If you're cruising the Gulf Coast of Florida, add the new docks at Holmes Beach's Waterline Marina Resort & Beach Club to the top of your float plan.
Nestled in an inlet on Anna Maria Island, Waterline is an easy cruise to the Gulf of Mexico or Sarasota Bay and the perfect full-service stopover for boats up to 45'.
Waterline’s recreation staff have the tips and tricks for all activities on the water and land.
Instead of a dock dog, Waterline has a resident manatee & her new calf who frequently visit the marina!
The staff's philosophy: "Once you arrive you are on island time, let us do all the heavy lifting."
Samuel Cobb was one of Anna Maria Island’s first homesteaders, founding Holmes Beach in 1895. Cobb established many buildings on the island corner, which included a boat manufacturer & repair shop. He also created a marina which was located on the same land in which Waterline’s marina exists today.
In honor of Cobb and his marina, Waterline has named their Resort Game Area, “Cobb’s Corner.” Cobb's Corner has become the go-to hang-out on the island, especially for those who need a break in the shade from the Florida sunshine. Boaters can find games such as ping pong, life-size Jenga, cornhole and other fun activities for all ages.
In 1954, the marina became Pete Reynard’s Yacht Club Restaurant, which quickly became an island favorite. The seafood & steakhouse was most famous for its rotating salad bar. After changing hands several times, it closed for good in 2000.
In 2014, Mainsail Lodging & Development bought the much sought-after property and began construction on Waterline Marina Resort & Beach Club. For years, diners enjoyed the same views of the Bay, and Waterline is happy to give boaters and guest this opportunity once again.
Directions to the resort’s marina via boat can be found on Waterline’s website here.
Approach Pro-tip: Pay attention to the channel markers while approaching the marina at low tide!
Boaters can enjoy resort amenities including laundry, facilities, resort style pool, towels and restrooms for $20/day resort fee.
Boaters have complimentary access to Waterline's restaurant and full bar, Eliza Ann's Coastal Kitchen. They offer a daily happy hour featuring $5 small plates, beer, wine and mixed drinks from 3-6 PM.
Some of the Waterline’s staff’s favorite nearby restaurants include The Donut Experiment (pictured), Sandbar, and The Waterfront Restaurant.
At The Donut Experiment, every donut is your own creation. Start with a fresh-made cake donut and then pick from their huge selection of icings and toppings. We can see why it would be a local favorite!
Another favorite of Waterfront's Staff, the Beach Bistro is a world-class beachfront restaurant where people may dine by candlelight in the sand. ZAGAT ranked Beach Bistro 4.9 out of 5 stars, receiving the highest rating in Florida and #11 in the Country.
Stock up on groceries at Island Fresh Market, a locally-owned business just steps from Waterline’s marina. The Market specializes in local seafood, seasonal produce, prepared goods and groceries to complement any meal. If you're in a crunch, they will even steam your Florida wild-caught shrimp!
There are a few local marina supply stores. The two island favorites are Keyes Island Discount Tackle (pictured left) and AMI Outfitters. The island has all of your marine, fishing gear and apparel covered.
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The Florida Maritime Museum is one Waterline would highly recommend. The museum sits in the historic fishing village of Cortez. With a focus on the area's fishing history, the Museum is housed in the 1912 Schoolhouse and features exhibits, programming and a walking tour of the Village.
One of the island's biggest events, Bayfest, takes place in mid-October. The annual event is family-friendly and includes live music, a classic car show, and delicious food and beverage vendors along the way.
Boaters will also find many parades on Anna Maria Island, including parades for St. Patrick's Day, the Fourth of July, and Christmas.
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Waterline hosted their first Inaugural Fourth of July BBQ and Coastal Food Fest in the month of July and is gearing up now for their Labor Day Bash.
Waterline hosts many activities throughout the year including their Nom-aste Brunch Yoga sessions in their Promenade!
Beer Can Island sits at the north end of Longboat Key. Boaters can arrive by boat or if on Longboat Key, they can even walk to it in low tide! Swimming is not advised, as the Island itself was formed by strong currents. Lounging on this tranquil island is encouraged & advised.
Another note-worthy day trip includes Egmont Key. This island is only accessible by boat and is home to a National Wildlife Refuge. The Key is ideal for cooling off in the crystal clear water or exploring everything the island has to offer. The most famous it the lighthouse, built in 1898.
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Many guides and charters run out of Waterline’s marina, including parasailing, catamarans, dolphin cruises, and sunset sails. The marina is also home to award-winning fishing guides, who are sure to provide a lasting experience on the water.
Post by Amanda Jones
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