Things to consider when going from Naples to Marco Island

Are you thinking of visiting Marco Island from Naples in USA? If you are, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

Day trips from Naples Florida to Marco Island FL are fun but to ensure a smooth, and enjoyable excursion you need to come prepared! While Marco Island Florida is only a short drive from Naples FL you will surely enjoy the scenic journey.

You can even stop along the way, from Naples FL to Marco Island to make the most of your adventure. Whether you’re planning short Naples Florida day trips, or a longer stay in FL Marco Island, here are some things to consider.

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Best way to travel from Naples to Marco Island

There are three convenient options to get to Marco Island from Naples USA Florida. All these options can get you there fast, and in a comfortable scenic way.

By car

The most popular and convenient method to travel from Naples FL to Marco Island, is through a Naples Florida rental car.

Marco Island FL, is only about 20 miles from the city of Naples FL, taking about 30 to 40 minutes. Marco Island Florida, is one of the most popular day trips from Naples Florida to take.

With a car rental in Naples FL picked out, driving to FL Marco Island is pretty straightforward. You’ll drive along U.S. Highway 41, also called the Tamiami Trail.

The drive features scenic views, featuring the natural beauty of Naples FL US, especially when you cross those bridges leading to Marco Island. Having a Naples Florida rental car also gives you the flexibility to stop, and explore some Marco Island attractions along the way.

By Taxi or Ride-Sharing services

If you are not planning on picking up a car rental in Naples FL, another option is to take a taxi, or book a ride through ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft.

The trip from Naples to Marco Island costs around $50 to $80. Of course this depends on the traffic conditions, and where you plan to start the trip in Naples Florida United States.

By boat

With Marco Island boat rentals you’ll enjoy a scenic boat ride along the Gulf Coast, and might even witness some dolphins playing in the water.

A Marco Island boat rental, is a great option if you want a more exciting way to explore the Marco Island attractions, and the many things to do in Marco Island coming from Naples Florida.

Weather and best time to visit Marco Island FL

Winter, from December to February, is when FL Marco Island is at its busiest. The island has mild temperatures, so you can enjoy all the outdoorsy Marco Island things to do including kayaking Marco Island, and swimming in the Marco Island beaches.

In Spring, from March to May the weather will get warmer. It’s still a wonderful time to be outdoors but the best part is it’s no longer as crowded as in winter! You can enjoy many of the stuff to do in Marco Island with fewer distractions.

Summer, from June to September, is hot and humid in Marco Island. And while it’s not really the best time to visit Marco Island FL the island is quieter during this time of the year. This also means that the hotels in Marco Island are much cheaper. So, if you don’t mind the heat, summer is a good time to come here.

In the fall, which is from October to November, Marco Island FL enjoys warm weather. This is the tail end of Florida’s hurricane season, although storms are rare. So you can still enjoy a few of the places to visit in Marco Island and Marco Island activities.

Getting around within the island

There are many incredible places to visit in Marco Island. But the question is, how do you get around? Getting around the island is pretty easy, and convenient especially if you have your Naples Florida rental car with you. You can simply drive around Marco Island Florida with ease.

Parking is simple around most of the attractions on Marco Island including the Marco Island beach. Another way to get around is on a bike. It’s fun, and you’ll find many Marco Island bike rental shops on the island. This is great for shorter trips such as going to the Marco Island beaches.

But if biking is not your thing you may want to grab a Marco Island golf cart rental instead. A Marco Island golf cart rental, is a fun and convenient way to visit a Marco Island beach, and dine at some great Marco Island restaurants.

Ride-sharing apps like Uber, and Lyft are also available to book. They are convenient if you need to travel to long distances, but haven’t picked out a car rental in Naples FL yet.

If you want to travel by water you should book Marco Island boat rentals, or take a water taxi. A Marco Island boat tour, is a fun way to get around, and visit nearby islands.

Marco Island what to see and do

FL Marco Island is indeed one of the best day trips from Naples Florida. There are many great Marco Island attractions and Marco Island what to see options to enjoy here and it’s only less than an hour drive from USA Naples.

And when you get here, there are endless opportunities for Marco Island things to do and relax. Here are some of the stuff to do in Marco Island:

Relax at Tigertail Beach

Relaxing at Tigertail Beach Marco Island should be first on your list of things to do in Marco Island. Aside from its calm setting, the gorgeous Marco Island beach has soft white sands, and clear waters.

Tigertail Beach, is definitely one of those Marco Island beaches where you can enjoy a quiet day while surrounded by panoramic views of the sea. Spread out your towel, and work on your tan. Or better yet, take a dip in the shallow waters of Tigertail Beach Marco Island.

This Marco Beach Florida, is also a popular spot for shelling. You will find an abundance of lovely seashells around the Tigertail Beach area, so it’s also a fun place to play with the kids. Also,

Tigertail Beach Marco Island has a beautiful lagoon home to rich wildlife, and birdlife. This Marco Island beach, is a popular place for kayaking. After kayaking Marco Island, head to the nearby picnic areas to relax.

Visit the Marco Island Historical Museum

While the Marco Island FL beaches are certainly the highlight of your visit here, you’ll also find many other Marco Island attractions to explore. One of the places to visit in Marco Island, if you want to learn some history, is the Marco Island History Museum.

At Marco Island Historical Museum, you get a glimpse of the island’s rich history, and you can gain insights into the original inhabitants of Marco Island.

Exploring the Marco Island History Museum, is a family-friendly things to do in Marco Island, since kids will be fascinated by the exhibits featuring ancient artifacts.

The famous Key Marco Cat is a standout attraction here at Marco Island Historical Museum. This well-preserved artifact is over a thousand years old.

Take a Marco Island boat tour to Keewaydin Island

Going on Marco Island boat tours to the nearby Keewaydin Island Florida, is undoubtedly one of the unforgettable Marco Island things to do. You can only get to the picturesque Keewaydin Island Beach by boat which makes it a really special place to visit.

When you reach Keewaydin Island you’ll be greeted by the beautiful, and unspoiled Keewaydin Island Beach, perfect for spending quality time with family, and friends!

You can find companies that offer Marco Island boat tour packages to take you to Keewaydin Island Florida which includes activities, food and drinks. The Marco Island boat tours ride itself, is fun and scenic or you can book a Marco Island boat rental if you want to visit Keewaydin Island on your own.

Imagine being surrounded by the stunning ocean views of Keewaydin Island Florida, and maybe even spot some dolphins playing in the water.

Book a Marco Island dolphin cruise

A Marco Island boat tour for dolphin-watching, is one of those Marco Island activities you should not miss especially if you’re visiting with the kids. Your little ones will enjoy the opportunity to see these magnificent creatures up close, in their natural habitat.

When you book a Marco Island dolphin cruise you will be with guides, who know the best places to see these playful dolphins. Some of the dolphin-watching Marco Island boat tours will include a visit to nearby islands such as Keewaydin Island Beach.

One of the most fascinating places to go in Marco Island. Boating around Marco Island FL, is truly an exciting way to explore the surrounding areas. Aside from seeing dolphins, you could also spot other wildlife such as sea birds, and manatees on a Marco Island dolphin cruise.

Explore the nearby Collier-Seminole State Park

If you enjoy nature and adventure, do visit the nearby Collier Seminole State Park Naples. The Naples Collier Seminole State Park, is only a short drive from Marco Island Florida. You can enjoy a few exciting outdoor activities here, and take the scenic beauty by hiking through beautiful trails.

If you’re planning on some kayaking Marco Island adventures, also consider Collier Seminole State Park. Paddling through the waterways, and into the lush mangroves of Collier Seminole State Park Naples is an experience in itself.

There are plenty of spots where you can sit down, and relax or enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Naples Collier Seminole State Park. Take some snacks and have a picnic here for a great way to unwind after hiking or kayaking around Collier Seminole State Park.

Try water sports activities in Marco Island

With the numerous beautiful Marco Island beaches, no wonder trying water sports, is included in the list of the best stuff to do in Marco Island. Many of the Marco Island FL beaches have crystal-clear waters with calm conditions perfect for fun water sports Marco Island activities.

Go on a jet-ski ride for that adrenaline-pumping adventure, over the waves. If you want to do something really relaxing try Kayaking in Marco Island. You can paddle through serene waters with beautiful FL Marco Island scenery surrounding you.

For more adrenaline-pumping adventures, Marco Island parasailing is what you should try. Parasailing, is a thrilling sport for fun activities in Marco Island that gives you a bird’s view of the island, as you fly above the waters.

Dine and shop at Esplanade Shoppes at Marco Island

After all the things to do around Marco Island adventures, it’s time to unwind with good food. The best place for this, is at Esplanade Shoppes at Marco Island where you’ll find some of the finest Marco Island restaurants. It’s a bustling waterfront area where many go to eat, drink and shop.

Visiting Esplanade Shoppes at Marco Island, is an enjoyable attractions on Marco Island to check out. Esplanade Shoppes at Marco Island, is pretty close to some of the Marco Island beachfront resorts, such as the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort which is only a 5-minute drive.

If you’re planning to spend the night on the island, this is a great area to consider, since you’ll find some great places to stay in Marco Island here. It’s also a short walk to some beautiful beaches on Marco Island, such as the Residents Beach.

Tips for going from Naples FL to Marco Island

Here are more tips to make the most of your visit to Marco Island:

Start your drive early

When driving from Naples to Marco Island, try to start as early as you can. Even though it takes only less than an hour, you could get stuck in traffic if you don’t leave early. This is more the case, when you visit Naples Florida during the busy season.

Remember, Marco Island FL is one of the most popular Naples Florida day trips, so expect many people to come here during the peak tourist season. Arriving early in Marco Island Florida also allows you to grab good parking spots, at popular places such as the Marco Island beaches, like Tigertail Beach.

You also get to explore before the crowds arrive which is much better. Also, those outdoorsy things to do in Marco Island are best in the morning since the temperatures are cooler.

Check out some interesting places along the way

If you’re not in a hurry, make stops at some great spots along the way to FL Marco Island. You can stop by Rookery Bay. The Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, is an interesting place where you can hike, or kayak through lush mangroves.

Other places to stop by on your drive from Naples FL to Marco Island are the Naples Botanical Garden, and the Isles of Capri.

Consider spending a night or two

Even though Marco Island is only a short drive from USA Naples Florida, consider spending a night or two on the island. That way you will have enough time to experience the best of Marco Island FL without feeling rushed.

There are many great places to stay in Marco Island so you’ll have endless options for your accommodation. If you’re willing to splurge you can stay at upscale Marco Island beachfront resorts.

But if you’re on a budget you can find smaller reasonably priced hotels in Marco Island. Some of these places to stay in Marco Island, have stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico which makes the experience even more unforgettable.

Plan for Marco Beach Florida parking

If you arrive with your Naples Florida rental car, you should plan for beach parking especially when visiting during the weekends, and peak tourist seasons. Some of the popular Marco Island FL beaches such as Tigertail Beach, and South Marco Beach can get too crowded, and parking can fill up quickly.

That’s why it’s a good idea to arrive early to Marco Island Florida. That way you can secure a good parking spot when going to a Marco Beach Florida spot, and popular places like Marco Island restaurants. Some places may charge a parking fee, so grab your cash or card.

Final thoughts on visiting FL Marco Island from FL Naples

Hopefully this guide can help you plan your trip from Naples to Marco Island. It’s an easy, and scenic journey with plenty of places to stop along the way.

To enjoy your visit more, plan to spend a night or two, at the many places to stay in Marco Island. Book a stay at one of the Marco Island beachfront resorts, for a truly relaxing getaway. And don’t just hang out at the beaches on Marco Island.

Get around the island, and check out all of the attractions on Marco Island such as the Marco Island History Museum, and Esplanade Shoppes at Marco Island.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Marco Island worth visiting?

Marco Island Florida offers lovely weather for most of the year, so it is a great destination to visit anytime. The best time to visit Marco Island FL mainly depends on the Marco Island activities you wish to do. Winter, from December to February, is when FL Marco Island is at its busiest. The island has mild temperatures, so you can enjoy all the outdoorsy Marco Island things to do including kayaking Marco Island, and swimming in the Marco Island beaches. In Spring, from March to May the weather will get warmer.

Can you get around Marco Island without a car?

If you are not planning on picking up a car rental in Naples FL, another option is to take a taxi, or book a ride through ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft. The trip from Naples to Marco Island costs around $50 to $80. Of course this depends on the traffic conditions, and where you plan to start the trip in Naples Florida United States.

Is there a ferry from Naples to Marco Island?

A more unique way to travel from Naples FL to Marco Island, is through a Marco Island boat rental. Several tour companies can also arrange a Marco Island boat tour, operating between Naples to Marco Island. With Marco Island boat rentals you’ll enjoy a scenic boat ride along the Gulf Coast, and might even witness some dolphins playing in the water. A Marco Island boat rental, is a great option if you want a more exciting way to explore the Marco Island attractions, and the many things to do in Marco Island coming from Naples Florida.