Rediscovering My Hometown- part 1

There are things that are must do’s every time I come to town, but why?

Sometimes it takes leaving your hometown to really appreciate all of the great things it has to offer. It’s nice to have an insight on things locals love to do in a town that is big on tourism. Marco Island, a small city in Southwest Florida, caters to tourists, retirees, and anyone who loves the beach and a more relaxed lifestyle.

The south end of the island has a lot to offer: hotels, food, drinks, beautiful views, and the beach. However, there are many hidden gems sprinkled throughout the island that not only hold a special place in my heart, but always result in a great time. Returning to the town or city you grew up in can bring a fresh perspective on all the things you loved to do, and you can “rediscover” one of the places you know the best. There are a few places that are a must every time I come to visit…

1. Wake Up Marco

Here you can find the best coffee in town! Owner Oscar Galvez makes each experience delightful by crafting quality drinks and providing a personable interaction.

Not only are the drinks ridiculously delicious, Oscar is super knowledgeable about all things coffee.

Wake Up Marco is one of those special places where locals come daily and just hang out for a while. The barista knows your name, knows what you like, and is generally interested in what you’re up to these days.

I prefer the iced coffee drinks due to the constant warm weather (also I can’t wait for it to cool off, I want to drink it right away!) so I love, love, love the iced coffee, which is delicious black… and that’s when you know it’s good! Iced lattes are also a favorite of mine. I take it with almond milk or, when it’s seasonal, pumpkin spice! And let me tell you, it’s not the sugary chemicals you get at *other* places. I cannot say enough about how wonderful this coffee shop is… but one last thing, I suggest the pistachio muffin!

 

2. Beaches

White sand, clear water

Locals are passionate about keeping our beaches clean. Because of their efforts not only do you get soft, sugar-like sand, you will experience minimal litter on any Marco beach. You will also find that the beaches here rarely crowded, so it’s always a fun and relaxing experience.

It is good to know there is more than one beach on Marco, considering beach parking is VERY limited. Most locals hit up South Beach and there is a bar right by the entrance so you can grab a fun cocktail to enhance your beach day. If you want to stay on that side of town there are a few entrances scattered along South Collier Blvd., just keep an eye out! There is ‘turtle parking’ or park at Mission Plaza for free parking.

Another beach to check out is Tigertail. This beach is unique because it offers different activities such as beach yoga, paddle boarding, jet ski rental, etc. Depending on what you’re looking for, the main entrance parking will take you right to the rental hut. But if you go to the end of the hidden parking, you’ll be closer to the beach access and not have to walk as far, or across the lagoon. It’s a bit of a trek but definitely worth it. It is a larger beach that feels more secluded.

Beach days are great, don’t get me wrong, but the real beauty of the beach comes to life at sunset. Catch a famously beautiful Marco Island sunset from the beach, and enjoy the wonders of nature. https://www.facebook.com/TigertailBeach/ 

 Of course if you visit, do your part and only leave behind footprints in the sand!

**also, please don’t bring glass to any beach, be respectful to the environment**

3. Marco Island Princess

Why eat by the water when you can dine ON the water?

Okay, so I may be biased because my dad is the owner and I run the Instagram account, but as many times as I’ve been on the boat, I always really enjoy it! Every cruise is different in terms of sightseeing. The yacht takes a similar route every cruise, but the day to day weather varies and you get to see different wildlife—osprey, pelicans, egrets, manatees, dolphins, and sometimes other animals make an appearance! It is always exciting to see dolphins no matter how often. I like to take the lunch cruise because I enjoy being outside during the day, it’s more causal and relaxed. The sunset cruise is also great because you get to see a famously beautiful Marco Island sunset ON the water! It’s a special experience and it is always different, which I love.

If you are ever visiting and in need of a venue, the Princess does weddings, birthdays, corporate events and more. If you are interested in making your event a unique experience, or you just want to cruise for sightseeing, lunch or dinner visit their website: themarcoislandprincess.com

4. Nacho Mama’s

Why do I like to go to Nacho Mama’s? The name in itself is fun! The variety of cuisine can be a little limited on the island, so it’s always a classic place to visit when you’re looking for some good Tex-Mex grub and margaritas. Anytime I’m in town, my friends and I hit up “Nachos”—as we like to call it. It’s one of the few places on the island that stays open after 10:00pm. They are open until midnight or later, so many locals like to stop by after work for a drink, a quick bite, or to meet up with friends.

Nacho Mama’s is located on the south end of the island in Marco Walk Plaza, making it a short walk for anyone staying in a hotel. Depending on the weekend, most Fridays or Saturdays Nacho Mama’s will host a live band or a DJ to liven up the night!

5. Farmers Market

When I used to live on Marco Island, I always looked forward to the Farmers Market every Wednesday during season. My best friend and I would go around the time it opened, about 7:30a.m., to beat the crowds, for cooler weather, and to have a chance to see everything before it was picked through. If I happen to be in town on a Wednesday, we make it a point to go.

We love to try new things. The Farmers Market always has delicious cuisines that you can’t normally find on the island. We’d start off by grabbing coffee and breakfast from a tent with Turkish pastries. We’d sometimes hit up the local coffee brewer or a food truck with mini beignets. Then we’d walk around, pointing out cute dogs, smelling herbs and flowers, and seeing beautiful handmade crafts. There are a few things we almost always grab every time we go: freshly made pickles (spicy, of course!), freshly baked bread, and handmade soaps. We’d often pick out something to save for lunch like paella, Jamaican-style food, or fresh produce to use for cooking later on in the week. Going to the Farmers Market is a great way to support local business and a wholesome way to start the day.

6. Shear Play Hair Designs

Again, I’m a little biased because my mom is the owner. Anything I want or need done to my hair, I can get it here. Every time I’m in town and my hair could use a touch-up, quick trim, a smoothing treatment, or something completely new, owner and stylist Susan, along with four other stylists and nail tech, have me covered. The stylists at Shear Play Hair Designs are always up-to-date with the latest styles, trends, and techniques. Whether you schedule an appointment (or walk in like I always do) it’s reassuring to know that you’re in good hands. They strive for quality work and love transforming clients into their very best. I always leave looking and feeling awesome! https://www.facebook.com/ShearPlayHairDesigns/

Marco Island was a wonderful place to grow up as a child, and spending some of my adult years living there enabled me to reconnect with my hometown in a new way.

Thank’s for reading! Keep a look out for part 2.