Don’t book your Holmes Beach FL rentals without learning about things to do in Holmes Beach first! Holmes Beach is a sweet haven with sugar-white sand beaches and glossy waters. But there’s more to see in this exquisite tourist destination.
Beach House Rentals has invested its time and resources to provide tourists with a full detailed guide to Holmes Beach. Here is everything you need to know about the famous Holmes Beach to get you super excited about your trip to this renowned tourist destination, as well as the perfect Holmes Beach rentals to sit back and relax after a fun-filled day.
About Holmes Beach
Holmes Beach is a city situated between Anna Maria City to the north and Bradenton Beach to the south. Before it was a city known for its turquoise waters and sandy beaches, Holmes Beach lay desolate until 1896.
Sam and Annie Cobb made up to 160 acres of what is now Holmes Beach their home. They were shortly followed by John R. Jones and Jose Casanas. These people attracted significant attention to the region leading to significant developments such as the post office built in 1902.
However, it was after World War II that the Holmes Beach we know today started taking shape. Jack Holmes built a community spanning 600 acres, marking the beginning of the urbanization of the region.
The city has steadily risen and grown into a tourist attraction that promises safe and exciting adventures. At Holmes Beach, you find a small population of locals, roughly 3,000 residents, who are equally energetic, easy-going, and dedicated to ensuring tourists have a fun time.
Restaurants
Holmes Beach is the epitome of fine dining with its countless Holmes Beach restaurants that offer freshly made dishes with a creative touch to freshly caught seafood. Here are some of our top picks for you and your loved ones.
Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe
Located on 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe offers a creative dining experience for tourists. You can choose to eat indoors or step out to the outdoor sitting set up and enjoy your meal with a view of the majestic gulf waters.
Their menu is equally unique with entrees such as All You Can Eat Pancakes, Belgian waffles, toast, sandwiches and wraps, platters, and Island salads, all creatively prepared. Drinks served include beverages and cocktails. Best of all, you can go for a swim by the beach and come back to the restaurant’s outdoor showers before ordering a meal to re-energize yourself.
The Ugly Grouper
The Ugly Grouper takes outdoor dining to a whole new level with all its operations being outside. There are both free eating spaces and some covered with tents to hide from the brightly shining Holmes Beach sun.
This way you get to do three things at once, eat good food, bask and get that tan, and enjoy the attractive beaches. Their menu features equally creative with fantastic frozen drinks, cocktails, tacos filled with melted cheese, sandwiches, and many more! Find this creative spot at 5704 Marina Dr, Holmes Beach.
Blueberries Cafe & Wine
A vibrant cafe with a unique history located at 5337 Gulf Dr #300, Blueberries Cafe & Wine will surely make you appreciate healthy food. The cafe’s mission is to provide healthy dishes that encourage people to reconnect with nature and enhance their well-being.
Their breakfast menu includes Arepa King, Avo Toast, Empanadas baked, Bagels with cream cheese, and different varieties of croissants. You will also find Paninis, Wraps, Pizza, and Bowls, all made with healthy ingredients. Njoy drinks such as green juices, smoothies, green tea, and healthy shots.
Bars
A vacation cannot be complete without a drink or two. Here are our top picks of the best bars in Holmes Beach.
Dcoy Ducks
Dcoy Ducks will make your world go round with a chill refreshing beer. Located in the Island Shopping Center in Holmes Beach on 5410 Marina Dr. Holmes Beach, the bar features amazing events to get your groove on. Fun at Dcoy starts as early as 10:30 a.m. allowing you to enjoy all their amazing events such as Karaoke on Wednesday, Trivia Nights on Tuesday, and Happy Hour on Fridays and Saturdays.
The Doctor’s Office
The Doctor’s Office is a fun-filled bar with an eccentric story. The bar is built on what was a doctor’s office, thus the quirky name. The bar boasts a variety of true craft cocktails, chef-made food, and an unmatchable ambiance. Find this creative spot on 5312 Holmes Blvd.
Shopping
Nothing screams vacation like a good day of Holmes Beach shopping. Here are the best spots to pass by in Holmes Beach.
Sand Dollar Gift Shop
Find amazing gifts for yourself and loved ones back home at Sand Dollar Gift Shop. Located at 5302 Marina Dr., Holmes Beach, the shop offers gift products with a beachy vibe, from decor, jewelry, clothes, vases, and many more. Find this spot at 5302 Marina Dr., Holmes Beach, FL Monday to Saturday between 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Saltair
Located at 5508 Marina Dr., Saltair offers fantastic decor items inspired by the beach. You will find both large and small decor items from customized furniture, home decor, and hand-poured candles, to clothes, and many more.
Irene’s Resort Wear
Irene’s Resort Wear on 5308 Marina Dr. is the spot to go hunt for amazing beach wear. Find dresses, swimsuit cover-ups, fashionable footwear, beach bags, and accessories.
Attractions
Spare some time to explore some of Holmes Beach’s famous attractions that keep tourists coming back.
Manatee Public Beach
Manatee Public Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Anna Maria Island. The beach is famed for its combination of unique views and breeze as well as comfort from amenities such as benches, bike racks, grills, and picnic tables. Don’t forget to visit the amazing restaurants on the beach.
Island Gallery West
A cooperative of over thirty regional artists, Island Gallery West provides a large selection of authentic fine art created locally, along with organized show receptions and demonstrations. They also offer art classes allowing tourists to have a try at creating something special.
Island Therapeutics
A unique massage treatment facility, Island Therapeutics employs a multidisciplinary approach to massage therapy. They specialize in relaxation therapy, Swedish massage, neuromuscular massage therapy, and raindrop aromatherapy treatment, so be ready to unwind.
Plan Your Visit!
Are you ready to plan your next adventure on Anna Maria Island? Browse our entire selection of rentals in Holmes Beach and find the perfect match for your stay today!
Book Your Anna Maria Island Vacation Rental With Beach House Real Estate
Book your Holmes Beach vacation rental with Beach House Rental and enjoy seamless booking and a comfy place to stay. Our years of experience are reflected in every guest we serve who gets to experience true comfort, high-end services, and a dedicated team of professionals to guide you during your stay.
At Beach House Rentals, we collaborate with property owners to ensure all units are well-decorated and with all the amenities needed for a cozy stay. Browse through our wide selection of Holmes Beach Rentals for the ideal unit for your next vacation.
Whether you are looking for a small unit or a spacious 4-5 bedroom unit, Beach House Rentals has the perfect one for you. Browse through our family-friendly Holmes Beach vacation Rentals that would be ideal for your family. Book with us today for that picture-perfect vacation that will stay stuck in your memories.
