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While most of the country is still in the grips of winter, it is 79 degrees on Marco Island, Florida today. If that isn't reason alone to visit this Gulf Coast paradise, I don't know what is. However, if you are a bit strange and below zero temperatures and icy roads don't bother you, there are still many other reasons why Marco Island, Florida is the perfect vacation destination.

Sitting on the edge of the Gulf of Mexico, Marco Island, Florida is twenty-four square miles of heaven. In the big scheme of all things geographical, this island is small. Nevertheless, Marco Island is the largest Barrier Island within the region referred to as Florida's Ten Thousand Islands.

This island in the sun is a quiet but, at the same time, upscale getaway for all types of vacationers. If you are seeking a romantic experience for two, a fishing adventure, or a place for the entire family to frolic on the beach, Marco Island will not disappoint. Whether you choose to stay in one of the major chain resort hotels on the south end of the island or go for the quieter, quainter motels in "Olde Marco" found on the northern end of the island, there are accommodations to suit each individual personality.

You should be aware that due to real estate expansion that began in the 1960's, Marco Island no longer possesses the charm of nearby Naples, Florida. What is does offer however, are excellent boating and fishing opportunities, beautiful beaches, exquisite sunsets and accessibility to one of our countries great wildlife preserves, The Florida Everglades. I would suggest to anyone, beach bums or adventurers, that you experience the Everglades when visiting Marco Island. You can do this by airplane, airboat, bicycle, boats or the original form of travel, walking.

If you are a sun worshiper, there is no better place in which to do that than on the shell-rich, white sand beaches of Marco Island. Four miles of that sugar fine sand, starkly contrasted by the turquoise water of the gulf, is a perfect place for all who love water sports of any kind. When you are soaking up the rays while collecting seashells, the more active members of your party can enjoy fishing and golfing, para-sailing or windsurfing. If, for some, active equates to adventuresome, they can always kayak through the backwaters filled with birds and other forms of wildlife. One of my favorite experiences when I visited Marco Island was the three-hour Manatee viewing and nature tour. During this eco-tour, you will see Southern Florida's largest herd of Manatees along with alligators, dolphins and various wild birds.

Catamaran tours on the Gulf are also a popular attraction. They offer everything from dolphin watching and hunting for seashells on unspoiled beaches to sunset cruises while listening to the melodic sounds of island music.

When the streets roll-up after sunset, Marco Island does have the aura of a retirement community. However, if fun in the sun is your idea of a great way to spend a vacation, you cannot help but fall in love with Florida's Marco Island.

Learn more about this author, Kate Kennedy.
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