We've stayed at many of the resorts on Anna Maria Island and we enjoyed our stay here more than any of the others. The people are friendly. The rooms are very clean and comfortable. The property is well maintained. It's a great place. We've already booked to come back next year.

My boyfriend and I flew into Orlando from Detroit and spent two days at Universal, but wanted more of a relaxing vacation, which is exactly what Tradewinds gave us. I had been to the island many times before, but this was his first time and I wanted him to have the perfect island experience, which is why I chose Tradewinds. I had been to other hotels on the island, but none of them felt quite as authentic as Tradewinds. The cottages are clean, spacious (even the smallest ones), comfortable, and welcoming. The location is perfect, situated with the Gulf on one side and the bay on the other. The fishing docks here are the best in Bradenton. A short walk to The Beachhouse restaurant, pier, and docks. The trolley will take you anywhere you want to go on the island and stops are numerous. The pool was clean the whole time we were there and there were always more than enough lounge chairs for everyone. Plus side: they have lounge chairs on the beach, so if you're flying you don't have to bring your own. There is also jet ski, kayak, and catamaran rentals right beside Tradewinds' beach. The staff at the hotel are friendly, professional, and helpful. If you're looking for a relaxing, laid-back vacation with perfect sunsets, Tradewinds is the perfect hotel for you.

We chose Tradewinds on it's great TA reviews and we were not disappointed.
The resort is small and runs across the island from bay to beach (almost) and the staff are all very friendly.
Our Gulf Drive Villa #35 comprised of kitchen, bathroom, lounge with sofabed ( DD said it was uncomfortable), sleeping area (separated by sliding doors) with lovely King size bed and separate BR with queen sized bed. The accomodation was spacious enough for our family of 4.There are plenty of closets and chest of drawers for storage and everything was immaculately clean with daily housekeeping.
There is a lovely small heated pool facing the bay and a little jetty from which we fished and watched the birds, fish, crabs and one day we could even see a dolphin swim past, a wonderful experience. At the beach opposite the Tortuga Inn (2 mins away) you can use free sun loungers and free towels and umbrella's are provided at reception. The resort was quiet although during the day the road in front of our unit was busy and noisy but at night time it was quiet and despite being light sleepers we were never disturbed by any cars.
A bonus is the free trolley that stops just outside the resort and runs all day at 20 min intervals- a great way to explore the Island. Publix and Walgreens are about 1 mile away and stock everything you could need.
Would we return? Definitely but I would try and reserve the 2 BR bayside appartement for the view of the amazing sunrise and the peace and quiet away from the road.

We travelled from UK to see friends in Florida but wanted a few days relaxing on the Gulf Coast. Trade winds was everything we needed. A beautiful row of shutter boarded units running away from the road so quiet but convenient for the trolley bus. A pool at one end and the beach at the other was great. The units were well appointed and beautifully clean. Nothing was too much trouble for the staff. We will come back when we've saved up the air fares!