Sugary white sand, top notch shelling, and clear blue water await in Marco Island, Florida. These are the top 7 things to do in Marco Island for your next trip.
Top 7 Things to Do in Marco Island, Florida
1. Go Shelling
Marco Island is an incredible destination for shelling. We recommend heading to Tigertail Beach for a walkable shelling option. For those who kayak, some of the best shells in the area are on Dickmans Island in the Ten Thousand Islands. To get to Dickmans Island, rent a kayak from Caxambas Park, paddle about 15 minutes, and you’ll find yourself picking up dozens of beautiful shells. Keep your eyes peeled for rare, collectable shells like the Junonia, Rose Murex, Alphabet Cones, Scotch Bonnets, and more!
While scavenging for seashells, be sure to check that the shells you collect are not live. Only empty shells should be collected.
2. Head to Tigertail Beach
Tigertail Beach is a gorgeous and often uncrowded stretch of coastline. Getting to the beach is a bit of a schlep, but that helps keep this beach much quieter than more accessible beaches like South Marco Beach. Explore the northern end of the beach for nice shelling and to see mangrove trees ornamented with hanging shells.
There is a fee for parking at Tigertail Beach. To get to the beach from the parking lot, park as far south as possible and walk down boardwalk #6. Then, walk around the southern end of the lagoon to the ocean. The walk from the parking lot takes about 15 minutes each way.
3. Lounge on South Marco Beach
South Marco Beach is a beautiful, easily accessible beach. There is a fee for parking.
4. Kayak to the Ten Thousand Islands from Caxambas Park Marina
A 15-minute paddle from Caxambas Park Marina gets you to the Ten Thousand Islands, a group stunning remote beaches that can only be reached by watercraft. Seashell lovers and wildlife enthusiasts will love the Ten Thousand Islands, especially Dickmans Island. The quantity and quality of seashells in this area are outstanding. As an added bonus, there’s a good chance you’ll spot a dolphin while kayaking across the bay!
Kayaks can be rented at Caxambas Park Marina or you can opt to take tour.
5. Kayak the Mangrove Tunnels from the Isle of Capri Paddlecraft Park
The Isle of Capri Paddlecraft Park provides access to a labyrinth of mangrove tunnels and has a launch ramp dedicated to non-motorized vessels such as canoes, kayaks and paddleboards. Rentals are available at the park, however, taking a tour is recommended for first timers who are unfamiliar with the area since the mangrove tunnels are unmarked and can be difficult to navigate.
6. Browse the Marco Island Farmer’s Market
Head to the Marco Island Farmer’s Market and enjoy fresh fruits, veggies, flowers, coffee, food trucks, art, and, of course, lots of dogs! The open-air market is open every Wednesday morning during the winter months in Frank E. Mackle Park.
7. Visit Naples
Although it’s not in Marco Island, the Naples City Pier is only a ~35 minute drive away and is a great place to watch sunset or fish (no license is required). While you’re there, head to the nearby Third Street South and Fifth Avenue South in Naples for shopping, dining, and luxury car spotting.
Packing List for Marco Island
In addition to typical beach gear and island wear, be sure to pack these essential items for your trip to Marco Island:
- Packable Beach Tote: My favorite travel beach tote is my ALOHA Collection Day Tripper Bag (Amazon | REI). I love that it’s waterproof, has multiple zipped pockets, and is durable. There are many cute beachy designs to choose from too!
- Packable Towel: We like to pack our Nomadix Towel (Amazon | REI) for beach trips. Nomadix Towels are quick dry, sand resistant, packable, and come in a variety of unique designs.
- Sun Shirt: Wearing a rash guard will help provide sun protection during water activities like kayaking.
- Sunscreen: Be sure to use plenty of sunscreen, as well as SPF lip balm. Jack Black Lip Balm SPF 25 is our favorite lip balm. We love the twist tube top which prevents it from melting and leaking in our bags. Coming from Texas, I’ve lost many a lip balm to the Texas heat before finding Jack Black.
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