There’s nothing better than a week spent at the beach with the family. In the summer in Florida, there’s no shortage of beaches to choose from, but located off the southwest coast of Florida lies one of my favorite beach destinations—the tranquil and beautiful Marco Island. This hidden gem is on the Gulf Coast and is known for its white sand beaches, perfect for shelling. And the best part of vacationing on the west coast? The dazzling sunsets, each creating a temporary art piece that’s different every night. Marco Island is also rich in history and was inhabited by the Calusa Native American tribe over 1,000 years ago. Today, it’s a popular destination for families seeking a relaxing and adventure-filled vacation.
Marriott’s Crystal Shores Marco Island Family Vacation
On our family vacation, we stayed at Marriott’s Crystal Shores. It’s right on the beach and has spacious 2-room villas with full kitchens and comfortable living areas, perfect for families. My parents own a timeshare with Marriott’s Vacation Club and we’ve been vacationing with them every summer for many years. We loved staying at this resort because it has multiple pools, one with a slide that the kids loved, jacuzzis, a private beach, two restaurants, and the activity/recreation calendar was amazing. The property was also a perfect size for giving the kids some more independence and allowing them to do certain things on their own. The location was great as well and was walking distance to several restaurants and shops.
Things to Do in Marco Island on Family Vacation
When your staying at Marriott’s Crystal Shores, there is already so much to do—swimming, poolside trivia, ping pong or cornhole, and dining at Stilts Beachside Bar & Grill while watching the sunset. But if you’re ready for a little adventure off property, there is so much to do. Here’s a list of some must do things on a Marco Island family vacation.
1. Play a Round of Golf
Marco Island is known for its beaches, but it’s also known for its golf courses as well. Take a break from the sand and hit the greens at many golf courses in the area just a short drive off the island in Naples. While we were there we golfed at two executive courses that were about 20 minutes away.
2. Take a Catamaran Boat Tour
The kids always love a good boat ride. And it’s a bonus when dolphins and other wildlife are included. This Catamaran Tour picks you up right on Marco Island beach, steps from your hotel. It also stops at an uninhabited island where you can find beautiful shell treasures to take home with you.
3. Go on a Fishing Charter
One of our favorite traditions (for the boys anyways) is a fishing trip. Whether deep sea fishing or back country fishing, there’s a bunch of options in the area, like Sunshine Tours. It’s always our favorite souvenir when the guys come back—the freshest catch from sea to kitchen.
4. Take a Walk on the Beach and Shell
Getting up early, before everyone else and taking a walk on the beach is one of the most relaxing and otherworldly things. The water is so calm and quiet and if you look closely you can find some of the most beautiful shells right there on the beach.
5. Yoga on the Beach
Start your day with a serene yoga session right on the beach while taking in the stunning ocean views. Our hotel offered classes while we were there, and I highly recommend. Not only was it a beautiful new setting, but it was challenging as well. Many of the hotels in the area offer it, so check their calendars and take advantage. Or you can bring a blanket and your favorite YouTube yoga class and conduct one yourself!
6. Go Shopping
When you need a break from the sun—or the rain—shopping is always a great option. You can visit the Esplanade Shoppes for a variety of boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. Across the street from our hotel was also a smaller shopping center, great for souvenirs, or even some gelato at Dolce Mare, a family owned shop with delicious homemade gelato and chocolates.
7. Have a Sunset Happy Hour
And at the end of a long day, filled with adventure, pull up a beach chair, grab a glass of wine, sit the kids down on a beach blanket, play some music, and enjoy the colors of the sky as the sun sets over the horizon.
Make Your Marco Island Family Vacation a Reality
A Marco Island family vacation is the perfect way to create lifelong memories with your loved ones. With its beautiful beaches and endless activities, Marco Island is a destination that has something for everyone.
Looking for packing tips for the family? Check out this post complete with a free downloadable packing list.
One of my other favorite places to vacation with the family is Singer Island. This post explores 6 adventures you can take with the family.
Thanks for reading and enjoy your next beach vacation with the family!
Great vacation!