The Best Kid Activities in Marco Island

Marco Island Water Sports offers an exciting range of activities designed to make the most of Florida’s Gulf Coast waters. Guests can choose from guided WaveRunner tours that weave through mangrove islands and the open gulf, thrilling banana-boat rides perfect for families, high-flying parasail adventures with sweeping views, and shelling or eco-cruises aboard a comfortable catamaran.

Paddle Marco is one of Marco Island’s top-ranked kayak tour and rental companies, known for combining expert knowledge of the area with plenty of personality and fun. Their most popular experience is the mangrove tunnel kayak tour, guided by naturalists, biologists, and entertaining local characters who mix ecology lessons with cheesy dad jokes and island history. It’s an approach that has earned Paddle Marco more than 1,000 five-star reviews and a reputation as the #1 kayak tour company in the area.

The JW Marriott Marco Island is more than a luxury resort—it’s also one of the best places on the island for families with kids. Beyond the pools and beach access, the resort offers a variety of kid-friendly experiences, from arcade games and mini bowling at 10K Alley to casual dining options and wide-open spaces to play. Families can enjoy evening entertainment like the Sunset Celebration with a fire dancer on the beach, or join in on water sports and activities right from the resort’s shoreline. With so much to do in one place, the JW Marriott makes it easy to balance relaxation for parents with non-stop fun for kids.

Step aboard The Dolphin Explorer for one of the most immersive wildlife experiences on Marco Island. Operated by the 10,000 Island Dolphin Study, this 47-foot catamaran carries guests on a three-hour eco-tour led by trained marine naturalists. You’ll cruise through the estuaries and barrier islands in search of bottlenose dolphins—each of which the team tracks by name using photo-identification—and enjoy added experiences such as shelling on pristine beaches and spotting birds of prey.

Marco Golf & Garden offers a fun mini golf experience that’s perfect for kids and families looking for an activity off the beach. The course is beautifully landscaped with tropical plants, water features, and shaded pathways, creating an inviting setting for a playful round. It’s challenging enough to keep older kids and adults entertained, yet approachable for younger children, making it an easy choice for family fun. Whether it’s a break from the sun or an evening outing, Marco Golf & Garden delivers a lighthearted way for kids to enjoy a bit of friendly competition.

Step onto the water with Marco Island Charters, where you’re invited to explore both serious angling and relaxing sightseeing from one seasoned operation. Their fishing charters range from nearshore trips (from about $700 for 4‐8 hours) to full offshore day excursions (starting from about $1,850 for 5-8 hours, up to 6 guests) aboard 39’–42’ boats. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a back-water adventure or a veteran chasing grouper, tuna and permit, the guides adjust each trip to your skill and goal.

If you’re looking for a cozy, entertaining evening on Marco Island, Marco Movies is a family-owned cinema offering first-run films in a relaxed, comfortable setting. Located at 599 South Collier Boulevard inside the Marco Walk shopping plaza, it features three screens, a full menu of freshly made meals, and a welcoming atmosphere for all ages.

Whether you’re winding down after a beach day or seeking a rain-plan option, you’ll appreciate the combination of current blockbuster titles, craft comfort food, and walk-up convenience at Marco Movies.

Step into the wild side of southwest Florida with Marco Island Eco Tours, where you’ll pilot your own two-seat Craigcat boat through the tranquil back-waters of the Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge starting from Goodland. These 2½-hour guided adventures take you through winding mangrove creeks and coastal bays, led by knowledgeable guides via walkie-talkie narration, with frequent sightings of dolphins, osprey and manatees.