Residents' Beach on Marco Island

Residents' Beach on Marco Island

As an island on the western coast of Florida, lying under a tropical sun and facing onto the crystal blue waters of the exotic Gulf of Mexico, how could Marco Island not be considered a beach paradise? Marco Island beaches are stunning, and if you do buy a property on the island, it is certain to prove too difficult to avoid enjoying everything they have to offer.

There are three principal public or residents’ beaches on Marco Island, stretching along the 4-mile strand on the west side of the island. The public beaches are known as Tigertail Beach (at the north end), and South Beach, on the very southwestern tip of the island, but the main beach is located in the middle of the strand, called the Residents’ Beach.

All of these Marco Island beaches have their own characteristics, but the most popular is the central Residents’ Beach.

What Residents' Beach Offers

Exactly why Residents’ Beach on Marco Island should be so popular is down to a couple of reasons – the facilities and the panoramic views they offer. Located at the intersection of Collier Boulevard and San Marco Road, a small park area divides it and the city. The park includes a picnic area, with some tables under chickee huts complete with charcoal barbecues, and from which excellent gulf views can be enjoyed.

The famous white sand of Residents’ Beach is only a few steps away. The area is lined with coconut trees and permanent straw umbrellas providing shade from the harsh midday sun - though the early evening sees sunbathers soaking up the rays while others splashing on the turquoise water.

The beach also offers a total of 26 benches, unique amongst Marco Island beaches and provided so that evening strollers promenading along the shore can sit and take in the spectacularly fiery firmament as the sun goes down.

However, it is important to note that the residents’ beaches on Marco Island is reserved for residents, and their guests. A Residents’ Permit is required to gain entry, which can be purchased from the Marco Island Civic Association.

The Other Popular Beaches

Of course, alluring white sands are not exclusive to Residents’ Beach on Marco Island. There are alternatives. Tigertail Beach is a short distance north, and is a public beach that requires no Residents Permit. It boasts family facilities, like a kids area and a nature reserve to stroll through, a rental kiosk form which parasols, water toys and other items can be rented.

South Beach is the most southerly of the Marco Island beaches, and requires a Residents’ Permit for the residents’ carpark. However, there is a public carpark on Swallow Avenue so non-residents can avail of the beach too. There are no facilities provided, but the selection of restaurants, cafes and bars at hotels along that stretch of beach means there is plenty of refreshment available.

Marco Island beaches have so much to offer but it is also worth noting that boats can be hired to take you and your party to other beaches in the area, like Cape Romano just a short distance to the south, or the beach on Keewaydin Island. Quieter than the residents’ beaches on Marco Island, these are well worth a day-visit.