The JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort had long been on my hotel wishlist. A family member told me about the great amenities (you must check out the arcade!), and a friend raved about how kid-friendly it was—assuring me it’s the only property where she’s found something for everyone in her family to enjoy, whether it was the beach, family pool or the spa. I was sold.
Pulling up to the sprawling resort was the first introduction to just how massive an operation it is. With three towers, 12 restaurants, three pools, a spa, a golf course, an arcade and several shops, I quickly understood why people loved this place. It exemplifies the true definition of a self-contained vacation destination and lends itself to different types of breaks. While in the lobby waiting to check in, I encountered a group of attorneys gathered for an off-site retreat, several families with small children making their way to and from the pool area, and a handful of couples relaxing with a cocktail. It was quite the array.
My sixth-floor, oceanfront king room had all the comforts and conveniences I imagined, plus an unobstructed view of the ocean, which is all anyone wishes for on a beach vacation. From my wraparound balcony, I could see the shoreline in front of me and the family pool just off to the right. The accommodations were spacious and seemingly designed with families in mind. A loveseat, a small table with two chairs, and a designated coffee area provided ample space for relaxation. The extra nook was a thoughtful addition, offering more storage space and somewhere to make a quick espresso without cluttering the main living area.
The bathroom was large and nicely updated, with double sinks, a roomy shower, and a water closet—an amenity I’ll now require whenever I vacation with my toddler. You don’t know how much you need that extra door until you have little hands clawing to get it open. Everyone enjoyed the blackout curtains, which the hotel asks guests to shut by 9pm to keep the sea turtles safe as part of several wildlife initiatives happening across the property.
There’s no one way to do the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort, but there are some things you should not leave without experiencing. Plan for a beachfront meal at Quinn’s, preferably an early dinner to watch the sunset over the Gulf. You’ll be through just in time to watch the Polynesian fire dancers perform on the sand at 8pm. Splurge on a Chickee hut (prices range from $200 to $500) if you plan to spend the day on the beach. It comfortably fits eight people on various chaise lounges and chairs and includes butler service for food and drinks on demand—just press the button! If that’s not in your budget, the hotel provides lounge chairs and umbrellas, and you can always grab a fresh pizza from 400 Pazzi’s—located next to the pool—and bring it back to eat on the sand.
10K Alley was the real surprise. I couldn’t remember the last time I went to an arcade and this one exceeded my expectations. It’s spotless (gaming restaurants are usually not), and parents can relax in a full bar and seating area next to the machines. We loved the mini bowling alley and Skee-Ball machines, which helped us earn enough tickets to redeem for a foam football and a fistful of candy. 10K Alley tuckered out my kid, I enjoyed a beer, my husband got a new ball to throw around and everyone returned to the room feeling like a winner.
It was a packed weekend of activities that regretfully didn’t include a trip to the spa, as I would’ve liked. But I did leave the JW Marriott feeling relaxed and taken care of. It’s rare to find a family-friendly resort that supports parents without pandering to little ones and makes itself attractive to singles, too. Having experienced the G-rated side of things, I considered rebooking to join the grown-ups at the adults-only tower and sip cocktails by the kid-free pool. Until next time!
Time Out tip: You can make ahead reservations for everything from pool chairs to restaurants via the QR code on the property map you’ll receive at check-in, and it’s highly recommended for the coveted pool-front spots. The early bird sits closest to the action.
