Florida is often lovingly referred to as the “Sunshine State.” It’s our nickname and it’s fitting. We experience sunshine almost year round, that’s why Marco Island is one of the ideal vacation destinations.
During the summer months, however, Florida enters into the wet and hurricane season. The humidity and 90 degree weather combined with our coastal, subtropical climate creates a perfect atmosphere for a thunderstorm to build. During this time rain and thunderstorms become frequent. In the hottest months of summer you can almost guarantee an afternoon downpour.
For some people this may seem like a bummer, but don’t worry! These storms are very predictable. They usually come in the afternoon and are over before you know it. Sometimes they last only a minute before they dissipate and it’s sunny once again. But, other times, they can last up to a few hours.
Insider’s In-The-Know: To get the most out of your summer vacation days on Marco Island, plan early. If rain is in the forecast, plan your outside activities for the morning, before the rain hits.
Gather up everyone and venture out to see what else Marco Island has to offer! We’ve created a list of our top five activities for a rainy Marco Island day.
Marco Movies
Marco Walk Plaza
599 S Collier Blvd
239-642-1111
Located at Marco Walk Plaza, just steps away from your beachfront condo, Marco Movies is family owned and only shows popular first-run movies. Be sure to check out their full lunch and dinner menu, which includes beer and wine. Instead of traditional movie seats, they offer tables and comfy chairs for a relaxing experience. Marco Movies is a great place where you can watch a movie while dinning all in one. If you don’t feel up for a meal, they also offer your traditional movie snacks like popcorn and candy.
Insider’s In-The-Know: Marco Movies has long been a staple for rainy day entertainment for locals. If you see rain in the forecast, I would suggest ordering your tickets online and ahead of time, as it’s a small theater and fills up quickly.
Marco Island Historical Museum
The museum is opened Tuesday-Saturday 9am-4pm.
Free Admission
180 S Heathwood Dr.
239-642-1440
The Marco Island Historical Museum is, in my opinion, a hidden gem on the island. The museum showcases Marco’s rich history as well as it’s archeological advancements and modern developments. Their exhibit “Paradise Found – 6,000 Years Of People On Marco Island” chronicles the lives of the Calusa Indians with a beautiful display featuring artifacts and a life-sized diorama. The museum also has an exhibit on “Modern Marco” which follows Marco’s development over the last 50 years. They offer educational talks, musical presentations and fun events for the whole family.
To get to know Marco Island a little better, stop by MIHM or read more on our website. You may be surprised by what you learn!
Marco Island Center for the Arts
1010 Winterberry Dr.
Marco Island, FL 34145
239-394-4221
The Marco Island Center for the Arts is an awesome place to visit if you want to see some great, local art. And there’s always something going on there. The Art Center hosts arts classes for adults and children in the mediums of paint, clay, photography and more. They hold musical events, exhibitions and performances. They also have a gift shop for souvenirs.
Insider’s In-The-Know: On the second Tuesday of every month between 5:30-7:30pm, they have their Second Tuesday reception. Visitors are able to meet with local artists and interact. A different local restaurant provides hors d’oeuvres each month. Wine is also available.
10K Alley at JW Marriott
400 South Collier Boulevard
Marco Island, FL 34145
10K Alley at JW Marriott is a fantastic spot to spend a rainy day with family or friends. This indoor entertainment venue offers a range of activities to keep everyone engaged. You can enjoy bowling, arcade games, and virtual reality experiences all in one place. There’s also a gastropub where you can grab a bite to eat or enjoy a drink while you play.
Insider’s In-The-Know: On weekday afternoons, 10K Alley often offers discounted rates for bowling and arcade games. It’s a great time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds and save some money. Check with the front desk for any current promotions or special events.
The Esplanade
760 N Collier Blvd.
The Esplanade is a great place to visit for a day of shopping, eating and fun. The Esplanade has three waterfront restaurants: CJ’s on the Bay, Mango’s Dockside Bistro, and Chop239. Need some retail therapy? No worries, there’s shopping for men, women and children. In addition to shopping the Esplanade has an art gallery, a hair salon, coffee shop and an ice cream store. The Esplanade is also host to a variety of local events. Check out their website to see what they have coming up.
Sunset
Okay this one might seem strange, but stick with me. Go ahead and venture out to the beach after the rain is over to watch the incredible sunset. The best, most vibrant sunsets happen after a storm. The clouds are still out but they’ve dissipated a little. As the sun sets, light streams across the sky and over the clouds, creating brilliant hues of pink and yellow and orange. The colors bounce off one another, mixing with some of the storm clouds and produce really bold and amazing colors. It’s truly a beautiful sight to see, be sure to bring your camera and be on the look out for a rainbow.
Your Marco Island Vacation Rental ~A Beachfront Condo!
And of course… enjoy Marco Island while vacationing in “your home away from home”. Our resort-style condos have easy beach access, board games, and books. Book direct to save the traveler/service fee!
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