With spring break on the horizon, businesses in Holmes Beach and Anna Maria Island are steadily rebuilding after last year’s destructive hurricanes.

Mayor Judy Titsworth of Holmes Beach recounted the severe impact: “Flooding wiped out about 95% of our businesses. We had water three feet deep almost everywhere.”

Since October, local business owners have been grappling with the storms’ aftermath, according to city officials.

“Some shops and a few restaurants remain shuttered, and several ground-floor motel units aren’t operational yet,” Titsworth noted.

Holmes Beach businesses rely on spring break crowds to rebound from hurricanes ‘Oh my God!’: 8-foot alligator startles Bradenton pizza delivery driver Gulf Islands Ferry boosts schedule for peak travel rush The mayor acknowledged that lodging availability might be slightly reduced due to ongoing repairs.

Visitors may also spot lingering signs of the storms’ toll. “We’re not as polished as we were last year at this time, but we’re making progress. Our parks are reopened for pickleball and tennis fans. The baseball field, which served as a debris dump, isn’t ready yet, and neither is our soccer field,” Titsworth explained.

Business owners—spanning shops, hotels, and restaurants—are pinning their hopes on a bustling spring break, their peak season. “We’re primed for tourists. The restaurants especially are banking on their return after taking a major hit,” Titsworth said. “Our businesses are counting on visitors to come back strong.”

All beach access points in Holmes Beach are fully operational. “Come enjoy spring break and soak up the sun,” Titsworth warmly encouraged.

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(Image credit: Tripadvisor)

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