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9 Things to Do in Marco Island – Make the Most of Your Trip!
Come relax in Marco Island – the tropical paradise of southern Florida! With a winning combo of lush rainforests, powder-soft sandy beaches, and aqua-clear waters, it’s no wonder Marco is quickly becoming the go-to place for sun seekers worldwide.
Marco Island – a top destination for fun! Whether you’re ready to soak up some sun or get your adrenaline pumping with new adventures, this is the spot! So grab your sunscreen and swimsuit, and let’s explore the best things to do in Marco Island! Rise with the sun and make the most of your days! Traverse tropical mangroves, uncover secret coves and treat yourself to a delectable spread of local fare. You won’t want to miss out on witnessing the magical moment when the sea turtles hatch on the shore – this stunning island has so many wondrous sights to see!
Things to do in Marco Island
There are many things to do in Marco Island, such as:
Play golf at Hibiscus Golf Club
Dave Wallace’s Hibiscus Golf Club features an 18-hole course that begs to be played. With wide fairways, bunkers guarding the greens and water hazards set to challenge any golfer, it’s a Par 72 thrill ride that won’t let you down. Looking for some tips on how to conquer this course? Look no further than Dennis Meyer’s Golf School for instruction from a two time Teacher of the Year and PGA professional. Fees start at $45 for 18 holes in a golf cart or $25 if you only want 9 holes. Just remember – respect the dress code and save those carts for when you’re close to tees, greens or any of the Par 3s!

Visit Tigertail Beach and Sand Dollar Spit
Head to Marco Island for an awesome beach experience! Unwind, taking in the beauty of Tigertail Beach, a 31-acre paradise boasting stunning sunsets. For something extra special, check out Sand Dollar Spit, a barrier island connected to Tigertail by a serene lagoon–teeming with wildlife and unparalleled photo ops!
Head out early to guarantee your spot – parking here isn’t free. Everything you need for a perfect day is available: bathrooms, showers, and refreshments anytime. Whether it’s a paddleboard, kayak, or beach chair, it’s up for hire if you need gear! Birds, crabs, and dolphins all appear at Tigertail Beach and Sand Dollar Spit – an experience not to be missed!

Take a Rookery Bay Boat Tour
Cruise through Marco Island’s tranquil Rookery Bay on a thrilling boat tour! Thrill to the sight of vibrant sea stars, feathered friends in flight, majestic dolphins, and gentle manatees while you delve deep into the Reserve. Be dazzled by the stunning mangrove tunnels, bustling mudflats, and intricate oyster reefs – witnessing nature’s wonders up close.
While soaking in the breathtaking views, you can also learn about Rookery Bay’s ecosystem and conservation efforts from your guide. Register for this tour easily, considering the minimum age limit is three years. Additionally, they offer a complete refund or credit if you notify us of cancellations 48 hours in advance.
Enjoy kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding
Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding are great ways to see the bay and get your workout in simultaneously. Paddle Marco offers hourly, daily, and weekly kayak and SUP rentals, and they even deliver your rentals to your vacation property or boat launch.
Paddle Marco also offers a Mangrove Tunnels tour through the mangrove forest. Additionally, Rookery Bay Reserve offers guided kayak ecotours where you can explore the mangrove tunnels and mudflats, among other unique natural features.
Relax at South Marco Island Beach
South Marco Island Beach is one of the top attractions in Marco Island, Florida. This public beach offers excellent amenities like clean restrooms and shower facilities as well as a large parking area. Visitors can enjoy white sand, clear blue water, and plenty of beachfront.
They can engage in various beach activities like swimming, sunbathing or building sandcastles too! Ultimately, South Marco Island Beach should not be missed for those searching for an enjoyable beach vacation on Marco Island.
Birdwatch at Tigertail Beach Park
Bird Watch at Tigertail Beach Park: Tigertail Beach Park is a stunning natural area featuring an expansive sandy beach, lagoon and wildlife refuge. Here you’ll find numerous species of birds such as ospreys, pelicans and shorebirds nesting in its lush vegetation.
To engage in birdwatching activities while strolling along its boardwalks – which offer stunning views of the lagoon and its inhabitants – visitors can take advantage of various amenities like picnic areas, volleyball courts and playgrounds for family days out. Ultimately, Tigertail Beach Park provides ample chances for visitors to relax while admiring Florida’s unique birdlife up close up.

Explore the Everglades and Ten Thousand Islands
Discover Marco Island’s remarkable Everglades and Ten Thousand Islands region on a memorable journey – an unmissable experience! Take a 90-minute narrated sightseeing tour leaving from the Gulf Coast Visitor Center of Everglades National Park in Everglades City and marvel in the natural beauty. You’ll gain insight into the area’s rich history and observe its rich, diverse wildlife while sailing around the gorgeous mangrove islands of the park. Explore all this for just $40 (adults) or $20 (children aged 5 to 12).
For daring explorers, kayaking through the exquisite Everglades and Ten Thousand Islands is a dreamy opportunity. This zone is teeming with underwater life, which thrives in its inviting landscape. Guided by an experienced naturalist, voyagers drift through the impressive national park, witnessing magnificent wildlife and gaining insights into their special habitats – it’s undeniably the best technique for embracing the area’s stunning beauty and unharnessed allure!
Visit Goodland and eat at Little Bar
Located a short drive from Marco Island, Goodland’s charming and quirky fishing village is worth a visit. While there, stop at Little Bar, a local favorite that’s been around since the 1940s. The restaurant is famous for its fresh seafood and cocktails, including the Rum Runner.
You can enjoy your meal in the cozy and rustic interior or outside on the patio while taking in the views of the Marco River. Don’t forget to check out the quirky decor, including the collection of license plates worldwide.

Take a boat tour with Off the Hook Day Adventures
If you’re looking for things to do in Marco Island, taking a boat tour with Off the Hook Day Adventures is a must-do activity. Explore beautiful Marco Island and Naples on one of their custom-designed sailing catamarans. These boat tours are perfect for shallow, tranquil waters and feature top-notch private sailing, shelling, and sightseeing.
Their licensed captain provides a narrated tour, which includes stopping on uninhabited islands to collect sea shells and look for dolphins, manatees, and other wildlife. Off the Hook Day Adventures is a top-rated local tour operator showcasing the island’s beauty through their sailing, boating, and catamaran tours.
The duration of the boat tour is customizable, and the cost for a 4-hour private tour is $1,000. Off the Hook Day Adventures also provides door-to-door shuttle van services to pick up guests for the tour.
Final words
Marco Island provides a diverse selection of activities suitable for all ages of travelers. In Marco Island, there is something for everyone. You can enjoy lounging on the beach or exploring local cuisine. Moreover, outdoor enthusiasts can try out different activities like fishing, kayaking, and boating. Fun in the sun or a relaxing break, Marco Island can provide an unforgettable experience leaving a lasting impression.