🏈 Football Season on Anna Maria Island
Football season is always an exciting time, whether you're a passionate NFL fan, following college football, or simply enjoying the camaraderie and excitement of game day. If you're visiting or staying on Anna Maria Island, Florida, and don’t want to miss out on the big game, you’re in luck. The island and nearby areas offer a variety of lively sports bars on Anna Maria Island where you can cheer for your favorite team, enjoy great food, and catch all the action on big screens.
At Once Upon A Beach, we want to ensure that your stay is as fun and memorable as possible. To help you get the most out of your football season on Anna Maria Island, here’s a roundup of the top bars and restaurants to watch football near Anna Maria Island, where you can catch every touchdown in a welcoming, vibrant atmosphere.
1. Slim’s Place – Anna Maria
📍 9701 Gulf Dr, Anna Maria
If you're looking for a cozy Anna Maria Island sports bar with a strong football culture, Slim’s Place is one of the best. Known for its loyalty to the Philadelphia Eagles, it offers multiple TVs, cold beer, and pub favorites like cheesesteaks, wings, and burgers.
Why It’s Great: Dedicated football following, laid-back vibe, and hearty game-day food.
Best For: Eagles fans and those wanting a true sports bar experience.
2. Hurricane Hanks – Holmes Beach
📍 5346 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach
A popular Holmes Beach bar and restaurant, Hurricane Hanks draws both locals and visitors. With multiple TVs, craft beers, burgers, and seafood, it’s a lively yet relaxed place to enjoy college or NFL football.
Why It’s Great: Laid-back atmosphere with excellent food and drink options.
Best For: Fans who want a casual, beachy spot to watch the game.
3. Freckled Fin – Holmes Beach
📍 5337 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach
For an Irish pub vibe, Freckled Fin is a spirited spot for football fans on Anna Maria Island. Known for its Kansas City Chiefs following, it offers hearty pub fare, game-day specials, and plenty of screens.
Why It’s Great: Rowdy, fun pub atmosphere with loyal fans.
Best For: Chiefs fans or anyone seeking a festive football crowd.
4. Island Time Bar & Grill – Bradenton Beach
📍 111 Gulf Dr S, Bradenton Beach
Located steps from the beach, Island Time is an open-air sports bar with big-screen TVs, tropical drinks, and a lively vibe.
Why It’s Great: Beachside location with outdoor seating and a fun game-day scene.
Best For: Fans wanting football with an island twist.
5. The Ugly Grouper – Holmes Beach
📍 5704 Marina Dr, Holmes Beach
This tiki-style hotspot is a family-friendly Anna Maria Island restaurant with TVs, fresh seafood, live music, and Buccaneers fans aplenty.
Why It’s Great: Outdoor seating, tropical cocktails, and football energy.
Best For: Buccaneers fans and families looking for football fun.
6. Bridgetender Inn & Dockside Bar – Bradenton Beach
📍 135 Bridge St, Bradenton Beach
Set on the Intracoastal, this waterside bar is ideal for catching football while enjoying views of passing boats.
Why It’s Great: Scenic setting, casual dining, and multiple TVs.
Best For: Packers fans or anyone wanting football with waterfront views.
7. Drift In – Bradenton Beach
📍 120 Bridge St, Bradenton Beach
A dive bar favorite with loyal Steelers fans, Drift In is high-energy, affordable, and all about football.
Why It’s Great: Rowdy, no-frills football fun with cheap drinks.
Best For: Steelers fans and die-hard bar-goers.
8. Daiquiri Deck – Bradenton Beach
📍 107 Bridge St, Bradenton Beach
For a festive vibe, Daiquiri Deck offers rooftop seating, tropical daiquiris, and plenty of TVs. Popular with Miami Dolphins and Florida Gators fans.
Why It’s Great: Fun, lively, beach-themed atmosphere with frozen drinks.
Best For: Fans seeking a festive football party environment.
Experience Football Season with Once Upon A Beach
Whether you’re cheering for your NFL team, following college football, or just enjoying game-day excitement, Anna Maria Island sports bars deliver the perfect atmosphere. From lively Irish pubs to relaxed beachside bars, every fan can find their perfect spot.
At Once Upon A Beach, we’ll help you book the ideal Anna Maria Island luxury vacation rental and share insider tips on the best places to watch football, enjoy great food, and soak up island vibes. Get ready to gear up, grab a drink, and catch every touchdown in paradise!
