A small city of about 16,000 on Florida’s Gulf Coast in the Southwest. The state area has more than 10,000 islands and this island is one of the largest in that particular region. The quiet island and surroundings are famous for pretty beaches, exotic shells you will end up discovering in abundance. Hundreds of thousands come from across the country to bathe in its sun. As such, we bring you today the 10 best Marco Island fish and wildlife activities while organizing your trip to Florida should make room of all kinds of sights in one place.
Tigertail Beach
And if pristine, vast, and far away are the terms you always use to reckon about your fantasy beach spot, then look no further than Tigertail. Because of its lack of crowds, Tigertail Beach is a great destination for those who want beautiful surroundings and solitude. It is reportedly one of the area’s finest shelling and beachcombing to boot. There are some truly wonderful shells from conchs and sand dollars to whelks and scallops. There are bathrooms, changing rooms, plenty of parking and a well-known snack bar that features great sandwiches and cold drinks.
The Marco Island Princess
The Marco Island Princess has been one of the most visible boats on and about the waters around Marco for years, its nearly 100-foot-long second deck rises high above other watercraft. If you are one of those who wants to see the Florida coast from the outside, it is best to do so aboard Princess. Based out of The Rose Marina on Marco Island, the Princess offers a narration by its captain during each tour with historical and natural information not likely to be found elsewhere. An incredible selection of cruise packages are on over – some provide full buffet-style meals and evening trips for those determined to nab mind-blowing sunrises!
Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve
The Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve is this and more a great place to come if you love birds: that includes avocats, white pelicans, herons, roseate spoonbills as well as migratory flocks passing up the west coast of South or Central America. The area is also rich in sea turtle nests, and there are many sharks around too. This preserve is part of a vast conservation project that spans all the way from Naples to the Everglades.
Frank E. Mackle Park
If you are looking for free things to do in Marco Island, Frank E. Mackle Park is the answer. It is also the most active way of leisure time. A great place for a nice enjoyable walk, family picnic or playing basketball and swimming. Centered around a beautiful lake is Frank E. Mackle Park, offering catch-and-release fishing. If you are in need of a space for exercise, there is an 800-meter walkway just to give your legs some movement.
Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary
A top pick is the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, a nearly seven decades old 14,000-acre site near Naples. This is an area that has a short raised boardwalk into some of the nectar plants so alligators and other wildlife can easily be seen including multiple snakes — mostly pygmy rattlesnakes (Sistrurus miliarius), as well as water snake species like brown (Nerodia fasciata pictiventris) varieties, plus several bird options. Please note that some former travelers warned that the swamp can be sticky and if you visit during mosquito season in summer especially, make sure to pack a bottle of bug spray.
Everglades National Park
It is part of the state; the pull of Everglades cannot be escaped. Fortunately, a number of entertaining tours from Marco Island allow me to experience some parts of this spectacular area. A unique and highly endangered ecosystem, where to see the Everglades at its most beautiful go here. The location shares both tropical and temperate climates with thousands of species representing plants and animals (many notably manatee, alligator orchid or cacti)
Caxambas Pass Park
One of the most peaceful Marco Island attractions is this charming park. This small park might seem unassuming at first glance, but it’s a very pleasant location to spend time at. You can watch the boats and fishermen come and go into the waters of Florida at your own leisure. Alternatively, get in a kayak or paddleboard and set off on your own adventure with the help of the nearby boat rentals. If required, you can even rent the equipment to get a paddleboard or kayak.
Keewaydin Island
Located in the less tourist heavy area of South Florida, it’s a good escape for anyone trying to avoid large crowds. Another near-island jewel that makes it to our list is Keewaydin Island, located just off the coast of Naples which boasts a serene natural environment and an explosion of wildlife. While most of the wildlife on display at your average local park or preserve is relatively small, there are some pretty big game roaming around Keewaydin Island like Deer and Wild Boar. Tabarca is not reachable by car, but only accessible via boat so tourists can arrange a tour with a local marina.
Cape Romano
Cape Romano The bizarre formations that protrude from the ocean at the south tip of Marco Island are explained by phrases like surreal, exterior, and odd. A strange collection of concrete structures built in the early 1980s as a holiday home for a wealthy Florida oilman who had retired is Cape Romano. They resemble an alien from a sci-fi flick. The shape is distinctive and accessible only by sea. Although nothing lives there, the mouth of the area is a fascinating anecdote.
South Marco Island Beach
South Marco Island Beach So, as we all know, Florida is famous for its beaches, and the Marco Island rule does not dismiss it. South Marco Island Beach on the south end of Collier Boulevard is a beachgoer’s utopia with beautiful white sandy beaches and limitless Gulf views. This beach at Marcos Trail on Caxambas Park is the closest public beach to explore adventure. South Marco Island Beach is popular because of its shell and beachcombing beach, as well as easy parking and direct access to lodging, dining, and various other activities. On the beach, don’t be surprised to see dolphins in the ocean jumping and playing.
