For three months out of the year, Marco Island, FL doubles in population from about 14,000 year round residents to over 30,000. The increase is due to vacationers and seasonal residents enjoying a respite from harsh northern winters. But, from April through December, Marco Island is a quiet haven if you want to take in pristine natural beauty without the crush of crowds attracted to many of Florida's world-class resort destinations.
Fish and Explore the Ten Thousand Islands
Marco Island is the largest of Florida's Ten Thousand Islands, and the opportunities for outdoor recreation are unlimited. Miles of white sand beach allow for sun and water sports such as boating, sailing, day cruises, beach combing, and more. Sport fisherman flock to the area in hopes of reeling in the wide variety of species that inhabit the waters surrounding the island.
If you intend to take advantage of Marco's abundant fishing, renting a home with a dock on one of the island's many canals is a superb option. Or maybe, expanses of white sand beach and views of the Gulf of Mexico is closer to what you envision. From condos to hotels and resorts to single family rental homes, accommodations on Marco Island abound April through August at discounted prices.
Marco Island is Home to Some of Florida's Best Beaches
Like most people who vacation in Florida, maybe the beach is top on your list of things to do. Marco Island's Tigertail Beach won't disappoint. Stretching for miles on the western side of Marco Island, Tigertail Beach offers incomparable natural beauty in its lengths of white sand, tidal bays, terrific shelling (not live), sand bars and more. Once you visit Tigertail Beach, you will likely want to return again, so plan accordingly.
Marco Island Offers Florida's Finest Upscale Shopping
A trip to Marco wouldn't be complete without shopping. Beach shops and upscale shopping coexist together on the island. The Esplanade Shoppes beckons visitors to view their designer wears while licking a Cold Stone Creamery ice cream cone. Take home a Marco Island souvenir from from one of the beach shops that line Collier Blvd., or from one of the many local shops that cater to vacationers. If you happen to get hungry, feast on one of the many fine dining options within the Esplanade or elsewhere on the island. Marco offers a cuisine for every taste.
Certainly, whatever you plan for your trip to Marco Island during the off-season will be free of crowds, offering you a chance to wind down from life's busy pace and proceed, at least for a time, island style.
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