In the 1870s, the Collier family settled the island, establishing a trading post to do business with the native Seminoles, and later opening a 20-room inn in 1896. In 1962, the Mackell family bought the island for a mere $7 million; its population at the time was 550 people. The only access to the island back then was via a swinging foot bridge. The Mackells, however, had a plan. Today, a fully developed, very up-scale Marco Island plays dual roles as both an upscale affluent retirement community and a world-class resort destination. People come to Marco Island to get away from winter, to fish, to swim, and to enjoy the many opportunities for outdoor recreation in the area: Briggs Memorial Nature Center, Collier-Seminole State Park, the Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge, Fakahatchee Strand State Preserve, Big Cypress National Preserve and the 5,000-square mile Everglades National Park which is nearby.

	Top rated hotels
	1. South Seas on the Gulf 380 Seaview Court 4. Olde Marco Island Inn and Suites 100 Palm Street 2. Marco Island Marriott Beach Resort, Golf Club & Spa 400 South Collier Boulevard 5. Marco Island Lakeside Inn 155 1st Avenue 3. Hilton Marco Island Beach Resort and Spa 560 South Collier Boulevard 6. Marriott's Crystal Shores 600 S Collier Blvd View more Marco Island hotel info »«