Marco Island Eco Tours

Discover the natural beauty of Marco Island with an eco tour. Explore the diverse ecosystem and enjoy a unique on the water adventure.  Whether by boat, jet ski, parasail, or airboat, an eco tour is exciting for everyone.

Experience the Beauty of Marco Island on Marco Pedalboat

Teresa Luber Marco Island, Marco Island Day Trips and Tours, Things to See and Do in Marco Island , , , 0 Comment
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Marco Pedalboat is a Favorite!

Key Takeaways

  • The Marco Pedalboat offers a scenic cruise around Marco Island, highly recommended by guests.
  • It departs from Isle of Capri and provides 1.5 to 2-hour family-friendly tours, including a popular sunset cruise.
  • Guests can bring snacks and drinks, while enjoying music during the ride.
  • The boat accommodates 16 people and allows for pedaling or motorized travel, with beautiful views and interesting facts shared by the captain.
  • The Marco Pedalboat experience showcases the beauty of Marco Island on water, making it a memorable activity.
Our Marco Pedalboat Tour

Experience the beauty of Marco Island on Marco Pedalboat. We have taken several different cruises around the islands and this has been one of our favorites! We highly recommend this tour to our guests.

The Marco Pedalboat docks at Isle of Capri at 292 Capri Blvd, Naples. (239) 920-1230. https://www.marcopedalboat.com

This company offers 1 1/2 hour and 2 hour cruises. The cost is affordable and under age 2 free. The ride is family friendly. The most popular of the tours is the 2 hour sunset cruise. We took this tour recently and saw a simply stunning sunset. The captain of the boat takes complimentary photos of the passengers to send by email. The quality of the photos are really good!

Larry and I really enjoyed our sunset tour on the Marco Pedalboat! Experience the Beauty of Marco Island on the Marco Island Pedalboat!

About the Marco Pedalboat

The Marco Pedalboat seats 16 people on comfortable “bar stools” and is a large pontoon style boat. We had the option of pedaling or not. The motor really doesn’t need one to pedal at all, but it is fun to try it out! Our captain encouraged us to try pedaling just to see how much speed we could develop to move the boat. Needless to say, we didn’t quite move the boat as fast as the motor!

What You See

Sunset Tour on Marco Pedalboat
Marco Island’s Amazing Sunset
Enjoying Sunset

The Marco Pedalboat travels about Isle of Capri and Marco Island. This is a truly fun trip and seeing the beauty of Marco Island from the water is an awesome experience. We were able to see some of the more interesting homes on Marco Island; in addition, the captain told us some interesting tales/facts about some of them. Some homes are just unusual or are/were owned by celebrities. Along the way, especially in the Marco River, we saw several dolphins. This was also the first time either Larry or I have seen Black Crowned Night Herons. These are nocturnal feeding herons that are often seen near sunset.

What to Bring – Enjoy the Music

Guests on the tour are encouraged to bring snacks and/or dinner, in addition to drinks to enjoy during the cruise. Iced coolers are provided on the boat. Having your favorite snack or beverage as the boat travels the Gulf waters makes a relaxing and fun trip. Upbeat music makes the boating experience even more fun! Music requests are honored with a wide variety play list.

See some of our other recommendations for sightseeing tours on Marco Island: https://seamarcondo.com/parasailing-over-marco-islands-waters, https://seamarcondo.com/sightseeing-cruise-in-marco-island

The Marco Pedalboat is definitely something we will recommend to our guests at Sea Mar Condo! What a fun evening we had, and we can’t wait to do it again soon!

The Largest Sailing Catamaran in SW Florida: Sweet Liberty

Teresa Luber Marco Island, Marco Island Day Trips and Tours, Naples , , 0 Comment
Sweet Liberty
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Sweet Liberty Catamaran

Key Takeaways

  • The Sweet Liberty Catamaran, the largest in Southwest Florida, offers sunset, shelling, and sightseeing tours from Naples Dock.
  • Sunset cruises are family-friendly, showcasing wildlife and multimillion-dollar homes along the route, lasting approximately 3 hours.
  • Beach Island Shelling cruises visit Keewaydin Island for a 1-hour shelling experience, also lasting around 3 hours.
  • Afternoon sightseeing tours highlight the Naples area, wildlife, and luxury homes, with a duration of about 2 hours.
  • Visit the Sweet Liberty website for more information and booking details.

The Sweet Liberty Catamaran https://www.sweetliberty.com operates out of Naples Dock in Naples, FL. It is the largest sailing catamaran in Southwest Florida. This 53′ vessel offers awesome sunset, shelling, and sightseeing tours. Sweet Liberty tours are mentioned as the #1 thing to do in Naples by the New York Times, local residents, and tourists to the area. The cruise is very affordable!

Sweet Liberty Sunset

Sunset Cruise with Sweet Liberty

Sunset tours aboard Sweet Liberty Catamaran operate nightly and are a family friendly adventure. The tours leave from Naples Dock, located in Crayton Cove in Old Naples at 880 12th Ave. S, Naples. The first 30-40 minutes of the cruise are outgoing from the dock and proceed down the Gordon River, passing Port Royal. This route will pass some of Naples largest multimillion dollar homes and yachts. Once out in open water, it is delightful to watch the sails go up on this beautiful catamaran.

We encourage you to bring along a small cooler or picnic basket (beer/wine are welcome). On the outgoing route guests see mangroves, dolphin, and other wildlife. The evening hours also offer a quiet time to enjoy a nice glass of wine while enjoying the beautiful Gulf waters. Watching the sun sink below the horizon with tones of orange and pink skies is breath taking.

The total time for this tour is approximately 3 hours.

Beach Island Shelling Cruise

The beach Island Shelling cruise aboard the Sweet Liberty Catamaran leaves at 9:30 am and goes to Keewaydin Island. Keewaydin is a 7 mile barrier island with beautiful waters and is great for shelling. Guests will spend approximately 1 hour on Keewaydin, also known as Key Island for beach and shelling time.

We encourage guests to take along a small cooler with drinks and snacks.

The total time for this tour is approximately 3 hours.

Sweet Liberty Cruise

Afternoon Sightseeing and Sailing

The afternoon sightseeing and sailing tour is a great way to learn about the Naples area. The tour offers great scenery with opportunity to see dolphin and wildlife. Guests can also see multimillion dollar homes and yachts along the prestigious Gordon River area of Naples.

We encourage guests to bring along a small cooler with snacks and beverages.

This Sweet Liberty Catamaran tour leaves at 1:30 in the afternoon and is approximately 2 hours in duration.

Visit our website https://www.seamarcondo.com for more information on Sea Mar Condo, Marco Island, FL. We want to make your vacation on Marco Island a trip of a lifetime!

See another suggestion for sightseeing tours on Marco Island: https://seamarcondo.com/sightseeing-cruise-in-marco-island

Kayaking Marco Island is Fun and Adventurous

Teresa Luber Marco Island, Marco Island Activities and Sports, Things to See and Do in Marco Island , , 0 Comment
Kayaking Marco Island is Fun and Adventurous
Home » Marco Island Eco Tours

Key Takeaways

  • Kayaking around Marco Island offers two exciting options: mangrove tours for scenic views and open water kayaking for exploring sandbars.
  • Mangrove kayaking provides a guided experience with safety protocols and opportunities to see diverse marine life.
  • Open water kayaking allows for self-rentals or group outings, making it flexible for different preferences.
  • Shell Island and Dickman’s Point are highlights, featuring calm waters and amazing shelling opportunities.
  • Overall, kayaking around Marco Island is enjoyable for all skill levels, perfect for beginners and seasoned adventurers alike.

Mangrove or Open Water?

Kayaking around Marco Island is fun and adventurous because even for beginners it is doable. There are two types of kayaking in and around the island, thus preference and skill level are important. One option, mangrove tours are a great way to see backwaters and mangroves, live shells, and wading birds. Secondly, open water kayaking to nearby sandbars and islands is the perfect way to explore. In addition, the beaches are virtually deserted and a great place for a picnic, a long walk, and shelling.

Kayaking the Marco Island Mangroves

Kayaking in the mangrove areas offers a glimpse of the backwater areas. You may choose to rent your own kayak and explore areas in Rookery Bay, however, an organized tour with an experienced guide is always a good option. Larry and I book through Rookery Bay Learning Center with Rising Tide Kayak Tours. We meet our guide, Matt, just before 8 am at the Isle of Capri Boat Ramp. Our group consists of 8 people (including the guide). This tour is for all levels of expertise in kayaking, which makes it perfect for beginners. It will be approximately 3 hours in duration. You need to be able to paddle for most of that time. Matt takes pictures of the group to send to us later for keepsakes.

https://rookerybay.org/

https://risingtidefl.com

Our Day Kayaking Rookery Bay Estuary

Beginning the Mangrove Tour

Safety procedures of kayaking in Marco Island mangrove area are explained up front. We are also given dry bags for our belongings, which are fairly large in size. Then we are shown how to get in our kayaks. Our group leaves from the boat ramp out into a wide (and calm) area of water. Along the way to the mangrove area, our guide points out the jellyfish, coral, and wading birds.

After about an hour of paddling, Matt takes us to a very shallow area of water where we tie our kayaks together and get out to explore. While wading through this shallow area, there is a large live horse conch. We are shown the proper way to hold it and put it back in the water. In addition, the group also spot red and yellow coral, which is not safe to handle.

Kayaking Marco Island’s Mangroves

The Mangrove Area

Upon leaving the shallow water area, we paddle as a group to the mangrove area. This area has three types of mangroves: red, black and white plants. Matt points each out to us and tells how to identify them individually. He also tells us how mangroves reproduce by growing pods. These pods mature and drop from the tree and later attach to a rock or other plant to grow. Kayaking the Marco Island mangrove areas can be a little “tricky” because they are somewhat narrow. The water is also a little more swift at times. Larry and I are both beginner kayakers. We do not have any problems (outside of catching a tree limb a couple of times to help us along). Actually, everyone in our group does fine.

Kayaking the Mangroves
Paddling the Mangroves

The mangrove areas are beautiful and full of sea life, plant life, and wading birds. It is a true learning experience that we highly recommend to our guests at Sea Mar Condo.

Open Water Kayaking Around Marco Island

When kayaking in open water, you can rent your own kayak or arrange to go with a group. Larry and I, along with our property manager, rent our own kayaks. Marco Island Kayak Rentals deliver to Caxambus Park Boat Dock. We start out around 8 am after receiving instructions on what areas would be best for us to explore. Our rental guide also explains about the morning and afternoon tides and how to kayak using them to our advantage.

https://marcoislandwaverunnertours.com

Shell Island

The first area we visit is Shell Island, a 15 minute paddle from the boat ramp. Water in this area is open, but is in a “no wake” zone. Paddling is in relatively calm water with a slight current. Shell Island is just as it sounds, a sandbar made of nothing but seashells. We ground our kayaks and walk around the entire sandbar in about 20 minutes. It is also great place to look for those particular shells you are seeking.

Larry and Teresa on a Kayak Adventure
Kayaking in Marco Island
Teresa and Larry Kayaking in Marco Island

Dickman’s Point

Upon leaving Shell Island, we are on our way for another 20 minute paddle to Dickman’s Point. This is an area that a lot of shelling tours visit, thus shelling is great! Water around the island is crystal clear the day we visit. It is easy to wade around looking for the perfect shell! We find conch shells, nutmegs, scotch bonnets, sand dollars, and an alphabet cone. I am hoping to find that elusive Junonia, but no luck today. After a bit of shelling, we find some shade in a small mangrove area, eat our lunch, and take a beach walk. Around 3 pm it’s time to paddle back along Shell Island, which brings us back to the Caxambus Boat Ramp. After this, our kayaks are ready to be picked up. Kayaking around Marco Island is fun and our day has been perfect!

Visit our website https://www.seamarcondo.com for more information on Sea Mar Condo, Marco Island, FL. We want to make your vacation on Marco Island a trip of a lifetime!

Rookery Bay Learning Center See Undisturbed Mangroves

Teresa Luber Marco Island, Things to do with children in Marco Island, Things to See and Do in Marco Island , , ,
Rookery Bay Learning Center
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Key Takeaways

  • Rookery Bay Learning Center is a 16,500 square-foot facility near Marco Island, offering educational and recreational activities.
  • The center features various research labs, hands-on exhibits, and a visitor center with marine life experiences.
  • Visitors can enjoy guided tours, including kayak and boat tours, to explore the unique ecosystems and wildlife.
  • Programs like Science Saturdays and Kids Free Fridays provide interactive learning experiences for families.
  • The center operates Monday to Friday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, and additional information is available at their website.

Just 10 minutes from Marco Island is Rookery Bay Learning Center. It is a 16,500 square-foot facility. The center offers educational and recreational activities.  Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve is also one of the few remaining undisturbed mangrove estuaries in the United States.  The learning center has four research laboratories. In addition, there is a two story visitor center and 140 seat auditorium. The visitor center offers a variety of hands-on experiences.  These include aquariums and interactive exhibits addressing ongoing research and stewardship within the reserve.  There is also a nature store, gallery, and picnic area.

The educational center has 3 “focus” tanks, one oyster tank, and a seagrass tank. It also features a 180 gallon marine life exhibit and a 2,300 gallon mangrove tank. The observation bridge, 1/2 mile “Snail Trail”, and viewing platform encourage visitors to explore the surroundings. As they explore, visitors may see manatees, tarpon, and even sharks when conditions are right. Visitors can experience a short walk through tangled mangroves, palms, and oaks. These feature resurrection ferns, bromeliads, and orchids growing in oak tree bark. The trail also winds past an old homestead, dating back to post-Civil War times.

The estuary is an area where rivers and streams meet the sea.  It forms a unique habitat with a myriad of wildlife, including 150 species of birds.  Many threatened and endangered animals also thrive in this and the surrounding 10,000 island area of Southwest Florida.

Programs and Tours

Rookery Bay Hiking Trail

Rookery Bay Learning Center offers many opportunities for visitors to explore and learn:

Science Saturdays:  Families learn about environmental science and the natural world.  Visitors also get hands on experiences with marine-life touch tanks and scientific displays.  Science Saturdays are from 9 am to 4 pm October through April.

Kids Free Friday Summer Program:  From mid June to early August Kids Free Fridays provides free admission for children 12 and younger with a paid adult.  Weekly topics include sharks, manatees, sea turtles, and birds.  Program activities include story time, naturalist lecture, and craft room. In addition, there’s face painting.  A food truck is also on site from 11 am to 1 pm.

Guided Sunset Bird Rookery and Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Tours:  Visitors can paddle through magnificent mangrove tunnels and shallows. This is a 2-3 hour guided kayak tour.  This tour offers the opportunity to see sea stars, large snails, birds, dolphin, and manatee.  Prior kayaking experience is not required.  Tours offer single and tandem kayaks. The tandem kayaks accommodate children ages 3 and up.  Tours are offered daily and registration is required.

Guided Boat Tours of Rookery Bay:  A relaxing boat tour offers an up-close and personal experience. Visitors can explore this unique coastal environment.  The tour is led by Rookery Bay staff with an emphasis on learning.  Five different tours are offered. Each has a different theme.  The tours provide a chance to see native wildlife. Additionally, they are a great opportunity for photography.

Hours and Contact Information

Hours: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm, Monday – Friday year round.
https://rookerybay.org
(239) 530-5940

Click here for a video on Rookery Bay:

Sea Mar Condo

We recommend a visit to Rookery Bay for our guests at Sea Mar Condo.  Sea Mar Condos are in Marco Island, FL.  They are located on the 19th floor of South Seas Tower 3 and Tower 4. You will enjoy beautiful views of Crescent (South) Beach and the Gulf waters.  Visit our website to see availability and rates. Also, contact us for the vacation of a lifetime!  https://seamarcondo.com

The Dolphin Explorer is A Great Way to See Marco’s Most Famous Residents!

Teresa Luber Marco Island Day Trips and Tours, Things to do with children in Marco Island, Things to See and Do in Marco Island , , ,
The Dolphin Explorer
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Key Takeaways

  • The Dolphin Explorer offers unique boat tours around Marco Island, recognized by National Geographic for its educational value.
  • Participants engage in dolphin sightings, learn about their behavior, and collect seashells on pristine beaches.
  • The tours allow children to earn a Dolphin Patch and join the Dolphin Explorer Club.
  • The Dolphin Explorer is a 30-foot catamaran designed for wildlife observation, with a professional crew for safety and guidance.
  • Reservations can be made online or by phone for two daily tours at 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM.

The Dolphin Explorer

The Dolphin Explorer is a great way to see Marco Island’s most famous residents! National Geographic book “100 Places that Can Change Your Child’s Life”, lists this company as the only activity in Florida selected by the award-winning writer Keith Bellows. He traveled around the world looking for experiences which would be life-altering for children. However, The Dolphin Explorer is not only fun for children – it is perfect for adults as well!!!!

This is what you’ll see when you take a tour with The Dolphin Explorer!

Dolphin Explorer

Guests not only get to take a great boat ride, but also visit a totally pristine deserted beach and collect beautiful seashells. They get the chance to get up close and personal with some of the most amazing creatures on the planet…the bottlenose dolphin! You also get to be part of a unique scientific project. In fact, you become a citizen scientist.

Underwritten and managed by Sea Excursions, the Dolphin Explorer is engaged in the only on-going daily dolphin study in the area. With the help of their passengers, they chronicle every dolphin sighting and compare them to their chart of dolphin photos. The crew are able to recognize each dolphin by the shape of the dorsal fin. This allows the naturalists to build a bank of knowledge about the dolphin population of Marco Island. Guests learn how the dolphins interact, where they spend their time, when babies are born, and how long they stay with their mothers.

And, if you are under the age of 12, you can also participate in “The Dolphin Challenge”. This allows youngsters to receive a Dolphin Patch and become a member of the exclusive Dolphin Explorer Club.

What’s Uniques About the Dolphin Explorer?

The Dolphin Explorer is a 30 foot catamaran with two 225 HP outboards capable of carrying up to 28 passengers. Because of its design, it is perfect for both navigating the water of the Gulf and the backwater estuaries of the area. The boat is excellent for survey work. It is unique in “getting up close and personal” to observe marine life and photography.

Dolphin2

The Dolphin Explorer’s design and power attracts dolphin to its wake for fabulous photographs. The vessel provides a choice of sun or shade for those with children. It also offers complimentary beverages and shelling bags. Be sure to bring sunglasses, your camera, sunscreen and any snacks you and the family might enjoy. The Dolphin Explorer is professionally crewed by a USCG Master Captain. Additionally, there is a Mate who is a Master Naturalist and Wildlife Photographer.

My Tour Was Fantastic!

Larry and I have taken several tours on The Dolphin Explorer and they are always some of the most fun adventures we’ve done on Marco Island. On one of the trips, we saw 17 different dolphins! The trips are educational and I love seeing the dolphin moms with babies and several dolphins jumping behind the boat. There are also lots of great shells and baby least terns on the beautiful island where the tour breaks for a while. I have even seen a manatee at the most southern end of Tigertail Beach.

Scheduling a Tour with The Dolphin Explorer

Two survey trips daily: one in the morning departing at 9:00am
the second departs in the afternoon at 1:00pm.

To make your reservation by phone
Call: (877) 523-7266
or visit their website at https://dolphin-study.com/

The Dolphin Explorer
(877) 523-7266
Rose Marina
951 Bald Eagle Drive
Marco Island, FL 34145
9-12 noon and 1-4 pm daily

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Visit our website at https://seamarcondo.com. Our “Top 10 List” provides information on many things to see and do in Marco Island. We also recommend several tour companies and restaurants to make your vacation on Marco Island the best vacation ever.

See our suggestions for other fun activities on Marco Island: https://seamarcondo.com/things-to-do-with-children-in-marco-island

Manatee: The Gentle Giants of Marco Island

Teresa Luber Marco Island, Marco Island Wildlife, Things to See and Do in Marco Island , , ,
Manatee
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Key Takeaways

  • Manatee on Marco Island are gentle giants, often hiding in warm, shallow waters like Tigertail Beach and canals.
  • To spot manatee, look for dark spots in the water or use polarized sunglasses to reduce glare.
  • Manatees communicate underwater and rely on their front flippers and powerful tails to navigate.
  • These mammals help shape local plant growth by feeding on sea grasses and freshwater vegetation.
  • Seasonal zones require boaters to slow down to protect manatees from collisions.

As frequent visitors and part-time residents, we often find ourselves looking for manatee on Marco Island. Although there are several of these gentle giants on the island, it is often hard to spot them. Look for large dark spots in the water off the beach areas.

Eco boat tours touring through the 10,000 island Gulf waters offer guests a good opportunity to see a manatee up close and personal. Especially during hot weather, they can often be spotted in Marco Island canals and in the warm shallow waters around Tigertail Beach.

Manatee
Manatee Love Warm Shallow Water

Manatee Behavior

The Florida Manatee (commonly known as a sea cow) is a gentle, slow moving giant of the sea.  They can weigh between 800 and 1,200 pounds, but are not “fat”.  Like other mammals, their organs and bone structure take up most of their body weight.  In fact, they have very little body fat and, depending on water temperature, can easily be the victims of hypothermia.  They rarely venture into waters below 68 degrees Fahrenheit.

The manatee is a large aquatic relative of the elephant.  They are grayish brown in color and have thick, wrinkled skin. Their front flippers help them steer, or sometimes crawl, through shallow water.  Manatees also have powerful, flat tails that help propel them through the water.  Although they rest and feed often,  manatees also body surf or barrel roll when playing.  Despite their small eyes and lack of outer ears, manatees are thought to see and hear well.  They communicate by squealing under water to demonstrate fear, stress or excitement.

The Florida manatee play an important role in influencing plant growth in the shallow rivers, bays, estuaries, canals and the coastal waters they live in.  Their diets consist mostly of sea grasses and freshwater vegetation.

Manatee calves are born weighing between 60 and 70 pounds and measure about 3-4 feet long.  They nurse underwater.

They are mammals and must surface to breath air on an average of every three to five minutes. Because of having to surface for air frequently, manatee stay close to the surface of the water. Unfortunately, this makes them easy targets for boat propellers. From April 1 through November 15, seasonal manatee zones require boaters to slow down in certain areas to protect these beautiful sea creatures.

How to Spot Manatee on Marco

The best way to see manatee in the water is by wearing polarized sunglasses to help see through the glare on the water. Manatee also make large circles on the water called “manatee footprints”. Also, look for a manatee’s snout sticking up out of the water or a large dark spot in the water.

Manatee prefer waters that are aoub 3-7 feet deep like the Marco Island canals and the surrounding 10,0000 island area. Often times, it is best to drive by some of the island’s canals and make a stop to look for the manatee.

Of course, if you fail to see a manatee on either your eco boat tour or on your canal tour of the island, you can always spot the many manatee shaped mailboxes on the island.

Manatee Mailbox on Marco
Manatee Mailboxes are Common on Marco Island
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Visit our website at https://seamarcondo.com.  Our “Top 10 List” provides information on bird watching, sea life, and fishing on Marco Island. We recommend several tour companies to make looking for manatee on Marco Island more enjoyable.

Marco Island Deep Sea Fishing in the Gulf of Mexico

Teresa Luber Marco Island, Marco Island Activities and Sports, Things to See and Do in Marco Island , , ,
Marco Island Deep Sea Fishing in the Gulf of Mexico
Home » Marco Island Eco Tours

Key Takeaways

  • Marco Island offers thrilling fishing in the Gulf, attracting many visitors throughout the year.
  • The shallow waters teem with species like Tarpon and Snook, while deep-sea fishing yields Grouper and King Mackerel.
  • Since deeper waters are accessible within 30 miles, fishing here is exciting with minimal waiting.
  • New reefs enhance fishing opportunities for Grouper, Snapper, and more, making it a hotspot for anglers.
  • Local charter services will clean your catch, and nearby restaurants will prepare it for your dinner.

Marco Island Deep Sea Fishing in the Gulf of Mexico is a thrill to many of our island visitors!

The area around Marco boasts some of the best year-round sportfishing in the world.  It is surrounded by water with the 10,000 Islands to the east and the Gulf of Mexico to the west.  Marco Island is located in southwest Florida. It is just 10 miles south of Naples and 85 miles north of Key West.

The shallow waters around Marco and the 10,000 Islands hold sportfish such as Tarpon, Snook, Redfish, and Sea Trout. For those of you that prefer the deep waters, venture into the Gulf of Mexico for a catch of Grouper, Snapper, King Mackerel, Little Tuni, shark, and Cobia.

BIG Fish, tough fighting fish and great edible fish….they are all here on Marco Island!

Deep Sea Fishing Marco Island
Fishing in the Gulf off Marco Island

Many of our guests at Sea Mar Condo look forward to a day excursion of deep sea fishing in the Gulf.  It is a great place to find varied fishing all year round. Charter boats go out each day. Many of the island restaurants are waiting to prepare your catch of the day when you get off the boat!

Offshore fishing from Marco Island is quite different from most other places. Even when you are 30 miles out you may still be in 60-70 feet of water. This means there is no trolling and waiting hours for a bite. Reefs, shipwrecks, and hard bottom within reasonable depths make great havens for a variety of fish.

A day offshore fishing is a great family event. The fishing is definitely tougher. The fish are certainly bigger – with grouper 100+ pounds common. Larger king mackerel, snapper, shark, cobia, and grouper in water up to 80 feet deep will challenge even the best fisherman (or woman).

Depending on what time of the year you visit, you might try fishing the scenic mangrove islands of Marco for Redfish, Snook, Tarpon, Pompano, Trout, Snapper, and many others. While you fish, enjoy watching beautiful birds, manatee, and of course dolphins that actually come right up to the boat.

Reefs in the Marco Island Waters

New to our Gulf waters are 36 beautiful reefs funded by BP and some private donors. This should make for some great fishing for all species such as Grouper, Snapper, Amberjack, King Mackerel, Goliath Grouper, and many other species.

The boat captains will clean your catch for you as part of their service. Then you take it to one of the restaurants on the island that prepare it for your dinner that night!

Marco Island Charters (239)
Reel Thrills (239) 825-4611
Sea Gone (239) 642-7310
Unreel Fishing Charters (239) 641-1094
Wild Thing (239) 821-7054
Sunshine Tours (239) 642-5415

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Visit our website at https://seamarcondo.com to see our rates and availability. Our website also provides more information on Sea Mar Condo and Marco Island.
Let us help you make the most of your Marco Island vacation!

Keewaydin Island: A Hidden Paradise for Beachgoers and Boaters

Teresa Luber Marco Island Beaches, Marco Island Day Trips and Tours, Things to See and Do in Marco Island , , , , , ,
Keewaydin Island
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Fun on Keewaydin Island
Having a Blast on Keewaydin Island

Key Takeaways

  • Keewaydin Island, north of Marco Island, is a hidden beach perfect for relaxation and wildlife watching.
  • The island boasts nearly eight miles of undeveloped, pristine white sand beaches and serves as a nesting ground for various wildlife.
  • Rookery Bay Reserve protects Keewaydin Island’s ecosystem while ensuring public access for recreational use.
  • Visitors can reach Keewaydin Island via Hemingway Water Shuttle or Keewaydin Express, but note there are no restroom facilities.
  • Explore more about vacationing on Marco Island and Keewaydin Island by visiting our website.

Vacationing on Marco Island, Florida provides the opportunity to visit one of the best, and little known, beaches on Florida’s Gulf coast. Keewaydin Island is located just north of Marco Island; however, it is only accessible by boat. This is also one of the locals’ best kept secrets. The island is a hotspot, especially on weekends, for residents who embrace the Florida lifestyle.  If you’re looking for a day on the water with sandbars, seashells and dolphin sightings, this beach is perfect. Beachgoers and boaters alike look forward to the fun Keewaydin offers.

Keewaydin is a Special Place

Keewaydin Island is a barrier island located between Naples and Marco Island. It offers nearly eight miles of deserted, white sand beach. Few homes are on the island because most of the island is undeveloped.

Sea Turtle Nesting
Loggerhead Sea Turtle on Keewaydin Island

Keewaydin is a special place. It is a sanctuary for wildlife. The island’s pristine beach is a vital nesting ground for least terns and loggerhead sea turtles. On the other hand, it is a recreational destination for local residents and tourists. One side of the island is usually lined with both recreational boats and those offering concessions. Thousands of boaters visit the island each year. At the same time, the other side of the island is quiet, pristine, and beautiful. Visiting Keewaydin provides a great opportunity to experience Florida’s natural coast.

Since 1980, the Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve has worked with local partners to protect wildlife and habitat on the island. At the same time, the reserve strives to provide a wilderness recreation experience for people. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) purchased 85 percent of the 1,300-acre island. As managers of these state-owned lands, Rookery Bay Reserve removed 300 acres of non-native Australian pine, Brazilian pepper and melaleuca that had displaced much of the island’s native habitats and wildlife. The island hasn’t washed away as some predicted, but instead has flourished with native trees, plants and wildlife.

Keewaydin Island
Keewaydin Island

The public lands on Keewaydin belong to the people of Florida. However, the Rookery Bay Reserve remains committed to providing public access and use that is compatible with the protection of wildlife and habitats on the island.

How to Get to Keewaydin Island

Hemingway Water Shuttle

From Marco Island, the Hemingway Water Shuttle or the Keewaydin Express offers an express ride to Keewaydin Island. You can arrange with them to stay for a few hours or the day before Hemingway comes back for your return trip. Keep in mind, though, there are no bathrooms on the island. https://www.hemingwaywatershuttle.com (239) 315-1136

Visit our website at https://seamarcondo.com to see our rates and availability. Our website also provides more information on Sea Mar Condo and Marco Island.
Let us help you make the most of your Marco Island vacation!

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Make the Most of Your Marco Island Vacation

Teresa Luber Marco Island, Marco Island Activities and Sports, Things to See and Do in Marco Island , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Home » Marco Island Eco Tours

Key Takeaways

  • Marco Island offers a variety of activities for all ages, including beach yoga, paddleboarding, and eco-tours.
  • Start your day with coffee and breakfast at local favorites like Doreen’s Cup of Joe or Tigertail Cafe.
  • Explore shopping areas for unique gifts and clothing or enjoy dining with waterfront views at places like Sunset Grille.
  • Visit the Marco Island Historical Museum to learn about the island’s history or take a day trip to Everglades National Park.
  • Check in to Sea Mar Condos for a comfortable stay and make the most of your Marco Island vacation.

Tuck these ideas into your travel bag to make the most of your Marco island Vacation. There are activities on Marco Island for all ages and skill levels. From morning until late evening, you are sure to be in awe of this beautiful island. The beaches and mangrove areas offers lots to explore. Many restaurants offer great seafood and beautiful sunsets. It’s also easy to get exercise with walks along the beaches. Marco Island’s history can be explored at our local museum. Area shopping is fun. Everglades National Park is a short drive away. And Sea Mar Condos are the perfect place to stay while on the island. There is something for everyone!

1. Early Morning Exercise

Whether you take a morning walk or run or do yoga on the beach during sunrise, getting an early morning workout gets you ready for the day. In addition, the island is less crowded in the mornings. It’s peaceful, serene setting calms the mind. A favorite walk if staying on the North side of the beach is to walk Tigertail Beach. If golf is more your early morning routine, the courses in the area are especially nice!

 2. Grab a Morning Coffee and a Yummy Breakfast

Doreen's Cup of Joe Strawberry Pancakes

Visit Doreen’s Cup of Joe for the perfect cup of coffee. You can also choose from their huge breakfast menu. I love the stuffed french toast covered with fruit toppings. Their fresh squeezed orange juice also makes a nice addition to your morning! If you chose to paddleboard or kayak first, Tigertail Cafe also has a nice selection of food items. Another place for a nice breakfast on the island is Red Rooster located on San Marco. And of course, there is always our oversized balcony at Sea Mar Condo for the perfect cup of coffee and breakfast.

  3. Learn to Paddleboard or Kayak

paddleboard

Tigertail Lagoon is the perfect place paddleboard or kayak. The water is very calm and the scenery is spectacular! There are several companies that rent paddleboards or kayaks on the island and deliver to your location. The area around Caxambus Park is also a good place to kayak and do some shelling. In addition, several companies also offer kayak tours of Marco Island and the mangrove areas. These tours are excellent for both beginners and the more experienced. The guided tours are very informative and educational. Paddleboarding or kayaking are great activities for any age.

 4. Head to the Farmers Market

Farmers Market

During the months of mid-November through mid-April, the Marco Island Farmers Market is open each Wednesday at Veteran’s Park. This is a great place to pick up small gifts as well as fresh produce and vegetables. The selection of items is unbelievable! It’s also a great place to pick up a snack or lunch from the many food vendors there. The farmer’s market is a favorite for island visitors and residents.

 5. Go Shopping

Marco Island has several areas that offer unique shopping. The Shops at Old Marco, the Marco Town Center and the Esplanade all specialize in unique gifts and clothing. It is fun to combine an evening dinner and shopping. Fifth Avenue South in nearby Naples is also a fun shopping experience, especially when the night ends with a Kilwin’s ice cream! I also enjoy all the fun gift shops that line the streets.  This area is especially pretty in the evening hours when the area is ablaze with lights from the palm trees.

  6. Take an Eco Tour or Rent a Boat to Explore

Dolphin Explorer

There are many eco tours available on the island that provide opportunities to see dolphin, manatee, and the many bird species that are on Marco and the surrounding area. Many of these tours are also great for children. The Dolphin Explorer focuses on educating guests about our local dolphins. This tour introduces their guests to each dolphin by name. Did you know the Marco Island Dolphins each have a name? You may even get to name a dolphin! If you prefer fishing, there are also many fishing excursions leaving the island each day. Both deep sea fishing and backwater fishing are popular with island visitors. Another option is to rent a boat and explore on your own. Many of the marinas rent pontoon or speed boats and provide easy directions on boating around the area. The Naples area also has some fantastic sightseeing tours that are worth checking out.

If you prefer boating on your own, many of the local marinas rent boats for the half day or day. They also offer navigational maps and tips for safe boating around the island https://seamarcondo.com/marco-island-boating .

 7. Visit the Marco Island Historical Museum

The Key Marco Cat

The Marco Island Historical Museum provides guests an opportunity to learn about early Marco. Learn about the famous for its Key Marco Cat. It is one of the most remarkable and influential discoveries in North American archaeology. The museum explores Southwest Florida’s Calusa Indians. It brings this vanished civilization to life with informative displays. There is even an exciting recreated village scene. The museum also explores the early 1960s development of Marco Island to the present day island of paradise. Visiting the Marco Island Historical Museum is a great rainy day excursion. It is also a great way to spend a few hours away from the beach.

8. Visit the Everglades

Everglades Alligator

Everglades National Park is 15 minutes away by jet ski. Several of the island eco tours will visit the mangrove areas around the park. It is also a short 45 minute drive to Everglades City or Big Cypress Visitors Center. It’s always a fun adventure to take an air boat or swamp buggy tour. A drive around Loop Road in Big Cypress is also the perfect place to see alligators, wading and nesting birds, and beautiful scenery. A ranger station around Big Cypress offers lots of information about the park and it’s inhabitants. Everglades National Park has 3 entrances that are fairly close to Marco Island. There are many places to hike and explore. See our complete article on Everglades National Park in the link below.

  9. Visit a Church

Marco Island Easter Sandcastle

Marco Island has many churches that welcome visitors for Sunday services in casual attire. On Easter Sunday, the island has a sun rise service on the beach.

   10. Dine by the Water

Mangos

Many of the restaurants on the island offer waterfront dining. Some like the Snook Inn also have live music each night. The seafood selections are great. Most restaurants have a wide variety of non-seafood items as well. If you prefer to catch your own meal, many of the restaurants prepare your catch for you at a very reasonable price. Restaurant selection varies from casual low-key dining to casual elegant dining. And if you need a break from seafood…Marco Island has some great burgers as well! Visiting one of the waterfront restaurants is a great way to see the beautiful island sunsets as well. Some of our favorite restaurants on the water are Sunset Grille, Sale e Pepe, Mangos, and Snook Inn.

  11. Check In to Sea Mar Condo

Our property is managed by Blue Water Rentals. BWR provides around the clock service to answer any questions or maintenance concerns should they arise. The owners are Larry and Teresa Luber from Kingsport, TN. We love our guests and want to welcome you to this beautiful island paradise. We look forward to sharing our Marco Island Condo with you for the vacation of your dreams.

At Sea Mar Condos, our guests are our #1 priority. Our condos are 2 bedroom/ 2 bath penthouse condos. They are located on the 19th floors of South Seas Northwest Towers 3 and 4 in Marco Island, FL. Each condo has a king bed, 2 twins, and a queen sleeper sofa. Free wifi and 3 televisions are in each condo. The condos face South overlooking Crescent Beach. The units are fully equipped with beautiful views. A large heated pool, which is comfortable all year round, is located between our 2 condos. We strive to make our condos as comfortable and special for your vacation as they are for us when we use them.

Visit our website at https://seamarcondo.com to our rates and availability. Our website also provides more information on Sea Mar Condos and Marco Island. You will find lots of information on things to see and do on Marco Island. Restaurant suggestions are also on our website.
Let us help you make the most of your Marco Island vacation!

See 10,000 Islands in a Day

Teresa Luber Marco Island, Marco Island Day Trips and Tours, Things to See and Do in Marco Island , , , , , , ,
Backwater Eco Tours Marco
Home » Marco Island Eco Tours

Key Takeaways

  • Experience the beauty of the 10,000 Islands through eco tours in Marco Island, highlighting its rich wildlife.
  • Various tour options include kayaking, jet skiing, and guided boat tours to explore the backwaters.
  • Recommended tour companies include Paddle Marco, Avi’s Water Sports, and Captain Ron’s Awesome Everglades Adventures.
  • Tours often depart from locations like Rose Marina and Caxambas Park, suitable for all adventure levels.
  • Book your stay at Sea Mar Condo to enjoy the adventure and see the incredible sights of the 10,000 Islands.

Get the BIG Picture of the 10,000 Island With an Eco Tour

We recommend that our guests at Sea Mar Condo get the BIG picture! See 10,000 islands in a day from the water. Well, it’s called 10,000 islands, but it may not be quite that many, but probably close. This peaceful adventure awaits you with a backwater eco tour in Marco Island. The Gulf waters surrounding the island are home to dolphin, manatee, wading and nesting birds. It is a bountiful habitat to many species of wildlife.

There are many ways to see the backwaters surrounding Marco Island. Among them are kayaking, jet skiing, boating, parasailing, sailing, and paddle boarding. Most of the eco tours are guided tours that help you follow through the maze of mangrove islands with your guide pointing out the best opportunities to see the area wildlife.

Kayaking the Mangroves of the 10,000 islands
Kayaking with Paddle Marco

The backwater eco tours in Marco Island leave from various locations. Most leave from either Rose Marina or Caxambas Park but some have pickups on South Beach.

Some of the favorite places we have recommended to our guests at Sea Mar Condos are Cape Romano (unfortunately, the dome homes are now underwater), Keewaydin Island, and the Everglades.

Cape Romano Dome Homes 10,000 islands

Some of our recommended tours include:

Paddle Marco https://www.paddlemarco.com/ (239) 777-5423

Paddle Marco offers kayak tours for all ages and skill levels. Their tours are #1 rated on TripAdvisor, Google and Yelp and have been featured in USA Today and the Marco Review magazine.

Avi’s Water Sports  https://aviwatersports.com/  (239) 777-9873

Avi Langer is one of Marco’s most experienced jet ski tour guides. He is known as the “Dolphin Whisperer” because he knows the local dolphins and backwaters of the area. This tour is 2 1/2 hours with a maximum or 3-4 waverunners that accommodate up to two adults and one child per machine. The tours leave from Caxambas Park. Sunset trips are also offered.

Avi's Water Sports

Captain Ron’s Awesome Everglades Adventures
https://www.paradisecoast.com/profile/capt-rons-awesome-everglades-adventures/322
(239) 777-9975

Captain Ron has been guiding eco jet ski tours for over 30 years. Their specialty is dolphin experiences. You can see and hear the dolphins communicate with Captain Ron’s new underwater microphone. This is a 3 hour tour through the 10,000 islands and tours depart from Caxambas Park twice a day.

Marco Island Water Sports
https://marcoislandwatersports.com/
(239) 642-4FUN

Marco Island Water Sports has many years of local experience adventuring through the 10,000 island mangroves and the aqua waters of the Gulf of Mexico. They offer 90 minute tours on Yamaha waverunners that are appropriate for even a novice rider. These guided tours focus on the dolphin, manatee, and wading birds in the area. The tours leave from the beach in front of the JW Marriot, the Hilton, or Crystal Shores.

WOW Adventures Jet Ski Tours
www.wowjetski.com
(239) 300-3233

This 2 1/2 hour guided jet ski tour leaves from Rose Marina. The jet skis accommodate 3 people. This tour leaves Marco to travel down the Marco River with views of Isles of Capri, Judge SS Jolley Bridge, and Goodland and onto the Cape Romano dome homes. The tour returns in the Gulf passing Blind Pass, Kice Island and Dickmans Island before reaching Caxambas Pass and Marco Island. The tour focuses on the history of Marco Island as well as the wildlife.

Florida Adventures & Rentals
https://floridaadventuresandrentals.com/
(239) 348-5551

Florida Adventures offers a 2 hour guided jet ski tour deep into the 10,000 islands. The jet skis accommodate up to 3 people. Cape Romano is one of the many stops along the 30 mile route. You will see a variety of wildlife and you are guaranteed to see dolphins! Florida Adventures also offer boat tours, paddle board tours and guided fishing trips. The tours leave Caxambas Pass marina.

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Now is the time to book your vacation in Marco Island.  Be our guests at Sea Mar Condo and take your backwater eco tour in Marco island.  See the 10,000 islands for yourself! Visit https://seamarcondo.com for more information on Marco Island and Sea Mar Condos!