Marco Island is surely the closest thing to a Caribbean Island experience in the United States. Serenely tropical, its beautiful white sand beach stretches for four miles along the Gulf of Mexico shoreline. Four beachfront resorts provide endless opportunities for island-style relaxation and fun.

Marco Island is the northernmost and largest of the Ten Thousand Islands, providing access to the unspoiled subtropical wilderness of the western waterways of the Everglades. Anglers and nature lovers find endless areas to explore and enjoy the beautiful and diverse natural environment. Fish for tarpon, snook and redfish in the mangrove backcountry, or kayak between uninhabited islands and spot dolphin, manatee, sea turtles and other wildlife.

Aside from its natural wonders, Marco Island offers plenty of shopping, dining and recreational options. In Olde Marco, boutiques and restaurants mix with historic buildings. Restaurants specializing in every conceivable type of cuisine, from international dishes to Florida's signature fresh seafood, abound throughout the island. Golfers will delight in the many nearby courses, which can accommodate everyone from beginners to the seasoned pro.

At Marco Island not only are you beachside, you are at the western gateway to the Everglades. Everglades day tours make a great side trip in nearby Everglades City or Chokoloskee, with stops at Everglades National Park, Big Cypress National Preserve, Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park and Collier-Seminole State Park. With alluring natural beauty and a toned-down sophistication, Marco Island is one of Florida's more relaxing topical vacation retreats.