Two AMI Resorts Debut Fresh New LooksRefreshed & Reimagined

It’s easy to understand the appeal of staying on Anna Maria Island. Who wouldn’t want to escape to this hidden paradise with its beautiful beaches of sugar-white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters? Better yet, wake up in this heavenly spot?!  

The island offers a variety of ways to do just that, including two treasured beachfront properties that just underwent major renovations to enhance their already top-notch guest experience. From modern updates and even more amenities at Silver Surf Gulf Beach Resort to a totally new yet nostalgic concept at Mello on the Beach, both places are adding to the charm of Anna Maria Island in their own special way. Keep reading for a look at the upgrades! 

(Rest easy, travelers. All work has been completed on these projects–so there’s no need to worry about loud construction noises getting in the way of your R & R or family fun.) 

Silver Surf Gulf Beach Resort Freshens Up While Staying True to Its Roots

For more than 50 years, Silver Surf Gulf Beach Resort has been providing guests with an exceptional place to stay near beautiful Bradenton Beach. One of the only spots (if not the only spot) to offer guests a complimentary grab-and-go breakfast, the resort knows the importance of those little details that make a big difference when traveling. So naturally, its recent makeover follows suit. 

“Every room was taken back to the studs,” recounts owner and operator Angela Rodocker, whose mother first opened the place in 1984. In addition to rewiring, upgrading appliances like A/C units, and freshening up the overall look and feel, a great deal of thought went into each room’s function and how best to maximize its space–something especially important for Silver Surf’s main clientele: families. 

The team prioritized storage, adding extra drawers under the bed and closet space throughout. They chose sofa wall beds that could create a living area during the day and double as a place to sleep at night. Of course, they didn’t sacrifice on something as important as a good night’s rest, so every room has an actual bed with a mattress, too. Not to mention, all rooms–even those without full kitchens–have apartment-sized refrigerators for keeping drinks and snacks on hand or bringing back leftovers. Think tiny living, except “we turned it into tiny vacationing,” Rodocker says.

Updates weren’t limited to guest rooms either. Silver Surf elevated its outdoor grilling area, providing travelers with a contemporary and convenient spot to prepare fresh, local seafood or cook up an easy post-beach feast of burgers and dogs. The pool area was redone and refreshed with all-new pool furniture. Even at the resort’s private beach, guests will find new chairs and umbrellas–which are complimentary and reserved for Silver Surf guests only.  

While not part of the recent enhancements, other next-level amenities loved by guests include water sports rentals, bicycle rentals, and relaxing [Sea-renity massages](https://searenityspa.com/) offered beachside in a private tiki hut.  

It’s laid-back with a touch of luxury, and it’s yours to enjoy when you book a room at Silver Surf Gulf Beach Resort today!

Mello on the Beach Transports Guests to Slower, Stylish Time

Further north on the island, in the welcoming city of Holmes Beach, is a “new” spot for travelers to stay along the shoreline, aptly called Mello on the Beach. While it’s technically not a new build–long-time locals and AMI loyals may remember it as the Aquarius Motel and, before that, the Anna Maria Island Beach Resort–the property has been totally reimagined to provide a better, fresher experience. Its owners, Mainsail Vacation Rentals, opted for a fun mod style, reminiscent of the 1960s and a time when life moved a little slower. Basically, the reason people come to Anna Maria Island in the first place!  

Great for couples and younger families looking to unplug and reconnect on vacation, Mello offers guests the comforts and privacy of a rental home with the flexibility and amenities of a five-star hotel. All Mello rooms–whether you’re staying in a one, two, or three bedroom–feature full kitchens and have full-size washers and dryers in the units. They’re equipped with everything you need for a great day at the beach or pool, from beach chairs and umbrellas to personal coolers, towels, and more. Plus, it’s one of the only spots on the island that welcomes your four-legged family members. “You really do have your own private condo-type residence in any of the units,” says Theresa Greene, Director of Business Development at Mainsail Vacation Rentals. And unlike typical standalone rentals, there’s no minimum stay length, making Mello perfect for a quick getaway. 

Aside from the property’s private beach that’s just steps away, guests love mello-ing out at the picturesque pool, on the activity lawn where they can play a game of cornhole or ladderball, or by the firepit after a fun-filled day. 

And when it’s time to explore a little farther, vacationers can take a short stroll into town for a drink or some shopping, pedal around Anna Maria Island on Mello’s rental bikes, or hop aboard the island’s free trolley. “Our location is really spectacular,” Greene says. Right next to a trolley stop at Holmes Public Beach, staying at Mello means you can “come, park, leave your car, hop on the trolley, and go from one end of the island to the other.”  

It’s also worth noting that Mello and Mainsail Vacation Rentals are proud members of The 100 Collection a designation awarded to only one operator in each market that is setting the gold standard for excellence when it comes to a rental property’s condition, the service guests receive, as well as the company’s partnership within the community. 

Ready to book your stay at Mello on the Beach? You can find your perfect room setup on the site and reserve your spot up to a year in advance!