My husband, 13 year old daughter and I visited Anna Maria Island. First time on the 'left' coast. Very nice!!!! This island is so peaceful and simple. No stress, no rush. Very easy going place. Longboat Key is a nice place to drive through, and Armand Circle is a 'affluent' shopping area just south. There's the Mote Marina just before Armand Circle where you can visit and see rehabilitated sea turtles and other marine mammals. Not too far from Sarasota too. Found some great restaurants, did some sightseeing and lots of relaxing and eating seafood..... Would visit again!