Nature on the Island: Best Places to Catch a Glimpse of Nature & Wildlife on Marco Island

Gulfstream Homes — Thu, 23 Jun 2022 15:27:26 +0000

With all the beauty that surrounds you on Marco Island, it’s only natural to want to explore what the Island has to offer. Whether you’re looking forward to taking the family on a weekend excursion around Marco of you’re interested in a solo trip, there are plenty of places to discover on this idyllic island. From beaches to nature preserves, historic landmarks to parks, Marco Island is filled with must-see spots that will leave you feeling exhilarated, not to mention, grateful that you chose to make this area your home. When it comes to nature on the Island, here are the best places to catch a glimpse of nature and wildlife on Marco Island.

Otter Mound Preserve

Built on ancient Calusa territory, Otter Mound Preserve (1831 Addison Ct, Marco Island, FL 34145) has been captivating visitors for decades. As part of one of the rarest tropical habitats in Collier County, this area is home to various animals, including 57 species of birds, as well as an abundance of plant life, with over 127 species of plants known to accent this historical landmark. Not only is this area teeming with Calusa history, with various landmarks and signs depicting Otter Mound Preserve’s past, it’s also perfect for a stroll. Plenty of shade, trails and benches can be found in this area, making it the ideal place to take in history, as well as stay active, while you enjoy your serene surroundings.

Tigertail Beach

When shelling and soaking up the sun is on your agenda, Tigertail Beach is where many Marco Island residents choose to spend their days. If you’re looking for a place to find some of the most beautiful shells on the Island, Tigertail Beach won’t disappoint. This white sand beach isn’t just a shelling enthusiast’s dream, it’s also the perfect spot to bird watch, recognized as one of the best birding sites in Southwest Florida by the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission. From bald eagles to pelicans, ospreys and more, you’ll find on Tigertail Beach.

Marco Island Mangroves

Florida houses over 600,000 acres of mangrove forests, and if you’re looking to kayak deep into these ecological wonders, Marco Island offers plenty of ways to take it all in. From kayak tours to boat rides from favorites, like Eco Endeavors and Paradise Coast Sailing, experiencing the Florida mangroves is easy on the Island. Say hello to the area wildlife while you’re cascading through the waters, as this area is home to many versatile creatures, including crabs, shellfish and of course alligators. If you want to experience true Florida lifestyle at its finest, you’ll want to take a trip into the mangroves.

Other Nature Destinations Near Marco Island

Nature excursions offer fun for the whole family, and when you’re looking for something to do on the Island, here are some other fantastic ideas for nature enthusiasts:

Briggs Nature Center (401 Shell Island Rd, Marco Island, FL 34113)
Capri Paddlecraft Park (3620 Collier Blvd., Marco Island, FL 34113)
Keewaydin Island

When you live on Marco, you get to experience a diverse array of natural sights and wildlife that you won’t be able to see elsewhere, and it’s all in your backyard. So, the next time you’re looking for something exciting to do on the Island, consider exploring these nature and wildlife areas and see what you’re able to discover.

Gulfstream Homes is excited to help you build your ideal home on Marco Island! Call (239) 254-1664 or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com to get started.

Contact Us

The post Nature on the Island: Best Places to Catch a Glimpse of Nature & Wildlife on Marco Island first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

Experience Marco Island Like a Local

Gulfstream Homes — Tue, 17 Nov 2020 22:15:23 +0000

From the salty sea air to the warm tropical breezes, Marco Island offers up one of the best backdrops in the country if you’re looking for ultimate relaxation and island living. And if you’re considering making Marco Island your new home, you may be wondering how to spend each of your days in paradise. After all, with the abundance of activities offered on the Island, you may be finding it difficult to plan out your day. Between boating and diving, wining and dining, relaxing and shopping, Marco Island showcases some of the best options available when it comes to entertainment, and it helps if you have some tips from the locals on how to take advantage of it all. When it comes to living the island life, here’s how to experience Marco Island like a local.

Catch the Sunrise

Start your day with a sunrise and some dolphin-spotting at Caxambas Pass Park, a beautiful spot to take in the natural landscape around you. A four-acre park, Caxambas Pass includes a marina, concessions and more, and acts as a launching point to the famous Ten Thousand Islands, where you can take advantage of incredible views of the water and mangroves, plus local wildlife and not to mention, pure serenity. After this moment of tranquility, you may have worked up an appetite, and you’re in luck. Marco Island is home to some of the best breakfast spots in the area, including Doreen’s Cup of Joe, Red Rooster, Nene’s Kitchen and more.

Shop ‘Til You Drop

After a hearty breakfast, make your way down the relaxed streets of Marco for some one-of-a-kind retail therapy. From Island Trends, which offers island-inspired women’s and men’s clothing and accessories, to the Blue Mangrove Gallery, which features exquisite artwork, photography, jewelry and more, you’re sure to find it on the Island. And if you’re looking for more specialty shops, be sure to check out the following:

Whether you’re shopping for trinkets and other fun gifts, clothing or diving gear, Marco Island offers something for everyone.

Relax & Unwind

If relaxation is on your mind, pay a visit to the Spa by JW for the ultimate in pampering. From massages, facials and body treatments to a steam room, therapy bath and soaking pools, Spa by JW creates the ideal ambiance to allow you to treat yourself to the fullest. In the mood for a little beach therapy instead? Head over to Tigertail Beach for the best shelling experience on the Island. Rent a kayak or a paddle board to stay active and take advantage of our Southwest Florida paradise.

Dinner Date

From family options to romantic evenings, Marco Island has everything you need to create an unmatched dinner experience. May we recommend the following:

Whether you’re in the mood for seafood and other island fare, authentic Italian flavors or something else, you’ll find it on the Island.

Your Day on Marco Island

From fun in the sun to a relaxing spa day, a lunch date with friends or a romantic sunset dinner, Marco Island shows that you really can have it all in paradise. Laid back and relaxed, yet sophisticated and refined, Marco Island appeals to virtually everyone, making it the ideal location to live any time of the year. So, now that you know what a day in the life of a local looks like, what’s on your schedule today?

The Gulfstream Homes team is ready to help you design and build a home on Marco Island! Call (239) 259-8070 or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com to get started.