Airports in Naples Florida and Other Tips to Help Plan Your Trip

by Lori Sorrentino

So you’re thinking of a beach getaway to Southwest Florida?

There are a few essential things to know before you plan your trip, like which Naples Florida airports to book your flight into and other tips for planning your visit.

You’ll have loads of questions that need to be answered:

What airport should you fly into?

What time of year should you visit Naples?

What is the weather like?

Where should you stay?

Is it expensive to visit Naples Florida and Marco Island?

And these are just the start.

We’re here to help.

This guide has answers to most of your questions as well as essential travel tips for Naples, Florida that you need to know!

What You’ll Find:

Where is Naples Florida?

Average Weather in Naples, Florida

Best Time to Visit Naples, Florida

Airports in Naples Florida

Car Rentals in Naples, Florida

Getting Around Naples, Florida

Naples or Marco Island? Which is Right for You?

Where to Stay in Naples, Florida

Closest Cities to Naples Florida

Where is Naples Florida?

So where is Naples Florida? Naples is located in Collier County, in southwest Florida, the southwest coast of the Florida peninsula.

Long known as a sleepy, sun-drenched part of Florida, the secret of this beautiful paradise is definitely out, though there are plenty of places within it to get away from the crowds.

Naples and its sister city of Marco Island are collectively known as the Paradise Coast, and it more than lives up to its marketing tagline (how often can you say that)!

It is the western gateway to the Florida Everglades, and stretches from north Naples south to the Ten Thousand Islands, hugging the pristine natural areas of Rookery Bay, Keewaydin Island, and other Gulf coastal barrier islands, one more breathtaking than the next.

Average Weather in Naples, Florida

Like most of southwest Florida, Naples and Marco Island enjoy close to 270 days of sunshine a year!

In the summer, temperatures range from an average high of 91 degrees (Fahrenheit) to an average low of 75 degrees in Naples, Florida.
In winter, these temperatures drop to an average high of 76 degrees Fahrenheit and an average low of 56 degrees Fahrenheit.

While Naples is very sunny throughout the year, the city does get more than its fair share of rain in the summer months.

As a matter of fact, afternoon downpours are a relatively common occurrence in the summer.

Best Time to Visit Naples, Florida

Peak season in Naples and Marco Island is the end of December to mid-April, as many people from further north want to escape the cold temperatures.

The summer months of June through September used to be so sleepy quiet that nothing was open.

Locals could relax a bit and enjoy the area without crowds at their favorite haunts that cater to locals.

That’s not the case anymore, as more visitors are staying longer after season ends and coming earlier before the season begins.

They’ve discovered a few things that you should know:

Yes, summer in SWFL is hot, but it’s not appreciably hotter than many places in the Midwest and northeast US in the middle of June, July, and August.
Shoulder season is a great time to visit Naples and SWFL. April to June and September to November offer ideal temperatures, beautiful warm water perfect for swimming, and far fewer crowds.
You can often get into some of the best restaurants in Naples without a reservation!

It’s also important to remember that Naples, Florida gets its fair share of hurricane warnings during hurricane season which is from June through October.

Typically, you’ll have warning of any potential hurricane threats well in advance.

Airports in Naples Florida (and Nearby)

If you’re looking for airports close to Naples Florida, there are several nearby but only one airport in Naples Florida itself.

Here are the airports that service Naples and Marco Island:

Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW)

Distance from Naples and Marco Island: — From most points in Naples, RSW is just 30-40 minutes away. Marco Island may be a bit further at 50 minutes to an hour depending on the season.

The closest airport to Naples, Florida and Marco Island, Florida is the Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in south Fort Myers (Lee County).

Currently, this airport has flights to and from most major U.S. airports, as well as some parts of Canada.

Naples Municipal Airport (APF)

Located in the heart of Naples (Collier County) about 10 minutes from downtown, the Naples Airport (APF) is actually the only airport IN Naples Florida.

However this small airport only has flights to and from other Florida cities, and services mainly charter and corporate flights.

If you’re flying commercial, you’ll fly into the Southwest Florida International Airport.

Punta Gorda Airport (PGD)

Distance from Naples and Marco Island — 1-1.5 hours

IMPORTANT:

It’s important to note that Punta Gorda Airport is located in Punta Gorda — it is NOT LOCATED IN FORT MYERS.

We’ve seen some online flight booking engines which insist on listing its location as Fort Myers.

In fact, Punta Gorda airport is one hour north of Fort Myers and the Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW).

The Punta Gorda Airport in Punta Gorda (Charlotte County) services passenger flights with Allegient Air and private charters through AirTrek Jet Charters.

Flights with Allegient are limited — some are seasonal routes and others fly just on certain days of the week.

If you live near one of the serviced cities, PGD makes a convenient airport to fly into because of its small size.

However, if you’re looking at saving money, it’s worth weighing the value you get flying with Allegiant.

This airline is no-frills and charges extra for your carry-on luggage, checked baggage, and even to pick a seat!

We’ve found after many flights with them that it’s a bit of a shell game.

Any money we thought we saved by flying into Punta Gorda was worth paying to fly into RSW for the convenience of being closer to Naples when we landed.

Car Rentals in Naples, Florida

One of the best travel tips for Naples, Florida is to rent a car.

This will make it significantly easier to make your way around the town, go on exciting day trips, and simply make the 30-minute drive from the Southwest Florida International Airport to Naples.

Luckily, Southwest Florida International Airport has many major car rental companies, including Hertz, Budget Rent a Car, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Alamo Rent A Car, Thrifty Car Rental, and National Car Rental.

Getting Around Naples, Florida

While the most convenient way of getting around Naples is by car, there is also the Collier Area Transit (CAT).

This bus system provides transportation all over Collier County. It can even take you to beaches (for free), shopping areas, parks, and even a few hotels.

To get to and from the local airport, you’ll need to rent a car or hire a private transport.

There are literally dozens of Airport shuttles, ranging from private cars just for the two of you, to vans and small buses to handle a small party or family of 12.

Check with your hotel to see if they can arrange a shuttle for you.

Naples or Marco Island? Which is Right for You?

Naples and Marco Island are located 30 minutes from each other, and it’s easy to go from one another throughout the day.

If you’ve been thinking of a visit to the Paradise Coast but you’re not sure where to stay — Naples or Marco Island — here are a few things to consider about the two sister cities who comprise this stunning coastline:

Naples

Naples sits on Florida’s mainland south of Bonita Springs and north of Marco Island.

The downtown area is well-established and the heart of historic Old Naples.

It’s the city’s tourist and business hub, although visitors will find plenty of things to do and places to explore away from downtown Naples.

Perhaps the #1 attraction in Naples are its beautiful beaches, and there are plenty to choose from.

And when it comes to amenities such as dining, shopping, and activities, there is definitely more to do in Naples.

Marco Island, Florida

Naples, Florida

Marco Island

Marco Island on the other hand, is a smaller community, equally gorgeous with lots of things to do.

Marco is in fact an island, the largest of the Ten Thousand Islands, though there aren’t really Ten Thousand, more like a couple hundred.

Marco Island is closer to the Everglades and is surrounded by water and small islands that are perfect for exploring, boating, shelling, fishing, kayaking, and getting lost on.

Like Naples, the beaches on Marco Island are beautiful but there are far fewer beaches open to the public.

If you want a beach vacation that’s a tad more quiet and secluded, Marco is a good choice.

Is it Expensive to Visit Naples Florida?

It’s true that Naples has a reputation of wealth because of the number of affluent people who call it home, though many just seasonally or a few months of the year.

All it takes is one drive down Gordon Drive to see the mega-mansion compounds to make quite an impression.

But is it expensive to visit Naples, Florida? The answer to that question is — it really depends.

Many visitors come and spend their entire vacation dining and shopping along 5th Avenue South, playing in the tourist zones around Tin City, Bayfront and downtown, and staying right on the beach.

If you a luxury stay, then Yes, you may exhaust your vacation budget (if you had one) more quickly.

But if you’re traveling on a budget, or like most people, simply mindful of the value you’re getting for your hard-earned dollars, it’s just as easy to experience the beauty of Naples by combining your 5th Avenue dinner and occasional shopping splurge with the many local and less expensive shopping, dining, and recreation spots located all around Naples and Marco Island.

As a vacation destination, the Paradise Coast is really no more expensive than many other destinations around the country.

You just need to know where to go.

We’ll show you some of the best spots in Naples and Southwest Florida to shop, dine, and explore for less, or in some cases completely free.

Where to Stay in Naples, Florida

There are amazing places to stay all throughout Naples — on the beach, in Old Town, or on the lively Fifth Avenue South.

You can find an accommodation that suits your budget and style of travel, depending on the time of year.

So what’s an average hotel stay?

Peak season rates in Naples and Marco Island will run you $300 and up per night for a moderately-priced hotel, to $900-$1,600 a night or more for a luxury stay.
There is also a wide selection of chain hotel brands to suit most budgets.
And if you enjoy a more local experience, you’ll find an abundance of vacation home rentals and Airbnbs as well.

Splurge-Worthy Hotels

Inn on Fifth

From $350+ per night off-season — $650+ in-season

The Inn on Fifth is undoubtedly one of the best places to stay in Naples.

As the only accommodation on Fifth Avenue South, this four-star boutique hotel has snatched up a piece of prime real estate.

You’ll be close to many of the best restaurants, bars, galleries, spas, and shops!

But the fantastic location isn’t all that the Inn on Fifth has to offer.

It also has loads of fabulous amenities for you to enjoy.

You can take a dip in the rooftop oasis pool, enjoy a meal at one of the hotel’s two award-winning restaurants, and get pampered at the Spa on Fifth.

Check more details and availability

The Ritz-Carlton Naples

From $900+ per night off-season — $1,800+ in-season

If you’re looking to splurge during your time in Naples, you’ll definitely want to stay at the Ritz-Carlton Naples.

This hotel is known for being the best place to stay in town.

First and foremost, the Ritz-Carlton Naples is situated right on Vanderbilt Beach.

So if you’d like to spend your entire day lounging on the sandy shores and swimming in the water, you definitely can.

Even when you’re in your room, you can enjoy unobstructed views of the Gulf of Mexico!

The Ritz-Carlton Naples also offers half a dozen mouthwatering dining experiences, two heated outdoor pools, a fabulous spa, a high-tech entertainment lounge, and access to the amazing Tiburón Golf Club.

Check availability and current rates

Moderately Priced Gems

Trianon Hotel

From $150+/night off-season — $350+ in-season

The Trianon Old Naples is a boutique-style mid-priced hotel stay with an enviable Old Town location — perfect for a romantic getaway or a relaxed family trip.

You’ll find free wireless Internet, oversized bathrooms, and spacious guest rooms to full suites, all with a terrace or balcony.

But the best reason to stay here is the location for such value, within walking distance of dozens of top restaurants on and off Fifth Avenue, Third Street, Bayfront, Crayton Cove, and the Naples Waterfront.

Check rates and availability

Bellasera Resort

From $250+/night off-season — $650+ in-season

With its red tiled roof and ivory stucco walls, the Mediterranean-inspired Bellasera Resort is a fantastic place to stay.

Situated in the heart of Old Town, it’s one of the city’s hidden gems.

Bellasera Resort has spacious condominium-style rooms, and a host of amenities like a fabulous heated pool (it can get chilly in the winter) and a well-equipped fitness center.

But our favorite part of the Resort is that two of these best dining and nightlife experiences in Naples are right on-site: tasty seafood dishes at The Claw Bar, and live music at The London Club.

Check more details, rates, and availability

Closest Cities to Naples Florida

While Naples has lots to see and do, sometimes you just want to explore what some of the nearby towns have to offer.

Plan a fun day trip from Naples to one of these favorite spots nearby.

Marco Island

Marco Island may only be 30 minutes from Naples, but it feels a world away.

These two cities both have gorgeous beaches and luxurious digs.

As a matter of fact, Marco Island and Naples have so much in common that people often visit both during the same getaway!

But Marco definitely has a different feel to it — a slower more relaxed vibe.

While in Marco Island, you can soak up the sun at South Marco Island Beach, enjoy a meal at an amazing Italian restaurant, or venture out to the abandoned dome houses of Cape Romano.

Bonita Springs

Bonita Springs is one of the more under-the-radar cities near Naples, Florida.

Just 30 minutes outside of Naples, this town is filled with scrumptious restaurants, gorgeous nature, and awesome shopping areas.

During your time in Bonita Springs, you can shop at the Miromar Outlets, explore the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, and dine at one of the town’s many delicious Italian restaurants.

Fort Myers

Fort Myers is the largest city that is relatively close to Naples. And since there are so many things to do in Fort Myers, you can pick and choose which activities will be best for you and your group.

You can catch an MLB spring training game, suntan at Fort Myers Beach, learn the history behind the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, and say hello to the manatees at Manatee Park.

Sanibel Island

Also known as the shelling capital of the world, Sanibel Island is filled with beautiful shells.

As a matter of fact, shelling is by far the most popular activity to do on this island. You can find everything from conch shells to cockle shells to junonia shells.

If you’d like to take your shell knowledge to the next level, you can also pay a visit to the Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum, the only museum in the country dedicated to seashells!