Dans Florida Condos Blog
All Articles
destination guide
Bradenton Beach Vacation Guide: Where to Eat, Stay, and Explore
Your Gateway to Old Florida Charm There's something magical about crossing the bridge onto Anna Maria Island and discovering Bradenton Beach—a sli...
Destination Guide
🏖️ Runaway Bay Pool Grand Reopening: Anna Maria Island’s Favorite Pool is Back — and Better Than Ever!
Runaway Bay Pool Reopens! Dive Into Anna Maria Island’s Hottest New Vacation Upgrade
News
Big News is Making Waves at Runaway Bay 🌴 – Pool Reopening!
After months of anticipation, the finishing touches are being made on the Runaway Bay Pool Renovation, and we couldn’t be more excited to share what’s ahead!
Runaway Bay
Runaway Bay Fishing Pier Reopens After Hurricane Damage
The beloved Runaway Bay Fishing Pier on Anna Maria Island is back—fully rebuilt after hurricane damage. Plan your getaway with Dans Florida Condos today!
![Bayfest 2025 Anna Maria Island: Free Festival of Music, Food & Classic Cars](https://images.bookhostai.com?url=https://storage.googleapis.com/hostai-booking-prod-photos/clients/dansfloridacondos/blogs/covers"/b8c6a883-4282-4143-8d6a-ce35c1abd34d.webp&f=webp&w=2048)
Destination Guide
Bayfest 2025 Anna Maria Island: Free Festival of Music, Food & Classic Cars
Join Bayfest 2025 on Anna Maria Island, October 18—experience free live music, tasty local food, arts & crafts, classic cars, and family-friendly fun on charming Pine Avenue!
Other
A Wonderful Review, lends itself to a Valuable Anna Maria Island Visitors Guide
Nothing pleases me more to receive feedback from former guests of Dans Florida Condos (www.dansfloridacondos.com), who enjoy Anna Maria Island as much as I do. Feedback is not only a pleasant pat on the back, but also serves as a valuable tool for online consumers.
Other
4th of July on Anna Maria Island
Enjoy the 4th of July in Style at Dans Florida Condos on Anna Maria Island
Other
Anna Maria Island Fishing with Captain Mike's Fishing Charters
Guests of Dans Florida Condos often ask where they can get some GREAT fishing in while visiting the island. When it comes to fishing the pristine inshore or offshore waters of Florida’s Gulf Coast including Sarasota, Anna Maria Island, Sarasota Bay, Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, we recommend you fish withCaptain Mike’s Fishing Charters, our first choice for a professional Florida fishing guide charter and Anna Maria Island fishing.
Other
Southwest Airlines now flying into Sarasota International Airport (SRQ)
Its becoming even easier for visitors of Anna Maria Island andDans Florida Condosto make it to their destination of choice. That is because discount airline Southwest Airlines will now be adding service into Sarasota International Airport (SRQ). Southwest fans (Dan being one of them) has taken advantage of the various Southwest flight options into Tampa International Airport (TPA) for years. However, coming Valentines Day Feb 14, 2021 they will now have an even closer major airport to fly Southwest to.
Other
Social Events Announced Jan, Feb, March
*Please note – Dans Florida Condos posts blogs of localestablishments and events periodically, for the intended benefitof our guests and visitors of Anna Maria Island. We do notreceive advertisement commissions or other compensation fromthese posts. These recommendations are either experiencedfirsthand by us, or via reputable friends and partners on theIsland. This ensures we are informing our guests of the “best ofthe best” that the Anna Maria Island and the surrounding areashave to offer.
Other
Anna Maria Island, FL; Top Spot Among US 25 Most Popular Beach Towns
Newsweek released their 25 Most Popular Beach Towns in America ranking, and Anna Maria Island Florida took the top spot.
Other
Strength in Partnership: Dans Florida Condos and Well & Good Thrive Through Adversity
In 2024,Dans Florida Condos(Anna Maria Island, FL) andWell & Good Professional Servicesformed a dynamic partnership aimed at elevating vacation rental service standards for the expanding portfolio of Dans Florida Condos. With both organizations solidifying their presence in Sarasota and Anna Maria Island, the collaboration brought shifts in resources, operations, and day-to-day procedures as the two teams worked to integrate seamlessly.
Other
Turtle watchers excited, first nest of season spotted on AMI
Visitors of Dans Florida Condos (www.dansfloridacondos.com), on Anna Maria Island are excited for Turtle Nesting Season. Just steps from the condos, turtles come to the beaches of Anna Maria Island to drop off their eggs, which both island residents and guests make sure to take good care of them during their stay.
Other
Runaway Bay Pool Set to Reopen – Dive Back into Paradise this Fall!
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.
Other
Things to do this Winter on AMI
There is a lot going on at Dans Florida Condos, and Anna Maria Island this Winter! Here are some fun things to do and experience this holiday season on Anna Maria Island, Florida. The perfect time to getaway from the cold up north. Let’s hit the beach.
Other
There’s a New Market on AMI!
There’s a New Market in Town!
Other
Tour de Turtles – The Islands Fastest but Slowest Race!
It may not have been the fastest race in history, but Anna Maria Island won the marathon with loggerhead Eliza Ann.
Other
27th Annual Heritage Days Festival
The Anna Maria Island Historical Society will host its 27th Annual Heritage Days Festival at the Anna Maria Island Historical Society’s Historical Park, 402 Pine Avenue, Anna Maria. The event will be held Saturday, March 3rd from 9:00am-2:00pm.
Other
Beach House Happy Hour Extended and 2 for 1 Drinks!
How does lunch on the beach starting at five bucks sound?It’s all at the Beach House Restaurant! New extended hours for Happy Hour and new items on our Lunch Menu!
Other
Manatee Viewing Center Creating Fun for All
Many visitors of Anna Maria Island and guests ofDan’s Florida Condos,have a great time taking a little half day trip where they are almost guaranteed to get a close up glimpse of Florida’s Favorite Manatees! Located in Apollo Beach, Florida, the TECO Manatee Viewing Center serves as a protected marine sanctuary, providing visitors with a unique chance to observe manatees in close proximity. Guests can explore enchanting butterfly gardens, ascend an impressive observation tower, and traverse boardwalks and walking trails. The park operates seasonally, welcoming visitors from November to April.
Other
Sunset Dining and Sustainable Fishing Practices. The perfect match on Anna Maria Island
Guests ofDans Florida Condos, not only visit Anna Maria Island FL for the world class beaches, relaxation, or the sun. . . they often come for healthy and tasty cuisine. While fresh fish is available in pretty much every resturant and diner you turn, how do you know you are receiving the best quality catch of the day fish that the Island is famous for.
Other
Travel and Leisure; Anna Maria Island Best Places to Travel in 2024
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.
Other
Tropical Storm Emily drenches Anna Maria Island
Tropical Storm Emily soaked Anna Maria Island as it made landfall at 10:45 a.m. July 31.
Other
Pittsburgh Pirates and their affiliate minor league team Bradenton Marauders announce 2020 schedule
Dans Florida Condos, located on Anna Maria Island just 20 minutes from downtown Bradenton, FL offers snowbirds sugar sand beaches, award winning restaurants, plenty of sunshine, and close proximity to Major League Baseball Spring Training. Map:https://www.dansfloridacondos.com/ourlocation
Other
The Drift In Reopens on Anna Maria Island After Long-Awaited Comeback
April 4, 2025 – Bradenton Beach, FL
Other
AMI in running for Happiest Seaside Town in USA
Will Anna Maria be declared the happiest seaside town in the United States? Fans of the city will have to wait a few months to find out.
Other
Anna Maria Island Featured on NBC’s Today Show with Hoda and Jenna
Recently the production crew from NBC’s The Today Show, featuring Hoda and Jenna visited Anna Maria Island, Florida. Theyfeatured 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!
Other
MLB Spring Training Kicks Off in Bradenton with the Return of the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2024
Pirate City, the renownedSpring Training Headquarters of the Pittsburgh Piratesin Bradenton, Florida, is a haven for baseball enthusiasts seeking the quintessential Florida experience. Basking in the sunshine of February and March, Pirate City offers the ideal backdrop for enjoying outdoor baseball training sessions amidst the gentle warmth of the season. Best of all, Pittsburgh Pirates practice sessions at Pirate City are free and open to the public, inviting fans to immerse themselves in the excitement of America’s favorite pastime.
Other
Anna Maria City Pier – Lifeblood of AMI Continued Progress
Guests who visit Dan’s Florida Condos, which are located on Anna Maria Island, Florida are getting very excited about the return of the Anna Maria Island City Pier! The pier is not only one of islands most visited tourist attractions, but is often frequented by local fisherman due to its excellent access to the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay waters.
Other
Holiday events this season on Anna Maria Island, FL
There is a lot going on at Dans Florida Condos, and Anna Maria Island this Winter! Here are some fun things to do and experience this holiday season on Anna Maria Island, Florida. The perfect time to getaway from the cold up north. Let’s hit the beach.
Other
Ruanway Bay Social Events for 2024 Announced
Dan’s Florida Condosnestled within the acclaimedRunaway Bay Condominium communityare 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.
Other
Today we are celebrating the 4th annual #BookDirect day.
The #BookDirect initiative was first organized to educate guests about the advantages of bypassing third-party channels to book directly with management companies and homeowners.
Other
Red Tide Prevention with Clams, in action on Anna Maria Island
Returning and new guests ofDans Florida Condoswill be interested in recent activities occurring on Anna Maria Island, FL. First off, AMI has been clear of all traces of Red Tide for months now. In addition, local restaurant owners, nonprofit organizations, and environmental agencies are putting preventative measures to action, to help ensure the Bradenton Beach coast is not affected as it was in the late summer/fall months of 2018 from red tide.
Other
Pittsburgh Pirates Spring Training in Bradenton
The Pittsburgh Pirates, the city of Bradenton, Manatee County and the Manatee County Public Library System recently announced plans to celebrate the 50th year of Pirates baseball in Bradenton.
Other
Furry friends accompany human parents at Runaway Bay
Human guests are not the only who take advantage of the warm weather and pet friendly accommodations atDan’s Florida Condos. Each year furry friends from all over the country and even the world from time to time make Anna Maria Island, Florida their choice for their annual snowbird season getaway.
Other
Runaway Bay; 2023 Social Events Announced!
Dan’s Florida Condos arelocatedwithin the award winning Runaway Bay Condominium community. Owners and guests not only enjoy some of the best amenities found on Anna Maria Island, FL including the largest heated salt water pool on the island, pickle ball/tennis courts, and fishing pier to name a few; but they also enjoy various community social events that are held on premises at the community clubhouse.
Other
Cortez Stone Crab; Music Festival 2023
Many travelers staying atDan’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!
Other
A close call on Sunshine Skyway Bridge
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 atDans Florida Condos, they are treated to panoramic vistas of the sparkling waters below and the endless expanse of the sky above.
Other
Anna Maria Island Moose Lodge Reopens
Exciting News: The Anna Maria Island Moose Lodge is Reopening!
Other
Celebrating the 8th Annual #BookDirect Day Today!
The #BookDirect movement was originally created to educate travelers on the benefits of skipping third-party booking sites and booking directly with property managers and homeowners. Today marks the 8th anniversary of this fantastic initiative—how exciting!
Other
Mothers Day on Anna Maria Island
Moms deserve to be pampered. Guests that are staying at Dans Florida Condos (www.dansfloridacondos.com), have a variety of dinning options while on the island. For a special treat this year, we recommend one of our flagship resturants! Spend lunch or dinner with the Sand Bar or Beach House and she will be sitting with her toes in the sand, listening to the sounds of the waves gently lapping the shore, enjoying the view of pristine gulf waters while she dines on delicious seafood and farm to fork produce paired with her favorite wine or tropical drink! That is the way to make mom happy….Treat her to Mother’s Day on Anna Maria Island!
Other
Message in a Bottle Discovered on Anna Maria Island – A 5,000-Mile Mystery
Just when you think Anna Maria Island couldn’t be more enchanting—cue the music (preferably a little Sting playing“sending out an S.O.S.”in the background).
Other
Anna Maria Island Pier Progress; Pier Decking Selected!
Many past guests of Dans Florida Condos have inquired about the Anna Maria City Pier, which suffered season ending closure due to last years hurricane season. We are happy to announce things are starting to move forward! Rod and Reel pier will soon have her sister back and functioning, now that decking material has been selected and models are being finalized.
Other
36th Annual Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival
Except for one major uncontrollable detail, all is ready for the 36th annual Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival, according to chair Rose Lipke.
Other
Today we are celebrating the 5th annual #BookDirect day.
The #BookDirect initiative was first organized to educate guests about the advantages of bypassing third-party channels to book directly with management companies and homeowners. Today is the 5th anniversary of this movement, which falls on a quite unique date sequence of 2/2/22! How fun!
Other
Runaway Bay Social Events Return in 2022
Dan’s Florida Condos arelocatedwithin the award winning Runaway Bay Condominium community. Owners and guests not only enjoy some of the best amenities found on Anna Maria Island, FL including the largest heated salt water pool on the island, tennis courts, and fishing pier to name a few; but they also enjoy various community social events that are held on premises at the community clubhouse.
Other
Free Family Vacation Rental Giveaway at Dan's Florida Condos; Anna Maria Island, FL
The wait is over!We are excited to announce that we will be giving away a FREE week stay at Dan’s Florida Condos, in Anna Maria Island, Florida. That’s right, a vacation rental at Dan’s Florida Condos all to yourself, FREE! Imagine dipping your toes in the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico while having some extra cash to take that special someone to a seaside dinner, or poolside Pina Coladas. With just a few clicks you could be on your way to creating lifelong memories with your friends and family and the best part… it’s on our dime.
Other
Anna Maria Island Pier Progress!
Guests who enjoy Dan’s Florida Condos, which is located on Anna Maria Island, FL will be very happy to hear the progress on the repairs in place for the historic Anna Maria Island City Pier! Work on the Anna Maria City Pier should begin in May.
Other
Hurricane Ian impacts – Anna Maria Island, Florida
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.
Other
Gulf Island Ferry: A New Ferry Service Bringing Beachgoers to Anna Maria Island
The long-awaitedGulf Island Ferry Servicein 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.
Other
Cooking Classes Coming to Anna Maria Island
Guests of Dans Florida Condos (www.dansfloridacondos.com), on Anna Maria Island can leave the pots and pans at home while vacationing. Not only do our units include a full kitchen will everything you need to make a scrambled egg to Thanksgiving dinner, the more adventurous traveler can now take cooking classes while visiting Anna Maria Island!
Other
Oscar Mayer Wienermobile makes Pitstop on AMI
Meat the hot-doggers.
Other
Anna Maria Island Turtle Nesting Watch
Guests of Dans Florida Condos (www.dansfloridacondos.com) and Anna Maria Island are urged to educate themselves on many of the rules and regulations that protect the many Sea Turtles that share the island with them. This years “Turtle Watch” has come a few weeks early, due to warmer than normal climate and water currents in the Gulf of Mexico.
Other
Farewell Red Tide; Anna Maria Island Has Prevailed
Guests ofDans Florida Condoshave waited a while, but we can now officially announce that Anna Maria Island, FL is now clear of Red Tide! Anna Maria Island and a majority of the Gulf Shores have been affected by Red Tide since the mid summer of 2018. The island showed extreme improvement in Sept/Oct and hasn’t really shown any remnants of the nasty Red Tide since.
Other
Hurricane Idalia Anna Maria Island; Ready and Resilient!
We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who reached out to us atDan’s Florida Condosthis 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.
Other
Now Offering Ground Floor Options
We’re thrilled to share some fantastic news with all our wonderful guests! Dan’s Florida Condos now offers ground floor Runaway Bay units! We understand that while our second-story units boast breathtaking views and less foot noise from above, some guests may have limitations or simply prefer the convenience of ground floor accommodations while on vacation.
Other
Free Vacation Rental Giveaway at Dan's Florida Condos ; Anna Maria Island, FL
The wait is over!We are excited to announce our Week Stay Giveaway at Dan’s Florida Condos, in Anna Maria Island, Florida. That’s right, a vacation at Dan’s Florida Condos all to yourself, FREE! Imagine dipping your toes in the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico while having some extra cash to take that special someone to a seaside dinner, or poolside Pina Coladas. With just a few clicks you could be on your way to creating lifelong memories with your friends and family and the best part… it’s on our dime.
Other
Last Minute Vacation at Dan's Florida Condos on Anna Maria Island!
Looking for a spontaneous getaway? Look no further!Dan’s Florida Condos on Anna Maria Island, Floridahave got you covered with incredible benefits for your last-minute vacation. The condos are located within theRunaway 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.
Other
2020 Runaway Bay Social Activities Announced
January thru March our volunteer Social Committee sponsors several social events that we hope will complement and enhance our guests winter vacation experience. ALL RENTERS, GUESTS, AND OWNERS ARE WELCOME.
Other
Easter Holiday Events, Anna Maria Island, FL
There’s no shortage of fun around the Easter holiday on Anna Maria Island andDans Florida Condos! Choose from events at the Sandbar Restaurant, Pine Avenue or Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant to celebrate with your family and friends, which are all a short ride or walk from the complex!
Other
Anna Maria Island Pier Update – Work to start in May!
Guests who enjoy Dan’s Florida Condos, which is located on Anna Maria Island, FL will be very happy to hear the progress on the repairs in place for the historic Anna Maria Island City Pier! Work on the Anna Maria City Pier should begin in May.
Other
Anna Maria Islands Cortez Beach, A Much-Welcomed Upgrade
Travelers from around the world flock to the sugar sand beaches of Anna Maria Island for sun, and fun. Guests of Dans Florida Condos (www.dansfloridacondos.com) situated right in the middle of the action on Anna Maria Island, benefit by not only updated vacation rentals and the beautiful grounds of the Runaway Bay community, but also exclusive access to private beach access of the Gulf of Mexico.
Other
Anna Maria Island NCAA Basketball Bracket Challenge!
Who’s up for a free week getaway on Anna Maria Island? Get in on the action by entering the Anna Maria Island NCAA Bracket Challenge!
Other
Major League Baseballs Pittsburgh Pirates return to Bradenton, FL
Dans Florida Condos, located on Anna Maria Island just 20 minutes from downtown Bradenton, FL offers snowbirds sugar sand beaches, award winning restaurants, plenty of sunshine, and close proximity to Major League Baseball Spring Training. Map:https://www.dansfloridacondos.com/ourlocation
Other
Island Golfing for a Cause, Payton Wright Foundation
Anna Maria island caters to shellers, beach bums, and folks just looking to relax. We also have some great golfing events and courses on the island and within 10-15 minute drive fromDans Florida Condos!
Other
Anna Maria Island – Voted 6th Happiest Seaside Town in U.S.
Guests ofDans Florida Condos, have asked a favor of me throughout the years: “Help keep our little island paradise a secret”. Nestled on Florida’s Southwest Gulf coast just south of Clearwater and north of Sarasota, Anna Maria Island is the perfect vacation spot for a quiet Old-Time Florida holiday.
Other
Hurricane Irma, No Test for Anna Maria Island
Firstly, we would like to thank you for the out pouring of prayers, best wishes and kind emails that we have received during Irma Hurricane.Many good wishes came in from our past, future guests as well as on our social media platformFacebook – Dans Florida Condos. We thank you so very much!!!!
Other
Anna Maria Island NCAA Basketball Bracket Elite 8 Standings!
Anna Maria Island NCAA Bracket Challenge Update!
Other
How to Avoid Hidden Booking Fees that Big Box Sites Charge
For the past seven years I have used VRBO/Homeaway as my advertising venue for the rental of Dans Florida Condos. I have two immaculate 2br and 1br units located on Anna Maria Island (Central Gulf Coast, in Bradenton Beach, FL). Last year VRBO/Homeaway was purchased by Expedia and immediately began changing their business profile. The first thing was to add a “Service Fee” of 7-13% to our rates all of which was passed on to you the renter. At the same time, we could see no benefit to you for that fee.
Other
Anna Maria Island Heritage Festival and Settler's Market
Snowbird and summertime travelers from all over the world visit Anna Maria Island, Florida for sunshine, beach time, and endless family activities. Guests who visit and stay at Dans Florida Condos (www.dansfloridacondos.com) often are surprised by the deep history and unique welcoming cultural events that island has to offer as well.
Get special offers and updates sent straight to your inbox by subscribing to our newsletter!