One of the most exciting and refreshing features of Marco Island is its proximity to the clear waters of the Gulf Coast. Along with its white sand beaches, Marco Island also includes over 100 miles of inland waterways that connect directly to the Gulf! The natural nautical features along Marco Island’s shores offer more than enough opportunity for you and your friends and family to splash around and enjoy Marco Island’s relaxing tides. From kayaking to jet skis and parasailing, Southwest Florida has what you need for a wet and wild day in the sun! Follow along as we take you through what you need to know about Marco Island’s watersports.
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In this blog:
- Kayaking and Canoeing on Marco Island
- Jet Skiing on Marco Island
- Parasailing on Marco Island
- Fishing Charters on Marco Island
- Book Your Trip to Marco Island!
Kayaking and Canoeing on Marco Island
Ride through the Gulf and take in the luscious scenery while getting a workout at the same time! Marco Island has tons of great spots for your next kayak or canoe adventure. Marco Island's calm waters make this a relaxing activity for all ages and skill levels, so don't worry if it's your first time on a vessel. Take a tour with a trusted guide or explore on your own with a kayak rental. Whichever you decide, it’s on Marco Island.
Kayak and Canoe Tours vs Rentals on Marco Island
Deciding whether to rent a vessel or take a tour is up to you. Rentals vary in price depending on the company and the length of time you intend to rent. Rentals also offer more flexibility and freedom to explore Marco Island’s waterways and channels. Guided tours provide a more structured experience, typically led by a local expert who can show you around. Tours often include much more sightseeing, with many offering views of manatees, dolphins, and coastal birds.
Top Kayak Rental Companies and Tours on Marco Island
Paddle Marco
From kayaks to paddleboards, Paddle Marco has you covered with everything from guided tours to individual rentals so you can get out and explore the South Florida waterways. Ranked the #1 kayak tour company on Marco Island on TripAdvisor and Google, they know how to guarantee a good time. You can reserve a single kayak, a double, or a paddleboard. Plus, they offer free delivery and pick up straight to your vacation rental!
- Kayak and Paddleboard Rental Prices: 2 hours: $40 | 3 Hours: $45 | All Day: $50 *Additional rates for longer reservations
- Mangrove Tunnels Kayak Tour: 2-hour tour | Adults: $59.99, Kids: $54.99
- See All Tour Details
Florida Adventures & Rentals
Take a ride through mangrove mazes and tunnels for some of the best views of Southwest Florida's wildlife, including manatees, dolphins, and over 150 different bird species! Plan your tour your way, with options for dolphin tours, shelling, and even a sunset tour. Tours depart from Isle of Capri Paddle Park, with options for single- and tandem-riders, making this a great choice for groups.
- Kayak Rental Prices: 2 Hours: Starting at $65; $45 for kids
- Departure times: 10 AM and 1 PM
- See All Tour Details
MARCO ECO TOURS
If you want to mix things up a little bit, MARCO ECO TOURS has you covered! Aside from traditional kayaking tours, this operator also offers pedal kayak tours and rentals, making for an even more relaxing adventure down the Paradise Coast. Along with top-rated kayaks, the tour will also feature local biologists and naturalist guides, helping you better understand Marco Island's flora and fauna. If you want to take things into your own hands, his business also offers single- and tandem-kayak rentals for up to a week!
- Deluxe Pedal Kayak Tour Prices: 2 Hours: Starting at $74.99 | Kayak Tour Adventure Prices: $59.99
- Departure times: 10 AM and 12 PM
- The operator asks that guests arrive at least 25 minutes before departure
- See All Tour Details
Tips for Kayaking and Canoeing on Marco Island
- Always be aware of timing: Weather conditions and other factors can lead to your tour being canceled or rescheduled.
- Aim to depart earlier in the day: Marco Island's weather tends to be cooler in the morning, making for a more pleasant experience during which wildlife is also more active.
- Bring sunscreen for later in the day: Afternoons on Marco Island, especially in the summer, can get very hot, so sunscreen is suggested, especially for tours with little shading.
Jet Skiing on Marco Island
If you’re looking for a bit more adrenaline in your Marco Island watersports adventure, this is for you! Along with a heart-racing ride, you can coast through Marco’s crystal water while enjoying a serene, panoramic view of the island and its surrounding features. Marco Island’s sprawling coast provides the perfect setting for thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies to enjoy its exhilarating waters. Jet ski operators usually offer both rentals and guided tours, with some giving you a chance to see Marco Island's vast wildlife, combining sightseeing with a heart-pounding adventure. Prices, requirements, and durations will vary greatly for each tour and rental. Please also keep in mind that the minimum age to operate a personal watercraft in Florida is 14, and that drivers born after January 1, 1988, must take a boater safety course.
Tips to remember for Jet skiing on Marco Island
- Listen Closely: Most rentals and tours will provide some instruction before you get started.
- Consider experience level: While prior experience isn’t required for most tours, it is recommended that you and your party know how to swim.
Jet Ski Rentals and Tours on Marco Island
Wow Marco Island Jet Ski Tours & Rentals
Boasting the #1 jet ski operator on Marco Island, this business offers a variety of tours for both beginner and expert jet skiiers, with tours ranging from 1 to 3 hours. Wow Marco also offers free run rentals by the hour, with a fleet of Sea-Doo and Yamaha model watercrafts. You also have the option to bring your own ski and test your might against Wow Marco's own 44-mile aquatic playground.
- Hours: 7 am - 10 pm
- 1 Hour Taster Tour: $169 per ski
- 2 Hour Dolphin Tour: $249 per ski
- 3 Hours Hardcore Tour: $329
- Sunset Tour: $165 per ski
- See All Tour Details
Marco Island Watersports
Open seven days a week since 1981, this business has all you need for a day on the water, including both tours and rentals for jet skis, and operates from Marco's public beach access points. Ride aboard a Yamaha VX Deluxe with rentals starting at half-hour and hour-and-a-half long guided tours. For this specific experience, all drivers must be 18 years or older, and all passengers must be 5 years or older.
- Hours: 9 am - 4 pm
- Rental Length and Prices: 30 minutes - 1 hour | From $125-$195
- Tour Length and Price: 1 hour and 30 minutes | From $265
- See All Tour Details
Avi's Water Sports
This 10,000 Islands adventure sees you traveling over 30 miles over the course of this dolphin jet ski tour. This family-owned business has been running tours for over 20 years and consistently earns a 5-star rating on Google, offering expert guides and even free photos! Each tour includes everything you need to ride, but it is recommended that you bring sandals, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
- Jet Ski Dolphin Tour Price: $275: 2 Hours
- See All Tour Details
Parasailing on Marco Island
Wanting to get a view of Marco Island from above? Book a parasail adventure, and see a unique, birds-eye view of Marco Island’s shoreline and coastal waters! A few local businesses in the area offer parasailing trips, lifting riders into the air for a surprisingly peaceful glide, making it perfect for those looking for a more laid-back watersports experience on Marco Island.
Tips to Remember for Parasailing on Marco Island
Tours are typically open to single riders and groups, with most operators accommodating up to 3 people per trip. While guests are not expected to have prior experience, they are strongly advised to follow all safety instructions before their experience. Please also keep in mind that weather conditions can significantly impact parasailing, so tours may be rescheduled accordingly.
Marco Island Parasailing Tours
Marco Island Water Sports
Grab a friend (or two) and take a ride with Marco Island Water Sports. Open since 1981, this operator handles parasailing rides for up to three people! Take a 10, 12, or 15-minute ride, and for a bit extra, you can purchase a photo package to commemorate the experience.
- Hours: 10:30 am - 5 pm
- Price to ride: $135 per person
- Photo Package: $45
Fishing charters on Marco Island
Fishing remains one of the most popular activities on Marco Island, and with one of its many local fishing charters, you can leave the planning to a professional while you keep your mind on what’s important: the catch! While a license is usually required to fish in Florida, a charter will also handle that for you! Marco Island’s waters and geography give you plenty of options in terms of location and ecosystems, with charters for both inshore and offshore fishing.
Types of Fish on Marco Island
Marco Island is home to a diverse marine environment, with Snook, Redfish, and Mangrove Snapper often found inshore, while species like Red grouper, African Pompano, and whiting are found offshore. Wintertime is great for Sheepshead and Black Drum, while summer months typically feature Tarpon, Permit, and Snapper. While fishing charters are beginner-friendly, they can also be fun for experienced anglers who want a bit of convenience on their trip.
Notable fishing spots on Marco Island
- Ten Thousand Islands - Calm waters known for their presence of mangroves and snook
- Backwater Estuaries – Known for its remote location and shallow water
Tips for Booking a Fishing Charter on Marco Island
It always helps to book your fishing charter in advance, as weather, water levels, and other factors can affect your trip. Additionally, the best captains are typically snatched up rather quickly, so it’s recommended that you lock in a date as soon as you can to have the best possible fishing experience. It is also recommended to schedule the charter for the morning, when fish are more active, and the weather is cooler than in the afternoon. Those looking to fish offshore are also advised to be aware of motion sickness from the boat.
Recommended Fishing Charters on Marco Island
Marco Reel & Shore Charters
This backwater excursion takes you through the heart of Marco Island's mangrove-lined creeks, letting you explore this diverse ecosystem, with snook, redfish, and tarpon along the way. This all-levels tour features state-of-the-art equipment, a commitment to safety and sustainable practices, and an emphasis on preservation.
- 4-hour tours start at $675
- Departure Time: 8 am or 1 pm
- Fishing license: Included
- Meeting point: Goodland Boat Park, 750 Palm Point Dr
Sunshine Tours
Take your pick between offshore, backcountry, and near-coastal fishing with this charter service, equipped with a fleet of advanced vessels and captains who will work hard to find the big ones! Fish found along this ride include mackerel, barracuda, goliath grouper, and even sharks! If you'd rather just enjoy fresh seafood on a boat, you're in luck, as Sunshine Tours also offers dinner cruises!
- 4-hour tours for 4 passengers start at $850
- Departure Time: 8 am or 1 pm
- Fishing license: Included
- Departs From: Rose Marina
- Children ages 4 - 11 are half priced | Children under 4 are free
Six Chuter Charters
Six Chuter Fishing has been serving the Marco Island community for almost 30 years, with a team of six captains and a fleet of boats ranging from 25 to 28 feet long. Get the chance to catch lionfish, cobia, and tripletail with this charter that caters to all needs, from serious anglers to guests looking for a relaxing day on the water. This charter also provides everything you need to fish, including a license, but if you need extra supplies, there's a variety of selections at their gear shop!
- 4-hour tours for 4 passengers start at $575
- Departure Time: 8 am or 1 pm
- Fishing license: Included
- Departs From: Rose Marina
Book your trip to Marco Island!
For all that Marco Island has to offer, book your trip directly with Marco Island Vacation Properties®. Whether you’re looking to kick back on a kayak or roar through the coast with a jet ski, the place you decide to stay is the key to a memorable experience. With a wide selection of homes on the waterfront, by the beach, or even those that accommodate pets, our local team has everything you need and more! Book direct today for the best rates and special offers.
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