Glorious sunny days, cooling sea breezes, and silken sandy beaches make Marco Island, Florida the perfect spot for a relaxing family vacation. At only 4 miles wide and 6 miles long Marco Island, Florida is a jewel in a sea of blue.

During the summer months the population of the Island doubles as people flock to this beach side haven. Fortunately, there are tons of holiday homes and condos ready and waiting for the summer invasion.

The area has plenty to keep those happy hordes smiling: endless water sports, windsurfing, kayaking and sailing to name but a few. The clear, warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico provide the perfect spot for snorkeling and swimming. Winter water temperatures are around 60 degrees (decidedly chilly compared to the usual 80 degrees during the summer).

The golden sand beaches are the perfect spot to collect sea shells or build sand castles with the kids. Lather up with Sunscreen, pop on a hat and while away an hour or two burying Dad in the sand or digging a hole to the center of the earth. The sun is, as always, at its hottest from Noon till 2pm. Why not hit the beaches early, wear the kids out and then head back to your condo for a spot of lunch before exploring the rest of Marco Island's attractions?

Renting a condo or private home is the perfect option for any group, but particularly families with young kids. Just imagine:  Extra room for everyone to spread out and relax, more than one bathroom to clean those sandy little bodies and the convenience of your own kitchen! It is a great way to keep control of your budget and the type and quality of food your family is eating. Fill the fridge with healthy fresh fruit, plenty of water and some of your favorite treats. Hungry kids will devour whatever you put in front of them and lunch after a morning on the beach its the perfect time to offer healthy choices and watch them disappear.

Sunset on the Gulf is spectacular. With an uninterrupted view of the Horizon, the sun appears as an orange glowing ball of fire before it seems to slip silently down into the water.  After a long day of family fun there is nothing better than watching the sun set with a cocktail in one hand and some yummy appetizers in the other. (It is a bit cheesy, but a sunset on the gulf has been known to be met by applause from the crowd of eager onlookers. To avoid the temptation to join in always have that cocktail gripped firmly in your hand!)

There are plenty of great restaurants along the gulf. There are many family friendly places to enjoy the delicious fresh seafood that the region is known for. Most restaurants also offer the usual family favorites so while Mom and Dad enjoy the catch of the day the kids can feast on Mac 'n' Cheese if they so desire.

Beach vacations are the perfect family vacation and Marco Island, Florida is the perfect location. Spotless sandy beaches, warm blue waters, great restaurants and to top it off the area is a playground for dolphins. Pack your bucket and spade a couple of beach towels and don't forget the camera--Marco island has the rest!

This guide to family friendly vacationing was brought to you by Julie Wood.

There are so many benefits to renting a Marco Island holiday home for your family vacation.  The private pools, the big fridges, and the privacy for when your little sweetheart has a major meltdown.  Plus, you'll save a ton of money!