For thousands of years people have been drawn to the tropical paradise of Marco Island. Not surprisingly, its history is a tapestry of fascinating and adventurous people, from Native Americans and Spanish explorers to 19th century pioneers and modern-day residents.

Some 2000 years ago, the area's native Calusa Indians settled along the Southwest Florida Gulf coast and lived off the abundant fish, shellfish and other natural resources. The tribe built huge mounds of discarded shells to raise their dwellings above the water level in the low-lying area, and many of these ancient mounds can be seen today on Marco Island.

During the1500s, Spanish explorers led by Juan Ponce de Leon arrived in Florida and happened upon a remote island they christened La Isla de San Marco (the island of St. Mark). As occurred throughout the New World during this period of European exploration, war broke out between the Spanish and the indigenous tribe.

But Spain could not conquer the fierce Calusa with weapons alone. (It is believed that Ponce de Leon was killed by a Calusa arrow as he and his men attempted to engage a Calusa village.) Ultimately, however, the Calusa were defeated by a combination of war and disease carried across the Atlantic.

For the next 100 years there was hardly a soul to be found on La Isla de San Marco, whose name was eventually shortened to Marco Island. It was not until 1870, when a hearty pioneer from Tennessee arrived, that Marco began to show new signs of life.

We look forward to helping you find your place in the sun!