Marco Island Kayaking

Discover the beauty of Marco Island with a kayaking tour. Explore the stunning mangrove waterways and wildlife while enjoying a memorable adventure.  Guests can rent a kayak on their own to explore or take one of the many group kayak tours offered on the 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 Kayaking

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
Home » Marco Island Kayaking

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

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 Kayaking

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!

Let’s Go Down to Marco Island: Sun, Sand, Serenity

Teresa Luber Marco Island, Marco Island Activities and Sports, Things to See and Do in Marco Island , , , , , , , , ,
Let's Go Down to Marco Island
Home » Marco Island Kayaking

Key Takeaways

  • The author’s first trip to Marco Island sparked a love for the area and frequent visits over the years.
  • Marco Island offers beautiful beaches, both peaceful and lively, perfect for relaxation or adventure.
  • There are many activities, such as fishing, exploring Everglades National Park, and dining options featuring fresh seafood.
  • The island is family-friendly, with parks, playgrounds, and educational tours suitable for children.
  • The Marco Island Historical Museum provides insight into the island’s rich history and culture.

A little over 20 years ago, my husband came to me and said “Let’s go down to Marco Island this year”. He proceeded to tell me his brother and sister-in-law had been there prior and were wanting us to join them there this year for vacation.

I had never heard of Marco Island and didn’t even know what state it was in.  However, since it had “island” in the name,  I thought it must be on a beach somewhere. Since I love beach vacations,  I was easily persuaded to go along. (I also love my brother and sister-in law and loved the idea of vacationing with them).

One Thing Leads to Another

Needless to say, our first trip to Marco Island was a success. We feel in love with the island, the locals, the beaches and the many adventures that await visitors to the area. We left Marco planning our next vacation there! For the next 10 years or so, we found ourselves vacationing on Marco at least every other year. Each time we left wanting to return as soon as possible.

Then, we found ourselves thinking about purchasing a place there for retirement – or at least a place to go in retirement. We have both just retired, but we still do not get to spend as much time on Marco as we would like. However, we do get there 3 times a year. While we are not there, we rent our condos (Sea Mar Condo) https://seamarcondo.com out so others can enjoy the beauty of Marco Island and the comfort of our units. We love sharing our piece of paradise with others and want them to enjoy it as much as we do when we are there.

Marco Island -Let’s Go!

Beach with Marco Island Logo

Marco Island is a barrier island located on the Gulf of Mexico approximately 18 miles south of Naples. The island is beautifully landscaped and surrounded by the aqua waters of the Gulf. Marco has 2 very different beaches that are accessible to guests. Tigertail Beach is a peaceful and secluded – a nature lover’s dream https://seamarcondo.com/early-morning-walk-down-tigertail-beach. Crescent of South Beach is busy with watercraft, beachgoers, and luxurious hotels. Both beaches are beautiful and perfect for shelling, a long beach walk or just relaxing with a good book or nap. The sunsets on the island are spectacular!

Adventure

If you are more into adventure than hanging around the beach, Marco Island will not disappoint. The surrounding 10,000 island area is one of the best in the world for fishing. Everglades National Park is only 15 minutes away by jet ski and a short 45 minute drive by car to air boat and swamp buggy tours https://seamarcondo.com/day-trip-to-everglades-national-park. Marco Island is home to dolphin, manatee, and many species of birds including egrets, blue herons, pelicans, black skimmers, roseate spoonbills, and osprey.

Everglades Airboat Tour

There are many tour companies on the island with professional guides to help you maneuver through the mangroves in the area whether you go by jet ski, boat or kayak. Of course, you can always take the option of seeing Marco from above by parasail or a plane ride. https://seamarcondo.com/parasailing-over-marco-islands-waters

Dining

Sale e Pepe Marco Island

For those who love fresh seafood, you have many options. Many of the restaurants will even fix your catch of the day for dinner that evening. For those who prefer something other than seafood, the many restaurants on the island offer a wide variety of options. A lot of the restaurants on Marco also offer waterfront dining and live music. The Marco Island Princess offers a great dining experience on the water along with a sunset cruise.

Family Friendly

Father's Day

Marco Island is family friendly and a great place to vacation with the younger ones. The island has two parks and a kid playground. There is also a miniature golf course. Most of the tours are also suitable for children and some, especially the Dolphin Explorer, focus on educational experiences for the youngsters. Most of the jet ski tours, and kayaks are made to accommodate 2 adults and a child.

History

Key Marco Cat

The Marco island Historical Museum is also located on the island and offers guests to the island an opportunity to learn the rich history of Marco, from the Calusa Indians, its development in the 1960s, to this modern day paradise.  We are very excited that the Key Marco Cat is on display at the museum https://themihs.info/museum.

 Book Your Vacation at Sea Mar Condo in Marco Island

Let’s go down to Marco Island! Whether your idea of a great vacation is heading down to the water with a couple of beach chairs or seeking a family adventure, this island has everything to make memories of a lifetime.

Sea Mar Condo Logo

Now is the time to book your vacation in Marco Island. Be our guests at Sea Mar Condo and see for yourself what’s going on in Marco island. Visit https://seamarcondo.com for more information on Marco Island and Sea Mar Condos!

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 Kayaking

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.

Sea Mar Condo Logo

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!

Briggs Nature Center at Rookery Bay – Things to Do

Teresa Luber Marco Island Activities and Sports, Marco Island Day Trips and Tours, Things to See and Do in Marco Island , , , ,
Briggs Nature Center Boardwalk
Home » Marco Island Kayaking

Key Takeaways

  • Briggs Nature Center offers 3 miles of trails, including a ½-mile boardwalk, for exploring diverse habitats.
  • Wildlife sightings include bald eagles, snakes, and otters, making it an excellent spot for nature enthusiasts.
  • Kayak and canoe rentals are available for navigating the scenic Gordon River and mangroves.
  • The Boardwalk operates year-round, with guided tours and volunteer assistance for wildlife spotting.
  • Briggs Nature Center is part of the Great Florida Birding Trail and located in Naples, FL.

Trails

Briggs Nature Center is located between Marco Island and Naples. It is part of the Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. The nature center features a total of 3 miles of easy trails, including a ½-mile boardwalk. Guests are able to explore the area’s various habitats. The estuary is a natural nursery for fish, shellfish, and crustaceans. It is also home to many nesting birds.

White Egret

In addition to the boardwalk, there are two other short trails that offer views of Rookery Bay. Wildlife such as bald eagles, snakes, bob-cats, river otters, hawks, and woodpeckers are quite commonly seen by visitors to the nature center.

Briggs Boardwalk is a half-mile self-directed nature trail. It passes through five unique habitats from scrub to brackish ponds. This walk is kid friendly.  This is a great place for a family to enjoy a short, easy, free walk while experiencing the Florida marshes and wildlife.

Kayaking/Canoeing

In addition to the nature trails at Briggs Nature Center, kayak and canoe rentals are also available. This allows guests to navigate the Gordon River, mangrove tree islands, and tunnels.  This is a great way to see birds and other wildlife in the area from the water.

Kayaking the mangroves
Kayaking in Briggs Nature Center

The Boardwalk is open year-round from dawn to dusk. Conservancy volunteers are on the boardwalk seven days a week from January through April, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.  Schedules may change in inclement weather and on holidays. Guided tours take place at 10 a.m. daily from January through March.

Signs along the walk describe the flora and fauna in each community. Volunteers are available to help visitors spot and identify plants, birds and other animals.

The walk is a Great Florida Birding Trail site.

Briggs Nature Center
Rookery Bay in Naples
401 Shell Island Road, Naples, FL
(239) 337-3332

To see other recommended activities near Marco Island, FL, visit https://seamarcondo.com