Olde Marco Island Inn and Suites

The Olde Marco Island Inn and Suites dates back to 1896 and was once the only guesthouse on the island. Entering up a redbrick driveway can feel a little like going back in time, as the original Victorian-era tin-roof building is still very much part of the hotel. The property's more modern apartment block housing all of the suites sits opposite, and the hotel is also part of a small retail complex with a few shops and restaurants. Check-in takes place in the older section, awash with 19th-century island-style decor that includes dark wood paneling, tropical-print fabrics, and rattan furnishings. The grounds are peaceful and brimming with palm trees and colorful flowers, while brilliant white wood-slat facades create an Old South atmosphere. The overall vibe is relaxing, with a leafy garden entrance leading to a shaded terrace and pool area where a mixture of couples and families with kids can usually be found soaking up the sun. 

The hotel is located in the pleasant and peaceful north end of Marco Island, surrounded by other high-end hotels and condo complexes, a bit outside of the center of town, so there's little traffic. Besides the on-site eateries and neighboring boutique shops, there are a few restaurants within walking distance, as well as some attractions like the Pelican Pier Marina. Marco Island's town center is around a five-minute drive from here and there are several golf courses within a 15-minute drive. It's also a 15-minute drive to Marco Beach, the island's most popular, while Tigertail Beach is only a bit over 10 minutes away by car. The island itself is easily accessible, but it isn't near any convenient highways or the interstate -- the nearest is Highway 41, which is about 20 minutes away. Naples is just 30 minutes away by car, and Southwest Florida Airport, outside of Fort Meyers, takes almost an hour to reach. 

The complex has 51 bright and spacious one- and two- bedroom suites with appropriately tropical decor and accents. Since these are often individually-owned and decorated by the owner, decor style and quality can be inconsistent, and the look is definitively homey (expect to see elements like wrought-iron bed frames and vibrantly patterned bedspreads). Suites are generally well maintained and include separate sitting and dining areas, as well as full kitchens with refrigerators, microwaves, ovens, and cookware. Screened balconies or terraces are furnished and provide enough space and seating for alfresco dining. Flat-screen TVs provide cable programming and bathrooms have shower/tub combos and toiletries. Units do not have laundry facilities or a maid service (cleaning fees are charged), and while free Wi-Fi is technically available, it is patchy or non-existent. 

The main focus of the hotel is the outdoor swimming pool and hot tub, set in a partially shaded garden lined with palm trees and sun loungers. The Bistro Soleil is the main restaurant and serves quality French-style cooking while the Cafe de Marco specializes in locally-sourced sea food. Breakfast is only included with spacial packages. There's also a lounge bar, as well as barbecue equipment and outdoor dining areas, though not much in the way of health or spa facilities. Free bikes, however, are provided for guests who want to explore the island. Wi-Fi is technically free throughout the property, though it's not the best. Keep in mind that the front desk has limited hours, and there's a coin-operated laundry room that's key for long-stay guests. The hotel also lends beach umbrellas and chairs for free. DVDs and board games are available to borrow as well.