Captain's Picks: Things to Do in Marco Island, Goodland & Naples
Our captains spend 300+ days a year on the water here, and we get asked every day: “What else should we do while we’re in town?” Here are the experiences we genuinely recommend to our guests — the tours, sights, and adventures we’d send our own families on when visiting Marco Island, Goodland, and Naples.
Wildlife & Nature
Marco Island Safari Truck Tour
From $69 · 90 minutes · ★ 4.8
Climb aboard an open-air safari truck for a guided adventure through Southwest Florida’s wild backcountry. Spot alligators, wild boar, and native birdlife while learning about the Everglades ecosystem from knowledgeable local guides. Great for kids and adults alike.
Sunset & Sightseeing
Sunset Catamaran Sailing Excursion
From $95 · 2 hours · ★ 5.0
Sail into a Gulf of Mexico sunset aboard a smooth-riding catamaran. Enjoy panoramic views of Marco Island’s coastline, dolphins playing in the wake, and a front-row seat to some of Florida’s most spectacular sunsets. Perfect for couples and special occasions.
On the Water
Backwater CraigCat Tour of the 10,000 Islands
From $179 · 2 hours · ★ 4.9
Drive your own CraigCat — a nimble two-person powerboat — through narrow mangrove tunnels and hidden backwater channels of the 10,000 Islands. A one-of-a-kind self-guided adventure you won’t find anywhere else in Florida. No boating experience needed.
On the Water
Easy Ride Pedal Kayak Tour Marco Island & Naples
From $79 · 2 hours · ★ 4.9
Glide through the mangrove ecosystems of Marco Island and Naples on a modern pedal-powered kayak — keeping your hands free for photos, wildlife spotting, and actually enjoying the ride. Beginner-friendly and surprisingly peaceful. Family-approved.
Family-Friendly
Family Beach Photography with Jillian Lee Photo
Starting at $600 · 60 minutes · ★ 5.0
Capture your Marco Island vacation with a professional beach photo session by Jillian Lee — a Naples native with 17+ years of experience. Featured in Vogue Italia and trusted by local families for timeless portraits you’ll treasure forever.
Wildlife & Nature
Corey Billie's Airboat Rides
From $45 · 1 hour · ★ 4.9
Skim across the grasslands of the Everglades on a traditional Florida airboat with Corey Billie’s — a local, family-run operation with deep roots in Southwest Florida. Look for alligators, wading birds, and wild Florida scenery most visitors never see.
Family-Friendly
Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens
From $27 · 2-4 hours · ★ 4.8
One of Southwest Florida’s most beloved family attractions. Walk through 43 acres of lush tropical botanical gardens while visiting lions, giraffes, zebras, alligators, and more. Perfect rainy-day or beat-the-heat activity the kids will talk about for years.
Wildlife & Nature
Marco Island Wildlife Sightseeing & Shelling Tour
From $85 · 3 hours · ★ 4.9
Cruise the 10,000 Islands with a local captain spotting dolphins, manatees, and exotic birdlife before stopping at a secluded barrier island beach for world-class shelling. A perfect blend of sightseeing and beachcombing that showcases everything magical about Southwest Florida’s wildest waters.
Planning Your Marco Island Trip? Don't Miss the Main Event.
These experiences are the cherries on top — but the main event when you visit Marco Island should be a day on the water with us. Backwater, offshore, or family combos — all delivered by USCG-licensed captains with 1,400+ five-star reviews.
Disclosure: Native Guided Fishing may earn a small commission when you book through some of the links above, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend experiences our captains and guests have personally enjoyed.