If you are in search of some truly stunning beaches in south Florida, Marco Island is a must add to your travel list. I have been coming to this Island with my family since 1994, and although I have traveled the world and seen many beaches, something about this place keeps bringing me back. When the opportunity arose for us to live here part time, there was absolutely no question in our minds. With 6 miles of white sand beaches and crystal blue gulf waters, it is no surprise why these beaches are consistently voted among the best in Florida. Readers Choice even awarded Marco Island #9 on it's "Best Islands of 2021" list. The beaches here also put an emphasis on conservation and wildlife protection, which I love! Because of this they are always clean and peaceful.
In this post, I want to share with you my favorite beaches and how you can easily visit them on your next trip to Marco Island.
Tigertail Beach
This is my favorite of the Marco Island beaches because of its unspoiled natural beauty. It is also the least traveled and most private of the beaches. According to locals, “(Tigertail) allows you to step back in time, every week this beach is different.” So you will want to visit this stretch of sand multiple times during your visit.
What to expect when visiting Tigertail beach:
There is plenty of parking here, nonresidents pay $8 to park, visit the beach, and use the facilities. When you first arrive, the parking lot might appear full, but continue driving to the back left, and you will find plenty additional parking and facilities. From the parking lot you can take several paths to the natural cove area. If you want to go to the gulf side beaches, just follow the large path between the condos and natural area to your left. It might seem like a bit of a hike for some, but it is worth it! You can also wade/swim through the cove to reach the other side. I do not like to do this as I am afraid of what might be in that water, and do not often swim in the ocean. The cove is also a perfect place to kayak and paddleboard.
Residents' Beach
As the name implies, this beach is only for residents. However, anyone can access the beach itself. Parking, park, and amenities are only for residents. The beach is defiantly worth a visit though, because it is the perfect showcase of the immensity of the beaches here, the white sands, and clear blue gulf waters. There are also chikee huts, a large playground, clean restrooms, and wheelchair accessible beach entrances. Not to mention delicious beachside dining at Paradise Grill. Passes for parking can be purchased for 14-day periods if you have a 1-year lease on a rental, or are visiting relatives who live here. Just another reason to come for an extended stay on the island!
This is also my favorite place to come watch the sunset. We watched fireworks here on the 4th of July, and it was one of the most memorable/ incredible evenings.
South Beach
Although this is the busiest beach on Marco Island, and I tend to avoid it during tourist season, it is still a must visit destination! I always find the best shells here, and the fishing is incredible. There are rocks to climb on and explore, beautiful photo spots, and plenty of beach for everyone to enjoy. This is also where I come to practice yoga with Marco Island Yoga.
What to expect when visiting South Beach:
Beach access and public parking can be found on Swallow Avenue. From here, the beach is a short walk across South Collier BLVD. The walk to the beach itself is gorgeous, lined with palm trees and luxury resorts. There are restrooms located in the parking lots. The parking fee is $8 for the day , Visa and Master card are accepted. The beach is open from sunrise to sunset. Make sure to check the times of the sunrise/sunset because beach authorities will close the lots regardless if your car is parked there or not.
If you are up for a challenge, walking all the way from South Beach, through residents beach, and down to Tigertail is a fun adventure!
While visiting the beaches please be respectful of the wildlife and natural beauty. Respect the dunes where sea turtles nest by not walking in areas that are marked off. Do not bring plastic or glass to our beaches please, and be mindful of others space. As the saying goes, “leave only footprints, take only photos.”
I hope you can visit this special and beautiful place some day! Once you come, you will never want to leave. For more island lifestyle content, photos, and fashion follow me on Instagram @_sincerelylovely
If you are looking for some amazing photo locations on Marco Island, check out this blog post