About
Just 20-minutes from Anna Maria Island is Robinson Preserve, 682 acres of protected ecosystems, vast wildlife, and plenty of trails.
Manatee County transformed the farmland property into a thriving coastal ecosystem of mangroves, tidal creeks, salt marshes, and wetlands. Native plants returned. Fish filled the waterways. Birds and other wildlife found a home. The preserve continues to grow, with an expansion that added a second entrance and new attractions for families.
You'll find two entrances; the original sits at 17th Ave NW and includes the historic Valentine House, which serves as the visitor’s center. The South Entrance is at 9th Ave NW and holds The NEST, home to immersive lessons in Nature, Exploration, Science, and Technology.
Next door to The NEST is the Canopy Zone, an outdoor playground for children that we’ll discuss in more detail in our next section.
Robinson Preserve has plenty of trails, suitable for family hikes or bike rides, while the northern section features the 53-foot Observation Tower.
If you enjoy kayaking or paddleboarding, several launches sit near the entrance. Surferbus offers eco-tours through the Blueways Trails that connect to the Manatee River, Perico Bayou, and Palma Sola Bay.
Because this attraction is close to AMI, you can easily combine a morning hike at Robinson Preserve with a late afternoon cruise with CoastLine Dolphin & Snorkeling Excursions. Then celebrate your day with a meal at Rod and Reel Pier.
So, pack a picnic, fill the cooler, and head to Robinson Preserve for a fun-filled day of exploration, play, and education.
Robinson Preserve: Fun Facts & Cool Features
Head to the southern entrance of Robinson Preserve to discover NEST, a stunning wooden structure standing on concrete pylons with wraparound windows. Inside, you'll find a variety of hands-on interpretive programming that you and your children will enjoy. You can also rent the space for private events or special occasions.
Next door is the Canopy Zone, a nature-themed outdoor playground in the trees. Here, children can climb on net tunnels, walk elevated boardwalks, and zip down a spiral plastic slide. A picnic area and public restroom are nearby, adding convenience to your visit.
As mentioned, the north entrance features the relocated Valentine House. It once stood on several hundred acres of citrus groves comprising the Preston family’s Manatee Fruit Company. It was moved to the Robinson Preserve in 2009, underwent renovations, and reopened in 2010 as the visitor’s center. It’s typically only open on weekends, so check ahead before arriving.
The observation tower is a must-visit, offering panoramic views from its 53-foot height. You can spot the iconic Bob Graham Sunshine Skyway Bridge along with the marshes surrounding the tower. It’s also a great photo spot for sunsets, sunrises, and wildlife.
The trail system features a variety of lengths, like the Robinson’s Preserve Full Trail System, a 7.6-mile adventure through restored wetlands toward Perico Bayou, Seven Pines Beach, and the preserve’s mangrove corridors. The path consists of asphalt, crushed shell, boardwalk, and some single-track sections. It offers little shade, so plan accordingly.
A shorter stroll is on the Robinson Preserve: Osprey Loop, which covers 3.2 miles. Along the multi-surface path, you’ll find benches for resting, and you may spot wildlife. Like most of the trails, it is exposed, so start early and bring plenty of water.
For a cooler adventure, sign up for one of the many kayak tours to explore the Blueways Trails. Aside from Surfbus, which we listed above, check out Get Up and Go Kayaking, which offers clear-bottom kayaks to spot sea life in the mangroves. Another option is Kayak Jacks, which rents SUPs and kayaks for self-guided or docent-led tours.
A visit here fits an Anna Maria Island vacation with ease. You can hike, bike, fish, paddle, and picnic in one destination. Best of all, you’re only minutes away from your Casago rental!
Local Tips
- Arrive at sunrise for the best wildlife sightings and cooler temperatures.
- Shade is limited, so bring bug spray, water, and sunscreen.
- Biking is allowed on the mixed-surface trails.
- Bring your leashed dog, and carry waste bags.
