Can You Get to Marco Island by Car? Paradise Awaits!

Updated July 15, 2026

Yes, you can get to Marco Island by car. It’s easy and scenic, depending on which of the two roads you choose to take to get to Marco Island.

The often-asked question about driving to Marco Island has some variables that need to be considered.

  • The direction you are coming from.
  • Starting point.
  • The preference for one of two bridges to enter the island.
  • Destination on Marco when arriving.

We cover those options in this post.

We have driven to Marco Island dozens of times, and that experience will help your decisions.

Can you get to Marco island by car on Jolley Bridge
Jolley Bridge on Collier Blvd. going into Marco Island.

Driving to Marco Island from the East

You can drive to Marco Island from the east in two ways. 

From places like Fort Lauderdale and Miami, you would most likely take I-75, also known as Alligator Alley, to Collier Boulevard just west of Naples. Collier takes you directly into Marco on the Jolley Bridge.

If you are coming from the Florida Keys, including Key Largo and Key West, your best route is the scenic Tamiami Trail (Route 41). Using this route, you would exit Route 41 on San Marco Road near the Collier-Seminole State Park, about 20 miles east of Naples. This will take you over the Goodland Bridge into Marco.

Alligator Alley is a 4-lane superhighway with limited access. The Tamiami Trail is more rustic, with portions just two lanes through the middle of the Everglades. Distinctions between the two require a comparison between the two we have published.

Getting To Marco Island From the Closest Airport (RSW)

Many people from around the country choose to fly to Marco Island. The closest airport is Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers.

If you choose to rent a car, the drive from Fort Myers to Marco Island is 48 miles, which takes about an hour on I-75 South. Exit Collier Blvd. south (Rt. 941) directly to Marco across the Jolley Bridge.

Do I need A Car in Marco Island?

Marco Island resorts and beaches
You may not need a car. The beaches and behind the resorts and restaurants and shopping in front along Collier Blvd.

No, you don’t need a car.

Marco Island resorts along Collier Blvd., like the JW Marriott, Hilton and others, are very close to restaurants and shopping. A car is not necessary.

However, if you plan to explore Naples, the Everglades or the entire island, a car is suggested.

Getting To Marco Island by Car from the North and Other Florida Cities

To get to Marco Island from other places in Florida generally involves taking a convenient route to I-75 South and following the directions above.

Driving from Tampa and Orlando to Marco is quite common. Both end up on Collier Blvd., leading to the island.

Conclusion – Can You Get To Marco Island by Car

You certainly can get to Marco Island by car. Hundreds of people do each day!
 

However, many people may want to enjoy the museums, shops and many restaurants scattered around the island. Our experiences on the island find an automobile necessary to explore Marco Island.

 
A little island paradise awaits visitors who cross one of two bridges leading to the island. 
 

More Marco Island Information

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