We have listed the top 5 best outdoor activities to make your stay on Marco Island memorable.
There are many outdoor activities and water related tours on Marco Island. When people are searching for things to do on Marco Island, many unfortunately click websites like TripAdvisor and Viator to look for tours. As of the year 2022, TripAdvisor and Viator allow tour operators to give up to 40% of their earnings to get their business listing shown on the top of the search results. The search results are no longer merit based and established companies that don’t participate in the pay-to-display rules have been pushed to the last pages and are nearly impossible to discover. So now what?
Well don’t worry… We’ve decided to list the “Real” top 5 companies on Marco Island. These companies don’t give a dime to the large tourism corporations to display on top. The 5 companies listed below are based on local recommendations and merit based review platforms such as Yelp and Google. They have also been in business for 5 or more years. Book directly with them through their websites!
1) Paddle Marco – Kayak Tours & Rentals
The best activity year after year on Marco Island is Paddle Marco‘s Mangrove Tunnels Kayak Tour. The biologist and naturalist guides not only teach you about your surroundings and wildlife… they also have a great sense of humor. What sets Paddle Marco apart from the competition? Well the high-back seats and cup holders in the kayaks sure to make the 2 hour trip through the mangroves much more enjoyable. There are photographers on the tour taking free HD pictures with real SLR cameras of you, your family and the wildlife encountered. You won’t need to worry about dropping your phone in the salt-water here! The photos are available within 48 hours of the tour, free to download. Lastly, the kayak tour guides also do more than just keep you from getting lost… they actually teach you something! If you really want to see the real Marco Island up close without the roar of an engine behind you, then we would suggest you book a kayak tour with Paddle Marco today!
2) Marco Pedal Boat
Ever wanted to see multi-million dollar homes, dolphins and a gulf coast sunset all in the span of 2 hours? The Marco Pedal Boat has you covered. As you embark from the famous Island Gypsy restaurant and join Captain Jake on a 2 hour sunset cruise, you’ll be immediately immersed into the beauty of Marco Island’s waterways. Dolphins, Manatees, Stingrays and soaring Osprey are just a few of the species of wildlife you’ll see on your boat tour. When we say Marco “Pedal” Boat, it doesn’t mean you you have to pedal… pedaling is completely optional. If you want the workout… great! If not, just relax and enjoy your drink and the music. Tours are BYOB, kids are welcome and a bathroom is on-board. Private parties of up to 19 people are also welcome.
3) WOW – Jet Ski Tours & Rentals
Ever wanted to try Jet Skiing? Here’s your chance! Let WOW take you on a 1.5 hour guided Jet Ski / Waverunner tour through Marco Island’s 10,000 islands. Let dolphins jump in the wake of your jet ski wake as your guide takes pictures. Learn about the famous dome homes (pictured above). The Jet Skis can travel up to 50 MPH and a safety briefing is given before each tour. If following a tour guide isn’t your thing, WOW also does hourly rentals that are much cheaper than the rates you’ll find at the resorts on the beach. WOW has a fantastic safety record and unlike other companies, actually have insurance! This is important if you get hurt. If you have the need for speed and want to try something unique, give WOW Jet Ski Tours a shot!
4) Treasure Seeker Shell Tours
Did you know Marco Island is home to the best shelling in the country? We have the best sea shells anywhere! Treasure Seeker Shell Tours will take you by boat, with no more than 6 passengers to deserted barrier islands and sand bars that are off the beaten path to find the best shells in the world. You might find Junonia, Horse Conch, Lightning Whelk (see picture above), Scotch Bonnet and of course… sand dollars! Tours last up to 4 hours and launch from Goodland (just 10 minutes from Marco Island). The captains will teach you all about the surroundings and shells you find. Dolphins, Manatees and more can also be seen while you are on your tour in the 10,000 islands. Book with them today!
5) Marco Island Eco Tours – Craigcat Tours
Immerse yourself in the 10,000 islands near Marco Island on Craigcats! These unique side-by-side boats go up to 25 MPH. Follow your guide into the mangroves. Jump off on to deserted sand bars to look for shells. Zig-zag around oyster beds and watch dolphins up close. Manatees, stingrays, sharks and more all share these waters. Each tour lasts around 2.5 hours. There is also a tour that lets you view the famous dome homes if you desire. Book with Marco Island Eco Tours today for a unique and fun tour!
If you’re looking for more local activities and options, be sure to check out the Marco Review Magazine!