Old Florida lifestyle awaits on Anna Maria Island

ANNA MARIA, Fla. - On the south side of the mouth of Tampa Bay is a barrier island with beautiful white beaches and a laid back, old Florida lifestyle.

Off the coast of Manatee County, Anna Maria Island's first permanent resident homesteaded became what is now the city of Anna Maria in 1892.

The city of about 1,800 residents has become a favorite vacation destination for travelers from around the world.

It's common to hear multiple languages being spoken when walking down the powder sand beaches.

Drone pilot John Wright recently spent a couple of hours experiencing the beauty of Anna Maria Island. From above, the FOX 13 SkyFOX Drone captured the island's turquoise water and spectacular white sand beaches.

From Beach Street to Coquina Beach, learn more and plan your trip to Anna Maria Island, visit https://www.annamariaislandchamber.org/.