amenities and championship golf. High-end boutiques and five-star restaurants make it an ideal destination for vacationers who like their beach getaways on the swankier side. Ignored by spring breakers and devoid of the garish attractions that characterize many Florida beach towns, Longboat Key is one of the quietest barrier islands on the Gulf Coast -- and all the more beloved for it.

Scores of retirees and young families visit each year to take advantage of the uncrowded beaches, the premier golf and tennis facilities, the superb angling, shelling, biking, shopping, dining and the luxury accommodations that dot its 12-mile stretch of shoreline. Just minutes away from the cultural attractions of Sarasota, it is an ideal base from which to explore the area.

Anna Maria Island, Florida

Thanks to its camera-ready sunsets, sugar-white coastline, sparkling turquoise waters and lush tropical beauty, Anna Maria Island long has been a favorite of Hollywood film directors. Floridians and well-traveled vacationers have long hailed Anna Maria Island as the place to go for a fun beach vacation with Old Florida charm.

Friendly, uncrowded and natural beauty unobscured by high-rises, Anna Maria Island offers visitors the chance to get away from the daily hustle and bustle and stay in a ResortQuest beachfront condominium, townhome, private vacation home, or resort in this South Florida island paradise. A true oasis, Anna Maria Island is a place where you can laze beneath a palm tree and sip a frozen margarita in your flip-flops.

Anglers from all over the world take advantage of the area's storied freshwater and saltwater fisheries. Golfers enjoy the area's 50 top-rated courses and a famous golf academy. Add to the mix a few fun beachfront restaurants and luxury accommodations, and you've got all the fixin's for a fabulous vacation hotspot. Check out more of our Anna Maria Island attractions...