Who brought this cold weather down to Marco Island?!  🥶  It has been a chilly few days, and it looks like it will continue for a few more.  We have friends who flew back to 18" of SNOW!  It has been so beautiful during the days, and with the Farmer's Markets and Flea Markets in Full-Swing, it makes shopping a little bit more fun, being able to spend some time outside without overheating!  If your freezing friends are visiting, welcome them.  It's so cold up North right now...  Don't worry, we can share the Sun 🌞

A thrilling high-seas adventure is captivating families on Marco Island aboard the interactive Black Pearl pirate ship.

The experience has become a must-do attraction for local parents and visitors seeking a unique outing.  There is also a Sunset Cruise Available if You Are Not up for the Pirate Adventure.  Read More Below to see Booking Info.

As soon as they board at Rose Marina, children are transformed into buccaneers, learning pirate songs and games.  Their main quest is to reclaim stolen treasure keys from the notorious Pirate Pete who is lurking nearby.

The cruise culminates in an epic showdown on the Gulf of Mexico.

Under Captain Salty’s command, the kids man a dozen high-power water cannons to battle Pete’s rival vessel.  Be warned—Pete fires back, ensuring everyone gets a good soaking in the Florida sun!

With victory secured, the triumphant crew raises a flag and opens the treasure chest to share the loot.  This imaginative escape is a cherished Southwest Florida memory in the making.

Marco Island's Beachworks boutique is hosting an exclusive Beachy Glam Family Trunk Show this week, blending island style with everyday function.

The event is set for Wednesday, January 28, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the store, located at 1069 N Collier Blvd.

It will feature the latest collections from beloved brands Naot footwear and Baggallini accessories.

This is a fantastic opportunity for shoppers to meet brand representatives in person and learn about the craftsmanship behind the products.

A special promotion will also be available for attendees.

Anyone who purchases an item from either Naot or Baggallini will receive a 10% discount on their entire order.

Light refreshments will be served, creating a relaxed and inviting atmosphere to find your next favorite piece.

An evening of elegance for a great cause is coming to Marco Island.

The YMCA of Collier County will host its annual Golden Gala at the exclusive Hideaway Beach Club on Saturday, January 31, 2026.

This premier philanthropic event is essential for funding the YMCA's vital local programs, which support youth development, health, and community strengthening across the county.

Gala Chair Deborah Hobbs leads the effort for what promises to be an unforgettable night.

From 5:30 pm to 10:00 pm, guests will enjoy exceptional cuisine and live entertainment in a stunning beachfront setting.

The dress code is evening attire with a celebratory touch of gold.

Supporting this cause is an investment in our community's future.

Individual tickets are $295, with tables of 10 available for businesses and groups wanting to make a collective impact.

Marco Island residents should prepare for a dynamic and varied 10-day weather forecast.

A brisk northern wind is ushering in a chill, with tonight’s low dipping to a cold 45 degrees.

The middle of the week will be pleasant with sunny skies and highs in the mid-60s, ideal for a trip to Tigertail Beach.

However, a significant shift is expected for the weekend.

Increasing clouds on Friday will lead to scattered showers and blustery conditions on Saturday, potentially impacting the annual Isles of Capri Rummage Sale.

A dramatic cooldown follows, as Sunday’s high will struggle to reach 53 degrees across Collier County.

The chill lingers into next week before a gradual warming trend finally signals a return to more typical Southwest Florida weather.

A treasured tradition returns to the Isles of Capri this weekend with the annual Island-Wide Sale.

This isn't just a rummage sale; it's a community-unifying event where every dollar raised directly supports local students through the Isles of Capri Scholarship Fund.

Neighbors can browse for treasures while enjoying famous hot dogs, delicious baked goods, and complimentary coffee.

It’s an amazing opportunity to find great deals and contribute to the educational future of our community right here in Southwest Florida.

Donations will be accepted at the local church on Thursday, January 29th, and Friday, January 30th.

For more specific information, organizers encourage residents to contact Nancy directly.

A bold new era is dawning for Waterside Shops Naples as it undergoes its most significant transformation in two decades.

The demolition of the former Nordstrom building makes way for an ambitious new RH showroom and restaurant, dramatically changing the center's landscape.

This major reinvestment signals a revitalized future for the premier open-air luxury destination.

Construction is also underway for the highly anticipated Eddie V's Prime Seafood, adding another upscale dining option.

Familiar brands are on the move, with Williams-Sonoma and Pottery Barn relocating into a new two-level building opening by early 2026.

Their former locations will become an expanded Christian Dior flagship, further cementing Waterside's status as a high-fashion hub for Naples.

This entire revitalization promises a modernized and more experiential atmosphere for local shoppers and visitors.

The 42nd Annual Goodland Mullet-Fest is set to take over the historic fishing village from Friday, January 30th, through Sunday, February 1st, 2026.

This uniquely Florida tradition will be held at the legendary Stan's Idle Hour.

The weekend celebrates the humble mullet fish with fresh food and non-stop live music from bands like Rock Republic and the Shane Duncan Band.

A major highlight is Sunday’s famous Buzzard Queen Contest.

Contestants in wild feathered costumes will compete by performing the traditional "Buzzard Lope" dance, a spectacle that defines this beloved local event.

Known as the party where "bikers meet billionaires," the festival is a true slice of old Florida culture and community spirit.

It remains one of Southwest Florida's most authentic and anticipated celebrations.

Get ready for a brilliant fusion of creativity and innovation as IGNITE Broward returns to South Florida from February 13th to the 22nd, 2026.

This massive, completely free celebration will transform public spaces with dazzling light and tech-based art.

The journey begins at MAD Arts in Dania Beach, a daytime hub for exploring AI-driven and experimental installations.

As night falls, the spectacle expands across the county.

Downtown Hollywood’s ArtsPark at Young Circle will feature interactive sculptures and projection mapping, while Reverend Samuel Delevoe Memorial Park in Fort Lauderdale will host its own unique displays.

For the first time, IGNITE is expanding to the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), greeting travelers with vibrant art projections.

Don't miss the special kickoff event on Friday, February 13th, with a live performance by the Breakin MIA dance crew.

Saturday Food Pantry – Drive‑Thru

• 📅 Date: Saturdays

• 🕒 Time: 9:00 AM

• 📍 Location: 1818 San Marco Road, Marco Island, FL 34145

• 🎟️ Admission: Free

• 📄 Details: A drive-thru food-pantry service for the community. Approach via San Marco Road, turn by Island Garden Center on Capt. Horr Way and follow the signage.  Donate to this great cause if you can.  We all love to help our Marco Neighbors.

Meetups and Outdoor Live Music Options

Happy Hour Highlights 

Island life: sunscreen, cocktails, and questionable decisions....🍹🌊🍸

We always have a Lot of great options for happy hour across the island. Here are some of the top spots with their typical schedules in no order:

• Pinchers Happy Hour: All Day EVERYDAY!  Enjoy Two of the Same Drink From Open to Close.
• Stilts in Marriott Crystal Shores Happy Hour:  Daily from 2:00pm to 6:00pm.
• Sunset Grille - Happy Hour: Monday-Friday 2:00pm to 5:00pm.

• Snook Inn - Happy Hour: Monday–Thursday, 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm.  

• La Tavola Restaurant and Bar - Happy Hour: Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm.

• Italian Deli and Market - Happy Hour: Every day from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm.  Don't Forget KARAOKE MONDAYS!

• Kane Tiki Bar & Grille & Quinn's at The JW Marriott both Offer  Happy Hour - Daily 2:00pm to 4:00pm.

• Sami's - Happy Hour: Monday–Friday 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm.

• Marco Island Brewery Happy Hour: Daily 3:00pm to 6:00 pm or after 10pm.

• The Speakeasy - Happy Hour: Monday–Saturday 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm.  

• Dolphin Tiki Bar & Grill - Happy Hour: Every day, 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm.

• DaVinci’s - Happy Hour: Every day, 4:30 pm to 6:00 pm.

• Marco Prime - Happy Hour: Every day, 4:30 pm to 6:00 pm.

• The Oyster Society - Happy Hour: Every day, 4:30 pm to 6:00 pm. 

• Arturo's - Happy Hour:  Every Day, 4:45 pm to 8:00 pm.
• The Boardroom - Happy Hour: 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm
• CJ's @ Esplanade - Happy Hour:  Every Day, 3:00 pm to 6:30 pm
• Mango's @ Esplanade - Happy Hour: Every Day, 11:00 am to 6 pm
• La Mesa - Happy Hour:  Every Day, 3:00 pm to 5:30 pm
• Tesoro - Happy Hour:  Every Day,1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
• 844 Gulf & Prime - Happy Hour: Every Day, 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm
• Sale e Pepe - Is Temporarily CLOSED.

• Quinns at Marriott: 📅 Daily Happy Hour + Live Entertainment (Thu–Sun) 🕒 Happy Hour: 2–4 pm | Music: 6–9 pm

• Cavs:  Happy Hour: Monday to Friday 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm
• SandBar:  Happy Hour:  Monday to Friday 2:00 to 6:00 pm and don't forget all-you-can-eat CRABLEGS Sunday and Mondays!
• FIN Bistro:  Happy Hour: Tuesday to Saturday 4:00PM to 5:00 PM in the bar for 20% OFF all beer and wine with a Social Hour Menu featuring $12 bar bites.
• 2 Sheas Salty Dog:  Happy Hour: 7 Days a Week 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM
• Nacho Mama's:  Happy Hour: Daily 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM
• Island Hideout:  Happy Hour:  Monday thru Wednesday 3:30 - 7PM

The Marco Island Farmers Market...  Every Wednesday until April!

• Dates: November 12th 2025 through April 15th 2026
• Day: Every Wednesday
• Time: 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Location: Veterans Park, 901 Park Ave, Marco Island, FL 34145
• Holiday Schedule: In case of a holiday on a Wednesday, the market may be moved to the preceding Monday.

For more information on becoming a vendor, check out the City Website with the Applications!  They are available now.

• Navarre Beach: Served as the main location for the beach scenes and the "Amity Island" shoreline.