While plenty of residents own boats to enjoy the beautiful water whenever they like, boat ownership isn’t for everyone. Perhaps you’d rather take advantage of an occasional rental so you get the joy of boating without any upkeep or maintenance. That’s understandable!  

Whether you’re only visiting or trusting Gulfstream Homes to craft your custom house, tourists and residents alike can stop at one of many Marco Island marinas to find the perfect boat rental. 

The 3 Best Marco Island Marinas for Renting Boats 

Remember, there are scores of charter boats and tours available, too! But if you prefer to pilot the boat yourself, these Marco Island marinas are where you should start. Remember that you’ll need a boater’s safety card or a Captain’s license. Most marinas will also require you to be at least 25 years old. 

1. Dolphin Cove Marina 

Dolphin Cove Marina offers flexible boat rental times that last from as little as four hours to multiple days. However, anything longer than two days requires you to keep the boat at your own dock. Dolphin Cove Marina can provide pontoon boats for the budget-minded, deck boats for family outings or high-speed thrills, or hybrid deck boats for ultimate luxury. 

This marina is an excellent starting point for waterway day trips with some fantastic locations nearby: 

• Keewaydin Island 
• Goodland 
• Naples 
• 10,000 Islands 

Renters can opt to add coolers and bagged ice at check-in. 

2. Rose Marina 

If you want to enjoy a charter so you can just relax while someone else tackles all the hard work, Rose Marina is host to more than 20 captains. They also feature boats for sale if you decide that the boating life is for you after all. And, of course, they provide boathouse storage as well. 

Their Island Coastal Outfitters shop is worth a trip on its own. It’s a well-stocked store that caters to boat owners, anglers, and anyone who loves the island lifestyle.  

3. Walker’s Coon Key Marina 

Renters may choose between the center console and pontoon boats, and Walker’s Coon Key Marina is a stellar choice for renters who want to get all the necessary supplies in one place. They provide food, beverages, bait, and fuel, to name a few. Additionally, their upper deck is a wonderful place to sit, relax, and enjoy some sunshine. 

As long as you don’t take your rented boat into the Gulf, Walker’s Coon Key Marina doesn’t restrict where you travel. Rental boats can travel as far as Cape Romano where the infamous dome houses once stood. Sadly, the remaining dome houses at Cape Romano were washed away by Hurricane Ian in 2022. 

Live the Marco Island Dream with Gulfstream Homes 

Once you’re done with your boating adventure, wouldn’t it be perfect to head home to a custom house built just the way you want? At Gulfstream Homes, we specialize in creating incredible houses designed with you in mind.  

The post A Guide to Marco Island’s Best Marinas: Boat Not Required first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

Q. What Is Marco Island, Florida Known For?

A. In addition to some of the best sunsets on the planet, Marco Island is also known for its idyllic white sand beaches and spectacular shelling opportunities. Tranquil waters and a relaxed atmosphere unlike anything you’ve ever experienced before greet you upon crossing over the bridge. You’ll also find some of the most impressive golf courses in the country, plus plenty of natural scenery to take in on a daily basis.

Q. Is Marco Island, Florida Crowded?

A. Despite the fact that many people are relocating to Florida, Marco Island remains peaceful and serene for much of the year. With its close proximity to nearby Naples and Fort Myers, there are plenty of places for residents and visitors to explore, allowing the Island to emanate a peaceful presence virtually all year long.

Q. Is Marco Island Good for Families?

A. You’ll find that not only does Marco Island have some of the top-ranking schools in the state, there are also many activities for the whole family to enjoy, including:

• Shelling at Tigertail Beach
• Learning about the Island’s past at the Marco Island Historical Museum
• Boating & kayaking
• Dolphin & eco tours

That is why so many families from all over have decided to put down roots on this beautiful island.

Q. Is Marco Island, Florida Safe?

A. Not only is Marco Island safer than many areas of the country, it also has a lower crime rate than 86% of the communities in Florida. This makes it the ideal location for families, retirees and vacationers because you’ll be able to enjoy the fabulous sights without worry.

Q. What Is There to Do on Marco Island?

A. From the beaches to the easy-to-navigate streets, Marco Island is filled with activities for everyone. Shops and boutiques line the streets, while top-quality restaurants cater to virtually every palate. Museums and other learning opportunities, plus a variety of ways to experience nature can also be found, as well as nightlife, entertainment and so much more.

Q. How Is the Marco Island Housing Market?

A. Homes on Marco Island are absolutely breathtaking, which makes this area a popular spot for many full-time and seasonal residents. The market is competitive; however, with more contractors building more homes in the area, the inventory is improving. This allows more people to settle here in paradise, able to find their ideal homes in a safe and welcoming neighborhood.

Life on Marco Island

Now that we’ve answered some of your questions, are you ready to live the ultimate island lifestyle? Not only is Marco Island incredibly safe, its temperate climate and tranquil setting make it the perfect spot to enjoy life in Southwest Florida. So, if you’re thinking about making Marco Island your home, remember how extraordinary this area is, and it keeps getting better each and every day.

Gulfstream Homes is excited to help you build a home on Marco Island! Call (239) 254-1664 or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com to get started.

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The post Your Top Questions About Living on Marco Island, Answered first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

So Many Sights to See

When you’re boating on Marco Island, expect to view some extraordinary sights. From abundant wildlife to breathtaking natural scenes, any adventure is possible when you’re coasting along the waters of Marco. Trekking through the mangroves, you’ll catch glimpses of crabs, shrimp, jellyfish and famous Florida alligators. A multitude of fish can also be found in the mangroves and canals, including tarpon, snook and plenty of other sea creatures. From kayaks to motorboats, yachts to wave runners, any type of boat can allow you to escape into the vast natural oasis that makes up Marco Island’s habitat. Whether you’re looking for a nice, leisurely ride through the calm waters or more excitement, dropping anchor and exploring the sea beneath, there’s something for everyone in our waters.

Best Boating Spots Near Marco Island

Although the area is rich with many places to discover, there are a few that you’ll want to place on your list of must-see spots. Here are some of our favorites:

            Dolphin Cove Marina

If you’re looking to get a feel for boating life on the Island, Dolphin Cove Marina should be your first stop. The ability to rent various types of boats for a day out on the water allows you to take in all of the sights how you prefer. From pontoon boats to fishing boats, choosing your experience is easy here. You’ll even have the chance to take advantage of private shelling and dolphin tours, perfect for when you’re entertaining out of town guests!

            Ten Thousand Islands

The second largest mangrove forest in the world lies right in our backyard, and it’s just waiting to be explored by boat! From kayaks to boats of all sizes, a ride through this wonderous natural setting is one for the books. Catch glimpses of dolphins, manatees and other wildlife as you make your way through this one-of-a-kind trek.

            Keewaydin Island

This barrier island is located between Marco and Naples and is the perfect spot to drop anchor and relax in the sunshine. A popular spot on weekends, with plenty of fellow boaters, food and refreshments, Keewaydin Island is the place to be when you’re looking to live the ultimate Florida lifestyle.

Other Popular Boating Spots

You’ll find a number of versatile boating spots on the Island, perfect for many different types of excursions. Take a charter by popular companies, like Reckless Fishing, for even more fun in these areas. Some of our other favorites include:

• Tigertail Beach
• Caxambas Boat Park
• Rose Marina
• Marco Island Yacht Club

When you live on the Island, hopping on your boat anytime is easy. Whether you’re looking to simply enjoy the stunning scenery or take your guests on the experience of a lifetime, you’ll find it all on Marco Island.

Gulfstream Homes is ready to help you build the perfect home on the Island! Call (239) 254-1664 or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com to learn more.

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The post Marco Island: A Boater’s Paradise first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

Building a Home on Marco Island: The Benefits

Marco Island is a popular destination, and homes are being snapped up quickly by eager buyers, which may cause you to want to build your own home. This is advantageous, especially since you’re able to design it to meet your exact specifications, down to every last detail; something that you won’t be able to do if you buy an existing home. Other benefits associated with building a new home include:

• Less maintenance
• The latest building materials
• Increased energy efficiency
• Location of your choice

When you choose to build a new home, you’re essentially starting from a blank slate, allowing you to create the home you’ve always wanted on the Island.

Building a Home on Marco Island: The Limitations

Typically, this option costs more money and takes a lot more time than simply moving into an existing structure. It will also take more effort and result in many more decisions made by you when it comes to overall design, features, layout, style and so forth. For many homeowners, these aren’t really limitations, as they’re able to get the house they’ve always wanted.

Buying a Home on Marco Island: The Benefits

Many Marco Island residents like the idea of a move-in ready space. In addition to being able to get settled right away, buying a home is typically less costly. There’s always the potential for renovations in the future, but you don’t necessarily have to tackle those right away. It takes less time and money than building a home from the ground up, which is a big selling factor for many island residents.

Buying a Home on Marco Island: The Limitations

The biggest limitation right now is inventory. You may not be able to find the home you really want, due to low inventory in this extremely popular destination. On a positive note, builders are working around the clock to add more homes to Marco’s inventory, so residents can find the space that works for their needs. One of the other main limitations is having to compromise on some of the features, as it’s almost virtually impossible to find a home that’s exactly how you envisioned it. You may also need to renovate it to meet new building standards, especially if it is an older home.

The Takeaway

Whether you want to work with a reputable builder to build your home from the ground up, or you’d rather move into an existing home, the choice is yours to make. Marco Island is continuing to top the charts as one of the best places to live in Florida. When it comes to your Marco Island home, you’ll be in the midst of all of the island charm, whether you choose to build or buy a home.

Gulfstream Homes is excited to help you build a home on Marco Island! Call (239) 254-1664 or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com to get started.

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The post Should You Build or Buy a Home on Marco Island? first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

Otter Mound Preserve

Built on ancient Calusa territory, Otter Mound Preserve (1831 Addison Ct, Marco Island, FL 34145) has been captivating visitors for decades. As part of one of the rarest tropical habitats in Collier County, this area is home to various animals, including 57 species of birds, as well as an abundance of plant life, with over 127 species of plants known to accent this historical landmark. Not only is this area teeming with Calusa history, with various landmarks and signs depicting Otter Mound Preserve’s past, it’s also perfect for a stroll. Plenty of shade, trails and benches can be found in this area, making it the ideal place to take in history, as well as stay active, while you enjoy your serene surroundings.

Tigertail Beach

When shelling and soaking up the sun is on your agenda, Tigertail Beach is where many Marco Island residents choose to spend their days. If you’re looking for a place to find some of the most beautiful shells on the Island, Tigertail Beach won’t disappoint. This white sand beach isn’t just a shelling enthusiast’s dream, it’s also the perfect spot to bird watch, recognized as one of the best birding sites in Southwest Florida by the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission. From bald eagles to pelicans, ospreys and more, you’ll find on Tigertail Beach.

Marco Island Mangroves

Florida houses over 600,000 acres of mangrove forests, and if you’re looking to kayak deep into these ecological wonders, Marco Island offers plenty of ways to take it all in. From kayak tours to boat rides from favorites, like Eco Endeavors and Paradise Coast Sailing, experiencing the Florida mangroves is easy on the Island. Say hello to the area wildlife while you’re cascading through the waters, as this area is home to many versatile creatures, including crabs, shellfish and of course alligators. If you want to experience true Florida lifestyle at its finest, you’ll want to take a trip into the mangroves.

Other Nature Destinations Near Marco Island

Nature excursions offer fun for the whole family, and when you’re looking for something to do on the Island, here are some other fantastic ideas for nature enthusiasts:

• Briggs Nature Center (401 Shell Island Rd, Marco Island, FL 34113)
• Capri Paddlecraft Park (3620 Collier Blvd., Marco Island, FL 34113)
• Keewaydin Island

When you live on Marco, you get to experience a diverse array of natural sights and wildlife that you won’t be able to see elsewhere, and it’s all in your backyard. So, the next time you’re looking for something exciting to do on the Island, consider exploring these nature and wildlife areas and see what you’re able to discover.

Gulfstream Homes is excited to help you build your ideal home on Marco Island! Call (239) 254-1664 or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com to get started.

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The post Nature on the Island: Best Places to Catch a Glimpse of Nature & Wildlife on Marco Island first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

Keep It Coastal

Homes on Marco are accentuated by the feel of balmy breezes drifting effortlessly throughout the home, which is why many homes are outfitted with many windows to let the light shine brightly inside. Open spaces are key in Marco Island homes, as well as light and bright color palettes throughout, decorated with pops of vibrant color. Coastal design also makes good use of natural elements to add more depth and interest to the space. Consider adding the following coastal pieces into your home:

• Plant life
• Seaside accents (shells, coral, etc)
• Bamboo window treatments
• Linen draperies
• Sea glass décor

Coastal homes on Marco exhibit beachy, yet refined vibes, making them the perfect blend of coastal and contemporary paradise.

Go Bold with Patterns

Although many modern homes on the Island continue to stick to neutral tones throughout the major areas of the home, bold patterns are being seen more often to add more interest into the space. Everything from patterned wallpaper to accent rugs, artwork to backsplashes can be found accentuating Marco Island homes, giving them a beachy and eclectic feel.

Incorporate Rounded Furniture & Fixtures

Furniture is straying away from the boxy feel it showcased a few years ago, instead being replaced by more rounded pieces. Sofas, bathroom vanities, reading chairs, desks and many more elements are getting a makeover to appeal to what homeowners are desiring in their spaces.

Showcase a Hotel-Like Atmosphere

We’re already living in one of the most stunning places in the country, so why not design your home like you’re on vacation every day? More Marco Island residents are incorporating hotel-like trends in their home, including spa bathrooms, white linens and décor and a more minimalistic ideology to transform them into a true vacation space.

Marco Island Design

There’s no denying that Marco Island has a certain flair about it that you won’t find elsewhere. When you choose to take up residence here, you won’t be able to resist making your home into a tropical oasis in paradise. From indoor/outdoor spaces to clean, crisp design choices, your Marco Island home will be radiating with cozy, coastal vibes before you know it. It’s important to make your home work for you, and while many of these trends are highly adopted by islanders, it’s important to make the right choice for you. Keep in mind that by choosing a more timeless route with the overall design and leaving the trendy elements to aspects that can be easily changed is always highly recommended, so that you can enjoy your island home to the fullest for years.

Gulfstream Homes is excited to help you build your home on Marco Island! Call (239) 254-1664 or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com to get started.

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The post Top Marco Island Interior Design Trends first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

Tanning Ledges/Baja Shelves

Having a shallow spot in the pool to sit back and catch some rays (with plenty of sunscreen, of course!) is what every resident and visitor dreams of when they think of Southwest Florida. If you want to enjoy the cool water while also working on your tan, a tanning ledge, complete with comfortable lounge chairs, is a must for your pool area. Acting as an entry step into your pool, this space is versatile and the perfect spot to relax and soak in the plentiful summer sun.

Water Features

From fountains to waterfalls, everyone enjoys a water feature in the pool. Perfect to get a bit of cool relief from the sun, a dip under a waterfall is the ideal complement to a day spent out in paradise. Many homeowners are opting for multiple water features in their pools to really enhance the ambiance of the outdoor living area.

Spa Additions

Stepping out of the cool water into a relaxing spa makes it easy to lose yourself in the moment. Many pools come equipped with spas to add even more value and functionality to them. Ultra-sleek and modern, built-in spas come in handy when you want to relax, as well as when you’re entertaining guests.

Swim-Up Bars

Not having to leave the cool comfort of the pool to grab a refreshment is an unmatched feeling as you’re enjoying the tranquil breezes on a bright summer’s day. That’s why more builders and designers are adding in swim-up bars to pool areas to enhance this convenience.

Specialized Lighting

Having a rich blue illuminating your pool at night or a bright red can really set the tone of the evening. LED lighting is a must-have addition to your pool area. Not only are you able to see better while you enjoy a nighttime dip, the feeling of relaxation you get is indescribable.

Other Must-See Pool Trends

If you want to revitalize your pool area this summer, pay attention to some of the elements that are trending. Other popular aspects to include in your pool are:

• Pool automation
• Brightly colored pool tile/liners
• Tropical/garden settings around the pool
• Fire features

When you have a pool area that’s comfortable and functional, spending time outside and enjoying the ample sunshine is easy to do each and every day. Whether you’re looking to add a new outdoor living area to your home or you’re building a home from the ground up, pay attention to the pool and don’t forget about all of the exceptional elements you can add to make your time in paradise infinitely better in every possible way.

The team at Gulfstream Homes can’t wait to help you build the perfect home in Southwest Florida, complete with the perfect pool! Call (239) 254-1664 or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com to get started.

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The post 2022 Pool Trends You Won’t Want to Miss first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

 A Dedicated Guest Suite

It’s so important for anyone to feel as though they have their own private space to relax and unwind. This is why it’s advised to design a guest suite into your home, especially if you’re planning on having waves of guests visit you in paradise. Depending on the space, you may be able to have a separate wing for your guests or maybe just a simple room with its private bathroom. Either way, this space should allow for maximum privacy, so that your guests can enjoy their time in your home without feeling as though they’re interrupting you with late-night catch-up sessions, and you’re not waking them up with early work meetings. Design the perfect guest suite by incorporating the following:

• A hotel-like atmosphere, complete with crisp linens and bed sheets.
• Refreshments, like water bottles and snacks.
• Toiletries in the private bath.
• Ample closet space.
• Plant life and calming aromatics

A Kitchen Built for Entertainment

It doesn’t matter what type of gathering you’re hosting, whether it’s just a couple of friends in town for the weekend or a larger gathering with all of your neighbors, everyone always ends up in the kitchen. Make your kitchen ideal for hosting guests with a wide-open space and plenty of room for guests to mingle and sit. Double islands are perfect for entertaining, as you’re able to present appetizers and drinks properly, while guests mingle about. You’ll also want a dedicated area to prepare food, so ample counter space is a must. If you need even more space, consider adding in a butler’s pantry, so that you’re able to prep food without getting in the way of your guests.

An Incredible Outdoor Oasis

When you live on Marco Island, chances are your guests are going to want to spend time outside, enjoying our temperate weather and balmy breezes. That’s why your outdoor living area should always be ready to welcome your guests. Plenty of seating, a pool and spa to relax, and even an outdoor kitchen can all be included in this popular space. Many homes here on Marco Island embrace what’s called indoor/outdoor living, so if that’s what you want to achieve, speak with your builder about ways to bring the outside in through features like sliding glass doors and large windows.

Marco Island Entertaining

When you’re entertaining on the Island, there’s no shortage of activities to partake in, but often times, your guests may just want to relax and enjoy your home. By keeping these key features in mind, you’ll be able to create an experience for them that they’ll always remember fondly.

Gulfstream Homes is excited to help you build the perfect home on Marco Island! Call (239) 259-8070 or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com to learn more.

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The post Entertaining Guests in Your Marco Island Home first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

#1: Impeccable Beauty

There is no doubt about it, Marco Island is absolutely breathtaking. From its sandy shores to the quaint shops that dot its downtown area, you’ll notice right away that the Island is special. Home to an abundance of natural preserves, as well as some of the best diving in the area, Marco Island’s beauty provides a variety of ways to stay active and happy on the Island. We recommend experiencing the following natural Marco beauties:

• Tigertail Beach
• Otter Mound Preserve
• Rookery Bay National Estuarine Reserve
• Ten Thousand Islands

When you want to enjoy untouched nature, Marco Island will simply astonish you.

#2: Exquisite Homes

When you move to Marco, you have an outstanding selection of homes to choose from, as well as waterfront lots to create your ideal home in paradise. Whether you’re seeking out a vacation condo or a home in a gated community, a new family home or an island oasis on the water, anything is possible on the Island. Building or buying your ideal home to enjoy the balmy breezes and tranquil temps is easy when you choose to make Marco Island your home.

#3: Enjoyable Activities

From lush nightlife to a day of pampering, you’ll find that Marco Island always has something going on to appeal to everyone. Whether you’re looking to wine and dine with friends for an evening or treat yourself to a spa day and lunch with the girls, the Island will deliver. With so many boutiques, restaurants, galleries, hotels, spas and more, there’s no shortage of things to do when you’re on the Island.

#4: Top-Notch Rankings

Not only does Marco Island rank among the best beach towns in the country, it also ranks high when it comes to education. For those moving to Marco with children, you’ll be happy to know that Marco Island is home to many top-rated schools. In addition to this, you’ll find a number of educational opportunities throughout, including the Marco Island Historical Museum and more.

#5: Tranquil Weather

Marco Island residents are able to enjoy an average of 266 days of sunshine every year, as well as comfortable temps all throughout the year, with the summer high of 90 degrees and winter low of 53 degrees…and of course, no snow of any kind, not even a dusting. If you’re searching for the right destination to call home, Marco Island and its beautiful weather can’t be beat.

Moving to Marco

When it’s time to finally bid adieu to snow, cold weather and seasonal depression, it’s time to make Marco Island your home. Whether you’re seeking out part-time refuge from the winter weather or you’re looking to relocate permanently, Marco Island just can’t be rivaled.

Gulfstream Homes can’t wait to help you create the perfect home on the Island! Call (239) 259-8070 or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com to get started.

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The post 5 Reasons to Move to Marco Island, Florida first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

Unveiling its model home last year, the builder reported unprecedented demand, with record sales in the Marco Island market. Adjusting its model home hours to by appointment only for several months, the builder is preparing for a busy season, helping more and more part-time and full-time residents build their ideal homes in paradise. Emanating sheer beauty, Gulfstream Homes’ Marco Island model showcases a bright open floorplan with large windows illuminating the space, as well as contemporary design throughout, accentuated with luxury furnishings and décor. This three-bedroom, three-bathroom home boasts 3,041 sq. ft. of living space, and perfectly encapsulates the essence of the Gulfstream Homes team and its capabilities.

Building homes to exceed expectations since 1998, Gulfstream Homes (www.gulfstreamhomes.com) has recently entered into the Marco Island area and has been met with high demand for its elegant homes. The team is not only well-versed in building on the Island and across Southwest Florida, they are also very prevalent in the community, participating in area events, charities and more.

Michael Peel, Co-Founder of Gulfstream Homes, speaks about the approaching season and what the team is expecting.

“The phones are ringing, car carriers are coming in, season is almost here and we’re looking forward to opening back up to the public on December 1^st. We are gearing up for an even busier season this year, and we can’t wait to help more clients create their perfect homes on the Island,” he says.

About Gulfstream Homes

Since 1998, Gulfstream Homes has been utilizing top level technology, project management tools, design and innovation to create the very best homes in Southwest Florida. With attention to detail and  long-term partnerships with the construction industry’s best providers, Gulfstream Homes ensures exceptional and timely workmanship. From On Your Lot building to remodels, Gulfstream Homes is a top choice for building and design in Southwest Florida.

For more information about Gulfstream Homes, please call (239) 259-8070, email info@arcs-gh.com or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com.

The post Marco Island Builder, Gulfstream Homes, Ramps Up for Season, Re-Opening Its Model Home on December 1st first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.