It’s an easy drive from Naples south to Marco Island, whether you plan to head out for a great dinner or to spend the day. Just jump on 41 south to Collier Blvd., then head over the bridge to Marco and get ready to explore this “Naples neighbor.” You’ll be there in less than an hour!
Leave early and enjoy a casual breakfast try NeNe’s Kitchen on Collier Blvd. Known for oversized omelettes and crispy French toast, one Yelp reviewer referred to breakfast at NeNe’s as “the best breakfast in Florida.” Now that’s a recommendation!
Next, try this driving tour to learn a bit about the history of the island. Marco Island is the largest of the 10,000 Islands region of southwest Florida, and the only one that is inhabited. Your driving tour will teach you a bit about the history, geology and ecosystem of the island, and even includes the sites of two archaeological digs. And did you know that the highest point in southwest Florida is actually on Marco Island? Besides all that history, you’ll get a feel for Marco in general as you tour the island - from quiet residential streets to the hustle of high rise resorts, from the marinas to the retail areas….this small community has its own special “feel.”
If you want to gain more insight into Marco’s history, make a stop at the Marco Island Museum. Admission is free, and you’ll get to see the famous Marco cat, a remnant of ancient Calusa mound dwellers on loan from the Smithsonian.
You can’t visit Marco Island without visiting the beach. One favorite is Tigertail Beach. The beach has ample parking for a reasonable fee (free for Collier County residents with a parks sticker), and you can rent a cabana, paddle board or kayak on site. Walk past the playground and follow the path to the main beach, or wade across the lagoon. There you’ll find an expanse of Gulf of Mexico beachfront and great shelling. Enjoy the peaceful Gulf waters, sunshine, and just wiggling your toes in the sand. You may catch some great photos of bald eagles and diving pelicans, too.
What about shopping on Marco? Here you’ll find Sunshine Booksellers, the only independent bookstore in Collier County. Wander through the variety of appealing shops tucked into small plazas along Collier Blvd., or browse at the Esplanade Shops at the north end of town. Check out the On Marco Island website to preview a list of shops on the island and plan to visit those that interest you most.
When it’s time for lunch or dinner, you’ll discover great options on Marco Island. A longtime favorite of the locals is the Snook Inn, a marina restaurant located at the end of Bald Eagle Drive. Enjoy live music under the thatched roof, or dine waterside and get a bit more sun. The laid back atmosphere, ambience, and great seafood will bring a smile. If you’d like something a bit more sophisticated, try one of the many dining options at the Marriott Beach Resort, a Marco Island landmark. Whether you choose a snack at the Tiki Bar, beachfront dining, or the white-tablecloth dining room, you’ll enjoy a glimpse at this Marco Island destination. And if you have golf on your mind, the Marriott is a terrific place to play! Their Rookery course was named as one of the Top 50 courses by Golf Range magazine.
If your visit allows you to plan an evening on Marco Island, check out the well-known Off The Hook Comedy Club. Or during the fall and winter season, pick up tickets for the local Marco Players production.
As you head home, take the scenic route. Head east on San Marco Rd. from the intersection of Collier Blvd. Pass through the residential area, then take in the landscape, pristine waters and mangrove forests that are part of the 10,000 Islands region. Leave the resort community behind and watch for nesting osprey, bald eagles, and shore birds. As you head through the little settlement of Goodland, you’ll skirt the edges of the Everglades. After just a few miles, San Marco Rd. meets US 41, which will bring you right back to Naples.
You’re sure to enjoy a day on Marco Island - a close to home getaway!
