Marco Island, Florida is a peaceful paradise off the coast of the Sunshine State. It’s full of beaches – and those beaches promote happiness, adventure and relaxation.

It’s one of the more unknown destinations in Florida, but that doesn’t mean it’s not full of experiences that last a lifetime.

In fact, once you know where Marco Island is and visit it, it’ll be hard to travel anywhere else.

Where Is Marco Island, Florida?

Marco Island is located off the southwestern coast of Florida. It’s a barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico that’s connected to the mainland via bridges that take visitors into the city of Naples.

There is a level of seclusion thanks to its location, and that has helped boost the island’s paradise vibes.

The island itself is covered in long, sandy beaches on the west with a string of resorts and hotels to the east. Interspersed throughout are a number of golf courses and a Tigertail Beach Park that acts as a jumping off point for a number of exciting water activities.

Marco Island is the kind of place you visit when you’re looking for an island getaway without the far travel. It can be easily accessed by car which makes it an ideal location for couples, families and partiers of all shapes and sizes.

If you’re looking to plan a visit, here are some key things to add to your to-do list.

What to Do in Marco Island, Florida

1. Tigertail Beach Park

Tigertail Beach Park is one of the island’s biggest attractions. That’s because of all the activities it has to offer within its borders. These activities include a beach, watersports and even a waterpark.

This really is a great destination for the whole family because it has something to offer everybody. You can lay out on the beach, you can rent a paddleboard, you can rush down slides and you can even enjoy a tasty meal.

What else could someone want?

2. Hop on a Boat Tour

As this is an island, the number of boat tours around the island are extensive. You just have to decide what it is you actually want to see.

Maybe you’d like to catch a glimpse of the native marine life – like dolphins, whales and even a shark!

Maybe you’d like to get a dose of history, learning about the island, its history and its culture.

In addition to that, maybe you just want to get a little bit drunk and ride around on a boat – that’s an option too.

Whatever you’re in the mood for, you can experience it at Marco Island.

3. Soak Up the Sun

The most obvious option for visitors to Marco Island is to lay out on the beach – and there are dozens to choose from. The resorts on the island offer a number of private beaches to their guests, but there are also some beaches across the island open to the public and perfect for you to get your tan on.

Marco Island is a great choice for those looking to kick back and relax on a beach. There are plenty of spots to choose from, and the close proximity of all the hotels to the shore is compelling enough to encourage you to book your next vacation ASAP.

4. Go Deep-Sea Fishing

In Florida, deep-sea fishing is a rite of passage. It’s a fun and exciting way to spend the day. There’s nothing quite like the smell of the open ocean, the feel of the salty water hitting your face and the adrenaline rush that comes with working for your catch.

In Marco Island, visitors can choose from a number of fishing options, with prey like lobster, crabs, bass and more.

The best part is that these fisherman and these experiences are perfect for people of all ages – they don’t discriminate. Whether you’ve never fished a day in your life or this is a secret passion, feel free to try your hand and see what you catch.

It will be a day well spent either way.

5. Explore a Farmer’s Market

Who doesn’t love a good farmer’s market, right? And when you go to a farmer’s market on an island, you can be sure that everything is fresh and tasty.

Buy fresh seafood right off the boats that are catching it. Indulge in some tropical fruits and vegetables. Eat fresh-baked pastries – and that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

These farmer’s markets also have a host of trinkets and handmade baubles to offer. That means that it’s the perfect place for visitors to get souvenirs.

Where Is Marco Island, Florida and Why You Need to Visit

Marco Island, Florida is a place that has everything you can think of for a perfect family vacation. It has beaches. It has a waterpark. It has wildlife. It has food and drinks. It has it all.

That makes it extremely compelling for families, couples and solo travelers alike.

Now that you know where Marco Island is, what’s your first stop?

Want to go fishing in Florida but also want to look good? Here’s how.