With the convenience of a domestic flight and the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, Marco Island is my go-to beach haven. The largest of Florida’s Thousand Islands, this 24- square-mile slice of paradise is perfect for families looking for both relaxation and adventure. The crown jewel of Marco Island is the newly renovated J.W. Marriott Marco Island. No detail was overlooked during its $250 million renovation, the final touches of which are expected to be completed in Fall 2018. From the well-appointed facilities to the massive white sand beach, if you like luxury, convenience and service, this is the place for you.
Getting there:
Marco Island is 40 miles from Southwest Florida/Ft. Meyers International Airport (RSW).
Where to stay:
The second you step foot into the lobby, the crystal blue Gulf waters instantly melt your troubles away. And the impeccable service team that greets you is on hand to get your vacation started ASAP. From the valet to the check-in desk, the bell hops to the concierge, it is clear that J.W. Marriott Marco Island employees are focused on making your experience top notch. On my most recent trip, I had the pleasure of meeting Bob—a bellman who has worked at this resort for 40 years! We chatted like old friends, as he showed us to our room and imparted more knowledge about the resort and the island then I thought possible in 10 minutes. In a hotel with more than 700 rooms it’s pretty rare to be able to walk through the lobby each day and know the staff on a first-name basis!
Rooms: The resort is made up of two main towers that house the majority of the rooms, and a new, 93-room (21 and older) tower. Each offers various rates based on the view, but if you can splurge (or are one of the lucky platinum upgrades), you’ll find yourself with a near panoramic view of the Gulf of Mexico. Rooms were refreshed as part of the renovation and are well appointed, though drawer space is minimal. (TIP: Take advantage of the mini-fridge and stock up on drinks at one of the two Publix on the island to avoid paying resort pricing for water, snacks and other drinks). 
Activities: The grounds of this resort are impeccably manicured and feature a kid-friendly pool (think waterfall, slide and happy squeals), a larger main pool with Gulf views and ample seating, and a new adults-only rooftop pool in the Lanai tower. Get out there early to claim a prime seat. The pools tend to attract larger crowds mid-morning and mid-afternoon and I’ll be honest–finding a chair with a clear view of your kiddos can be a challenge. But the piña colada in hand helps you make do!
Marco Island’s main attraction is its beach–and it does not disappoint. White sand, blue-green waters, beautiful shells and endless sea life. Don’t be surprised to see dolphins swimming by as you sip your afternoon daiquiri! At low tide the shell hunting is at its peak–conchs shells are everywhere (just make sure the actual conchs aren’t still in there!), and it’s not uncommon to find the occasional starfish and sand dollar. Shuffle on your way into the water…sting rays like this place about as much as I do, but generally don’t bother you.
Your daily resort fee includes up to 4 chairs and an umbrella at the J.W. Marriott’s beach. Swing by the brown hut on the beach and one of the beach boys will set you up in a spot of your choosing. (TIP: arrive early for a front row seat. It seems like people are becoming more and more aggressive with their “seat claiming” and on my most recent trip I saw people lined up nearly an hour before the hut even opened! That seemed extreme to me. I always timed my morning run so that I returned as the hut was opening and was always able to secure a decent spot).
In addition to the massive beach in front of the hotel, you are within walking distance of the most beautiful spot on the island–Tigertail Beach. Known for it’s natural tidal pools, bird watching and shells, Tigertail is a mile and a half down the beach–the perfect distance for a morning run or a family walk. For those of you who can’t sit still, water sport activities are available throughout the day right at the resort. Take your pick from jet skis, kayaks, paddle boards, floating hammocks or sail boats. The concierge is also an excellent resource for taking advantage of the planned excursions that leave from the resort. I highly recommend the sailing and shelling trip.
Beyond that, the Tiki Tribe kids camp is offered daily from 10-3 and features a variety of kid-friendly activities; golfers can head out on one of two local courses the J.W. Marriott is affiliated with; and if you need a moment of zen, the newly renovated Spa by J.W. is the epitome of bliss. Be sure to check the daily schedule for on-site activities such as fitness classes, hair braiding, crafts and “dive-in” movie nights–always a hit with the kids!
Last but not least–DO NOT MISS THE SUNSET! The views from the J.W. Marriott beach are unrivaled. You may even be one of the lucky few who witness the rare Green Flash–a fast, green burst of light that occurs just as the top of the sun dips below the horizon. I’ve yet to spot it…I guess I’ll have to keep going back! Just after sunset, turn around and head back up to the resort for the daily sunset celebration–complete with a fire twirler (how does he do that?!) and live music.
Food: J.W. Marriott Marco Island makes it easy to never have to leave the resort by offering a variety of food options for all palates and budgets. In the mornings, grab a quick coffee and pastry, bowl of cereal or yogurt parfait at Cafe San Marco. If you’re looking for something more substantial, the beautiful new Maia offers every breakfast food you could possibly imagine in its lavish buffet. The price tag steep, but eat your fill and you won’t need lunch! On your way in, prepare to be awed by the amazing sand sculpture just outside the entrance. Lunch can be brought to you on the beach (along with some yummy frozen cocktails) with Quinn’s beach-side truck service, or you can take a break from the heat and grab at table at the beach front restaurant itself. Pazzi’s is another quick option for both lunch and dinner and offers a variety of pizzas, pastas and salads. If you opt to eat at Quinn’s for dinner (which you should do at least once on your trip), I suggest putting your name on the list prior to the nightly fire twirler show (a can’t-miss highlight for the entire family). This way you can enjoy the sunset, catch the fire show and your table should be ready to go! A new addition as part of the renovation is Kane–a Balinese-inspired grill and tiki bar with live music at night and an incredible view all day. For a more upscale formal dining option, Ario offers exquisite steak and seafood. For a more low-key night, check out the sushi bar or share some appetizers at Korals. Regardless of what’s for dinner…everyone loves dessert. And the on-site Menchies yogurt is the perfect pit stop for kids of all ages.
When I say the J.W. Marriott Marco Island has it all–I mean it! But if you are going to venture off site, here are my recs:
Favorite off-resort restaurants:
Nenes–This popular, no-frills restaurant has the best breakfast on the island. It may not look like much from the outside, but when the egg skillet gets in your belly, you’re sure to feel happy on the inside!
Mangos–For fresh seafood with a great view, head on over to this casual, family-friendly, dock-side bistro. Indoor and outdoor seating are offered on a first come, first served basis so get there early. The constant crowd is a testament to the consistently good food.
Snook Inn— This famous waterside favorite is accessible by boat or land. With live music, a steady gulf breeze and a large selection of fresh seafood it’s a can’t miss on any Marco visit. Bonus: bring your own fresh catch (trimmed and cleaned) and they’ll prepare it for you!
DaVinici–If you’re on the hunt for some authentic Italian food, Davinici’s is molto bene. Walking distance from the J.W. Marriott, the ingredients are fresh and the service attentive. The hotel concierge is your “in” to getting a highly-coveted reservation.
Favorite off-resort activity:
Spend the day on the water with a boat rental from Rose Marina. Available in half or full day options, deck/offshore boats seat up to 6 and pontoon boats up to 12 people. After a quick overview of the boat, you’ll be off to explore in the over 23 miles of easy to navigate inter-coastal waterways. Pop up to Naples to get a water view of the beautiful homes or head on over to my favorite, the popular Keeywadin Island known for its beautiful shells and white sand beaches. Bring along drinks and a picnic lunch to store in the on-board cooler and you’ll be set to hang out for the day. If you need extra snacks along the way, food and ice cream boats are usually found anchored along Keeywadin or pull up to the dock at the Snook Inn.
