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The Marco Beach Ocean Resort is the perfect place to hunker down this autumn when you’re in need of a beautiful environment, fantastic service, delicious food and a stunner of a beach. Located right on the glimmering Gulf of Mexico on famed Marco Island, this property offers 103 rooms and suites, a rooftop pool, spa, fitness center and beach club. I stayed here recently for a long weekend and was not only impressed with the way this hotel handled safety protocol surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, but I was impressed with just how at-home I felt.
Upon entering the lobby of the Marco Beach Ocean Resort I was happy to see staff in masks, plexiglass barriers at the front desk and sanitizing stations in multiple locations. Check-in was swift and I was immediately taken to a large one-bedroom suite with large terrace directly on the ocean.
What I loved about the suite was that it was comfortable, elegant and I immediately felt like I had stayed there before. There was a kitchenette within the room as well, and this was very convenient for keeping extra beverages stored and snacks stored.
I explored the property over two days at the Marco Beach Ocean Resort and spent a good amount of time of the beach. Florida’s West coast is known for its sugar-like sand and clear waters, which are perfect to spend the day lounging on.
The resort’s restaurant services the beach and the staff are prompt in brining fabulous cocktails and delicious bites for snacking. Even the staff of the beach spot masks, which made every guest feel very comfortable. Chairs and towel service are offered on the beach and guests can even take advantage of activities like jet skiing.
For those who prefer a pool environment, the rooftop pool at the Marco Beach Ocean Resort is perfect. Slather yourself with sunscreen, catch some rays and dip in and out of the cool waters to stay refreshed.
Marco Island offers bike riding, boating, fishing and quiet walks around the streets to see some of the beautiful homes. The Marco Beach Ocean Resort is located in the perfect position to access all of these things – which I had the pleasure of taking advantage of.
Evenings are best spent getting ready in your suite and then heading downstairs for a cocktail and dinner at Sale E Pepe. Executive Chef Andrea Cirino has conceptualized menus from his native Southern Italy, which are fantastic. Guests can choose a special bottle from a list containing over 500 labels and then lean-into some of the best Italian food you’ll have in Florida. I experienced the menus firsthand and each dish was comforting, delicious and created with elegance.
You’ll find familiar items like burrata, carbonara, ravioli and risotto; as well as choice cuts of beef and fresh seafood.
Endings at the Marco Beach Ocean Resort aren’t as sweet as the desserts at Sale E Pepe. Why? Because you won’t want to leave. Every staff member strives to make your stay special and the property itself is effortless, so you can truly let go and relax. A weekend here is the perfect mix of quiet, fun and indulgence – which are things I think we all need right now.
