What Airport Is Closest to Marco Island? Drive Time + Useful Tips

If you’re heading to Marco Island, chances are you’ve already pictured yourself strolling along soft white sand, watching the sun sink over the Gulf, maybe with a drink in hand. But before you even dip a toe in the water, there’s the all-important question every traveler asks: what airport is closest to Marco Island?

It’s not the kind of detail you want to figure out at the last minute. Picking the right airport can shave off hours of driving, save you money on rentals, and even set the tone for your whole trip.

I’ve done the trip more than once, and trust me—knowing your options is the difference between arriving relaxed and already needing a nap.

The Closest Airport to Marco Island (And Why It’s Not What Most People Think)

The short answer: Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers is the closest major airport to Marco Island. It’s about 50 miles north, which usually translates into an hour to an hour and fifteen minutes of drive time, depending on traffic on I-75.

That said, RSW isn’t your only option. Depending on where you’re flying from, your budget, or even how adventurous you’re feeling, other airports like Miami (MIA), Fort Lauderdale (FLL), Tampa (TPA), or even Orlando (MCO) might make sense. They’re farther away, but sometimes the flight deals make the longer drive worth it.

Drive Times From Major Airports to Marco Island

Here’s the breakdown of your main choices:

• Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) – 50 miles, about 1 hr – 1 hr 15 min drive
• Naples Airport (APF) – 20 miles, about 30–35 min drive, but it’s tiny and mostly for private jets or seasonal flights
• Miami International Airport (MIA) – 110 miles, about 2 hrs 15 min drive across the scenic (but sometimes slow) Alligator Alley
• Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport (FLL) – 125 miles, around 2 hrs 30 min drive
• Tampa International Airport (TPA) – 180 miles, close to 3 hrs drive
• Orlando International Airport (MCO) – 230 miles, roughly 4 hrs drive

My personal rule? If you’re flying from within the U.S. and can get a decent fare, RSW is hands down the easiest. If you’re flying internationally or find a big discount ticket, Miami or Fort Lauderdale might actually come out ahead—even with the extra drive.

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Why Choose RSW (Southwest Florida International)?

This is the airport most Marco Island travelers use for good reason:

• Convenience – You’ll be on the beach in about an hour.
• Size – It’s a mid-sized airport, which means fewer crowds than Miami but enough routes to be practical.
• Rental Cars – The rental car center is right on-site. No shuttle buses or confusing pickup zones.
• Airlines – Serves most major U.S. carriers (Delta, United, American, JetBlue, Southwest).

A small tip: avoid late-night arrivals if you can. The highway drive from Fort Myers to Marco Island is straightforward, but stretches of I-75 (a.k.a. Alligator Alley) feel pretty empty in the dark. I’ve done it, and while it’s safe, you don’t see much besides headlights and swamp.

The Scenic Route: Miami and Fort Lauderdale

Flying into Miami or Fort Lauderdale might look like a hassle, but there’s a silver lining. The drive takes you across Alligator Alley (I-75), which is part of the Everglades. You’ll spot sawgrass marshes, maybe a gator sunbathing on the banks if you’re lucky, and definitely some epic skies.

Miami International (MIA):

• Huge, busy, sometimes chaotic.
• Tons of international connections, especially from Europe and Latin America.
• Car rentals are plentiful, but give yourself an extra 30–45 minutes just to navigate the airport.

Fort Lauderdale (FLL):

• Usually cheaper flights than Miami.
• Slightly less traffic stress than MIA.
• Still a long drive (2.5+ hours) to Marco.

If you’ve got time and don’t mind a longer road trip, these airports give you a bonus Everglades adventure on the way.

Other Options: Tampa & Orlando

Tampa International (TPA):

• About 3 hours away.
• Often cheaper flights from Midwest or Northeastern U.S. cities.
• Clean, modern airport with a smooth rental car setup.

Orlando International (MCO):

• 4 hours away, so only worth it if you’re combining Orlando theme parks with Marco Island.
• Huge airport, tons of flight options, but prepare for crowds.

Transportation Tips Once You Land

1. Car Rentals – A car is pretty much essential unless you’re staying in a resort bubble. On Marco Island, everything is close, but you’ll want wheels to explore nearby Naples or Everglades spots.
   • RSW rentals are easy—book ahead if traveling in peak winter season.
   • At Miami or Orlando, expect longer waits at rental counters.
2. Shuttles & Ride Shares –
   • Some companies offer shared shuttles from RSW or Miami, but they’re pricey ($70–$100 per person).
   • Uber/Lyft from RSW to Marco? Possible, but usually $120+.
3. Driving Tips –
   • I-75 is smooth, but keep an eye on speed limits. Florida troopers patrol the Alligator Alley.
   • Gas stations are sparse between Fort Lauderdale and Naples—fill up before heading west.

When to Arrive: Timing Matters

Marco Island is a seasonal destination. Peak time is December through April when snowbirds flock down. Flights and rental cars are pricier then, and traffic is heavier. If you’re arriving in that window, book flights and cars early.

Summer and fall bring better deals, but also higher humidity and hurricane season risks.

Insider Tips for a Smoother Arrival

• Pack Snacks for the Drive – Especially if landing in Miami or Fort Lauderdale late in the day. Once you’re on Alligator Alley, there’s not much until Naples.
• Check Bridge Traffic – There are only a couple of bridges leading into Marco Island. Evening rush hour can add 20–30 minutes.
• Stay Overnight Near the Airport If Needed – If your flight lands super late, grab a cheap hotel in Fort Myers and head down in the morning.
• Naples as a Mini-Stop – If you’re not in a rush, Naples is a charming pit stop for dinner or even a night before heading onto Marco.

What Makes Marco Island Worth the Journey

Yes, figuring out what airport is closest to Marco Island is practical, but let’s not forget the reward. Marco is the largest of Florida’s Ten Thousand Islands—laid-back, scenic, and with some of the best shelling beaches you’ll ever see.

It’s not flashy like Miami. Instead, you’ll find peaceful mornings, dolphin sightings, and sunsets that make you linger long after the last photo. Whether you’re into fishing, kayaking the mangroves, or just doing nothing with a view, it feels like a proper escape.

Final Thoughts

So, what airport is closest to Marco Island? The winner is clearly Southwest Florida International (RSW). But depending on flight deals and where you’re coming from, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or even Tampa might be smarter for you.

Whichever way you get there, plan the drive ahead, book your car early, and maybe turn the journey into part of the adventure. Because once you step onto Marco’s beaches, the travel logistics will fade into the background—and you’ll just be glad you made it.

Frequently Asked Questions