The Top 20 Things to Do on Marco Island

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1. Tigertail Beach & Lagoon**
One of the most popular public beaches on the island, Tigertail offers a unique setup: a tidal lagoon backed by mangroves, and beyond that the Gulf shoreline. It’s excellent for shelling, birdwatching, swimming, and kayaking

2. South Marco Beach**
For classic beach lounging, sun, sand, and swimming, South Marco is a long, wide stretch of clean beachfront. It’s ideal for families and those who want easy access to restaurants and amenities.

3. Kayak or Paddleboard Through Mangroves**
Explore the mangrove tunnels and estuaries by kayak or paddleboard. You’ll often spot dolphins, manatees, fish, and a variety of birds. Guided eco-tours are a great way to learn about the ecosystem.

4. Boat Tours in the Ten Thousand Islands**
Marco is the gateway to the Ten Thousand Islands—hundreds of islets, mangroves, and backwater channels. Hop on an airboat, pontoon, or eco-cruise to explore, see wildlife, and visit remote spots.

5. Dolphin Watching Tours**
Join a Dolphin Tour — many depart from Rose Marina — to see bottlenose dolphins playing near the shoreline. It’s often a favorite for families.

6. Marco Island Historical Museum**
Learn about the island’s past, including the Calusa Indians and early settlers, through exhibits, artifacts, and displays.

7. Briggs Nature Center**
A boardwalk trail leads you through a mix of habitats and wildlife viewing opportunities. It’s a calm, educational escape.

8. Otter Mound Preserve**
A small but fascinating preserve, featuring ancient shell mounds and tropical hardwood hammock vegetation. It’s peaceful and offers a walk through natural and historical layers.

9. Golfing**
Marco Island and the surrounding area have some excellent golf courses. For example, Hammock Bay Golf & Nature offers a scenic, challenging course.

10. Spa & Resort Relaxation**
If you’re staying at one of the island’s resorts (e.g. JW Marriott), take advantage of spa treatments, swimming pools, beachfront services, and wellness programs.

11. Shopping at Marco Walk Plaza**
A hub for boutique shopping, dining, and casual strolling. It’s a nice break from outdoor excursions.

12. Sunset Cruises & Dinner Cruises**
Take a relaxing cruise at dusk, often with music or a dinner served onboard, so you can enjoy Florida’s spectacular sunsets over the water.

13. Rent a Boat or Jet Ski**
For more freedom, rent your own vessel: explore nearby islands, head out to sea, or just enjoy cruising the protected waters.

14. Catamaran or CraigCat Tours**
These tours use unique watercraft to slip through mangroves and shallow backwaters. Good for more adventurous boat explorations.

15. Fire Dancers & Nighttime Beach Events**
At resorts like JW Marriott, you can watch nightly fire dance performances on the beach. A fun way to cap off an evening.

16. Mini-Golf**
Play a round of mini-golf for light, family-friendly entertainment. Marco Golf & Garden and Coral Cay Adventure Golf are local favorites.

17. Fishing Charters**
Book a charter for inshore, offshore, or backwater fishing. Even beginners can enjoy a guided trip.

18. Shelling & Beachcombing**
Marco is known for its shelling, especially around Tigertail and the Ten Thousand Islands. Walk the shores at low tide to find treasures.

19. Birdwatching & Wildlife Viewing**
With its wetlands and mangroves, Marco is a prime spot for birders. Keep an eye out for wading birds, pelicans, ospreys, and more.

20. Bike Rides & Exploring Town**
The island is relatively flat and bike-friendly. Ride around neighborhoods, cross the bridges to mainland, or explore local shops and restaurants on two wheels