Naples is more like a city, while Marco is a true island and has a small, intimate atmosphere. Our family definitely prefer Marco, but there are some who would say Marco is boring and too slow. Both Naples and Marco Island are great options for a dream beach stay in Southwest Florida. Naples is more elegant and sophisticated, with things to do, while the island in the south is more relaxed and peaceful.
Undoubtedly, both destinations have beautiful beaches. Naples is more touristy and has exciting nightlife, beachfront resorts, and top-notch shopping malls. While Marco Island has a relaxed atmosphere, uncrowded beaches and an authentic old Florida vibe. Marco Island is one of my favorite destinations for a beach getaway.
With wide and extensive beaches, Marco Island feels like a remote retreat. But it's still close to Naples amenities and a day trip from the Everglades. So from someone who has spent more than my fair share of time, here are the best places to stay on Marco Island. If you want a more sophisticated honeymoon experience on the beach with beautiful lively beaches, luxury beachfront accommodations, exquisite dining options, a fantastic golf experience, exclusive shopping malls, and plenty of cultural and adventure activities away from the beach, Naples is the place to be.
You don't even need to leave the South Marco Beach area, as you'll find all the facilities you need here, plus plenty of water sports such as paddle boarding or kayaking. Marco Island, located on the Gulf Coast 32 km from Naples, is famous for some of the most magnificent white sand beaches in the world, a relaxed atmosphere of ancient Florida, picturesque nature trails, luxurious beachfront hotels and resorts, and impressive tourist attractions. The first is Grande Beach Resort if you want to be right on the beach, the second option is the Hotel Escalante if you want to stay in the heart of Naples. With a week or more, you can decide to stay north to enjoy the best beaches in Lowdermilk and Vanderbilt.
South Marco Beach is located on the other side of Marco Island and is a free public access beach with parking, facilities and paved access to the beach. Choose Naples for a vacation if you like stunning beaches, exciting nightlife, beachfront resorts, exquisite restaurants, top-notch shopping malls, and world-class golf. As Naples is a beach town, it has more highly marketed beaches with hotels, restaurants and pubs facing the sea bordering the beaches and large crowds. Naples is full of beautiful beachfront resorts, has plenty of water sports options and the sheer number of 92 golf courses.
