Anna Maria Island Adventures

When people ask where we're going on vacation this summer, we say, "Why? We live where we vacation." I heard this would be a problem when we first moved here two years ago. It's true! We don't want to leave this place -- even for vacation.  Here are a few reasons why we live where we vacation:  1. White sandy beaches that stay cool, not hot -- all year long. And the shelling is amazing.  2. Fresh seafood and great eateries. Some of our favorite restaurants are: The Waterfront , The Beach House , Swordfish Grill , and Whitney's Cafe (over the bridge on LBK).  3. Gorgeous Sunsets. 4. Great shopping (Pine Street and Bridge Street).  5. Flora, Fauna and Wildlife. And did I mention fishing?! 6. Family Friendly. Our grandkids love coming down to visit for all the beaches and area attractions.  7. Live music -- almost everywhere, especially on Anna Maria Pier, Bridge Street and Whitney's Cafe.   8. Excursions by boat.  9. Local art and galleries.  1...

The best key lime pie is not on Anna Maria Island ; I'm sorry to disappoint you. The best is found just over the bridge from AMI on Longboat Key at Whitney's Cafe . It used to be a gas station -- that was an iconic landmark for the folks on Longboat Key -- and refurbished into one of the trendiest cafes on the island with indoor and outdoor seating. It has since changed management and the new owners developed the best key lime pie -- ever! Its triple layers feed three people, so just ask for three forks! It has a yummy graham cracker crust, luscious key lime filling, topped with whipping cream and white chocolate shavings. Life is short, so eat dessert first! On the weekends, Whitney's Cafe serves brunch and has live music outside, which is a great place to bring guests when they visit. And right across the street, of course, is our favorite beach -- Whitney. There's plenty of parking at the restaurant and it even has an outdoor shower to wash the sand off before you...