Need a tropical beach getaway packed with relaxation and adventure? Head to Marco Island, Florida! I love the remove feeling of the beaches here and fantastic food. If I didn't enjoy living in Texas so much, I would move here in a heartbeat. While you get this feeling of remoteness, you are still just 30 minutes from Naples. Jolley Bridge that connect the island to the mainland, ensures that you can reach civilization if you want.
I don't really need anything past the white-sand beaches, but you can also explore mangrove estuaries, go boating or hop on a sunset cruise. The island really is a kayaker's paradise. You can rent kayaks at the marina and explore on your own.
If you prefer to kayak with a guide, there are some great affordable tour options with rates from $59.99.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Marco Island is during the winter and spring months (December–April). Summer is quieter but hotter, with afternoon rain showers. You should know that hurricane season is June 1st to November 30th. You'll get great deals then, but keep an eye on the weather. I prefer a last-minute getaway during that period to avoid weather surprises.
How to Get There
- If you are traveling by car, Marco Island is accessible via Collier Boulevard (SR 951). As I mentioned, it's about 30 minutes south of Naples (and 2 hours west of Miami). I think it makes a great day trip from Miami but I personally prefer to spend the night.
- By Air: Fly into Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers. Then drive about 1 hour south to Marco Island.
- By Shuttle: Several shuttle services connect RSW Airport and Naples to Marco Island resorts and hotels.
Where to Stay
- JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort is right on the beach, but there are also pools, an amazing spa and one of my favorite restaurants, Ario.
- Hilton Marco Island Beach Resort and Spa also offers beachfront access, ocean-view rooms, and a relaxing spa.
- Olde Marco Island Inn and Suites is located near the island’s quieter north end.
- There are many vacation rentals in the area if you are planning a family reunion.
Best Things to Do in Marco Island, Florida
Relax on South Marco Beach - If soft shores and dreamy sunsets are your love language, then South Marco is your peace.
Stroll along the boardwalks at Tigertail Beach -
Explore the Ruins by the Sea at Cape Romano - If hidden relics and island myths thrill you, then Cape Romano is your wild wonder.
Enjoy water sports at Isles of Capri Marina - If boating days and salty breezes fuel your fun, then this marina is your starting line.
Paddle in the Isles of Capri Paddle Craft Park - If you chase serenity with every stroke, then this mangrove maze is your escape route.
Find remote seclusion on Keewaydin Island - If shelling, sandbars, and zero crowds excite you, then Keewaydin is your secret paradise.
Go fishing on Marco Island -
Sign up for Marco Island Boat Tours - If dolphin sightings and island-hopping call your name, then these tours deliver the magic.
Explore the past at the Marco Island Historical Museum - If Calusa history and rich heritage fascinate you, then this museum brings it all to life.
Cruise in Style with Sunset Views aboard the Marco Island Princess - If you love dinner with a view and luxury on the water, then the Princess is your floating retreat.
In Summary...
(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)- • Relax on South Marco Beach
- • Stroll along the boardwalks at Tigertail Beach
- • Explore the Ruins by the Sea at Cape Romano
- • Enjoy water sports at Isles of Capri Marina
- • Paddle in the Isles of Capri Paddle Craft Park
- • Find remote seclusion on Keewaydin Island
- • Go fishing on Marco Island
- • Sign up for Marco Island Boat Tours
- • Explore the past at the Marco Island Historical Museum
- • Cruise in Style with Sunset Views aboard the Marco Island Princess