Sit back, relax and enjoy what paradise has to offer
In addition to its pristine weather, Florida’s Paradise Coast boasts a variety of activities that are fun for the whole family. From adventurous outdoor experiences to relaxing dining opportunities, the region has something for everyone.
Picturesque Beaches
Whether you opt for an action-packed beach adventure or simply want to soak up the sun, Naples’ beautiful landscapes and picturesque beaches are a must. Here are a few of the best beaches for your summer stay. Clam Pass Park is a beautiful beach access point that features 35 acres of coastal habitat. The beach is accessed by a three-quarter-mile long boardwalk that takes you through a mangrove forest to the sandy beach.
Barefoot Beach Preserve is home to numerous animal species, including the land-dwelling Gopher Tortoise and a variety of sea turtles that nest on the beach. The 342 acres of unspoiled, natural habitat offers visitors beautiful surroundings on one of the last undeveloped barrier islands on Florida’s Southwest coast.
Beach Chair on Barefoot Beach. Photos courtesy of Naples, Marco Island, Everglades CVB.
Naples Botanical Garden
This 170-acre, world-class garden paradise features diverse habitats and flora from the tropics and subtropics (between the 26th latitude) across the globe. It is home to more than 1,600 species of orchids. Open daily, the garden is a breathtaking venue that offers photographers and visitors endless opportunities for memorable photos. The garden welcomes more than 220,000 visitors per year and features paved trails and unpaved paths where visitors can immerse themselves in the solace and beauty of this sanctuary setting.
Tree House – Naples Botanical Garden. Photos courtesy of Naples, Marco Island, Everglades CVB.
Manatee Sightseeing Eco-Tour
Get an up-close look at these gentle giants all from the comfort and safety of a covered boat. In addition to manatees, guests may even see alligators, dolphins and birds in their natural habitat. Exploring the waterways with a guide not only gives guests an enhanced immersive experience, but also increases their chances of seeing these incredible species up-close.
Revs Institute
One of Naples hidden gems, the Revs Institute is much more than a museum. It is one of the world’s largest private car collections and allows guests to witness history through the lens of automotive engineering and technology. It houses some of the world’s most treasured and significant automobiles such as a 1026 Bentley-3-Liter Super Sport Skiff, a 1924 Miller 122/91 Racing Car, a 1995 McLaren F-1 and a full section devoted to the evolution of Porsche excellence. Admission to the museum is limited and reservations are required to tour the collection.
Collier County Museums
Take your pick between Collier County’s five museum options, each offering a unique perspective into the county’s heritage. Collier Museum at Government Center in Naples offers exhibits and galleries that capture the full panorama of local history; the Museum of the Everglades, in Everglades City, features an in-depth look at more than 2,000 years of human history in the area; the Immokalee Pioneer Museum at Roberts Ranch in Immokalee, tells the story of the cow hunters, ranchers and pioneer-spirited families who struggled to tame this vast wilderness prairie; the Naples Depot Museum, welcomes visitors back to the railroading boom of the Roaring 20s; and the Marco Island Historical Museum, which explores Southwest Florida’s Calusa Indians and features colorful displays that bring this vanished civilization to life.
Sun-N-Fun Lagoon
Beat the summer heat at this thrilling 6.1-acre interactive waterpark in North Collier Regional Park. The park features 5 water slides, a 1,250 linear foot, circular lazy river, a family-friendly pool, the Tadpole Pool for toddlers and a Dolphin Dive and Lap Pool. The water park is open daily, but hours are subject to change due to inclement weather.
Sun-N-Fun Lagoon. Photos courtesy of Naples, Marco Island, Everglades CVB.
Waterside Shops
Waterside Shops is a beautiful, upscale retail experience that is accented by flowing water and fountains, interspersed with designer boutiques, high-end retailers and upscale restaurants. It is anchored by Saks Fifth Avenue and Nordstrom, and is complemented by designer shops including Hermes, Gucci, Tiffany & Co., Cartier, St. John and Ralph Lauren among others. It also houses an Apple Store, and Peloton and Tesla stores.
Tin City
The beachy Tin City waterside marketplace will give you a real taste of authentic Naples. This eclectic shopping and dining spot houses several sea-themed gift shops and stores with resort wear and novelty items. Visitors can also indulge in fresh seafood at Pinchers Crab Shack or Riverwalk at Tin City, all within view of the crystal-clear water. Many popular charter and tour boats are docked along the pier, so it is a perfect location to select one of them to enjoy a couple hours of exploration along the local waterways.
Fifth Avenue and Third Streets South
Fifth Avenue South is a dynamic, pedestrian-friendly area featuring a variety of art galleries, as well as clothing, gift and design boutiques, restaurants and bars, the Sugden Theatre, and the Naples Art Association. The Street was named the #2 Best Alfresco Dining Neighborhood in the U.S.A. by editors and readers at USA TODAY’s 10 Best travel section.
Trendy Third Street South has art galleries, fashion houses and boutiques, antiques, jewelry, home décor, outdoor cafes and popular restaurants, all within walking distance of the beach. It is the only street in the U.S. to have its own Street Concierge. The concierge booth is staffed daily to answer questions and provide advice on dining, events, shopping and more.
There are frequent live performances by Naples Players at Sugden Theatre, the Gulfcoast Players at the Norris Center, monthly live music, and even art shows.
Unique dining experiences enhance the experience
Joanie’s Blue Crab Cafe
This quaint yet casual café in Ochopee is perfect for a quick bite and a taste of the local culture. With signs boasting its “cold beer and good food,” this laid-back, beachy lunch spot is a great place for a post-beach day bite.
The Turtle Club
Located on the beach in Naples, guests can indulge in a sophisticated meal within feet of the crashing waves. Book this oceanside dining experience in advance to ensure you get a reservation at one of the beachiest dining spots on the coast.
Bar Tulia
Fine dining in a hip, tavern-style atmosphere — what else could you need? Bar Tulia’s balance of classic yet modern pub food is unmatched, and its drinks are perfect for wine enthusiasts and beer drinkers alike. Open until midnight, this downtown Naples venue is ideal for a late night bite.
The French Brasserie Rustique
Created by award-winning Florida chef and culinary icon Vincenzo Betulia, this restaurant offers all of the brasserie classics made with the highest quality ingredients. With fresh seafood and locally produced meat, “The French” gives guests a flavor of the French country, in the very heart of Naples.
21 Spices
This progressive Indian establishment in Naples seeks to give guests an enhanced culinary journey, all while remaining authentic to classic Indian cuisine. The unique menu includes delectable options for times of day, from bento box lunch specials to mouthwatering dinner options to small bites. But make sure you save room for the saffron-ginger ice cream!
Celebration Park
Naples’ waterfront bar and food truck park is the perfect place for a quick, casual, on-the-go bite. The park hosts permanent food trucks, including Nawty Hogg BBQ, Dilly’s Seafood and Three60 Market among many others.
For those who rather sit back and stay for a while, the park features a tiki bar and pavilion with seating by the waterfront.
