Things to do in Marco Island

Marco Island is primarily known for its pristine beaches and world-class resorts. However, there is more to the area. All it needs is a little extra time and exploration. The Ten Thousand Islands is the sanctuary for birds and sea creatures. Exploring the island’s wildlife on your own or with a guided tour promised to be an unforgettable journey. The abundance of aviary life in the area has created a true haven for bird watchers. The estuary tours will guide the visitors through nature reserves and mangroves. There are many other guided tours available for an up-close encounter with nature at its best. There are also kayak rental centers if a guided tour is not your thing. Naturalists will find themselves lost in this incredible paradise.

Marco Island and its rich history come together in many cultural events throughout the year. Marco Island Art Center is a great place to get your dose of culture and arts on the island. There are also festivals held on the island at different times of the year. One can’t-miss event is the Marco Island Seafood and Music Festival. The popularity of this festival has resulted in the extension of the event from 2 to 3 days. The festivities begin on Friday around the first of spring and continue till Sunday.

Beaches of Marco Island

The beaches at Marco Island are much wider than most beaches in Florida. The clean sugar sand, clear water, and abundance of wildlife are what to expect on these beaches.
The main beach on Marco Island is called Crescent Beach. The 6 miles public beach area is one of the widest beaches in the State. There are two beaches with public parking off Crescent Beach, the Tigertail Beach, and South Beach. There is no free parking or street parking available on these beaches

Tigertail Beach Park

Secluded beaches of Marco Island

Tigertail Beach, Marco Island

Open to the public through the manned gate at the entrance to the park. There is no charge to enter the park but parking fees are enforced. Tigertail Beach Park offers a slew of amenities to keep everyone happy. Park is equipped with restrooms, a picnic area, a playground as well as a great snack bar. The birdwatchers are well aware of the importance of Tigertail Beach. The Park has been recognized as one of the best places to watch birds in Florida.
Sand Dollar Island- To get to Sand Dollar Beach the visitors have to cross a small tidal lagoon in Tigertail Beach Park. The area is perhaps one of the most amazing beaches for shelling. Both Tigertail and Sand Dollar beaches are less crowded than other beaches in the area.

South Marco Beach

Located on South Collier Blvd and near many hotels and resorts. This proximity to a more crowded area makes South Marco Beach seem more popular. Being popular does not necessarily mean the beach is too crowded. This is not Miami Beach to be overwhelmed with the number of beachgoers. Like Tigertail Beach, the parking in South Marco Beach is not free.

Keewaydin Island – Only accessible by boats. It is very popular with the younger crowd who like to take the party to this secluded island

Hideaway Beach – Not open to the public. Only members and their guests can access Hideaway Beach.
Residents’ Beach – Not open to the public. The renters of over one month are no longer can be considered members. Last we checked the membership is awarded to unit owners only.

Marco Island Seafood and Music Festival
Marco Island World-Class Resorts
Visit Cape Romano
Marco Island Parks and Nature Reserves
Watersports in Marco Island