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Florida's best kept secret is an island along the placid Gulf Coast where time, prices, and beachfront development were arrested 30 years ago.

There is a place in Florida that does not have the very best in beaches, the most Caribbean-like climate, the best recreational opportunities or the hottest resorts or nightlife in the State.  So, why is an island peninsula community of 15,000 residents on the Gulf Coast considered by many to be a "best kept secret"?  For those in the know, it is an affordable subtropical nirvana.  Its name is Anna Maria Island.

Just south of Tampa Bay, west of Bradenton and north of Sarasota the town of Anna Maria holds this honor.  The most remote and outlying town on the island of the same name, it combines with two other municipal communities to the south, Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach, for the total Anna Maria Island experience (great unofficial site here!)

The secret is that the town of Anna Maria does not have any fast food or convenience franchises, chain stores, high rises or a stoplight and the community intends to keep it that way.  Prominent destinations such as the Tampa, Clearwater or Sarasota areas are only 45 to 90 minutes away.  

What Anna Maria does have is a Florida Keys charm of 30 years ago, spectacular ocean sunsets, solitude without remoteness, secluded beaches with sea turtle egg nests, wildlife, easy bike riding, friendly people, exemplary dining opportunities and a free local trolley. 

The late winter and spring throngs do affect the area somewhat and you might be surprised to hear a multitude of German-speaking visitors who seem share my family's tastes.  While not as crowded as other popular Florida destinations, mainland traffic access along the single causeway to and from the nearest city, Bradenton, can occasionally gridlock, and waiting for restaurant seating can be excruciating.

For these reasons, northerners may best appreciate this eclectic community in August, when the coastal climate is cooler (high 80's) and the sparse attendance is just right.  This allows you to experience the otherwise camouflaged and friendly local beach populace of year-round residents - best described as a blend of small family businesses, artists, commuters, retirees and escapees from big cities with a slow-paced Mayberry quality and a smattering of international flavor.