SUV Hire
Naples

For a late arrival at Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW), using the on-site car hire facility is your most efficient option. The rental counters are conveniently situated in a single consolidated centre just a short walk from the baggage reclaim area. This setup removes the need to wait for and ride an external shuttle bus to an off-airport lot. By having your reservation details ready, you can complete the paperwork swiftly, access your SUV in the adjacent garage, and begin your drive to Naples with minimal delay.

The most straightforward route from RSW to downtown Naples is to take I-75 South. After leaving the airport, follow the signs to merge directly onto the interstate. This major highway offers wide lanes and clear signage, making it less stressful than navigating a series of local roads. You will stay on I-75 for the majority of the drive before taking one of the primary Naples exits, such as Pine Ridge Road or Golden Gate Parkway, to head west toward the coast. This route minimises complex turns and allows you to acclimatise to the area's traffic flow.

The drive from RSW to Marco Island in an SUV is generally smooth and scenic, especially in the final stretch. You'll likely take I-75 South to the Collier Boulevard (CR 951) exit, which is a multi-lane road that leads you directly south. As you approach the island, you will cross the large Judge S.S. Jolley Bridge, which offers beautiful water views. Traffic flow is typically steady, but it can become congested during peak season or rush hour. The roads are well marked with clear turning lanes, making navigation manageable even for first-time visitors.

While the drive from RSW to Naples can take as little as 35–45 minutes in light traffic, it's wise to budget extra time during weekday rush hours. Plan for the journey to take closer to 60–75 minutes, particularly if you arrive between 4:00pm and 6:30pm. The main slowdowns typically occur on I-75 and on the primary east–west roads in Naples, like Pine Ridge Road or Golden Gate Parkway, as you get closer to US-41. An SUV provides a comfortable ride, so allowing this extra buffer will ensure a more relaxed start to your trip.

A great place to pull over and get situated shortly after leaving RSW is the airport's Cell Phone Waiting Lot. While intended for those picking up passengers, it's located just off the main airport exit road and offers a safe, convenient place to park for a few minutes. Alternatively, there are several large shopping plazas with spacious car parks within the first few miles of driving toward Naples, particularly around the Daniels Parkway and I-75 interchange. These spots allow you to safely programme your sat-nav, connect your phone to the SUV's Bluetooth, and adjust your mirrors without the pressure of traffic.

When travelling with bulky gear like strollers and beach chairs, look for an SUV with a spacious cargo area and a low load floor, which makes lifting heavy items easier. Features like a power tailgate are incredibly helpful when your hands are full. Additionally, models with 60/40 split-folding rear seats offer great flexibility, allowing you to accommodate long items while still having room for passengers. A retractable cargo cover is also a valuable feature for keeping your belongings concealed and secure when you're away from the vehicle.

Manoeuvring an SUV in the charming but busy streets of Old Naples requires some patience, especially during peak dinner hours. While driving is straightforward, on-street parking spaces are in high demand and can be a tight fit for larger vehicles. Your best strategy is to head directly for one of the public parking garages located just off the main avenues. These garages offer more spacious spots and save you the stress of circling for a parallel space, allowing you to enjoy a short, pleasant walk to the area's renowned restaurants and shops.

Parking an SUV near the Naples Pier can be challenging due to the limited number of spaces in the adjacent car park. The spots are metered, and the lot fills up very quickly, especially on weekends, bank holidays, and around sunset. For a better chance at finding a spot, try arriving early in the morning or on a weekday. If the main car park is full, you can look for on-street parking in the surrounding residential streets, but be sure to pay close attention to any posted parking restrictions and be prepared for a bit of a walk.

Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park is well equipped for visitors with SUVs full of beach gear. The park has several large car parks situated along the length of the beach, providing convenient access to the sand. From most parking spots, the walk to the shoreline is relatively short and flat, often via a wooden boardwalk over the dunes. However, the park is extremely popular and frequently reaches capacity, especially on sunny weekends. It's highly recommended to arrive early in the morning to secure a spot and avoid being turned away.

Parking your SUV at Clam Pass Park is straightforward as there is a large, dedicated car park for beachgoers. After parking, you have two options to get to the beach: a scenic walk along a three‑quarter‑mile boardwalk or a ride on a free electric tram. The tram is a fantastic option when you're hauling chairs, coolers, and other gear. The car park is sizable, but it can fill up during peak season, so arriving earlier in the day is always a good strategy to ensure you get a space.

The most direct route from Naples to Everglades City is to take US‑41, also known as the Tamiami Trail, heading east. This two‑lane highway takes you straight through the heart of the Everglades ecosystem and is a scenic drive in itself. The journey is generally smooth, but potential slowdowns can occur if you get behind slower‑moving RVs or tourist traffic, as passing opportunities can be limited. Also, be mindful of wildlife, as it's not uncommon to see alligators or wading birds near the road, which can sometimes cause other drivers to slow down unexpectedly.

Driving an SUV to the Big Cypress National Preserve from Naples is very manageable. The main roads, such as US‑41 (Tamiami Trail) and I‑75 (Alligator Alley), are paved and well maintained. However, once you venture onto scenic drives like the Loop Road, conditions can become unpaved and rougher, where an SUV's higher clearance is beneficial. The most critical aspect of planning is fuel; petrol stations are virtually nonexistent within the preserve. It is essential to start your journey from Naples with a full tank of fuel to avoid any issues.

The easiest and most common route from Naples to Sanibel and Captiva Islands is to take I‑75 North to Exit 131 (Daniels Parkway). From there, you'll follow well‑marked signs that guide you west toward the Sanibel Causeway. This route uses major, multi‑lane roads for most of the journey, which can feel more comfortable and less confusing than navigating a series of smaller local streets. The causeway itself is a memorable part of the drive, offering expansive water views that are sure to entertain kids in the back seat.

Driving an SUV on I-75 around Naples is generally a smooth experience, thanks to the highway's wide, straight design. However, traffic volume can make certain areas feel hectic, particularly during rush hour or peak tourist season. The interchanges at Pine Ridge Road (Exit 107) and Immokalee Road (Exit 111) tend to be the busiest, with significant merging traffic. When approaching these exits, it's wise to move into your desired lane early and be mindful of other vehicles entering and exiting the interstate to ensure a calm and safe drive.

An SUV is an excellent choice for a golf trip, providing ample space for clubs and luggage. To keep your equipment secure, always use the vehicle's cargo cover to conceal your golf bags from view. If the SUV doesn't have a cover, the tinted rear windows offer a degree of concealment. When stopping for a meal or running errands, try to park in a visible, well‑lit area. For maximum security, you can also bring a simple cable lock to secure your golf bags to a tie‑down point inside the cargo area.

To ensure a stress‑free arrival for a morning tee time in Bonita Springs or Estero, plan to leave Naples about 45 to 60 minutes before you need to be at the golf course. While the drive north on I‑75 or US‑41 can be quick, morning commuter traffic can cause unexpected delays, especially between 7:30am and 9:00am. This time buffer allows for a comfortable drive, gives you a cushion for any traffic slowdowns, and leaves plenty of time to check in at the pro shop and warm up before you play.

Driving to Vanderbilt Beach on a weekend requires planning, as it's one of the most popular spots in the area. The main bottleneck occurs on Vanderbilt Beach Road as you approach the public parking garage near the main access point. Traffic can back up significantly, and the garage often fills up early. There are no particularly tricky turns, but the combination of vehicle, pedestrian, and cyclist traffic calls for extra awareness. Arriving before 10:00am is highly recommended to secure a parking spot and avoid the heaviest congestion.

Naples Park is a residential neighbourhood with a grid‑like street layout, making it relatively easy to navigate in an SUV. The streets are generally wide enough to accommodate larger vehicles comfortably. Most homes have driveways, so on‑street parking is typically available, but be sure to check for any local restrictions. The area's proximity to major roads like US‑41 and Immokalee Road makes it a convenient base for exploring, as you can easily access shopping centres, beaches, and main thoroughfares without navigating complex interchanges.

Parking an SUV at Mercato can be challenging during peak evening and weekend hours, but it is manageable. While the on‑street parallel parking spots in the centre of the complex fill up quickly and can be a tight fit, there is a large, multi‑level parking garage on the north side of the property. This garage is your best bet, as it offers ample space and is designed to handle higher volumes of traffic. Using the garage may involve a slightly longer walk, but it will save you the frustration of circling for a street spot.

For a hassle‑free grocery run in an SUV, look for major supermarkets like Publix or Whole Foods located in larger suburban‑style shopping centres. These plazas, often found along major roads like Pine Ridge Road, Airport‑Pulling Road, or Immokalee Road, feature expansive car parks with wide lanes and generously sized spaces. The entrances and exits are typically well signed and designed for easy flow, allowing you to park, shop, and load your vehicle without navigating the tight quarters of smaller, older lots.

Naples Botanical Garden offers a large, well‑organised car park that is very accommodating for SUVs. The layout is simple, with clear lanes and ample space for manoeuvring larger vehicles. There are no significant walking distances to worry about; the main entrance is just a short, pleasant stroll from anywhere in the lot. The garden's thoughtful design extends to its parking facilities, ensuring a convenient and easy start and end to your visit, even on busier days.

To avoid the heaviest traffic on a day trip from Naples to the Fort Myers area, timing is key. Plan to drive north on I‑75 after the morning rush, ideally between 9:30am and 11:00am. For your return trip, aim to leave the Fort Myers area either before 3:30pm or after 6:30pm to miss the worst of the southbound evening commute. Driving an SUV provides a comfortable and commanding view of the road, which is especially helpful when navigating the busy interchanges around Fort Myers.

When visiting Old Naples for the day, the best strategy is to park your SUV in one of the centrally located public parking garages. The garages on 8th Street South, just north of 5th Avenue South, are excellent choices. By parking here, you can leave your vehicle for the day and explore the entire downtown area—including 5th Avenue South, 3rd Street South, and the Naples Pier—on foot. This approach eliminates the stress of finding multiple on‑street spots and allows you to fully immerse yourself in the area's charm.

During peak season, traffic patterns in Naples can be unpredictable, causing GPS apps to frequently reroute. The most reliable approach is to stick to the main arterial roads, such as US‑41 (Tamiami Trail), Goodlette‑Frank Road, and Airport‑Pulling Road, rather than following every suggested shortcut through residential neighbourhoods. These major roads are designed to handle higher traffic volumes and are often the most consistent option. Having a passenger act as a co‑pilot to monitor the map can also help you anticipate turns and make decisions with less last‑minute stress.

To avoid arriving in Miami during its intense morning rush hour, plan to leave Naples no later than 6:00am. This early departure should have you crossing Alligator Alley and approaching the Miami metro area before the peak congestion builds up around 8:30am. The drive itself is about two hours, so this timing allows you to get into the city smoothly. For the return trip, leaving Miami before 3:00pm or after 7:00pm is the best way to miss the worst of the westbound evening traffic.

Driving an SUV on Alligator Alley (I‑75) is comfortable, but the long, straight stretches can cause driver fatigue. It's a good idea to ensure you are well rested before starting the roughly 80‑mile crossing. Services are extremely limited, with only one service plaza at the halfway point, so begin with a full tank of fuel. Florida weather can change rapidly, and heavy rainstorms can pop up with little warning. In these conditions, reduce your speed, turn on your headlights, and maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles.

Yes, the historic Old Naples district, particularly the residential streets between 5th Avenue South and the beach, can have surprisingly tight on‑street parking. While a map may show available spots, these are often narrow and better suited for smaller cars, with trees and post boxes limiting manoeuvrability for a larger SUV. For a less stressful experience in this area, it's almost always better to opt for a public parking garage or a designated lot, even if it means a slightly longer walk to your destination.

Many Naples attractions are very accommodating for visitors with mobility considerations. The Naples Botanical Garden has an excellent circular driveway for easy drop‑offs right at the entrance. Similarly, Artis—Naples, home of the Baker Museum and the Naples Philharmonic, offers a convenient covered drop‑off area. For dining in Old Naples, many restaurants on 5th Avenue South and 3rd Street South have valet services or are located near parking garages with lifts, minimising walking distances and making the experience more comfortable for everyone.

Most hotels and resorts in Naples are well prepared for arriving guests with vehicles full of luggage. The best approach is to pull into the hotel's designated porte‑cochère or main entrance driveway. These areas are specifically designed for temporary parking while you check in and unload your belongings. Hotel staff or bellhops are usually available to assist with your luggage. After you've unloaded, you can then move your SUV to a permanent spot in the hotel's car park or garage.

First‑time drivers in Naples are often surprised by the number of dedicated turn‑only lanes that can appear with little warning, so it's important to be in your correct lane well in advance of an intersection. While drawbridges aren't common in the main part of Naples, you will encounter them heading toward areas like Fort Myers Beach. Also, be very attentive to school zones, which have significantly reduced speed limits during specific morning and afternoon hours and are strictly enforced. Paying close attention to road signs is key to navigating the area smoothly.

Night driving in Naples is generally safe, as major roads like US‑41 and I‑75 are well lit. However, in residential areas and along some coastal roads, lighting can be less consistent to preserve the area's ambience and protect sea turtle nesting sites. The downtown areas of 5th Avenue South and 3rd Street South have heavy pedestrian traffic in the evenings, so extra caution is required. The higher vantage point of an SUV can be an advantage, providing better visibility of your surroundings in these bustling areas.

For early morning access to the beach for sunrise photos, the Naples Pier car park is a reliable option. Parking enforcement typically begins at a set time in the morning, so arriving before then often allows you to park without immediate payment, though you should always check the metre for current regulations. Many public beach access points at the end of residential avenues also have metered spots that are available on a first‑come, first‑served basis. Arriving well before sunrise gives you the best chance of securing one of these prime locations.

A great loop trip from Naples involves heading south on Collier Boulevard (CR 951) to explore Marco Island in the morning. After your visit, instead of returning the same way, you can take San Marco Road (CR 92) east. This road connects you directly to US‑41 (Tamiami Trail), positioning you perfectly to drive east into the heart of the Everglades toward Everglades City or Shark Valley. To complete the loop, you can then take US‑41 back north‑west, which leads you directly into Naples, creating a scenic and efficient full‑day adventure.

During Florida's summer thunderstorms, the most significant hazard is reduced visibility from intense downpours. The first precaution is to turn on your headlights to make your SUV more visible to others. Reduce your speed significantly and increase your following distance, as roads can become slick. While Naples roads drain well, temporary pooling can occur, so avoid driving through standing water if you can't gauge its depth. The stability and higher ground clearance of an SUV provide an extra sense of security in these conditions.

When stopping with a full load of luggage, the best practice is to make your belongings invisible. Utilise the SUV's cargo cover to completely hide everything in the back. If there is no cover, the tinted windows of most SUVs offer some concealment, but it's still wise to pack items tightly to minimise their visibility. Always choose to park in a prominent, well‑lit spot in the restaurant's car park. These simple steps act as a strong deterrent and allow you to enjoy your stop with greater peace of mind.

For an early morning flight, it's a good rule of thumb to leave Naples approximately two and a half hours before your flight's departure time. This schedule allocates about 45–60 minutes for the drive, building in a buffer for any potential commuter traffic on I‑75. It also provides ample time to refuel the vehicle near the airport, navigate the car hire return signs, complete the drop‑off process, and get through airport security without feeling rushed. This conservative timing helps ensure a smooth and stress‑free end to your trip.

A wonderful and easy scenic drive is along Gordon Drive through the Port Royal neighbourhood. This road winds past stunning homes and lush landscapes with views of the Gulf, and it generally has light traffic. Another great option is the drive from Naples down to Marco Island via US‑41 and Collier Boulevard, which offers beautiful water views as you cross the bridges. For nature scenery, driving east on US‑41 (Tamiami Trail) into the Everglades provides numerous designated pull‑offs and observation areas where you can safely stop to take in the unique landscape.

To minimise traffic delays when driving between Naples and Cape Coral, timing your trips to avoid peak rush hours is essential. Try to travel north from Naples in the mid‑morning (after 9:30am) and head south from Cape Coral in the early afternoon (before 3:00pm) or later in the evening (after 6:30pm). The main bottlenecks are the Cape Coral Bridge and the I‑75 interchanges in Fort Myers. Using a real‑time traffic app is invaluable for checking conditions before you leave, allowing you to choose the least congested route for a more pleasant drive.