Red tide issues?

Question

Hi - have there been any issues with red tide on Marco Island? I know that Sarasota has been having some issues since the hurricanes.

Answer

Yes — Marco Island (Collier County) has had red tide issues recently, though the situation is improving according to local health officials. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the current and recent red tide conditions, what was happening, and what to watch for: 

What’s been happening on Marco Island:

In early 2025, Collier County’s pollution control reported detectable red tide (Karenia brevis) offshore near Marco Island. On-shore winds were leading to respiratory irritation and dead fish being reported on beaches.
By March 4, 2025, the Florida Department of Health in Collier County lifted the health alert for red tide near Marco Island, saying follow-up water samples showed red tide was “no longer present or is at background levels.”
Still, local authorities urge caution: the Collier County site notes that red tide conditions can change again if environmental factors shift.
Back in December 2024, DOH-Collier issued a caution about red tide at South Marco Beach after water sampling detected Karenia brevis.

Why this is happening now:

The red tide event along Southwest Florida in early 2025 has been linked to a broader bloom that stretches across much of the Gulf Coast, per environmental reports.
Wind direction plays a big role: on-shore winds can blow toxins toward the beach, potentially causing respiratory irritation in visitors.

What the health advice is / was:

Avoid swimming or wading if red tide is visibly present or if advisory signs are posted.
People with chronic respiratory issues (e.g., asthma) should be especially cautious, as red tide can worsen breathing.
If you come in contact with water that may have red tide, or if your pet does, rinse off with fresh water.

Bottom line / what to expect now:

As of the latest updates, red tide is not at dangerous or high levels around Marco Island, according to local health authorities — the formal health alert has been lifted. But because conditions can change, especially with wind shifts, it's wise to stay informed: check local Red Tide monitoring resources (e.g., county sites, FWC, or “Protecting Florida Together”) before heading to the beach.

If you're planning a beach vacation or fishing trip to Marco Island, it’s a good idea to: monitor online water-quality updates, avoid contact with discolored water, and plan flexible beach days in case conditions evolve.

Red tide issues?

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