Exploring Anna Maria Island: Which Airport Is Best?

Planning a trip to Anna Maria Island? There are no airports on the island itself, but there are several airports nearby offering travel to the area. The closest airport is Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ), located just 13-16 miles south of the island. Other nearby airports include St. Petersburg (PIE) (27.3 miles), Tampa (TPA) (34.1 miles), Ft. Myers (RSW) (90.9 miles), and Orlando (MCO) (107.5 miles).

Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ)

SRQ offers a range of amenities and services to enhance your travel experience. The airport provides 30 minutes of free parking in the short-term parking lot, making it convenient for picking up or dropping off passengers. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing travellers to stay connected. There are also numerous seating stations equipped with electrical outlets for charging electronic devices. Flight tracking screens are strategically placed throughout the airport, providing live radar feeds of arriving and departing flights.

The Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport website offers a mobile version with essential information such as airport schedules, flight status, dining and shopping services, and other useful details. They also have a Facebook page where you can stay updated on airport happenings and receive special offers from their airline partners.

When travelling to Anna Maria Island, SRQ is an excellent choice for a smooth and convenient travel experience, ensuring you can begin your island adventure without a hitch.

Tampa International Airport (TPA)

TPA is a good choice for travellers looking for a wide range of flight options, and the airport's website provides information on airlines, parking, and more. Transportation from the airport is convenient, with options such as car rentals, taxis, shuttles, and luxury transfers available to get you to your destination seamlessly.

For those driving from TPA to Anna Maria Island, the scenic route will take you over the famous Skyway Bridge and along the majestic Manatee River. There is a small toll charge for passing over the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, so be sure to have some cash or change on hand.

Tampa International Airport is a great option for travellers looking for a seamless travel experience, with world-class amenities and easy access to Anna Maria Island.

St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE)

The airport itself has a rich history as a former military flight-training base, and visitors can marvel at the commemorative exhibit dedicated to Brigadier General James H. Howard. In terms of transportation, visitors can choose between a rental car or shuttle service to make the trip to their Anna Maria Island accommodations.

The airport is located in the heart of Tampa Bay, offering easy access to nearby destinations such as Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Clearwater. It is just a short 45-minute to 1-hour drive to Anna Maria Island, making it a quick and convenient option for travellers.

For those looking to rent a car, St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport offers several car rental agencies, making it easy for visitors to secure transportation for their trip. The airport is also served by various airlines, providing travellers with different options for their journey.

Overall, St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport is a great choice for those looking for a combination of convenience, history, and accessibility for their trip to Anna Maria Island. With its proximity to the island and the surrounding area, visitors can easily explore all that the region has to offer.

Orlando International Airport (MCO)

The drive from MCO to Anna Maria Island takes approximately 2 and a half hours, mostly on the interstate. There are a couple of toll charges along the way, so be sure to plan accordingly. You can also get from the airport to the island by train and taxi, which takes around 4 hours, or by bus, which takes around 6 and a half hours. The fastest way to get to Anna Maria Island is by pre-booking a taxi or minibus to be waiting for you upon arrival. The cheapest way to travel to the island is by bus, with shared transport options being the most economical.

Fort Myers Airport (RSW)

The distance from Fort Myers Airport to Anna Maria Island is about 102-103 miles by road. The fastest and most cost-effective way to travel between the two points is by car, which takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes and costs between $18 and $27.

It is also possible to travel between Fort Myers Airport and Anna Maria Island by bus, although this takes significantly longer at around 4 hours, and costs between $57 and $150.

When considering which airport to fly into, it is worth taking into account the time and cost of travelling to Anna Maria Island, as well as factors such as car rental costs and the time of day you will be travelling.

Frequently asked questions