While Orlando often takes top billing as most desirable family vacation spot, those who prefer a more relaxed setting (with less Mickey induced stress) should look no further than beautiful Marco Island, situated on the coast of Southwest Florida. Don't be intimidated by the huge high rise condos and luxurious homes you first encounter after crossing over the Jolley Bridge. There is more, way more, than meets the eye for families of all ages and stages.
Where you stay is key in navigating this small, yet bustling 17 square mile island paradise. If your budget allows, it is well worth it to book a room at one of the resort condos on the beach: It makes the 10 trips back and forth to the condo for forgotten sand toys, potty breaks, binkies and naps much more bearable. There is also the convenience of having a pool right at your back door, too. Poolside food service is a beautiful thing not only for a kiddies lunch, but a cocktail or two for the adults is an added feature some parents may need! Another good option is renting a single family home, even better with a pool. While it won't have all of the resort amenities, there will be a lot more privacy for the tantrums and metdowns!
Entertaining children in Marco Island shouldn't be considered a challenge as there is much to do and see, especially for those who love the great outdoors. A short drive on 951 and you'll be at the Rookery Bay Reserve, one of the most important coastal habitat research and estuarine facilities in the United States. Within this 12,500 acre treasure, you can visit Briggs Nature Center where the kids will enjoy learning about birds, native plants and wildlife as they hike a series of trails meandering throughout the estuary. Be sure to take the guided boat tour into the reserve where experts will point out different plant and wildlife species. Older children may enjoy the self guided audio tour offered. The reserve has a very low admission price, making it easy for everyone to enjoy. Plan on this excursion taking up a whole day-- assuming there are no meltdowns.
If it's water fun the family is after, then by all means, go get on a boat. There are several options worth exploring in this department. More budget conscious families may wish to consider renting a couple kayaks or canoes and getting up close and personal with the ibis and pelicans. This is also your best shot at sneaking up on a manatee rolling around in the water. They tend to prefer the warmer, more shallow water in which to find food. For all out high speed cruising on the Gulf of Mexico, go to any marina and for a small, but well worth it fortune, rent anything from a Seadoo to a party barge also known as a pontoon. Pack a lunch because this is a great chance to get away from Marco and pull up on a quiet stretch of beach for a swim and a picnic. For a livelier atmosphere, head north to Keewaydin Island, where on weekends hundreds of boaters pull onto the beach for barbecues and good times. When you are under way, keep your eyes peeled in all directions because dolphins (and sometimes turtles) find enjoyment jumping in and out of your boat's wake. Other good nautical themed excursions include hopping on a group tour boat taking you to all the local hotspots for terrific shelling. The anglers in the family may wish to inquire about a full or half day fishing trip out in the Gulf. For some great thrills, the whole family may enjoy getting up close and personal with alligators by taking an airboat tour in neighboring Everglades City.
If you can't find a suitable activity the whole family can enjoy, you can always drive to nearby Naples, the winter playground of the rich and sometimes famous. Here you will find a fabulous little zoo, a brand spanking new water park and great shopping. While you are in Naples, if you are looking for chain style eateries, stick around for dinner, because you'll find every type of dining known to man here.
Speaking of food, what is a vacation without fresh, local food, especially seafood? While Marco Island has some of the finest restaurants in all of Southwest Florida, the little ones may not appreciate five star dining just yet. All around Marco you can find several eateries suitable for kids while still enjoying your end of the day cocktail and fresh catch. Many even offer free kids food on certain nights of the week. Most importantly, if you enjoy fish, don't go home without trying a local fresh catch or stone crab claws (when in season). Note that the very fish you are enjoying was caught in the Gulf waters just hours ago.
As with any vacation involving young children, sometimes the best things in life are free. Don't be afraid to spend your days sticking close to your condo or holiday home. Don't try to cram tons of activities into one day. You will find Marco Island to be a very laid back atmosphere and may very well enjoy just walking along the beach and collecting shells or buying a few pool toys and just playing in the water and building sand castles. Usually, water and nature are is enough to keep most children and their parents happy for long stretches of time. Marco Island sure has what it takes to create an enjoyable vacation for all!
This guide to family fun on Marco Island was brought to you by Mel Gaetano.
When you reserve your condo or home, make sure that you ask if you have access to any private beaches--that way no one will hear your screams. (Ashlee! Don't kick your brother! Hunter! No eating sand! Jasmine! Quit making the ocean warm!)