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Modern, Laid-Back Condos Steps from Beach

In 1948, MGM used Anna Maria Island as a stand-in for Hawaii in On an Island with You. It was one of the studio's big-budget musicals set on the beach, and it starred songstress Esther Williams. Generations of beach-goers have frolicked in her footsteps in this outpost of paradise just off the southwestern coast of Florida. The Beach Club at Anna Maria, a laid-back resort made up of sunshine-colored stucco and surrounded by palms, is located in this laid-back paradise.

The white-sand beach is just across the street from the one-bedroom condos, which have access to a rooftop sun deck overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. The rooms themselves each feature stainless-steel appliances and granite countertops in full kitchens, as well as an in-unit washer and dryer. Downstairs, you can relax in the hot tub or swim in an outdoor pool. Less than a block away, you can hop on a complimentary trolley to head to head in to town.

Anna Maria Island, Florida: Relaxed Resort Community with Picture-Perfect Beaches

Anna Maria Island is located on Florida's Gulf Coast, about 21 miles northwest of Sarasota. It's a draw year-round for its sunny weather, and high-rise hotels are strictly forbidden here, meaning you can typically get a nice view of the beach and the sun. The historical Anna Maria city pier bustles with beach-themed stores and a popular ice-cream shop. You can get fresh seafood and fruity cocktails at tables set right out on the beach.

It's also worth it to check out the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, which encompass 14 acres of more than 20,000 exotic plants and trees.