Are you looking for things to do in Marco Island on your perfect holiday?
If you are, you’re in luck my friend!
I have done all of the hard work for y0u by compiling a comprehensive list of potential activities for your next day out.
Let’s get straight to the point. No more chit chat. If you wan to make your next adventure an epic one, I highly suggest that you keep reading!
1 Tigertail Beach
Get your sunglasses and swimsuits ready. It’s time to have some fun in the sun at Tigertail Beach!
If you’re looking for things to do in Marco Island, visiting Tigertail Beach should jump straight to the top of your bucket list.
Believe it or not, the beach is only 15 years old.
It was formed during hurricane Wilma which means that most of us are probably quite a bit older than the beach is.
Tigertail Beach is awe-striking to say the least. It has clear blue waters with gentle waves and soft, yellow sand.
There is also a breathtaking lagoon on the beach which is perfect for anyone who wants to go kayaking or stand up paddle boarding
If you don’t have a kayak, you can stick to the classics and jump around in the waves or even take a refreshing dip in the lagoon.
Otherwise, you can put on some suntan lotion and catch that much-wanted tan while watching the natural beauty that surrounds you.
If you have kids, you can take them on a stroll to go pick up some shells.
Otherwise you can build some sandcastles together. There’s lots of fun to be had at Tigertail Beach. “Sea” you there!
2 Otter Mound Preserve
If you like animals, you are going to love Otter Mound Preserve.
Otter Mound Preserve is a wildlife preservation center with a historical twist.
The preserve is home to thousands of animals.
There is a diverse range of animal species that you’ll encounter when visiting Otter Mound Preserve. You’re bound to see some racoons and armadillos.
Visiting Otter Mound Preserve is also one of the best things to do in Marco Island for all of the bird watchers out there.
The preserve has over 1000 species of birds. So, don’t forget to bring your cameras and binoculars.
Spectacular wildlife isn’t the only thing Otter Mound Preserve has to offer.
As a matter of fact, you’ll see some exquisite architecture as well.
There is a mound on the preserve that was built over 800 by a Calusa tribe. Now, that’s something you don’t just see everyday.
Naturally, there are rules to preserve the architecture and wildlife. So, be sure to leave only footprints and take only memories.
Removing anything from the environment could be detrimental to the animals’ habitat and could also lead to the destruction of precious, historical architecture.
What are you waiting for? Your adventure awaits!
3 Marco Island Seafood And Music Festival
Are you in the mood to be festive? Is Christmas too far away?
Why not start the festivities early by attending the Marco Island Seafood And Music Festival?
If you are a tourist, attending this festivals is one of the best things to do in Marco Island if you’d like go get more in touch with local culture.
As the name states, the Marco Island Seafood And Music Festival has a lot of seafood and a lot of music.
That sounds like a great combination already. The festival first started in 2008 and has grown immensely ever since.
The purpose of the festival is to celebrate the local food and music that has been around for decades.
In total, the Marco Island Seafood And Music Festival carries on for 3 days.
So, you might need to consider booking nearby accommodation.
One of the best places to stay is Marco Beach Ocean Resort.
This is a luxurious, 4-star resort where you can rest your head and relax before returning to the festival the next day.
Once you are fully rested you can go back to the festival grounds and jive along to the talented musicians while digging into some delicious seafood.
I mean, what more could you ask for?
4 Marco Island Center for the Arts
Here’s one for all of the creative spirits out there.
Are you looking for artsy things to do in Marco Island?
If you are, be sure to add a visit to the Marco Island Center for the Arts straight to the top of your bucket list.
The art gallery first opened its doors in 1969 and has grown in size and popularity ever since.
It has a variety of exhibits that display everything for communal works of art to abstract expressionism.
Some of the art pieces that you will see have been paid by renowned professionals, while others come from community art project.
Each work of art has its own creative twist that will leave you standing in awe. The greatest part is that the exhibits rotate.
This means that you’ll see new works of art every time you visit the Marco Island Center for the Arts.
As an added bonus, you will have the option to let your own creative juices flow.
There are instructors on the premises who will teach you a variety of art skills if you sign up for one of the available programs.
Yes, you might start out as a spectator but you’ll walk away as an artist!
Recommended Reading
5 Cape Romano Dome Home
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If you’re looking for things to do in Marco Island that you won’t find anywhere else, be sure to pay a visit to the Cape Romano Dome Home.
In case the name hasn’t already given it away, the Cape Romano Dome Home is a home that is shaped like a dome.
I’m sure that part was pretty self-explanatory. So, what makes this dome home so spectacular?
Well, for starters, it sits in the middle of the ocean. It is also quite beaten down which gives it an ancient touch.
The architecture is absolutely breathtaking. The Cape Romano Dome Home was initially designed to be a holiday home back in 1982.
The biggest difference is that it used to be situated on an island. However, due to high erosion levels in the area, the island has completely disappeared underwater.
All you can see is three domes, standing side by side and peeking out of the water.
Thankfully, no one was in any kind of danger when the sand started to wash away since the owners had to vacate the premises in the 1900’s after a hurricane swept through the area.
You’ll have to travel by boat to visit the Cape Romano Dome Home since there is no land to walk on around it.
You’ll even pass the Ten Thousand Islands area where you’ll get to see some spectacular animals if you are lucky.
This is a spectacle that you won’t see elsewhere. So, be sure to add the Cape Romano Dome Home to your holiday bucket list!
6 Rookery Bay National Reserve
Visiting the Rookery Bay National Reserve is one of the best things to do in Marco Island if you are looking for breathtaking views that will blow your mind.
The reserve is home to a variety of animal species. However, it is a piece of paradise for all of the bird watchers out there.
There is a wide variety of bird species that you can stare in awe at.
So, remember to bring along your binoculars and cameras if you want to capture your feathery friends in action.
Some of the birds that you’ll see include herons, Roseate Spoonbills, and various flocks of birds that have migrated from all around the country. Birds also aren’t the only animals that you’ll find at the Rookery Bay National Reserve.
There are sea turtles and sharks. So, be sure to steer clear of the water unless you want to become a shark snack.
The most spectacular element of the reserve is the fact that it encompasses a variety of different habitats.
This is also why you’ll find such a diverse range of animals.
If you want to stay for more than one day, you can book one of the campsites that are available on the premises.
You can also pop into the educational center to learn more about the wildlife and plant life that inhabits the area.
Talk about a breathtaking adventure!
7 Frank E. Mackle Park
Are you looking for family-friendly things to do in Marco Island?
If you are, you’re in luck. Frank E. Mackle Park is the perfect place to have a great day out while spending some quality time with your family.
The park is stunning and has beautiful views surrounding it.
There is a spacious grass patch where your little ones can run around and play ball games, hide and seek, or whatever other games they would like to play.
You can also have a lovely family picnic on this grass patch.
So, don’t forget to bring your blankets and a picnic basket with lunch and treats.
Shuffleboard and bocce games are available on the premises for the adults who want to release their inner child.
There is a lovely playground with water fountains where your kids can keep themselves entertained while you unwind and bask in the sun.
If you’re looking to catch some dinner, you can head over to one of the piers to try and catch a fish for the family.
When it comes to having family fun in Marco Island, it doesn’t get much better than this.
8 Everglades National Park
Here’s another one of the best things to do in Marco Island if you’re looking for an adventure that comes with scenery.
Everglades National Park is a large natural area that is full of breathtaking views.
The park is home to over 1000 species of animals and an equally large variety of plants.
If you’re lucky, you might see some alligators lurking in the water. Just don’t get too close!
You might also see a manatee or two along with a wide variety of birds.
The most awe-striking thing about Everglades National Park is the variety of terrains and habitats that it has.
You see everything from wild beaches and tropical wetlands to marshes and sawgrass habitats. Talk about a wide variety.
Everglades National Park is the best place to be if you’re looking to go sightseeing in a fairytale-like, natural environment.
If you’re looking for a bit of extra excitement you can sign up for one of the park’s airboat rides where you’ll get to ride across the alligator infested waters without getting your feet wet.
You can’t go wrong by visiting this breathtaking national park.
Beauty truly is in the eyes of the beholder!
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9 Kayaking
What is the best way to go sightseeing in a town that is full of beaches, lakes and waterways?
Going kayaking of course! Kayaking is one of the most popular things to do in Marco Island since the island has so many bodies of water.
There are lakes, lagoons, rivers, marshes, and more that you can explore from the safety and comfort of a kayak.
You can rent a one-person kayak if you are more of a lone ranger.
Or you can rent a kayak that is big enough for two to three people if you want to go kayaking with your friends or family members.
If you don’t have your own kayak, you can rent one from Marco Island Kayak Rentals or from Marco Eco Tours – Kayak Rentals & Tours.
The rentals are reasonably affordable, but the experience will be well worth the money you spend.
Explore Marco Island and all of its beauty in the most adventurous way possible.
See the various marshes and wetlands and all of the wildlife that inhabits Marco Island.
It’s time to row, row, row your boat all the way out of boredom!
10 Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge
Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge is another one of the best places in Marco Island for those who want to go sightseeing.
The area itself is covered by what looks like multiple small islands which makes it look like paradise.
Inside the Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge, you’ll find a variety of different terrains and habitats that are home to a diverse range of wildlife species.
You’ll see lush forests, tropical hardwood, and marshes that are all situated within the same area.
On top of that, you’ll get to stroll through a small part of what is currently known as the biggest forest in the United States.
Naturally, you’ll encounter a variety of wildlife species along the way.
The area has a few species of sea turtles that you might cross paths with.
Some of these turtles that inhabit the islands cannot be found anywhere else in the world which will make seeing one of these beautiful creatures an especially unique experience.
You can explore the islands by foot if you think that you are fit enough.
Otherwise you can go by bike or use a boat provided that the boat doesn’t need a motor to run.
Camping is allowed on certain parts of the islands.
However, you’ll need to be willing to camp in the wild since there aren’t any designated campsites.
One thing is certain, the Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge is a sight that you won’t soon forget!
11 Shelling Tours
If you’re looking for unique things to do in Marco Island, you should definitely sign up for a shelling tour.
This is an activity that will be unlike anything you’ve experienced before.
Since Marco Island is surrounded by the beach, there are all different types of shells that wash up on the shore.
Some of these shells are so specific to the island that you will be unlikely to find them anywhere else.
Due to the fact that there is such an endless amount of rare and spectacular shells that can be found on the island’s shores, there are numerous tours that you can sign up for to learn more about the shells and the creature who used to inhabit them.
The greatest part is that you’ll be able to pick up some of your own shells along the way.
How great would it be to know the history behind every shell that you pick up?
You can make up an entire collection of rare and spectacular shells by simply signing up for one of these tours.
I’m not sure about you, but spending a day in the sun can make me feel quite peckish.
If you’re looking for something to eat after your shelling tour, head over to Marco Prime Steak & Seafood Restaurant for some juicy steaks and delicious seafood.
‘Shell” we get this adventure started?
12 Keewaydin Island
There are plenty of exciting things to do in Marco Island and visiting Keewaydin Island is at the top of the list.
When you first set foot onto Keewaydin Island, it will feel as if you have stepped into a piece of paradise.
It has been called a “barrier island” since it acts as a barrier between Marco Island and Naples.
The island is filled with beautiful and secluded beaches which makes it the perfect spot for those who don’t want to bump elbows with too many tourists during their day out.
As much as you can take a nice, quiet stroll on the beach, you won’t be able to reach the beach by foot.
You’ll have to book a ferry in order to reach the island.
Since this is a small island, there aren’t as many useful facilities as one would expect there to be.
For example, there are no restrooms on the island. So, it might be a cool idea to slow down on those sodas.
As an added bonus, Keewaydin Island is pet-friendly. So, feel free to bring your four-legged friends along.
Just be sure to keep them on a leash as misbehaved pets aren’t allowed on the island.
So, are you ready to live a day in the life of an islander?
If you are, head over to Keewaydin Island for a memorable experience that you won’t soon forget.
13 Marco Golf And Garden
Go for green at Marco Golf And Garden! Are you ready to put your skills to the test and hit that hole in one?
If you are, head over to Marco Golf And Garden and challenge your friends to a game of golf that they’ll be talking about for weeks to come.
Since the golf course is situated on an island, you can expect it to be slightly more luxurious than most of the gold courses that you’ll find in the city.
As a matter of fact, the course looks like something that has come straight out of an island movie.
There are palm trees spread across the course that give it those much-needed beach vibes.
The course has a variety of hazards and decorations to add to the thrill of the game.
There is even a lighthouse on the course that creates even more of a holiday atmosphere.
Just be sure to steer clear of the water hazards if you plan on getting a perfect score.
Going golfing at Marco Golf And Garden is one of the best things to do in Marco Island if you are looking for the perfect combination of relaxation and sport.
The course will give you a sense of serenity while providing you with the opportunity to practice your swings.
At Marco Golf And Garden, you’ve got to go for gold and go for golf!
14 Marco Island Farmer’s Market
It doesn’t matter how many thrilling activities you have lined up for your holiday, there is always enough time to make a pit stop at a farmers market.
Especially if you’re looking for some healthy food to cure the previous night’s hangover.
Thankfully, the Marco Island Farmer’s Market can cure any hangover or rumbling stomach.
For starters, there are early morning food vendors who serve delicious breakfast meals to get your body up and running.
You can get farmhouse breakfasts, breakfast buns, hot cups of coffee, and other great hangover remedies.
The greatest part is that Marco Island Farmer’s Market is good for much more than a hangover.
You can visit the flea market to buy fresh produce that you can use to cook up a storm at home.
Otherwise, you can enjoy a lovely farm breakfast with your family and friends.
You can also buy handmade crafts, essential oils and other interesting items at the market.
So, if you’re looking for things to do in Marco Island after a night of partying or to simply enjoy with your family,
Marco Island Farmer’s Market is the way to go!
15 Marco Island Brewery
Beer, beer, and more beer. That’s exactly what you’ll find at Marco Island Brewery.
So, if you are a fellow beer lover, I’ll know exactly where to find you when I visit the island next.
Marco Island Brewery sells some of the most amazing beers that you will find in the United States.
You can choose between traditional beers, craft beers, lagers, ales, specialty beers, and more.
All of the beer that you’ll be drinking has been brewed on the premises.
So, you can rest assured that you’ll be served nothing less than the freshest of beers that are available on the island.
Why go to a bar when you have an entire brewery at your disposal?
If you are similar to me in any way, beer probably makes you work up quite an appetite.
Don’t worry. I’ve got you covered. If you want to cure a bad case of the beer munchies, you can head through to Merchant logo
Zeppe’s Tavern & Pizzeria where you can buy even more beers.
Most importantly, you can buy a starch-filled, cheesy pizza that will soak up your brewery beer so that you can buy another beer at the restaurant’s tavern.
Just be sure to organize a designated driver.
Don’t drink and drive, drink and jive!
16 JW Marriott
Are you looking for an experience that will set your excitement levels on fire?
If you are, you simply have to make a pit stop at JW Marriott.
Not only will this be one of the most mind blowing experiences of your life, but the experience will literally be on fire.
Why, you ask?
Well, you’ll get to see the most talented of fire dancers performing daring stunts that very few of us are brave enough to attempt.
Despite the fact that these talented performers are in quite a risky line of business, they are there to ensure that you stay entertained by performing epic stunts and fire dances that will leave you standing in awe.
If you want to see this quality of fire dancing elsewhere, you’ll probably have to book an expensive trip to Hawaii.
Thankfully, Marco Island allows you to witness the spectacle right on your doorstep at JW Marriott .
\If you are a tourist this is a spectacle that you simply can’t afford to miss out on.
On top of that, you’re probably weighing out your accommodation options.
The JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort is the perfect option for anyone who is looking to witness the fire dancing performances at JW Marriott.
The performance is within walking distance from your accommodation and the accommodation is luxurious to say the least.
So, let’s turn the heat up. Sometimes playing with fire doesn’t mean getting burned!
17 Quinn’s on the Beach.
Here’s one of the best things to do in Marco Island for anyone who is over the age of 21.
Are you looking to go out for a drink that will make you feel as if you have just stepped into a movie?
If you are, be sure to order up some beers and cocktails at Quinn’s on the Beach.
Quinn’s on the Beach will give you an authentic, social experience that is ridden with island vibes.
The facility doubles as both a bat and a restaurant. You can buy a variety of alcoholic beverages of your choice that are served in tiki-style.
This means that every drink you have will feel like a millionaire’s island-style drinking experience.
Are you in the mood for a specialty cocktail? Or would you rather stick to the classic by buying a beer?
Whatever your preferred alcoholic beverage may be, chances are that Quinn’s on the Beach has exactly what you are looking for.
The greatest part is that the bar doubles as a restaurant.
If you’re feeling peckish you can order a delicious snack or meal from the bar area to absorb some of the excess alcohol that you have drank.
No, eating is not always cheating.
So, head over to Quinn’s on the Beach for an authentic, island-style drinking and dining experience that is bucket list worthy to say the least!
18 Fishing
Who needs to buy dinner when you can catch it yourself?
Well, let’s be realistic. On an island that is surrounded by beaches, you can only imagine that fishing is one of the best activities to engage in.
Do you enjoy sea fishing where you can catch the biggest of fish in a flash?
Or would you rather have a slow-paced, relaxing fishing expedition by fishing in a lagoon or lake?
Either way, fishing is one of the most popular things to do in Marco Island despite what your reasons for fishing might be.
If you forgot to bring your fishing rod, you can always rent one from one of the nearby shops. Are you looking for the right bait?
Don’t forget that we are talking about a fishing haven.
That means that you’ll find plenty of stores that sell everything from baby squids if you’re looking for bigger fish or prawns if you’re looking for smaller and tastier fish.
There are also a few different fishing stores where you can buy surf fishing lines if you’re planning on fishing on the beach.
Otherwise, you can buy traditional rods for normal lagoon fishing.
Regardless, this beach haven is a fishing haven.
So, tell your family not to worry about dinner plans because you’re about to catch the meal of the day!
19 Eco Cruise with the Dolphin Explorer
Are you looking to get in touch with life that happens under the sea?
If you are, what better way is there to get in touch than witnessing dolphins jumping in and out of Marco Island’s clear, blue waters?
Fun fact! Did you know that dolphins are one of the most intelligent animals in existence?
Yes, they can remember more than you would think and they’re smart enough to fight off predators which makes them admirable creatures if you ask me.
Thankfully, you don’t have to take my word for it.
You can experience the wondrous life of the ocean by signing up for one of Marco Island’s eco cruises where you’ll get to see these intelligent dolphins in their natural habitat.
Naturally, you’ll have to travel by boat. So, be sure to book your trip in advance.
Witnessing these dolphins jumping in and out of the water will make you fall in love with the ocean all over again.
Besides, it’s not unheard of for dolphins to allow occasional tourists to pet them.
Maybe you’ll get to be one of the lucky chosen few. Even if you aren’t, simply watching these creatures will be worth your while!
20 Marco Murder and Mayhem
It’s time to get eerie, spooky, and downright scary at Marco Murder and Mayhem.
Who said it has to be Halloween for you to have a frightening time?
In Marco Island you can sign up for a creepy experience at any time of year.
This isn’t your average, oversold haunted house.
As a matter of fact, it’s more of a “ghost tour” that is specially designed to scare you out of your socks.
Your tour guide will give you a respectful gesture that will start off with a free drink, The drink is probably intended to calm your nerves.
I mean, you are getting your free drink in Olde Marco Inn which is a supposed haunted hotel.
If your nerves survive the hotel tour, you will be taken to an eerie, abandoned cemetery which is lead by ghost expert, Martha Horror.
After that, you’ll be guided through an ancient Indian burial site that is over 200 years old.
Let’s hope that you only run into friendly ghosts along the way.
Either way, this is one of my favorite things to do in Marco Island since I am a horror junkie.
If you are one too, sign up for Marco Murder and Mayhem for a night of fright!
Conclusion
That’s the end ladies and gentleman. You are officially fully equipped to plan your next adventure by yourself.
Don’t forget to try put as many items on this list as possible. You only live once.
So hold onto adventure while you have the chanced. If you want more, check out this article on Things to do in Waikiki. You won’t regret it!
