If you are thinking about planning a tropical vacation to a place where the beaches are always warm, the prices are always reasonable, the views are always breathtaking, and the locals are always friendly, then look no further than Marco Island. Considered one of Florida's best-kept vacation secrets, Marco Island has something for everyone. All you have to do is look.
As someone who was born and raised in Florida, I know a thing or two about the Sunshine State. I have experienced spring break in Daytona Beach and Disney World in Orlando. I have partied in Miami and recuperated in the Keys. I have toured the Everglades and visited "The Swamp." And yet time and time again, I always return to Marco Island.
History of Marco Island
Considered the largest of Florida's famed Ten Thousand islands, Marco Island is located in Southwest Florida, nestled against the Gulf of Mexico. Known for its easy-going influence and relaxing local flavor, Marco Island is preferred by both locals and visitors alike. It's calm, quiet, sandy, white beaches are a hit with those who just want to relax, while its close proximity to the deep waters of the Gulf is appealing to anglers.
Though only four miles wide and approximately six miles long, Marco Island boasts a rich history. Founded by the Calusa Indians around 4000 BC, the island remained relatively underdeveloped (and uninhabited) until after the Civil War, when Captain William D. Collier built a small hotel in 1896. Surprisingly, further development of Marco Island wasn't set in motion until nearly one hundred years later (thanks in part to the depression), when brothers Elliott, Robert, and Frank Jr. Mackell purchased it from the Colliers and transformed it into a vacation and residential paradise.
Marco Island: An Ideal Vacation Spot
Today Marco Island boasts some 15,000-year-round residents and nearly 20,000 visitors each year. As someone who has been to Marco Island several times, I can understand why it has become such a popular vacation destination. Nestled on the southern-most-tip of Florida's West Coast, Marco Island boasts magnificent views of the Gulf of Mexico as well as nearly perfect weather 365 days a year.
Another reason why I like to visit Marco Island is its close proximity to many of Florida's other magnificent cities. 90 miles west of Miami and 150 miles south of Tampa, it is easy to experience the hustle and bustle of these world-famous towns without having to commit to their often-hefty vacation price tags. As someone who prefers a cozy beach chair and a good book to nightclubs and crowded restaurants, I enjoy visiting Miami but prefer to stay on Marco Island.
That is not to say that there is nothing to do on Marco Island, quite the contrary as a matter of fact! Known as the "gateway to the awesome land of Ten Thousand Islands," Marco Island offers tremendous snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities, fishing, golf, shopping, and much more. I like to think of Marco Island as the laid-back-vacationer's Miami; there is just as much to do, only not as much pressure to do it!
I recommend a trip to Marco Island, Florida to anyone in serious need of a break. Marco Island vacation rentals are easy to find and very affordable. Regardless of your budget, you are sure to find a vacation package to Marco Island that won't break the bank. Take it from a local: if you want to plan a truly relaxing, truly breathtaking, and truly memorable vacation. . .look no further than Marco Island.
Read Next 5 Articles
Amberjack Fishing
Barracuda Fishing
Beach Front Vacations
Beach House Rentals
Cobia Fishing