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Village of Cortez is one of the many must-sees on Anna Maria Island

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ANNA MARIA ISLAND, Fla. — This week we're highlighting some of our Good Morning Tampa Bay's staff favorite places to visit across the Tampa Bay area.

Meteorologist Greg Dee calls Anna Maria Island "the Florida I often imagine when I think of a perfect Florida Beach getaway."

Even though the serene beaches are about an hour away from Tampa, everything on the island is within walking distance or a short, free trolley ride away.

Pro tip: Greg loves the Village of Cortez just before the bridge. Turn left there and head toward the southern end to the Star Fish Company. Bring cash, they don't take cards. He calls it one of the best fish sandwiches around.

Coquina Beach is also a favorite. You will find plenty of unpaved parking and an undeveloped shore.

Just off the beach, there is a market that's open on Wednesdays and Sundays. You can buy arts, crafts and, of course, food.

You can read more on Anna Maria Island and the things to do there by clicking here.