Marco Island, Florida

South of Naples on the southwestern Florida coast, balmy, upscale Marco Island sits on an island of the same name at the northern end of the Ten Thousand Islands and is connected to the mainland via the Jolley Bridge. Growth began in the 1960s when developers arrived in the area.

The town is a bit isolated, one of the last communities on the Lee Island Coast before the land is overtaken by 1.5 million-acre Everglades National Park. Even so, Marco Island has a contemporary vibe and doubles in size every winter. A variety of blindingly white sand beaches along some of the Gulf’s most gorgeous blue-green waters are the reason why.

Tourists flock to South Marco Island Beach, which is lined with gleaming condominiums and sprinkled with seashells. It also has a fun boardwalk. Nature lovers prefer pristine Tigertail Beach, which is quieter and occasionally home to a lounging bobcat. Keewaydin Island is only reachable by boat and features post-card beaches perfect for lazy sunbathing. Marco Island residents also have a private beach.

Marco Island’s central area is surrounded by neighborhoods laced with 100 miles of canals and waterways. Many homes, modern and elegant, sit along the water and have a boat dock. Eateries range from modest sandwich shops to sophisticated fine dining establishments. Residents enjoy a boat parade each December and a farmers’ market from November through April.