Stone crab season on Anna Maria Island

This guide covers the Florida stone crab season on Anna Maria Island including where to buy fresh claws, the best local restaurants for seafood, and how to order these sustainable delicacies between October 15 and May 1 each year.

Captain Anthony's Stone Crab Store

Captain Anthony's Stone Crab Store is our go-to recommendation for buying fresh stone crab to enjoy at your vacation rental. The shop is located at 107 Spring Ave. in Anna Maria and is open daily from 10am to 5pm. It is locally owned by Captain Anthony Manali, a longtime local fisherman who sets his own crab traps. This means the claws are as fresh as it gets. You can call them at (941) 807-0071 to check the daily catch.

The store also sells homemade sauces, fresh Gulf fish, and shrimp. You can pick up ceviche and smoked fish dip made in house to complete your meal. The staff is happy to give cooking and serving tips with your purchase. This makes it an ideal stop for those planning a stone crab night at their rental. The store is easy to reach by bike or by taking the free trolley to the north end of the island near Pine Avenue.

Star Fish Company

Star Fish Company is a historic Cortez fish house located at 12306 46th Ave. W. It features a seafood market and an ultra-casual dockside restaurant where you can watch the boats. They serve stone crab claws in season and also offer stone crab chowder. You can reach them at (941) 794-1243 for more information.

The atmosphere is very plainspoken and reflects the working waterfront of the village of Cortez. Please be aware that this is a cash only establishment. It is a great place to experience the slow island pace and see where the local seafood is brought in daily. The dockside seating provides a direct view of the water and the local fishing fleet.

Swordfish Grill & Tiki Bar

Swordfish Grill & Tiki Bar is a waterfront restaurant in the fishing village of Cortez located at 4628 119th St. W. It has a covered patio that overlooks Sarasota Bay. You can call the restaurant at (941) 798-2035 to check for stone crab availability. Once the season opens, the stone crab claws come straight in to the Cortez docks.

This restaurant provides a local perspective on the seafood industry. The proximity to the docks ensures that the claws are fresh. It is a short trip from the south end of Anna Maria Island across the bridge. The setting is relaxed and fits the island lifestyle perfectly.

Beach House Waterfront Restaurant

Beach House Waterfront Restaurant is located at 200 Gulf Drive N. in Bradenton Beach. You can reach them at (941) 779-2222. The restaurant is situated right on the sand, allowing you to crack claws with your toes in the sand. This is a perfect spot to enjoy a Gulf sunset view while you dine.

They serve stone crab claws in season with mustard sauce. This location is easily accessible by the free trolley that runs along Gulf Drive. It is a popular choice for those who want to combine a day at the beach with a fresh seafood dinner. The outdoor seating highlights the slow island pace of Bradenton Beach.

Sandbar Restaurant

Sandbar Restaurant is located beachfront at the north end of the island at 100 Spring Ave. Their phone number is (941) 778-0444. They offer outdoor seating on the sand, which is a classic Anna Maria experience. During the season, they serve stone crab claws alongside their fresh local catch.

The restaurant is located near the quiet area of Bean Point. It is a common destination for visitors exploring the island by bike. You can enjoy the Gulf breeze while eating fresh seafood. This spot captures the historic feel of the island and its connection to the water.

Blue Marlin

Blue Marlin is a seafood spot located on historic Bridge Street at 121 Bridge St. in Bradenton Beach. You can contact them at (941) 896-9737. The restaurant is known for its stone crab specials during the season. This is a great place to visit if you are looking for a meal with old Florida charm.

It is easy to pair a meal here with a walk on Bridge Street and the pier. The area is a hub for the slow island pace and local history. The focus at this restaurant is on providing fresh seafood in a comfortable, local setting.

Dry Dock Waterfront Grill

Dry Dock Waterfront Grill is located at 412 Gulf of Mexico Drive on Longboat Key. It is situated just over the bridge from Bradenton Beach. You can call them at (941) 383-0102. The restaurant offers waterfront views over Sarasota Bay and serves stone crab claws in season.

This location provides a different view of the local waters compared to the Gulf side restaurants. It is a reliable choice for fresh seafood near the south end of the island. The bay views are particularly peaceful during the afternoon hours.

How to order stone crab

When you order stone crab claws on Anna Maria Island, remember that they are usually served chilled. They come pre-cracked so that you can easily access the meat. You will typically have a choice between a tangy mustard sauce or drawn butter. Because the supply depends on the daily harvest, they are priced at market price by size.

It is helpful to call ahead to restaurants to ensure they have claws in stock for the day. For a more private experience, you can pick up claws at Captain Anthony's Stone Crab Store. Bringing them back to your rental for a stone crab night is a great way to enjoy your stay. This allows you to eat like a local while watching the sunset from your own porch.

Common questions

When is stone crab season in Florida?

The Florida stone crab season runs from October 15 through May 1 every year as regulated by the FWC.

Are stone crabs a sustainable seafood choice?

Yes, stone crabs are part of a sustainable local fishery because only the claws are harvested and the crab is returned to the water to regrow them.

Where can I buy fresh stone crab to eat at my rental?

Captain Anthony's Stone Crab Store at 107 Spring Ave. in Anna Maria is the top recommendation for buying fresh claws directly from a local fisherman.

Does Star Fish Company accept credit cards?

No, Star Fish Company is a cash only establishment located in the historic village of Cortez.