Location: Anna Maria Island, Florida
There’s something special about a vacation home that brings everyone together. From infants to great-grandparents—and even family members with unique mobility needs—sharing one welcoming space creates unforgettable memories and deep connection.
On our trip to Anna Maria Island, Florida in early summer of 2022, our family experienced just that: the joy of simply being together in a beachside home that, while not perfect, included a few key features that made it easier for everyone to enjoy. More than a vacation—it was a celebration of inclusion, rest, and quality time.
The Magic of Multigenerational Travel
Our family group ranged from a 91-year-old great-grandmother to an uncle living with multiple sclerosis, all the way down to our early-rising 5-month old. Having one home that could accommodate everyone—safely, comfortably, and under one roof—made all the difference.
What worked for us?
• An elevator to move between levels with ease (no one had to sit out or feel stuck and an ease of use for wagons, suitcases, and all things with wheels)
• Zero-entry access to the elevator area, which made it safer for wheels and walkers
• Wide doorways that allowed smooth movement with rollators
• Step-in showers and lever-style door handles and faucets for easier access
• A pool with a tanning shelf, ideal for lounging or safe water play (especially for babies and toddlers!)
• A beach just steps away, which kept the group connected without long treks
These simple but thoughtful features reduced barriers—and elevated our experience.
The Real Highlight? Being Together
One of the most beautiful aspects of this trip was simply being in one place—eating meals together, sharing sunrise coffee, and winding down with ocean breezes after a day of playing, swimming, or relaxing.
Thanks to portable access mats we purchased from Access Trax, my grandmother and brother-in-law were able to sit on the beach with the entire family—something that wouldn’t have been possible otherwise. Even better? We extended the mats all the way to the shoreline, and my brother-in-law made it into the water. Pure JOY.
Access Trax creates lightweight, foldable mats designed to make outdoor terrain more accessible for people who use mobility aids—ideal for sand, grass, and gravel. It was a game-changer for our trip.
The kids had room to play. The older adults could stay involved without strain. And my brother-in-law, who lives with multiple sclerosis, had the independence and dignity that thoughtful design can provide—even when it’s not the main focus.
While the home itself wasn’t fully accessible, our experience was a powerful reminder: sometimes, small adaptations—like an elevator or a shower chair, or in this case, a set of access mats—can make a huge difference in creating inclusion for everyone.
Why We Fell in Love with Anna Maria Island
Beyond the house itself, Anna Maria Island stole our hearts. This small Gulf Coast gem is known for its walkability, friendly vibe, and old Florida charm. Some of our favorite features:
• Free trolley service around the island (although, we never used it…the island was walkable and great for runners)
• Golf cart rentals for easy travel
• Calm bay waters perfect for all ages and abilities
• Peaceful sunrises and soft sand beaches
• Local eats, like The Donut Experiment and island-fresh seafood
Just an hour’s drive from St. Petersburg, we even explored St. Pete Pier, which is beautifully accessible—walkable, rollable, and stroller-friendly. And yes, we indulged in the locally made cashew brittle from Son’ni Boi & Petal (a must-try).
Fun fact: my great-great-grandfather, Charles Monroe Blanc, was the Mayor of St. Pete from 1925–1926—so the area holds personal meaning too.
A Note on Inclusive Vacation Design
This experience reminded us of something important: universal design doesn’t mean “institutional” or “clinical.” It means flexibility, comfort, and dignity for everyone.
If you’re building or renovating a vacation home, consider adding:
• At least one curbless shower
• Grab bars near toilets and in showers (even vertical bars make a difference)
• Removable showerheads for ease of use (and cleaning!)
• Contrast strips or lighting on stairs
• Rubber thresholds to ease transitions across sliding doors
• A shower chair available on request (we rented one through a local beach rental company along with all things baby-related)
• A wider beach gate for beach wheelchairs
• A chair in each bedroom for dressing or luggage
These small touches aren’t just for older adults or those with mobility challenges. They make life easier for parents with strollers, folks recovering from injury, and guests of all ages.
Final Reflection: Home Is Where We’re Together
This vacation wasn’t about fancy amenities or flashy features. It was about the quiet joy of watching four generations under one roof laugh, share meals, explore, and rest—together.
Anna Maria Island gave us a setting for that connection to flourish, and we’ll treasure the memories forever.
No, this specific home may not be available to rent anymore. But the experience—the togetherness, the access, the simplicity—is something every vacation rental can aspire to provide.
Booking company used: AMI Locals.
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