Marco Island, the largest of the 10,000 islands south of Fort Myers, Florida, is a wonderful place to visit with families. It offers beautiful beaches, waterfront activities, fabulous resorts, and delicious food.
Things to Do on Marco Island
Despite the fact that Marco is the largest of the 10,000 Islands, it’s still relatively small. As you’d expect from an island getaway, most of the things to do revolve around the ocean. Spend the day at the beautiful, shell-lined beaches. Looking for more action? Head down to the beach to set up a parasailing adventure, or rent a jet ski. Would you rather do some learning? Book the Dolphin Explorer Eco-Tour and learn all about the dolphins living right off the coast of the island, and take a quick trip to a private island to do some shelling.
If you are willing to do a drive, visit nearby Naples for the Naples Zoo, Naples Botanical Gardens, and the Children’s Museum of Naples. All are about a 30 minute drive from the island.
Places to Stay on Marco Island
Marco Island is home to two upscale chain hotels – a Marriott and a Hilton. There’s also numerous condo complexes along with the hotel we stayed at – the Marco Beach Ocean Resort. Whether you are traveling on a romantic getaway or as a family vacation, I’d recommend the Marco Beach Ocean Resort for its amazing service and fabulous location right on the beach.
Restaurants on Marco Island
As you’d imagine, much of the local cuisine on the island revolves around seafood. Conch fritters, fish sandwiches, and peel and eat shrimp are the specialties. Visit CJ’s on the Bay or the Snook Inn for the most gorgeous views. Hidden gems the Crazy Flamingo and Philly’s Grill offer great food but are tucked away in mini malls. Another great pick is Captain Brien’s, a seafood restaurant within walking distance of most of the hotels.
Whether you want to enjoy the beach or see something new every day, there are lots of options on Marco Island, Florida.
This is a guest post by Jodi Grundig of Family Travel Magazine. Photos are courtesy of Jodi Grundig.
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On Marco Island, with nature and art brilliantly intertwined, we have it all!
@Jack
Marco Island looks like a lovely place to visit.
Just had a meal at Captain Briens. Give it a wide berth. The shrimp Caesar salad came with 3 small shrimps, the kids dishes were fried junk, and my wife sent her 24 dollar shrimp scallops dish back because the portions were so small and uninviting it was embarrassing. When the kids went to the toilet, the comedian was swearing, which was very distasteful.
@Tim
Thanks for the update on Captain Brien’s. So sorry to hear about your experience. FYI, I have no affiliation with the restaurant.
You have great perception and I will definitely be reading your other Blogs!
Nice post.Thanks for sharing with us.
This is really a good post. Marco island looks like a very nice place to visit .
very nice and great blog
Marco Island is the world famous place in Florida. Florida is a wonderful place to visit with families and friends in vacations. There are many beautiful beaches, waterfront activities, fabulous hotel &resorts, and attractive areas.