Activities in and around Marco Island
While no one would question your desire to spend most of your time relaxing and enjoying The Admiralty House's amenities, beach, and pool, there are quite a few other great places to explore and things to explore in and around Marco Island. Here are some of our favorites.
Nature and Wildlife Adventures
Everglades Airboat Rides
There are many great options for airboat rides around Marco Island. Down South Airboat Tours is one that we are big fans of in particular. You'll feel as if you're on a private adventure in the Everglades that only locals see on their own airboats. You'll see the true beauty of the Everglades — sure bring your camera and sense of wonder. Down South Airboat Rides are on the fresh water side of the Everglades, in true grasslands — aka, "The River of Grass" — as the Tamiami Trail Highway (route 41 / 90) separates the two distinct waters in the Everglades. The tours are not pre-routed or set to the same area, and all the air boat captains have an intimate knowledge of the vast area, and have developed their own routes which they prefer and convey the history of during your tour. And the Everglades are vast — you'll feel as if you are on a wonderful floating wetland safari.
Naples Botanical Gardens
Naples Botanical Garden is a 170-acre, world-class garden paradise that features plants from around the world. It is also the youngest garden in history to receive the American Public Gardens Association’s prestigious Award for Garden Excellence.
The mission is to develop and conserve collections and habitats representative of the flora and cultures between the 26th latitudes. To discover, research and share knowledge about these plants and their gifts to us of beauty, tranquility, sustenance, and well-being. And to engage and inspire everyone to care for the plants around them and become stewards of the environment.
In addition to being a beautiful place to visit anytime, the Botanical Garden also has an active calendar with a variety of events to enjoy.
Big Cypress Preserve National Park
Big Cypress National Preserve provides a variety of opportunities to enjoy and explore natural landscapes and environments like no others. The Preserve acts as the back yard for millions of residents and visitors in South Florida.
From the awe of experiencing one of the darkest Eastern US skies filled with stars, to ranger guided hikes, trails and boardwalk tours, to exploration trips for groups, unique swamp buggy, biking and birding tours, canoeing and kayaking and camping, and simply taking stunning scenic drives, the Preserve is a wonderful and unique place to play, relax, and renew your connection with nature.
Audubon Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary
A visit to Audubon's Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is a journey into the heart of the Everglades ecosystem. Discover the rugged beauty of this famed natural area on Corkscrew's famous boardwalk - a 2.5-mile adventure through pine flatwoods, wet prairie, around a marsh, and finally into the largest old growth Bald Cypress forest in North America.
Located about 30 minutes east of Naples, Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is home to hundreds of alligators, otters, white-tailed deer, and red-bellied turtles. A wide variety of wading birds, songbirds, raptors and the fabulous Painted Bunting can be seen throughout the year. Photo opportunities are available at every turn of the boardwalk trail.
Ten Thousand Islands Wildlife Refuge
Managed as part of the Southwest Florida Gulf Coast Refuge Complex, Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge is located in Southwest Florida between Marco Island and Everglades City, Florida. The refuge was first established in 1996 and covers 35,000 acres of the Ten Thousand Islands (of which one is Marco Island itself!). The refuge includes both fresh and saltwater, and protects a large area of mangrove forest. The refuge is home to a wide variety of plants and animals. There are approximately 200 species of fish, 189 species of birds and innumerable plant species. Activities include fishing, hunting, bird watching, kayaking and camping. The refuge primarily offers water-based activities requiring a boat. And since it’s easy to get lost among the mangroves, paddling or boating with a guide is recommended for first-time visitors.
Fishing
Fishing in Marco Island, Florida is a popular pastime for both locals and visitors. Located on the Gulf of Mexico, the island offers a variety of fishing opportunities, including deep sea, backwater, and flats fishing. Anglers can target species such as redfish, snook, tarpon, and grouper, among others. There are numerous charter companies with experienced guides readily available for fishing excursions from Marco Island, Chokoloskee, Everglades City, Goodland and other nearby areas, or you can rent a boat and explore the waterways on your own. In addition to the excellent fishing, Marco Island is also known for its beautiful beaches, parks, and wildlife preserves, making it a great destination for a fishing vacation.
Whether you're looking to spend your days lounging on the beach, casting a line into the Gulf, or exploring the island's natural surroundings, Marco Island has something for everyone.
Fishing is a popular pastime on Marco Island, and the island offers a variety of fishing opportunities, including deep sea, backwater, and flats fishing. Anglers can target species such as redfish, snook, tarpon, and grouper, among others. There are numerous charter companies and guides available to take individuals or groups out on the water, or you can rent a boat and explore the waterways on your own.
In addition to its excellent fishing, Marco Island is also known for its beautiful beaches, including Tigertail Beach and South Marco Beach. These beaches offer a variety of activities, such as swimming, sunbathing, and beach games, as well as breathtaking views of the Gulf. Water sports enthusiasts will also find plenty to do on Marco Island, with opportunities for activities like kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and parasailing.
Golfers will appreciate the island's golf courses, including the Marco Island Country Club and the Rookery at Marco. And nature lovers will enjoy the island's rich wildlife, including dolphins, manatees, and a variety of bird species, which can be observed on boat tours or guided nature walks.
Marco Island is also home to a variety of shops and restaurants, offering everything from local seafood to designer fashion. And for those looking for more structured activities, the island boasts several attractions, including the Marco Island Historical Museum and the Marco Island Center for the Arts.
With so much to see and do, Marco Island is the perfect vacation destination for those seeking adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beach bum, Marco Island has something for everyone.
The Travelers Guide to Marco Island
Marco Island is a city located in Collier County, Florida, United States. It is a tropical paradise with beautiful beaches, luxurious hotels, and many recreational activities for travelers to enjoy. This guide will provide you with all the necessary information you need to have a wonderful vacation on Marco Island.
Getting to Marco Island:
Marco Island is located in southwestern Florida, about 25 miles south of Naples. The easiest way to get to Marco Island is by flying into Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers, which is about a 45-minute drive from Marco Island. There are also several major airports in the area, including Miami International Airport (MIA) and Tampa International Airport (TPA), which are both about a two-hour drive from Marco Island.
If you prefer to drive to Marco Island, it is easily accessible from several major highways, including I-75 and the Alligator Alley.
Things to do on the Island:
Marco Island is a paradise for water enthusiasts, with many opportunities for activities such as swimming, boating, fishing, and more. The beaches on Marco Island are some of the best in the state (and the world), with beautiful white sand, crystal-clear water, and it's signature "SouthWest Florida Sunsets".
Marco island, being on the west coast of Florida, typically offers a superior environment for swimming than beaches on the east coast of Florida. Main beaches on the island include Tigertail Beach, South Beach, and Marco Island Beach (also known as Crescent Beach). Our condo for rent in the Admiralty House on Marco Island beach resides directly on one of the widest portions of Crescent beach, as does the JW Marriott.
Crescent Beach has a long history on Marco Island, and was once a popular destination for Native Americans who lived on the island. The beach was named for its crescent-shaped shoreline, and was later developed as a recreational area for tourists and locals. This stunning beach is known for its soft white sands and crystal-clear waters, providing the perfect setting for a relaxing day by the sea, and of course fabulous sunsets. With its beautiful crescent-shaped shoreline and excellent amenities, Crescent Beach is the ultimate destination for sun, fun, and relaxation. Whether you're looking to take a swim in the warm Gulf waters or just soak up the sun on the sandy shores, Crescent Beach has something for everyone. Plus, with its convenient location near restaurants and shops, Crescent Beach is the perfect place to spend your beach vacation on Marco Island.
If you enjoy fishing, Marco Island is a great destination, with many opportunities to catch a variety of fish such as snook, redfish, and tarpon. There are several fishing charters available on the island that can take you out on the water for a day of fishing.
On land, there are many recreational activities to enjoy on the island itself. The island has several golf courses, including the Marco Island Golf & Country Club and the Island Country Club.
There are also many opportunities for hiking and biking on the island, as Marco Island is home to several nature trails that offer visitors the opportunity to explore the island's natural beauty. These trails wind through lush forests, wetlands, and other habitats, providing a unique and immersive experience for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Some popular nature trails on Marco Island include the Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, which offers guided tours of the local ecosystem, and the Collier-Seminole State Park, which has trails through a variety of habitats including pine flatwoods and mangrove swamps. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll through nature, Marco Island's nature trails have something for everyone.
Bikers appreciate a variety of trails and paths that offer beautiful views and a chance to explore the island's natural beauty. Whether you are a seasoned biker or just looking for a leisurely ride, Marco Island has something to offer. The island is home to several bike rental companies, making it easy to rent a bike and explore the area at your own pace.
One popular biking destination is the Goodland Bridge, which spans the Goodland Bay and offers beautiful views of the surrounding waterways. The island also has several nearby nature trails that are perfect for biking, including the Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve and the Collier-Seminole State Park. In addition to natural trails, Marco Island itself also has several bike lanes and paths that are perfect for a leisurely ride around the island.
Marco Island also has a vibrant arts and culture scene. The Marco Island Center for the Arts is a popular destination for visitors, a nonprofit organization located on Marco Island, Florida that promotes and supports the arts in the community. The center features rotating exhibitions, educational programs, and a performing arts theater. The center is home to several galleries, a sculpture garden, and a gift shop. It is a vital part of the community, offering a place for artists and art enthusiasts to come together and celebrate the arts.
The island is also home to several galleries and studios, featuring works by local and regional artists. In addition to visual arts, Marco Island is also home to a vibrant music and performing arts community, with regular concerts and performances at venues such as the aforementooned Marco Island Center for the Arts and the Marco Island Historical Society. The island is also home to several festivals and events that celebrate the arts, such as the Marco Island Film Festival and the Marco Island Music Festival.
Where to eat:
Marco Island has a wide variety of dining options to suit all tastes. If you are looking for seafood, the island is home to several seafood restaurants that serve fresh catch from the Gulf of Mexico. Some popular seafood restaurants on the island include the Snook Inn and Rose Marina Restaurant.
For those looking for more casual dining, there are many options for pizza, sandwiches, and burgers on the island. Some popular casual dining options include CJ's on the Bay and Sweet Savannah's.
If you are looking for a more upscale dining experience, there are several fine dining restaurants on the island, such as Sale e Pepe and The Oyster Society. These restaurants offer a wide variety of dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
Shopping:
Marco Island is home to several shopping centers and boutiques, offering a variety of items for visitors to browse and purchase. The Esplanade Shoppes is a popular destination for visitors, with a variety of stores and restaurants to explore. There are also several artisan and gift shops on the island where you can find unique, locally-made items such as pottery, jewelry, and clothing.
For those looking for more mainstream retail stores, Marco Island has several department stores and chain stores, including Target, Walmart, and Publix.
In addition to the activities and amenities mentioned above, the Marco Island Historical Museum is a popular destination for visitors to Marco Island, Florida. The museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of the island and its indigenous peoples. The museum features exhibits on the Calusa Indians, the island's first inhabitants, as well as the history of the island's development and the people who have called Marco Island home. The museum also hosts educational programs and events, providing visitors with a chance to learn more about the island's rich history. Located in the heart of Marco Island, the Marco Island Historical Museum is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in the history of this beautiful island.
Overall, Marco Island is a beautiful and welcoming destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking to relax on the beach, participate in water sports, or explore the island's rich history and culture, Marco Island has something for you.