I thought the intent of Margaritaville was to convey the idea of finally coming clean about a failed relationship - not so much beach escapism. It seems to highlight humanity’s propensity to deny guilt and blame for the wrongs we do. Catchy tune or no, I think that’s part of its appeal. Just my 2 cents worth.
Yep, the song itself didn’t glorify the lifestyle at all, it basically was the equivalent of a guy “living in a van down by the river”.