Know
Before You Go

Starfish

Know

Before You Go

Starfish

Whether you’re planning your first trip to Marco Island or returning for another slice of paradise, our local guide covers everything you need to know — from beach tips and transportation options to tide times and photo-worthy spots.

Beaches and Shells

Marco Island is home to some of Florida’s most beautiful beaches — and some of its best shelling. Get the inside scoop on where to go for calm waters, family-friendly sands, or a morning shell hunt.

EXPLORE THE SHORE

Tides and Sunsets

Plan your beach walks, shelling excursions, and golden hour moments with our up-to-date tide charts and sunset times. Click below to find up-to-date tide and sunset information, so you’re always in sync with the island’s rhythms.

Check the Times

Airports and Transportation

Whether you’re flying into Southwest Florida or road-tripping from nearby cities, we’ve got your transit details covered. Explore airport options, car rental tips, and the best ways to get around Marco once you arrive — including golf carts, bike paths, and scenic drives.

Plan Your Trip

Your Marco Moments

We love seeing Marco through your lens. Browse a curated collection of reader-submitted photos that capture the island’s charm — from breathtaking sunsets to wildlife sightings. Want to be featured? Submit your own snapshot!

See the Photos

Marco Island Map

DOWNLOAD PDF

Local info map

Need-to-Know Before You Go

Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, a few quick answers can make your trip smoother. From beach rules to getting around town, we’ve gathered the most helpful tips travelers ask about Marco Island.

Beach Basics

Yes, Marco Island has several public beach access points, including Tigertail Beach, South Beach, and the Central Beach walkway near Crystal Shores. Tigertail and South Beach offer parking, restrooms, and rentals, while Central Beach access requires a short walk from nearby paid parking lots. Most public access points are open from dawn to dusk.

Yes, shell collecting is a popular activity on Marco Island—especially at Tigertail Beach and Sand Dollar Spit, known for their abundance of shells. No permit is required for recreational shelling, but it is illegal to collect live shells, including any with living organisms inside. Be mindful of posted wildlife protection areas during nesting season.

No, alcohol is not permitted on any of Marco Island’s public beaches. The city enforces strict rules to preserve the natural environment and ensure safety. Glass containers and pets are also prohibited. Always follow posted guidelines to help protect wildlife and keep the beaches clean.

Transportation & Getting Around

Yes, there are public parking lots near several beach access points, including Tigertail Beach (226 spaces) and South Beach (70 spaces on Swallow Avenue). Central Beach access is served by the Turtle Lot on South Collier Blvd, which is privately owned. Parking fees typically range from $10 to $25 per day, and payment is usually by credit card or apps like ParkMobile. Parking is limited—arrive early, especially on weekends or holidays.

Yes, Uber and Lyft operate on Marco Island, but availability can vary based on time of day and season. During peak times (like holidays or winter “season”), wait times may be longer. It’s a good idea to schedule rides in advance when possible, or consider using local taxi services and shuttle operators if rideshare is unavailable.

Absolutely! Bike and golf cart rentals are popular and widely available on Marco Island. Many rental shops offer hourly, daily, and weekly options, and some even provide delivery to your hotel or vacation rental. Bikes are ideal for exploring flat, scenic routes, while street-legal golf carts offer a fun and convenient way to cruise around the island.

Tides, Weather, and Nature

You can check Marco Island tide charts on our Tides and Sunsets page, or online through resources like NOAA.gov, or local apps such as Windfinder and Tide Alert. Knowing the tides is especially useful if you’re planning to visit Tigertail Beach or Sand Dollar Spit, where low tide reveals the best shelling spots and sandbars.

Marco Island enjoys mild, sunny weather in winter and spring, making it one of the best times to visit.
Winter (Dec–Feb): Highs in the mid-70s °F, lows in the 50s–60s, low humidity, and water temps in the low 60s.
Spring (Mar–May): Highs in the upper 70s to mid-80s °F, with water temps rising into the 70s.
Expect clear skies, gentle breezes, and very little rain—ideal for beach days, fishing, and nature tours.

Yes, there are important environmental regulations to protect local wildlife and ecosystems.
Shelling: You may collect empty shells, but it’s illegal to take live shells, including sand dollars or starfish with living organisms inside.
Wildlife: Stay clear of sea turtle nests (marked with signs or stakes) and shorebird nesting areas, especially on Tigertail Beach and Sand Dollar Spit. Do not feed wildlife or disturb birds.
General rules: No pets, glass, or bikes are allowed on public beaches. Always follow posted signs and beach rules.

Visitor Services

While Marco Island doesn’t have a traditional centralized visitor center, The Marco Review serves as the island’s premier digital visitor guide. It offers insider tips, an interactive map, restaurant recommendations, beach access info, and local event listings—all available online or via app. For printed brochures and maps, check local hotels, resorts, or the Marco Island Chamber of Commerce.

Yes, many of Marco Island’s top-rated restaurants accept reservations, especially during peak season (December–April). Popular spots—particularly waterfront dining venues—are often booked in advance for dinner, so it’s recommended to call ahead or reserve online via platforms like OpenTable or Resy. Walk-ins are welcome at most casual and beachside eateries, but wait times may vary.

Public beaches on Marco Island, including Tigertail Beach and South Beach, do not offer public Wi-Fi. However, many beachfront resorts and some restaurants (like Sunset Grille) offer Wi-Fi access to guests and customers. For best connectivity, consider using mobile data or a hotspot device if you plan to work remotely or stay connected while at the beach.