RSW vs. FLL airport for Naples

Question

I booked my flight into FLL for an event that is now happening at Great Wolf Lodge in Naples. It’s about $350 to change my flight from FLL to RSW. Is it worth changing or is it an easy drive from FLL to Naples?

Answer

Both RSW (Fort Myers) and FLL (Fort Lauderdale) can work for a trip to Naples, but the experience is very different in terms of driving time, traffic, convenience, and overall stress. Whether it is “worth” the $350 depends on how much you value a shorter, easier airport transfer.

Below is a detailed breakdown so you can decide confidently.

DRIVING TIMES

FLL → Naples (Great Wolf Lodge): ~1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes
RSW → Naples (Great Wolf Lodge): ~35–40 minutes

The difference is significant: RSW is roughly a third of the travel time.

TRAFFIC DIFFERENCES

FLL to Naples means taking I-595 west → I-75 (Alligator Alley). The first 20–30 minutes near Fort Lauderdale can be heavy, especially during rush hour or if there are accidents.
Once on I-75 across the Everglades, the drive is fast and easy. It’s a straight, boring highway with no exits, wildlife crossings, or congestion.
RSW is a small, calm airport where renters walk straight out to their cars, and the road to Naples has minimal traffic.

WHICH OPTION IS MORE CONVENIENT?

RSW is dramatically more convenient — smaller airport, closer to Naples, less time on the road.
FLL is much busier — long walks, longer queues, and a longer drive.

WHEN IT MIGHT BE WORTH THE $350 TO SWITCH TO RSW

You’re traveling with young kids (especially since Great Wolf Lodge is kid-oriented).
You’re arriving late at night and don’t want a long drive in the dark across Alligator Alley.
You’re tight on schedule or attending a multi-day event where timing matters.
You prefer less hassle and want the trip to feel relaxing.

WHEN YOU SHOULD KEEP THE FLL FLIGHT

The $350 change fee is a financial stretch or not worth it to you.
You’re comfortable driving 2 hours after a flight.
Your arrival/departure times avoid rush hour.
You want to spend a little time on the east coast before heading to Naples.

THE DRIVE ITSELF (WHAT TO EXPECT)

If you keep FLL, the initial part around the airport has multi-lane traffic and lane changes, but once you are on I-75 heading west, it becomes an easy, straight drive with very little congestion. There are rest stops, no toll booths (tolls are electronic only), and typically smooth conditions.

BOTTOM LINE

The drive from FLL to Naples is absolutely manageable and many people do it without issue. If saving $350 matters more than convenience, stay with FLL — you’ll be fine.

However, if budget allows and you want a much easier, quicker, and stress-free arrival, RSW is unquestionably the better airport for Naples.