As the Beaches Expert for VISIT FLORIDA, I frequently get questions from folks looking for a great place to take the whole family for a relaxing, safe and fun Spring Break. I often recommend Anna Maria Island.

Anna Maria Island is just west of the City of Bradenton (my home town). The island has three cities: Bradenton Beach in the south, Anna Maria in the north and Holmes Beach in between. It offers white sand, clear water, a nice selection of shells and a family atmosphere. There are two things it does NOT offer: 1) high-rise buildings on the beach and 2) nightlife for party animals.

If you'd like more assurance that Anna Maria Island is perfect for a family getaway during Spring Break, check out an article by Rick Catlin, reporter for the Islander, Anna Maria's newspaper, called "Island Spring Break is Family Affair."

In the article, Anna Maria's Chamber President Mary Ann Brockman is quoted as saying that Anna Maria doesn't advertise for spring breakers. Further, owners of island resorts emphasize that Anna Maria is a family destination and that there isn't much for college-age Spring Breakers to do at night.

If you are looking for a relaxed family atmosphere, Anna Maria may have just what you're looking for.