When you’re researching places to visit on your next Florida getaway, you may have stumbled across Marco Island. This incredible destination is a hidden gem of the Sunshine State and promises to provide a fun time for your entire group. But what do you need to know about Marco Island before you visit? Where is Marco Island, what can you do there, and how do you get there? We’ve got you covered! Here’s everything you need to know about the area before booking one of our rentals on Marco Island.
History
Marco Island started out as a swampy, mosquito-ridden destination, but today, it boasts some of the most exclusive real estate in Florida. So, what changed? Marco Island can trace its history back to 500 A.D. when the Calusa Indians populated much of southwestern Florida. Fast-forward to the mid-1500s when Spanish explorers arrived, and you’ll note that the native population was severely impacted, and it was almost eliminated by the mid-1700s.
At that point, Seminole Indians came in and stayed until around the late 19th century, when William Thomas Collier and his family arrived. They founded the village of Marco in 1870, and three of the original buildings from that era still stand today and serve as restaurants.
Marco Island found great success throughout the early 20th century thanks to the explosion of the clam digging industry.
Ferry service to the island began not long after, the first bridge to the island was erected in 1938, and the island was solidified as a top tourist destination thanks to the opening of the S.S. Jolley Bridge in 1969.
Directions
Now that you know you want to come and explore the rich history of Marco Island, how do you even get here? Luckily, the directions to Marco Island are simple no matter where you’re coming from. If you’re flying in, your best bet is to come into the Naples Municipal Airport, which is about 30 minutes away.
Other options for flying include the Southwest Florida International Airport, Miami International Airport, and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. From the Southwest Florida International Airport, it’ll take you around an hour to arrive at Marco Island. The journey from Miami International Airport takes around two hours, while the trip from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is slightly shorter at around 1 hour and 50 minutes.
Plan Your Visit
Once you arrive, you need a place to rest your head after your journey. Our Marco Island vacation rentals provide the ultimate accommodation for any group on any budget. By staying in one of our Marco Island condo rentals, you’ll have all the creature comforts you need in a luxurious setting you can only experience in the Sunshine State.
If you’re driving in from the Naples area, the easiest route to Marco Island is from US 41 to Collier Boulevard. Collier Boulevard heads straight to the island and gives you a scenic drive across McIlvane Bay and East Marco Bay. Headed in from Miami? You’ll still want to use US 41, which leads to San Marco Road and then on across Goodland Bay. If you’re coming in from the Cape Coral/Fort Myers area, it’ll take you about an hour. Make your way to I-75 S, then follow to Collier Boulevard and into Marco Island through Exit 101.
Where to Stay
When you book one of our Marco Island rentals you’ll be near all the best attractions in the area, and our staff is always available to answer any questions or give a recommendation for a dinner spot. Marco Island is one of the most underrated destinations in Florida, so make sure you visit before the masses do! Contact us today to learn more about our vacation rentals on Marco Island.