An Anna Maria Afternoon

With powder-soft sand stretching seven miles along the Gulf of Mexico, Anna Maria Island beckons couples to spend an afternoon in the warm sun. Leave your old beach chairs at home and let Beach Suites set up a special ‘Cabana For Two.’ Complete with premium rattan chaise chairs, a cabana tent, beach towels, and more, this luxurious beach escape is perfect for spending quality time along the shore without lifting a finger. For a more laid-back beach experience, contact AMI Cabanas for a perfectly shady setup. They will provide your canopy, chairs, and all the essentials, ensuring your beach day is completely hassle-free.

Hungry? Consider getting a picnic setup by Gulf Shore Charcuterie, or pick up lunch at The Cheesecake Cutie & Cafe. If you’d rather stay put, Scott’s Deli will deliver your meal right to your chair on the beach. Enjoy the convenience and focus on making memories together.

Appetizers & A Sunset Cocktail

For an unforgettable dining experience, Bradenton offers a variety of romantic restaurants perfect for date night. Here are some top picks:

The Blue Marlin, Bradenton Beach: Nestled in a charming 1920s cottage, The Blue Marlin offers fresh seafood dishes with a Southern twist, providing a cozy and intimate atmosphere.

Beach Bistro, Holmes Beach: Renowned for its exceptional cuisine and beachfront location, Beach Bistro is the epitome of fine dining. Savor gourmet dishes while watching the sun set over the Gulf.

The Waterfront, Anna Maria: Enjoy fresh, locally-sourced cuisine in a relaxed, waterfront setting. The Waterfront’s menu boasts a range of delectable options, from seafood to steaks.

Chateau 13, Downtown Bradenton: This downtown gem offers a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on French cuisine. The intimate ambiance is perfect for a romantic evening out.

Isola Bella Italian Eatery, Holmes Beach: Experience authentic Italian flavors in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Isola Bella’s menu features classic Italian dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.

The Porch Restaurant, Anna Maria: Situated in a beautifully restored historic home, The Porch offers a delightful dining experience with a menu that combines Southern hospitality and gourmet cuisine.

Mattison’s Riverwalk Grille’s open-air restaurant is the perfect place to experience the Bradenton Area riverfront, especially during the evening. Festoon lights and tabletop firepits are the perfect setting to enjoy a delectable, chef-inspired meal with your date.

For an extra special meal, book a multi-course tasting experience at The Palmetto B&B. Dining at Palmetto Riverside features multi-course tasting menus served in the Riverfront room of their historic 1913 home. The menus change daily and proudly include local produce, seafood, and dairy whenever available. Each menu offers customized wine pairings in addition to a full wine list. Inspired by the cuisine of France, Belgium, Italy, and Spain, the chef creates not just a dinner experience, but a culinary journey in an intimate, historic, waterfront dining room.

Craft Cocktails to Elevate Your Date Vibes

For couples who appreciate finely crafted cocktails, the Bradenton area offers an impressive selection of spots where mixology is an art form. Here are some must-visit places to sip on innovative drinks and enjoy a chic atmosphere:

Craftails Speakeasy, Downtown Bradenton: This downtown gem is renowned for its creative cocktail menu and stylish ambiance. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic or something more adventurous, Craftails has the perfect drink to complement your date night.

The Doctor’s Office, Holmes Beach: As its name suggests, this unique bar is housed in what used to be an actual doctor’s office. The Doctor’s Office offers a curated selection of craft cocktails made with high-quality ingredients, providing a quirky and intimate setting for a memorable evening.

O’bricks Irish Pub & Martini Bar, Downtown Bradenton: Combining the charm of an Irish pub with the sophistication of a martini bar, O’bricks offers an extensive cocktail menu. Enjoy your drinks in their cozy, inviting space or on the outdoor patio.

Oscura, Old Manatee: This trendy spot in Old Manatee is perfect for those looking to explore new and exciting flavors. Oscura’s skilled bartenders craft inventive cocktails that are sure to impress, making it a great choice for a night out.

SALT Bar & Table, Bradenton Beach: SALT Bar & Table is known for its expertly crafted cocktails and relaxed atmosphere. It’s a fantastic spot to unwind and enjoy a refreshing drink with your special someone.

Bamboo Island Bar, Bradenton Beach: For a more tropical vibe, head to Bamboo Island Bar. Their cocktail menu is full of island-inspired creations that are perfect for sipping while enjoying the laid-back beach ambiance.

Romantic Ramble Along the River

Grasp your date’s hand and take a romantic stroll down historic Old Main Street and onto the Bradenton Riverwalk. Immerse yourselves in the architecture of the century-old buildings and the diners enjoying their al fresco meals. The buzz of downtown fades away as you approach the Riverwalk and hear the river lapping at the seawall and hulls of the yachts in the marina. This public park is popular at all hours of the day (and evening), so enjoy the nearly two-mile stroll along the lighted path. Strolling the Bradenton Riverwalk hand in hand at sunset is a must-do. Take in the public art, enjoy the serene views, and relish the time spent together.

Date Nights Don’t Stop Here

There are countless ways to connect with your loved one in the Bradenton area! Whether you’re exploring new restaurants, enjoying a beach day, or taking a romantic walk, the Bradenton area offers endless opportunities to create lasting memories with your significant other.