The moment has arrived. In the current year, over 20 Travel + Leisure team members have collaborated to curate a carefully chosen list of destinations that discerning and inquisitive travelers should contemplate for the year 2024.
Anna Maria Island, home base for Dan’s Florida Condos, secured a spot among the top 50 travel destinations for 2024.
According to Travel + Leisure, Anna Maria Island should be on travelers’ radars for the upcoming year. The publication categorized its annual list of the 50 best places to visit, and Anna Maria Island claimed the pinnacle in the “beach vibes” section.
The agency praised Anna Maria Island for flying low on the popularity radar compared to other Florida hotspots, attributing its devoted following to the charming essence of a small-town atmosphere.
The report highlighted the island’s pristine shoreline devoid of towering structures, as well as its breathtaking sunsets. It also spotlighted recent additions such as the newly opened Mello on the Beach hotel in July and the Joie Inn villas, seamlessly integrating with the town’s relaxed beach ambiance.
Visit the Travel and Leisure article to read more about Anna Maria Island, Florida’s mention along with 49 other must see travel destinations for the upcoming year! (Read More…)
Looking for a spontaneous getaway? Look no further! Dan’s Florida Condos on Anna Maria Island, Florida have got you covered with incredible benefits for your last-minute vacation. The condos are located within the Runaway Bay Condominium Community, just steps from the beach, so you can spend your days swimming, sunbathing, and playing in the sand. In the evening, gather a blanket or circle of chairs with friends and family to watch the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico.
Dan’s Florida Condos nestled within the acclaimed Runaway Bay Condominium community are excited to announce the 2024 Social events! Here, owners and guests indulge in a host of premier amenities unique to Anna Maria Island, FL. This includes the island’s grandest heated saltwater pool, inviting pickleball and tennis courts, and a picturesque fishing pier, among other treasures. Plus, the community clubhouse plays host to a diverse array of vibrant social gatherings.
From January through March, our dedicated Social Committee, comprised of passionate volunteers, orchestrates an array of enriching social events, designed to elevate our guests’ winter vacation experience. These gatherings warmly embrace ALL RENTERS, GUESTS, AND OWNERS.
These events not only foster connections amongst our cherished guests but also rekindle acquaintances from seasons past. Additionally, they offer a wonderful opportunity for guests to meet and mingle with owners who relish the sun-drenched winter months in Florida.
All events held at Runaway Bay Clubhouse, unless otherwise announced.
No-host “BYOB” happy hour at the pool (Jan 18th, Feb 15th, March 28th) 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM Bring your own snacks and drinks. Please remember NO glass containers for snacks or drinks. Inclement Weather? We will be in the clubhouse!
Bratwurst Feed (Jan 29th, Feb 26th, March 25th) Time: Dusk/Sunset
Pancake Breakfast (Jan 8th, Feb 5th, March 4th) Time: 8am – 9:30am
Bingo Games Night (Jan 11th, Jan 24th, Feb 7th, Feb 21st, March 6th, March 20th) Games begin at 7pm – 8:30pm Only adults 18-years and older are allowed to participate in this event.
Chicken Sandwich / Hot Dog Lunch (Jan 15, Feb 12, March 11) Time: Noon – 1pm Watch for notifications posted on signs and bulletin boards for other special events & luncheons.
*Please note – Dans Florida Condos posts blogs of local establishments and events periodically, for the intended benefit of our guests and visitors of Anna Maria Island. We do not receive advertisement commissions or other compensation from these posts. These recommendations are either experienced firsthand by us, or via reputable friends and partners on the Island. This ensures we are informing our guests of the “best of the best” that the Anna Maria Island and the surrounding areas have to offer.
*The content of this blog is not to be copied, adapted or shared without the written consent of Dans Florida Condos.
From 10am to 6pm on November 11th and 12th, join the fun at Swordfish Grill & Tiki Bar in Cortez Village – 4628 119th Street West.
Many travelers staying at Dan’s Florida Condos, on Anna Maria Island FL enjoy the experience a weekend brimming with the most pristine stone crab and a diverse selection of mouthwatering seafood choices on the Gulf of Mexico! Delight in our special LOCAL highlights like zesty smoked fish spread, tender peel & eat Gulf shrimp, rich clam chowder, flavorful shrimp & grits, and so much more!
Come join the excitement at the 11th Annual Cortez Stone Crab & Music Festival. This open-air gathering will take place at 4628 119th Street West in Cortez Village on Saturday and Sunday, November 11th and 12th, running from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM both days. The musical festivities will extend into the evening at the Swordfish Grill & Tiki Bar.
We’ll offer an abundance of locally sourced seafood, along with refreshingly cold beverages, a lineup of talented musical acts, and an ample supply of stone crab. Additionally, a designated Kid’s Zone will be available, and numerous local artists will be showcasing their creations. For your comfort, there will be a seated area under a spacious tent to provide shelter from the sun or rain.
Convenient parking will be accessible at the FISH Preserve for a nominal fee of $5 per vehicle. Guests are advised to use the entrance at 116th Street.
Live Music Schedule
Main Stage – Saturday Lineup
10am – Mikey Silbaugh (of Concrete Edgar)
12pm – Mushroom Soup
2pm – Uncle John’s Band
4pm – Doug Deming & The Jewel Tones
Swordfish Tiki Deck Stage – Saturday Lineup
11am – Ted Stevens
3pm – The Stockton Brothers Band
7pm – Tim Chandler
Main Stage – Sunday Lineup
10am – Ted Stevens and the Doo Shots
12pm – Berry Oakley & Friends
2pm – Twinkle and Rock Soul Radio
4pm – Trevor Bystrom’s RX Feat. Zion Albert
Swordfish Tiki Deck Stage – Sunday Lineup
11am – Taylor Opie
3pm – Billy Rice Trio
6pm – Steel Vibes
Indulge in a weekend feast of freshly caught stone crab and a variety of delectable seafood! Relish in our distinctive regional specialties, including zesty smoked fish spread, Gulf shrimp ready for peeling and savoring, creamy clam chowder, succulent shrimp paired with hearty grits, and much more!
*Please note – Dans Florida Condos posts blogs of local establishments and events periodically, for the intended benefit of our guests and visitors of Anna Maria Island. We do not receive advertisement commissions or other compensation from these posts. These recommendations are either experienced firsthand by us, or via reputable friends and partners on the Island. This ensures we are
We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who reached out to us at Dan’s Florida Condos this past week. We know many of you with upcoming travel to Anna Maria Island, Florida have been anxious due to the ominous social media posts circulating. In short, while our Complex, Runaway Bay Condominiums did not suffer any storm related damages or flooding, some homes and businesses on the island had up to 4 feet of water in our neighboring communities, especially in the Cortez Village area.
We dodged a bullet and count our blessings that our slice of paradise was preserved. Our hearts and thoughts go out to our neighbors in the northern panhandle of Florida, of which incurred the most significant impact from Hurricane Idalia.
Here’s a concise recap of recent events:
Mandatory Evacuation: On Tuesday, August 29, we faced a mandatory evacuation order for Anna Maria Island.
The Storm: Fortunately, the storm changed course, veering north from its initial path. While the island did experience the outer bands of the storm, including rain, mild winds, and some storm surge, the evacuation was swiftly lifted on Wednesday, August 30, at 5 pm.
Impact: Some localized flooding did occur, primarily in areas near the bay and beaches. However, our vacation rental units at Dan’s Florida Condos remained unharmed, thanks to their elevated positions. While there was some debris in the pools and yards, rest assured that we sustained absolutely no damage. The island’s flooding has also subsided.
Clean-Up: We are immensely proud of our dedicated teams who wasted no time in preparing our homes for the next guests. Cleaning crews are hard at work resetting outdoor furniture, while our landscaping experts are diligently clearing yards of debris and branches. Pool maintenance is in progress, ensuring our most popular heated salt water pool pristine for Labor Day weekend. Clean-up efforts are also underway on North Shore Drive in Anna Maria.
Utilities: Thankfully, we did not experience any power outages in our homes. Most of the island maintained power throughout the entire storm.
Restaurants & Local Businesses: In a testament to the island’s resilience, shops and eateries quickly reopened on Thursday, with more scheduled to resume operations on Friday. Hurricane Hanks, known for their small bar bites and craft beer selection were ready for Idalia with their growingly famous storm shutters!
Businesses opening on Friday include Tide Tables, Ginny n Jane E’s, Breakfast at Victoria’s, White Egret Stores, AMI Paddleboard, and Rod n Reel Pier.
Piers: The Anna Maria City Pier is open for both fishing and restaurant dining, while Rod n Reel Pier is set to reopen on Friday. Anna Maria Island Oyster Bar on Bradenton Bridge Street Pier is already open.
Beaches: Our pristine beaches are looking fantastic! While the western Gulf beaches may be a bit rough in the aftermath of the hurricane, it’s an excellent opportunity to collect shark’s teeth and shells, as many have washed ashore.
In conclusion, Anna Maria Island has weathered the storm and is open, vibrant, and ready to welcome you back to paradise.
Looking for a spontaneous getaway? Look no further! Dan’s Florida Condos on Anna Maria Island, Florida have got you covered with incredible benefits for your last-minute vacation. The condos are located within the Runaway Bay Condominium Community, just steps from the beach, so you can spend your days swimming, sunbathing, and playing in the sand. In the evening, gather a blanket or circle of chairs with friends and family to watch the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico.
The long-awaited Gulf Island Ferry Service in Bradenton is finally becoming a reality, and it’s set to make waves this summer! The commencement of this new service is marked by the induction of two stunning 50-foot catamarans, proudly named Miss Anna Maria and the Downtown Duchess. These ferries represent a significant effort to enhance connectivity within Manatee County and alleviate the burden of tourism traffic.
Designed to provide a convenient and scenic mode of transportation, the ferries will serve as a lifeline between Bradenton and the picturesque beaches of Anna Maria Island. With a capacity to accommodate up to 49 passengers, they promise to offer a delightful journey for both residents and visitors alike. Guests staying at Dan’s Florida Condos, 2br and 1br vacation rentals on Anna Maria Island, will have another mode of transport when taking in the breathtaking views of sea life and sunsets of Bradenton Beach.
Elliott Falcione, the esteemed Executive Director of The Bradenton Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, expressed his excitement over this new venture, stating, “We look forward to continuing to provide easy, accessible travel opportunities throughout Manatee County.” Indeed, the introduction of this ferry service will offer a refreshing alternative for those seeking to explore the beauty of the area without the hassles of road congestion.
The Gulf Island Ferry Service is scheduled to kick off in late summer, and passengers can avail of the service at a reasonable fare. A one-way trip is priced at $8, while an all-day pass can be purchased for $10, with special discounted rates for children and senior citizens.
The ferry’s operation hours on weekends, from Friday to Sunday, will be between 10 a.m. and 9 p.m., with hourly stops between the charming downtown Bradenton Riverwalk and the idyllic Anna Maria Island. Imagine embarking on a leisurely journey across the serene waters, soaking in the sun and the coastal breeze while immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the region.
For those eager to plan their trips and get more details about the ferry routes, the official ferry website offers a wealth of information, including a handy map. This online resource is sure to guide passengers in making the most of their island-hopping adventures.
Gulf Island Ferry – Dans Florida Condos
So, get ready to embark on a new and exciting chapter in Bradenton’s transportation history. Whether you’re a local looking for a quick getaway or a tourist eager to explore the gems of Manatee County, the Gulf Island Ferry Service is set to provide a delightful and memorable experience. Book your tickets, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare to set sail on an unforgettable journey to Anna Maria Island! 🏝️🌊
*Please note – Dans Florida Condos posts blogs of local establishments and events periodically, for the intended benefit of our guests and visitors of Anna Maria Island. We do not receive advertisement commissions or other compensation from these posts. These recommendations are either experienced firsthand by us, or via reputable friends and partners on the Island. This ensures we are informing our guests of the “best of the best” that the Anna Maria Island and the surrounding areas have to offer.
Enjoy the 4th of July in Style at Dans Florida Condos on Anna Maria Island
The 4th of July is a time for celebration, and what better place to do it than on Anna Maria Island, Florida? Dans Florida Condos is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the holiday with your family and friends.
The condos are located just steps from the beach, so you can spend your days swimming, sunbathing, and playing in the sand. In the evening, gather a blanket or circle of chairs with friends and family to watch the fireworks over the Gulf of Mexico.
In addition to the beautiful beach, Dans Florida Condos also offers a variety of amenities to keep you entertained, including:
A large saltwater pool
A tennis and pickleball courts
A bocce ball court
A recreation room
A sauna
An exercise room
A fishing pier
And if you’re looking to explore the island, Dans Florida Condos is also conveniently located near a variety of restaurants, shops, and attractions.
Here are some ideas for how you can enjoy your 4th of July at Dans Florida Condos:
Spend the day at the beach. Anna Maria Island is known for its white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Soak up the sun, swim in the ocean, or build a sandcastle.
Go fishing. Dans Florida Condos is located right on the water, so you can easily go fishing off the pier. Or, take a boat out to deeper waters and try your luck at catching a larger fish.
Hike or bike the island. Anna Maria Island is a great place to get some exercise. There are several hiking and biking trails that wind through the island’s natural beauty.
Visit the Anna Maria Island Historical Society Museum. Learn about the history of Anna Maria Island at this small museum.
Take a day trip to nearby attractions. There are several popular attractions located near Anna Maria Island, including Busch Gardens, Disney World, and Universal Studios.
No matter how you choose to spend your 4th of July, Dans Florida Condos is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the holiday. Book your stay today!
Here are some additional tips for enjoying your 4th of July at Dans Florida Condos:
Book your stay early, especially if you’re traveling during the holiday weekend.
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. The Florida sun can be strong, so it’s important to protect yourself from the elements.
Pack a cooler with drinks and snacks. You can save money by bringing your own food and drinks to the condo.
Bring beach towels and chairs. You’ll want to be comfortable while you’re lounging on the beach.
Download a map of Anna Maria Island. This will help you get around and find the best places to visit.
Have fun and relax! The 4th of July is a time to celebrate with family and friends. Soak up the sun, enjoy the fireworks, and make memories that will last a lifetime.
To read more articles highlighting Anna Maria Island, Bradenton Beach, FL and Dans Florida Condos please visit the “Our Blog” section of our booking-free website: http://www.dansfloridacondos.com/blog/
*Please note – Dans Florida Condos posts blogs of local establishments and events periodically, for the intended benefit of our guests and visitors of Anna Maria Island. We do not receive advertisement commissions or other compensation from these posts. These recommendations are either experienced firsthand by us, or via reputable friends and partners on the Island. This ensures we are informing our guests of the “best of the best” that the Anna Maria Island and the surrounding areas have to offer.
*The content of this blog is not to be copied, adapted or shared without the written consent of Dans Florida Condos.
The Sunshine Skyway Bridge, leading to the enchanting Anna Maria Island in Florida, is a true marvel that blends natural beauty with engineering brilliance. As many travelers traverse this breathtaking structure on their way to their vacation accommodations at Dans Florida Condos, they are treated to panoramic vistas of the sparkling waters below and the endless expanse of the sky above.
The bridge stands tall and proud, gracefully spanning the azure waters of the Tampa Bay which border the north end of Anna Maria Island, FL. Its sleek design and immaculate white color perfectly complement the surrounding landscape, creating an awe-inspiring sight for all who witness it. The gentle sea breeze caresses your face as you make your way across, and the serenity of the setting is simply unparalleled.
However, even in the most picturesque of places, unexpected events can occur. In mid-June of 2023, an unfortunate accident took place on the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, causing a momentary disruption in its tranquility. A large truck found itself in a precarious position, partially hanging over the edge of the bridge. The incident garnered attention and concern from passersby and local authorities alike.
Efficient emergency response teams swiftly arrived at the scene, ensuring the safety of the driver, and securing the area. Their professionalism and expertise were commendable, preventing further escalation and ensuring minimal disruption to the flow of traffic. The incident served as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and caution while navigating these majestic roadways.
As the authorities worked diligently to rectify the situation, the resiliency and strength of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge shone through. Its sturdy structure stood firm, confidently weathering the unexpected turn of events. Soon enough, the truck was safely removed, and the bridge resumed its role as a gateway to the island, welcoming visitors with its unmatched allure.
Despite the temporary setback, the Sunshine Skyway Bridge continues to captivate all who venture across it. Its timeless beauty and the indomitable spirit it embodies are a testament to human ingenuity and the ability to overcome adversity. As the sun sets over the horizon, casting a golden hue upon the waters, the Sunshine Skyway Bridge stands as a symbol of strength, grace, and the enduring allure of Anna Maria Island.
To read more articles highlighting Anna Maria Island, Bradenton Beach, FL and Dans Florida Condos please visit the “Our Blog” section of our booking-free website: https://www.dansfloridacondos.com/blog/
*Please note – Dan’s Florida Condos posts blogs of local establishments and events periodically, for the intended benefit of our guests and visitors of Anna Maria Island. We do not receive advertisement commissions or other compensation from these posts. These recommendations are either experienced firsthand by us, or via reputable friends and partners on the Island. This ensures we are informing our guests of the “best of the best” that the Anna Maria Island and the surrounding areas have to offer.
*The content of this blog is not to be copied, adapted or shared without the written consent of Dan’s Florida Condos.
Dan’s Florida Condos (located within Runaway Bay Condominiums, on the sunny shores of Anna Maria Island, Florida) boasts the largest salt water pool on the island. The pool is considered one of the best amenities of our community, and is a central hub for much of the family fun and socializing. It has the added benefit of being heated, which allows comfortable enjoyment year-round.
Over the last years, and specifically the last 6 months, Runaway Bay has made considerable upgrades to the pool. This started with all new loungers and chairs deployed around the deck of the pool area. Last year all the pavers were replaced with upgraded and non-slip materials. This spring of 2023, the pool had a major overall including reseal of the pool interior and a complete overhaul of the back flow and new filter platform and pumps. As summarized by one of our owners, “The pool is now as good as new”.
Two dozen of our loungers are currently in a “re-slinging” project which will also refresh them to new. Once this project is completed, we will have access to almost 40 additional loungers’ poolside for family and guests to gather, relax, and soak up the Florida sun.
This all could not have been done with the support of the Runaway Bay Board of Directors, Operations team, and volunteers which are made up of both our onsite and remote owners throughout the globe. What a monumental transformation!
When you are ready to return to Anna Maria Island to enjoy your next family vacation getaway, we will be ready to welcome you at any one of Dans Florida Condos one or two-bedroom units. Please visit our Rates and Availabilty section of our website when you are ready to come on down for a swim!
Although some minor damage occurred, Anna Maria Island, Florida survived Hurricane Ian without suffering the widespread devastation many residents and business owners originally feared. Runaway Bay, the community which Dan’s Florida Condos operates out of had a few palms fall to the storm but were spared by any storm surge or flooding. A lot of palm fronds and vegetation came down with a few soffits with minimal damage.
As of Thursday evening Sept. 29, most of Anna Maria, Bradenton Beach and Holmes Beach remained without the water and sewage services provided by Manatee County and the electrical services provided by Florida Power & Light (FPL). Power and water were restored by Sunday morning 10/2 to Runaway Bay.
Before Hurricane Ian arrived, Manatee County ordered a mandatory evacuation of Anna Maria Island two days before landfall. A drive around the Island just before sundown on Sept. 27 revealed several boarded-up buildings and homes and a mostly deserted and evacuated Island.
Hurricane Ian was one of the most powerful hurricanes to ever make landfall Florida, which left widespread destruction all along its path. Parts of central and north Florida are still under water, with significant flooding throughout Volusia County and Southwest Florida. Roads, homes, even highways are impassable, making damage assessment impossible without the use of drones to get a bird’s eye view of the damage.
Our slice of heaven on Anna Maria Island was so very lucky to have avoided a direct hit of Hurricane Ian. This weekend, with the help of a group of volunteers and owners at Runaway Bay, we cleaned up the grounds around the complex in the aftermath of Ian and we are so very fortunate to say that things are getting back to normal.
A sailboat made its way towards the Cortez bridge, luckily not damaging the structure.
Our thoughts are prayers go out to our less fortunate neighbors in the Sanibel Island and Fort Myers areas, along with all other Floridians who were impacted. We understand this is a difficult time for Floridians and travelers who had vacations ruined because of the storm. We already helped with accommodations to one displaced family and remain committed to helping support those that are experiencing hardship. We will continue working closely with travelers and Florida residents and we will do everything we can to help.
With the help of a group of volunteers and owners at Runaway Bay, we cleaned up the grounds around the complex in the aftermath of Ian and we are so very fortunate to say that things are getting back to normal.
For those with plans to visit Anna Maria Island, Dan’s Florida Condos are ready to host you.
Restaurants & Local Businesses
Shops and eateries quickly opened as power became available in each neighborhood. Some spots in Anna Maria are still being restored as it’s a bit spotty but our homes have power.
Piers
All local piers seem to be undamaged however each City Hall will carry out an inspection to ensure that the structures are safe before allowing the public on them.
Beaches
We did not experience a storm surge! No storm surge means our beaches remained pristine. Towards the north end, Bean Point, is experiencing some brown water run off from the rivers emptying out into Tampa Bay. The western Gulf Beaches are very clear and turquoise. It’s a great time to pick up some sea sponges as many were washed ashore after the storm. Bring your metal detector on your next visit. It’ll be a great time to find shark’s teeth! It’ll be a great time to find shark’s teeth!
*Please note – Dan’s Florida Condos posts blogs of local establishments and events periodically, for the intended benefit of our guests and visitors of Anna Maria Island. We do not receive advertisement commissions or other compensation from these posts. These recommendations are either experienced firsthand by us, or via reputable friends and partners on the Island. This ensures we are informing our guests of the “best of the best” that the Anna Maria Island and the surrounding areas have to offer.
*The content of this blog is not to be copied, adapted or shared without the written consent of Dan’s Florida Condos.
Recently the production crew from NBC’s The Today Show, featuring Hoda and Jenna visited Anna Maria Island, Florida. They featured a story about Ashley and Dino, a couple from California who visited the island for a family vacation back in 2020. They found a simpler way of life on Anna Maria Island, consisting of no high-rise hotels, chain resturants, and fell in love with the turquoise waters. So much so, that hey decided to relocate their family of 4 as full time residents just a year later!
Ashley and Dino have a background in interior design and home remodeling. To help fund their relocation, they purchased a 4 bedroom hotel which desperately needed some TLC. Over the next year, they put in hard word and sweat to bring out the charm of their little island paradise and celebrated their grand opening in October of 2021.
Dan’s Florida Condos (www.dansfloridacondos.com) owner Dan O’Connor (wow that was a lot of Dans in a short sentence) has a story that mirrors that of Ashley and Dino. After visiting the island over a decade ago, Dan knew there was something special about Anna Maria Island. “I find joy in sharing our slice of paradise on Anna Maria Island with others, and find a special satisfaction helping other family’s create lifelong vacation memories”.
You can find more information about Ashely and Dino at www.hodaandjenna.com. Feel free to reach out to Dan’s Florida Condos if you would like to more information or would like to experience Anna Maria Island for yourself.
