Exploring Downtown Marco Island: A Local’s Guide

Have you ever heard of Marco Island? It’s a gorgeous island off the coast of Southwest Florida, full of exciting activities to explore and beautiful beaches to enjoy. Some sleepy beach towns don’t have much to do besides lie by the water and soak up the sun, but that’s not the case here! Don’t get us wrong, we love sunbathing just as much as the next person, but one of our favorite parts of vacationing here is exploring Downtown Marco Island.

From delicious restaurants to impressive storefronts, there’s much to discover when you spend time here! On the culinary front,  Marco Island is known for its delicious seafood, but you can also find plenty of options like Italian and Mexican food to satisfy any cravings. If you want to get in some retail therapy, there are plenty of stores in downtown Marco Island where you can get your shopping done!

In this piece, we’ll cover the best restaurants and shopping in the area so you can have a truly unforgettable time in downtown Marco Island.

Does Marco Island Have a Downtown Area?

This is a good question to start off with. Yes, it does! While Marco Island may not have a conventional “downtown” like some larger cities, the area known as “Old Marco” is considered downtown for us! Some smaller vacation islands don’t have much of a downtown presence, but there’s plenty to do in Marco Island, especially in Old Marco.

Downtown Marco Island Restaurants

A vacation isn’t complete without finding the best restaurants in town! Instead of spending hours scrolling on Google to find the top restaurants in Marco Island, allow us to help. We’re experts on the subject, after all! You won’t have to travel far when you eat at the following spots, they’re all located in downtown Marco Island.

Café de Marco

A longtime local favorite! Perfect for romantic dinners and fresh-caught seafood in a cozy setting.

• Cuisine: Upscale Seafood & Continental Cuisine
• Location: 244 Palm St, Marco Island, FL 34145
• Website

Snook Inn

 Enjoy live music, tropical drinks, and fresh seafood with unbeatable views of the Marco River.

• Cuisine: Waterfront Dining with Seafood & Classic Comfort Foods
• Location: 1215 Bald Eagle Dr, Marco Island, FL 34145​
• Website

Lee Be Fish

Come here for super fresh seafood that locals swear by.

• Cuisine: Casual Seafood Market & Eatery 
• Location: 350 Royal Palm Dr, Marco Island, FL 34145
• Website

The Boardroom Tavern

Great spot to unwind with a drink and some bar food. Plus, they have regular live music!

• Cuisine: Pub Grub & Craft Cocktails
• Location: 600 S Collier Blvd #109, Marco Island, FL 34145
• Website 

Zaza Mexican Restaurant

If you're craving tacos and margaritas during your trip, this is your place. Their authentic Mexican food can't be beat. 

• Cuisine: Traditional Mexican Dishes
• Location: 1095 Bald Eagle Dr, Marco Island, FL 34145
• Website

Dolphin Tiki Bar & Grill

Kick back by the water with tropical drinks, tasty bites, and, best of all, impeccable island vibes.

• Cuisine: Tropical Bar Fare & Seafood
• Location: 1021 Anglers Cove, Marco Island, FL 34145
• Website

844 Gulf & Prime

Did someone say date night? 844 is perfect for a classy night out, with expertly prepared steaks and seafood that you'll remember long after your trip!

• Cuisine: Steakhouse & Coastal Fine Dining
• Location: 844 Bald Eagle Dr, Marco Island, FL 34145
• Website

Sandbar

Sandbar is your classic bar hang.  Check it out for hearty comfort food and daily drink specials, as well as occasional live music. 

• Cuisine: American Bar & Grill with Seafood and Burgers 
• Location: 826 E Elkcam Cir, Marco Island, FL 34145
• Website

Downtown Marco Island Shopping

There are plenty of places to go shopping on Marco Island! Here are just a few spots:

Esplanade Shoppes

The Esplanade Shoppes might be our favorite on the island! You can find incredible beachwear at Butterfly Beach and gorgeous ocean-inspired jewelry at Ocean Soul. That could be the perfect souvenir present for your loved ones at home—bring the ocean back to them!

Shops of Marco

There’s so much to explore in the classic Shops of Marco! If you want to purchase a souvenir to bring back to family and friends, check out Keep in Touch and Kathein Jewelers of Marco. Kathein especially has some gorgeous jewelry pieces!

We also love the Shops of Marco for the art they have: Tara O'Neill Studio-Gallery and Tonga’s Designs both have incredible displays of local craftsmanship to take in. Enjoy browsing the art, and hey, take home a piece if you’re feeling really moved!

Marco Town Center Mall

You’ll find everything you need in this mall! Check out the Blue Mangrove Gallery with its stunning rotating displays from local artists, or Beachworks for all your beachside essentials. For more high-fashion options, check out Coton Frais. Show up to the beach with style!

Book Your Stay on Marco Island Directly with Marco Island Vacation Properties!

As you can see, there’s plenty to explore in and around downtown Marco Island. We can’t wait for you to get here and experience it yourself! After you decide how you’ll get to Marco Island, the final step to take before enjoying a relaxing vacation here is, of course, booking your accommodations.

 When it comes to the top Marco Island vacation rentals, look no further than Marco Island Vacation Properties! Stay with folks who know the island best. We’re a local, family-owned business, and our guests are always our number one priority.

You’re sure to find the perfect fit for you in our extensive catalog of vacation rentals. Whether you’re booking a family vacation, a couple’s retreat, or a larger group outing, we have rentals for all kinds of getaways!

Book a pet-friendly Marco Island vacation rental if you want to bring your pup along (and check out our Comprehensive Guide to a Pet-Friendly Marco Island Vacation!), or choose a home with a private pool so you can relax and unwind in the comfort of your rental. If you want oceanfront views during your stay, we have those as well. Check out our waterfront vacation rentals and prepare to be blown away!

No matter which home you choose, you really can’t go wrong when you stay with us. Browse our available Marco Island vacation rentals now and book your next trip directly with Marco Island Vacation Properties!