Sharing travel guides, hotel reviews, and answering random emails from a couple who are going on their honeymoon to Greece are some of my favorite parts of travel blogging.  No lie, from my Huffington Post publication, I get daily emails and it’s always from the guy who is planning.  Very odd.  I have never had so many inquiries and people wanting my full report after I initially started posting about the JW Marriott Marco Island Resort.  Especially from people who lived in Florida.  It is an easy drive to get to, Marco Island is absolutely gorgeous, and people really rack up those Marriott points.

The JW Marriott Marco Island Resort Review 

You may have remembered me absolutely gushing over the JW Marriott Camelback Inn, check that full review here.  When we were looking for a place for our anniversary that was close enough to drive to, Mark suggested Marco Island since he grew up vacationing there.  Well, very exciting news! As of January 1st, 2017, the Marco Island Marriott Beach resort has transformed to the JW Marriott Marco Island.  A JW property is on the same caliber as a Ritz Carlton.  This is the first beachfront JW Marriott in the Continental U.S.  I loved being able to go from lounging poolside to putting my toes in the warm gulf waters.  The property is undergoing a 320 million dollar renovation with phase 1 & 2 complete.  There are 726 renovated rooms that are inspired by South-Pacific culture with tons of natural light filling each room angled out to the Gulf of Mexico. By Fall 2017, the last phase of the Lanai Tower should be completed.  This will feature a celebrity chef restaurant, a rooftop pool, and adult only guest rooms.  I can’t wait to go back when that is completed!

We checked in seamlessly on Friday.  Right off the bat, I was impressed with the service.  You know I can pack everything in a carry on when we fly but when we drive, you know I had tons of outfit choices.  I would recommend if you are local to stop and get snacks, drinks, etc because there is no Publix near.  All of our goods were waiting for us in our room after we checked in.  I was impressed with the rooms, spacious, completely renovated and tons of natural light spilling in.  We had a beautiful view of the pool and beach.

The property is in the process of building a third tower and a few people have asked me if there was loud construction.  The tower is off to the side of the property and I didn’t hear any construction noise when we were there. I would not be deterred from booking with the property because of the new tower being added.

Favorite Parts of the Property

The direct access to the beach.  Included in your resort fee, you get a towel service, discounts throughout the property and a lounge chair/umbrella for the beach.  If you don’t want to trek back to the bar for an adult bev, don’t worry they will bring it to you.

Reversible bathing suit c/o Becca find top here and bottom here

The stunning sunsets and fire dancers.  There is nothing more magical in my mind than watching the sun set over the gulf of Mexico beaches.  Grab a drink at the Balinese-inspired Kane Tiki Bar and Grill while taking in all the dreamy views.  You will feel like you are on Caribbean Island.

Insiders Tips

Depending on what time you go, the main pools can be very crowded.  If you get any services at the Spa, you will have access to the Spa facilities for the day.  Talk about complete relaxation!  The pool area is serene, not overcrowded, and has a mineral spa that overlooks the property.

Find this romper here by Becca c/o

If you are one of those that has to work out while on vacation, the property has you covered.  There is yoga on the beach, a barre studio that also offers a wide variety of classes and multiple gyms.  I wanted to try sunrise yoga on Sunday morning but sleep won.

Favorite Place to Eat

The steak place on property Ario was delicious and talk about amazing service.  Sam was our server and was absolutely fantastic.  I thoroughly enjoyed dining al fresco while the cool breezes were coming off the beach.  After tasting our perfectly cooked Tomahawk steak we were treated to a tour of the kitchen including the dry aging room.  The other tip that I learned was the room service came from that kitchen.  I will definitely partake next time!  Click on a picture to show the gallery!

Passion Fruit Crème brûlée

Chocolate cake with coffee grounds side

Spicy Carrot Cake

Tomahawk Dry Aged Steak

Brussel Sprouts

Pee Wee Potatoes

Tomahawk steak

Octopus starter. Delicious!

The bread was amazing!

One of my favorite parts this appetizer!

You never need to leave the property for any meal.  There is a delicious breakfast buffet that also serves lunch, Maia.  They have a bloody mary bar, mimosas, and if you have the daily resort fee, you can get the breakfast buffet BOGO.  If you want sushi, they have you covered at Korals.  There was also an Italian place Pazzis to grab a pizza and a glass of vino.  There were a lot of families enjoying that option.  If you want a sweet treat, stop by Menchie’s.   Finally, if you want to grab a drink there are tons of options that you can pretty much have your toes in the sand and a drink in your hand.  At night we stopped at Quinn’s on the Beach, we were lured in by the live entertainment.  We did try to grab dinner there on Friday night but I will say that the food was not a top priority.  I would recommend if you are not starving and have some patience then go there otherwise, I would tell you to try the other restaurants.

The other question I have been asked is it kid friendly?  My answer yes it is!  There were tons of families and all the kids looked like they were having a blast.  Between the pool, the beach, and all the activities there is ample amount of things to with your kiddos.  For the people who want to get away and relax, I found there was plenty of quiet and places to escape.

We had such a nice time at the JW Marriott Marco Island Resort.  It is a lovely getaway that delivers whatever you are desiring in a vacation retreat.  I was impressed with the service, location, and Spa area.  If this property has been on your radar, do not hesitate to book.  They offer lots of onsite deals that you can fully take advantage of.  They have plenty of space for meetings and dreamy beachfront weddings.  If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me or leave a comment.  Have you been to this property before?  Have you stayed at a JW Marriott prior?  I find that the level of service is unparalleled and I can’t wait to go back!  If you liked this travel guide make sure to check out my travel section here.

Thank you to the JW Marriott Marco Island Resort for our stay and to you for supporting that brands that work with Meet at the Barre.

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