Where is Marco Island, FL? [And How to Get There]​

Craving salty breezes, sun-warmed sand, and off-the-grid vibes? Then let us introduce you to Marco Island—a Gulf Coast stunner tucked into Florida’s Ten Thousand Islands. This laid-back beach paradise is where you go to ditch the noise, unplug under a coconut palm, and soak up the kind of natural beauty that feels too good to be real. In this guide, we’ll show you exactly where Marco Island is, how to get there without stress, and what to do once you land in barefoot bliss.

Where is Marco Island, Florida?

Marco Island sits along Florida’s southwest coast, about 20 miles south of Naples. It’s the largest barrier island in the Ten Thousand Islands chain—an untouched maze of mangrove forests, estuaries, and rare wildlife that feels like Florida’s best-kept secret. As the unofficial gateway to Everglades National Park, Marco Island serves up easy access to subtropical adventures while still keeping you close to creature comforts.

It’s wild yet refined. Quiet, but never boring. And thanks to its place within the Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge, you’re never far from dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and that famous Gulf Coast glow.

How to Get to Marco Island, FL

By Car

Two scenic bridges connect Marco Island to the mainland, making it an easy drive from cities like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Orlando. Cruise down I-75 (a.k.a. Alligator Alley), take in the Everglades views, and roll into paradise without ever boarding a plane. Coming from the Keys? The Overseas Highway makes for an unforgettable coastal road trip.

By Plane

Marco Island doesn’t have a commercial airport, but getting close is easy. Fly into one of these nearby hubs:

• Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) – Fort Myers (~50 miles)

• Naples Municipal Airport (APF) – Naples (~20 miles)

• Miami International Airport (MIA) – Miami (~105 miles)

RSW is the top pick for most travelers. From there, grab a rental car or shuttle service and enjoy the drive. Got your own plane? Marco Island Executive Airport is open for private and charter flights.

By Boat

For boat lovers, arriving by water is half the fun. Whether you’re ferrying in or captaining your own vessel, Marco Island’s waterways are nothing short of epic. Just make sure you’re boating smart:

• Idle speed only in canals and near beaches

• Follow U.S. Coast Guard rules

• Register your vessel and check local clearance restrictions

Public launches: Caxambas Park, Collier Boulevard Boating Park, Calusa Island Marina

Marinas & resorts: Parkway Motel & Marina, Boat House Motel, Naples Bay Resort

By Group Transportation

Traveling with a crew? Bus and shuttle services run from places like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Orlando. If you’re in the Keys, hop aboard the seasonal Key West Express ferry and cruise your way to Marco.

Top Things to Do On Marco Island

Don’t let Marco’s chill vibe fool you—this place is full of adventure. Whether you’re into sunrise paddles, wildlife encounters, or slow mornings on the sand with a strong coffee, Marco Island experiences deliver big fun. Here’s how to make the most of your time on the island: Think wild landscapes, glowing sunsets, and Gulf Coast adventures that leave you salty, happy, and planning your return before you’ve even left.

1. Kayak Tours

Get off the grid and into the mangroves with a guided kayak tour. You’ll paddle through serene backwaters, spot birds and dolphins, and maybe even catch a glimpse of a manatee if you’re lucky. This isn’t your average paddle—it’s a nature-lover’s dream and one of the best ways to feel connected to the wild side of Marco Island.

2. Boat Tours

From dolphin sightings to shell-covered sandbars, Marco Island boat tours deliver big on wow-factor. Cruise the Ten Thousand Islands with a naturalist guide, hunt for rare shells, or toast the day with a sunset tour that feels straight out of a postcard. Whether you’re on a small-group eco tour or a private charter, this is the good stuff.

3. Day Trips and Excursions

Looking to branch out? Plan a quick getaway to quirky landmarks like the Cape Romano Dome House, or dive into the wild side with an Everglades airboat tour. Got the kids in tow? Fall brings cooler temps and fewer crowds—perfect for family-friendly outings. Our rundown on the best fall vacation ideas in Marco Island for families has top picks for seasonal fun. For even more ways to save, check out our budget Marco Island travel guide.

4. Beachcombing and Shelling

Bring your bucket—Marco Island’s beaches are a shell hunter’s dream. Tigertail Beach is the top spot for combing the tide line, birdwatching, and even spotting the occasional sand dollar. For a more low-key vibe, South Marco Beach offers epic sunrise views and some of the best shelling on the island. for shell lovers. Head to Tigertail Beach or South Marco Beach for sunrise shell hunts and rare coastal finds.

5. Golfing, Shopping and Dining

Play a round at a championship course, shop high-end boutiques in Naples, or grab fresh seafood at a waterfront tiki bar. If you’re a foodie, don’t miss our roundup of the Top 10 Places to Eat in Marco Island—perfect for everything from casual bites to romantic dinners.

And if you’re trying to keep it affordable, food trucks and happy hour deals make it easy to stay on budget without sacrificing flavor.

6. Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

Looking for something a little off the radar? These spots are beloved by locals and worth carving out time for:

• The Oyster Society – Upscale but approachable, this local gem offers fresh-caught seafood, killer cocktails, and a stylish island vibe that’s perfect for date night or a celebratory dinner.

• Otter Mound Preserve – Tucked into a residential area, this hidden nature trail features ancient shell mounds, lush tropical foliage, and a peaceful escape from the crowds.

• Marco Island Historical Museum – A quiet, fascinating dive into the island’s Calusa Indian roots and old Florida charm.

• Joey D’s Italian Restaurant – Local-approved pizza and pasta for when you want a hearty, satisfying meal.

• Briggs Nature Center Boardwalk – A peaceful boardwalk trail tucked along the edge of Rookery Bay with birdwatching and photo ops galore.

Marco Island vs. Other Destinations

Planning your trip to Marco Island is all about matching your vibe—but it helps to know how this Gulf Coast gem stacks up to nearby hotspots.

Marco Island vs. Naples: Marco is more laid-back and nature-focused, perfect for kayaking, shelling, and unplugging. Naples, just 20 minutes north, offers a more upscale vibe with fine dining, luxury shopping, and lively nightlife. Many visitors stay in Naples and make day trips to Marco for beach time and tours.

Marco Island vs. Fort Myers Beach: Fort Myers Beach is more energetic, with beach bars, live music, and spring break crowds. Marco is quieter and more family-friendly, with pristine beaches and abundant wildlife. If you’re after calm waters and chill vibes, Marco wins.

Marco Island vs. the Florida Keys: The Keys are farther away but great for snorkeling and a quirky island atmosphere. Marco offers a similar island experience—with less driving and easier access to Everglades tours and Gulf Coast adventures.

FAQs About Visiting Marco Island

What is the closest airport to Marco Island, Florida?

Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers is the closest major airport—about 50 miles away. Naples Municipal Airport is even closer but serves mainly private and charter flights.

Do I need a car on Marco Island?

While you can use rideshares or bikes to get around, having a car is helpful—especially if you plan on exploring nearby areas like Naples, the Everglades, or Fort Myers Beach.

What’s the best time of year to visit Marco Island?

Fall (August to October) offers the best deals and fewer crowds, but winter and spring bring the best weather. For budget tips, check out our Cheapest Time to Visit Marco Island guide.

A Quick Look Back to Wrap up: Where Is Marco Island—and Where Did It Come From?

Sure, today Marco Island is a dreamy getaway, but its story goes way deeper than soft sand and sunset sails. Understanding where Marco Island is means more than just looking at a map—it’s about the people, the culture, and the transformation of a wild island into the laid-back paradise it is now.

Long before tourists arrived, the Calusa people called this place home. They were expert shell mound builders, leaving behind remnants you can still see today at places like Otter Mound Preserve and the Marco Island Historical Museum. Fast forward a few centuries, and Spanish explorers named it “La Isla de San Marco.” It wasn’t until the 1960s that Marco Island really took shape as a resort town, thanks to the Mackle Brothers and a big development boom.

Here are a few fun facts that make Marco even more fascinating:

• It sits atop ancient shell mounds built by the Calusa people, some of which still shape the land today.

• The island was once only accessible by boat until bridges were built in the mid-20th century.

• Cape Romano’s Dome Homes, originally built in 1981, were designed to be self-sustaining—and now serve as eerie, iconic ruins.

• Marco Island is only 24 square miles—but boasts some of the most biodiverse estuary ecosystems in the country.

• It was a fishing village long before it was a vacation destination, with roots in Goodland and Caxambas predating major development.

Marco may be small, but its story is mighty—and every trip here adds a new chapter.. Its story stretches back centuries, from the Calusa shell mounds to quirky landmarks like the Cape Romano Dome House. These layers of history give the island a unique character you won’t find in just any beach town.. It’s a slice of Florida history with layers worth exploring!