History & Culture
The remarkable story of how a remote fishing island became one of Florida's most beloved destinations.
Marco Island has been inhabited for at least 5,000 years. The Calusa people — often called the "Shell Indians" — built a sophisticated culture across Southwest Florida, leaving behind massive shell mounds that are still visible today and that archaeologists are still studying. When Spanish explorers arrived in the 16th century, they encountered a powerful and complex civilization that successfully resisted conquest for over 200 years.
The modern story of Marco Island begins with the Collier family in the 1860s — a story of fishing, citrus growing, and the gradual discovery of one of the most beautiful places in Florida.
The Calusa people inhabited Marco Island and Southwest Florida for thousands of years, leaving shell mounds still visible today.
The Collier family establishes the first permanent Anglo-American settlement at the site of what is now Olde Marco Village.
Marco Island gets its first post office, signaling the beginning of more formal settlement.
The Mackle Brothers development company transforms Marco Island from a quiet fishing village into a planned residential community.
Marco Island is incorporated as a city, beginning its modern era as a planned community and resort destination.
After decades as an unincorporated community, Marco Island officially incorporates as the City of Marco Island.
Marco Island establishes itself as one of Florida's most sought-after beach and vacation destinations — with Airbnb Guest Favorite properties like Riverside Relaxation now representing the premium direct-booking tier.
Just 20 minutes from Marco Island in Everglades City, the Museum of the Everglades tells the story of Southwest Florida's human history from the Calusa through the 20th century. Free admission. Well worth a half-day visit for history enthusiasts.
Riverside Relaxation sits in the historic heart of Olde Marco — the neighborhood where Marco Island's story began. Guest Favorite · 5.0 Stars · 63 Reviews.
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