ARRIVAL/CHECK-IN: After finishing business meetings in Miami, I arrived at JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort in the early evening as the sun was beginning to set over the gulf. The resort, directly situated on 3 miles of gorgeous, white-sand, private beaches, provided an incredible backdrop as the valet gathered my luggage. After a swift and easy check- in, the bellman led me to the Lanai Tower on the sixth floor.

GUEST QUARTERS: My ocean-facing room included a balcony that continued the full ocean view with the orange and blue sky capturing my immediate attention. Inside, the king-sized bed sat in the middle of the room, with a work station and separate sitting area. Double sinks in the bathroom along with Balinese-inspired décor and upgraded amenities made the experience feel luxurious and a bit exotic.

© Carrie Cox

Rooms in the Lanai Tower on the sixth to ninth floors are part of Marriott’s Paradise by Sirene experience, curated for guests 21 and older. Those in the Lanai Tower receive complimentary continental breakfast and access to the adults-only rooftop lounge and pool, along with poolside drink service. Although I could’ve sat on my balcony with a similar view, working from the pool area gave a greater sense of relaxation and calm. While most resorts have to balance attracting both vacationing couples and busy families, the adults-only area at JW Marriott Marco Island is a lovely space for those looking for a peaceful experience away from the crowd.

© Carrie Cox

SERVICES/AMENITIES: The Daily Resort Fee includes a number of extras including morning beach yoga, bike rentals, golf practice facilities, tennis courts and more. During my stay I found my way to the daily Sunset Celebration featuring a live Balinese-inspired fire dancer in native attire. With 12 restaurants on site, I wasn’t able to visit each of them. However, the fig and goat cheese wood-fired pizza with honey drizzle was my favorite at Tesoro, while the pupu platter took top honors at Kane Tiki Bar and Grill.

Admittedly, I didn’t even come close to exploring everything the resort offers. A 36-hole championship golf course sits 15 minutes away. The Spa by JW provides massages, facials, nail services, body treatments, steam rooms and an additional adults-only pool near the spa.

More than 120,000 square feet of event space elevates any conference or convention by offering beachfront access, incredible views and unique amenities for groups. Boutiques and access to rental cars are also on site.

TOP TAKEAWAYS:

• The resort is large enough to handle corporate events, young families and adults-only experiences without feeling overcrowded.
• Don’t miss Margo the Mermaid, a bronze green sculpture on site since 1966.
• With numerous rooms and towers available, the resort offers incredible views from all angles.

JW MARRIOTT MARCO ISLAND BEACH RESORT
400 S. Collier Blvd.
Marco Island, FL 34145
tel 239 394 2511