Beyond the beauty of its shorelines, Anna Maria Island offers a wide range of activities designed to deliver a perfect family vacation, no matter what you’re looking for. From days spent on the water kayaking, fishing, or just floating on the waves to nights enjoying the local live music scene, there’s something for everyone.
If you’re all set to go on your next Anna Maria Island vacation but are wondering where to go for the best live music, we’ve compiled a list of incredible spots for you to check out. Whether you’re looking for a cover band blasting your favorite 80s hits or a local singer-songwriter vibe, you can find it here. Check out our selection of the top 4 places to see live music on Anna Maria Island and start dreaming of your getaway today!
Ugly Grouper
A tried-and-true classic. The Ugly Grouper is the first spot that comes to mind for locals when they think of restaurants with live music on Anna Maria Island. They take their live music seriously, with a different artist playing every night of the week (and some nights, they have multiple acts!). Ugly Grouper is a venue for the whole family, with menu offerings ranging from grouper kabobs to a kids menu corndog for picky eaters. Performers are often talented local musicians playing songs you’re sure to recognize. So if you're looking for a great place to take the family, add this one to the list!
Be sure to check out their upcoming events while you're in town!
Clancy’s Irish Sports Pub & Grill
At Clancy’s Irish Sports Pub & Grill, you can witness the entertainment or even take part in it! The pub offers a great selection of entertainment options, with live bands playing 3+ times a week, two nights of karaoke, and even pub poker & bingo nights. Happy Hour at Clancy’s is from 4-7 M-F and includes great deals for a budget friendly vacation! Bands encompass several genres, mainly falling into the alternative/rock world, but you will find acoustic singer-songwriters there as well. Whether you want to become a karaoke queen or stay off stage and leave it to the pros, the best way to see what Clancy’s has to offer during your trip is to check out their events page.
Craftails Speakeasy
Live musicians create the perfect atmosphere to indulge in one of Craftails’ signature cocktails. Offering an elevated experience for a tasteful evening out on the town, every cocktail is carefully curated, from the “Fuego Paloma” to the “Life Gives You Lavender” Martini. With pianists and saxophonists setting the scene, you'll feel like you've been transported back to the 20s when you visit this local staple.
Stop by on Thursday and Saturday for live music, or check out their Facebook page to view the current entertainment schedule. If you're looking for a unique cocktail experience with a sophisticated flair, this is definitely the live music venue for you.
Cottonmouth Southern Soul Kitchen
If you’re looking for top-tier talent in an appreciative listening atmosphere, Cotton Mouth Southern Soul Kitchen is the place to go. Relatively newer to the Anna Maria Island restaurant scene, Cottonmouth has been making waves with its stellar music lineups and eclectic southern cuisine. Chef/owner Dave Shiplett prides himself on putting his own original spin on classic southern comfort foods. Many restaurants in the area cater to visitors from Northern states, but Shiplett wanted to pay homage to his home and reimagine traditional southern dishes.
Cottonmouth is located a short drive from Anna Maria Island in the Village of the Arts, a collection of cottages in Bradenton, FL, that aim to preserve and expand the city’s vibrant art scene. The restaurant itself is in a 100-year-old cottage, and the artists who have graced the stage boast impressive performances. If you’re a fan of Soul, Americana, or Bluegrass music, Cottonmouth Southern Soul Kitchen is the place to be.
Delicious southern recipes and live music that will blow you away—what else could you want? Check out the current happenings at Cottonmouth here.
Book Your Stay on Anna Maria Island Today
Armed with our selection of the top four places to see live music on Anna Maria Island, the only thing left to do is book your vacation rental! Whether you’re looking for a beachfront home perfect for a large group getaway or a pet-friendly rental where even Fido can tag along, you’ll find your ideal spot at Anna Maria Island Accommodations. Plus, with our local team of experts available to answer all your questions, and the best rates in the area, you'll have peace of mind that you're in good hands. Browse our collection of Anna Maria Island vacation rentals and book your stay directly with us today!