Trip planning
Marco Island with Kids
Marco Island is built for family vacations — calm Gulf water, soft sand, easy boat tours and short drives between everything.
Local picks
- South Beach for swimming: Gentle waves, gradual entry and lots of space to dig.
- Dolphin tour: Reliable wild dolphin sightings — a guaranteed kid hit.
- Mackle Park: Splash pad, playground and shaded picnic tables.
- Shelling on Tigertail: Easy treasure hunt — pack a small bucket.
Insider tip
Bring a beach umbrella, reef-safe sunscreen, and water shoes for the lagoon at Tigertail.
Frequently asked questions
Is Marco Island good with kids?+
Marco Island is built for family vacations — calm Gulf water, soft sand, easy boat tours and short drives between everything.
What's the best beach on Marco for kids?+
Residents' Beach and South Beach are the easiest options — calm water, gradual entry, and amenities nearby. Tigertail Beach has the iconic lagoon, but the walk is longer.
What's one thing first-timers always miss?+
Bring a beach umbrella, reef-safe sunscreen, and water shoes for the lagoon at Tigertail.