Shopping on Bridge Street

Bridge Street was named for the wooden bridge that used to be the only way to get from Anna Maria Island to the mainland. Today, the old bridge is gone and Bridge Street has become famous for other reasons – namely, as Anna Maria Island’s hot spot for shopping on the southern part of the island.

Live like a mermaid

At the top of the street is Bridge Street Interiors, a place where you can give your home a touch of the island life. For more than 25 years, they’ve been offering expert interior design services as well as tropical and plantation-style home decor and office accessories, including wall coverings, window blinds, custom bedding, drapes, lamps and much more. But it’s not just for home design anymore. It’s now also a Mermaid Haven, where a growing selection of Mermaid-related gifts, hand-crafted jewelry and other treasures can be found.

Get the whole lot

Also at the top of the street is The Uptown Lot. As the name suggests, it offers a lot of everything – an eclectic mix of beachwear, art, toys and much more. There’s also sea shells, funny signs, candies and sauces and… Well, you get the idea. Owner Gayden Shell (yes, that’s her real last name!), a talented photographer and casual jewelry maker, moved to Anna Maria to photograph the island, and the flora and fauna who call it home. Just like the artist herself, the shop reflects her artistic sensibilities, with something for everyone – from newborn baby to your lucky puppy.

A treasure trove of finds

Upon first entering Back Alley Treasures, you actually find yourself in a funky café/bar, lined with quirky art, furniture and accessories in bright, beachy colors. It’s the kind of prelude every great shopping spree should have. Pull up a seat at the bar and pick your poison: a flight of vino, hand-crafted coffee, refreshing (or boozy) smoothie or an ice-cold beer. There are also fresh muffins, pastries and other light bites. But the real treasures are in the back: gifts, souvenirs, post cards, natural jewelry, clothing and many other island finds.

Soothe the senses

With a name like Sea-Renity Beach Spa and Bou-tiki, you might think this is the place to come for beachy puns. But in reality, what you find is no joke: complete peace, relaxation and self-care. Where else can you get a massage right on the beach inside a tiki hut? Or do yoga facing the calming waters of the Gulf of Mexico? Back inside the spa is more massage therapy, skin care and even intuitive readings. And after you’ve been relieved of all your stress, go to the Bou-tiki for jewelry, all-cotton clothing, wellness items and gulf-inspired gifts.

Beachwear from the siren

Across the street and a just to the east is Bridge Street Bazaar, a favorite for visitors and locals alike. It’s impossible to miss. Just look for the tattooed mermaid above the entrance. But the only danger here is walking out with more bags than you can carry. Inside is everything you need for a day at the beach: apparel for men, women and children from quality beachwear brands Costa and Salt Life. There’s also beach and novelty items such as decals, shells and more.

Sparkle and shine

Further down the street is Bridge Street Jewelers, your spot for beach bling. Where else would you go for a Sterling Silver Pave Crystal Pendant in the shape of a starfish, palm tree or octopus – or one made from a coin recovered from a Spanish galleon? There are also bracelets, earrings, rings and much more. Products are grouped by collection (Alamea 2016-2017, Anna Maria Island Sea Life, or Reyes del Mar) or by featured artists like Denny Wong or Steven Douglas. Prices go as low as $49 or as high as $3,000.