Marco Island is the largest island in the chain of islands and mangrove inlets that make up the Ten Thousand Islands off the southwest coast of Florida. It’s a popular destination for visitors looking for stunning beaches, resorts, and impressive nature and wildlife.

Although you can find plenty of entertainment and an extensive scenic coastline, travelers can also visit some nearby beaches close to Naples and Bonita Springs. Clam Pass Park, for example, is great for families due to its calm waters, and Dog Beach Park is ideal for those with pets. Discover these and the following great beaches near Marco Island.

Tigertail Beach

Image via Flickr by Andy Morffew

Tigertail Beach is possibly Marco Island’s most popular beach. It has plenty of amenities including restrooms, snack bars, and a picnic area. Visitors can also rent beach equipment.

The tidal pool creates a mini bay with shallow waters, ideal for families with children to experience. Tigertail Beach is also one of the best birding sites in Florida, with plenty of pelicans, falcons, and roseate spoonbills to spot.

South Marco Beach Access

For those who want to sunbathe in a quieter part of the island, South Marco Beach Access is probably the best choice. It’s located at the south end of the island, and since it’s somewhat secluded, it tends to be less crowded. The South Marco Beach Access is great for families who like to go shelling, and on some days, you may be able to spot dolphins playing in the surf.

Barefoot Beach Preserve County Park

Although it’s called Barefoot Beach, you may want to bring some shoes if you’re not used to coarse shell sand. The preserve is 342 acres and surrounded by wildlife and nature. The boardwalk is 1-mile long, and the amenities include showers, a picnic area, and water sport equipment rentals.

Clam Pass Beach Park

As the name implies, Clam Pass Beach Park is one of the best beaches in the area to go shelling  — finding, inspecting, and collecting shells in the area. You’ll discover plenty of opportunities to see marine life such as coastal birds and butterflies. Much like the other beaches, visitors have access to a picnic area and outdoor showers, and they can rent water sport equipment.

Vanderbilt Beach

Vanderbilt beach is the most popular beach in North Naples. Due to its powdery white sand, kids can spend hours building castles while adults spot diving pelicans in the distance. The warm breeze is perfect for windsurfing lovers, but beachgoers can also enjoying some kayaking and playing beach volleyball.

Dog Beach Park

If you happen to be traveling with your furry friend, you’ll find out that Collier County doesn’t allow pets on the beach. However, if you head slightly north toward Bonita Springs, you can have as much fun as you’d like at Dog Beach Park — complete with doggie showers available.

An endless number of incredible beaches seem to occupy the southwest coast of Florida. Marco Island has much to offer, which is why you’ll want to check out some attractive Marco Island hotels so that you can book your stay and experience everything you want to during your visit. If you feel like exploring similar beaches in the area, you’ll be only about a 30-minute drive to another spectacular destination.