Enjoy the Ultimate Vacation in Naples, Florida – Shopping, Dining, Resorts, Golf, and Sightseeing

 

Naples, Florida, is a top vacation spot in the U.S. It boasts beautiful beaches, high-end shopping, and fancy resorts. This guide will show you the best places to eat, shop, and see in Naples.

In Naples, you can enjoy fresh seafood, explore fancy shops, or play golf. LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort was named the #1 Best Resort in Naples in 2023. This shows Naples is a top choice for luxury vacations¹. It offers many places to stay and cultural experiences for everyone.

Key Takeaways

• Naples, Florida, is renowned for its upscale shopping and dining experiences.
• LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort claims the title of #1 Best Resort in Naples for 2023.
• The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón features luxurious poolside experiences and stunning dining options.
• Gulf Coast beaches in Naples provide ample opportunities for relaxation and enjoyment.
• The combination of natural beauty and leisure activities makes Naples a must-visit destination.

Introduction to Naples

Welcome to my Naples introduction. Here, I dive into the charm and allure of this vibrant city. Founded as Neapolis in around 600 BCE, Naples has a rich history that wins hearts. It’s a place where visitors and locals find common ground².

Nestled between the Gulf of Mexico and the Everglades, Naples is a treasure trove of attractions. It offers fun activities for all ages. This makes it a top spot for both locals and tourists.

Over time, Naples has grown from its historic landmarks to a cultural hub. It now showcases its legendary past through stunning sites³. The city’s mix of fine dining and shopping draws people from far and wide. This has boosted Naples tourism and created a friendly vibe for everyone.

The city’s population density is about 7,800 people per square kilometer. This bustling urban life is part of Naples’ charm⁴. The city’s landscapes are beautiful, but its food scene is even more captivating. Known for its original pizza, Naples attracts food enthusiasts from around the world.

Naples is a symbol of cultural resilience and rebirth. It invites everyone to discover its incredible history and journey through time.

Things to Do in Naples

Naples is a lively city filled with fun things to do in Naples. You can shop on Fifth Avenue South or visit the Naples Zoo. There’s also outdoor fun like kayaking and live shows at theaters.

The city has many parks for families to relax or learn. It’s a place where everyone can find joy and wellness⁵. You can also find local art and clothes without leaving the city⁵. The beaches are perfect for a calm day with great food nearby.

There’s a lot to do in Naples, like dolphin tours and paddleboarding. You can also see the coast and wildlife on boat tours. Parking is easy, making it simple to explore the beaches and shops⁶. Naples is full of charm, ready for your next adventure.

Shopping in Naples

Naples shopping offers a high-end experience with a unique charm. Fifth Avenue South is a great place to find upscale boutiques, trendy clothing, and art galleries. It’s filled with famous brands and local stores, making it perfect for luxury and unique finds.

Fifth Avenue South Shopping District

Fifth Avenue South is home to a wide range of upscale brands and specialty stores. You can find Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Tiffany & Co. at Waterside Shops, with over sixty stores to explore⁷. Walking down the avenue, you’ll find fine jewelry, custom stationery, and beachwear. It’s a versatile spot for both visitors and locals⁸.

The avenue keeps an Old Florida charm. It offers a mix of local products and global luxury.

Third Street South Shopping Experience

Third Street South combines Naples boutiques and local shops. You can find designer dresses at Marissa Collections, next to art galleries and outdoor cafes. There are shops for home decor and children’s clothing, like Judith Liegeios Designs and Lu Lu Belle Children’s Boutique⁹.

The atmosphere is inviting, making shopping feel like a leisurely activity.

Dining Experiences in Naples

Naples is known for its amazing dining scene, especially for seafood lovers. You’ll find famous stone crab dishes in many local restaurants. These places focus on freshness and flavor. From casual beach bars to fancy restaurants, there’s something for everyone.

Swan River Seafood is a great example. It has a raw bar with seafood like haddock and sea bass. They also serve local favorites like black grouper, attracting both locals and tourists¹⁰.

Seafood Dining and Stone Crabs

Stone crab is at the heart of Naples’ seafood culture. It’s celebrated for its rich flavor and tender meat. Restaurants pride themselves on getting this delicacy straight from the local waters.

For a unique dining experience, try SAILS Restaurant. It offers gourmet seafood with French, Italian, and Greek influences. Mr. Big Fish is also a great choice, located near popular spots¹⁰.

Waterfront Restaurants with Stunning Views

Waterfront dining in Naples is unmatched, with stunning sunset views. Places like LeeBe Fish are right by the coast. They offer delicious seafood in a peaceful waterside setting.

Prices for these dining experiences are around €95 per guest. The mix of great food and beautiful views makes Naples’ dining scene special¹¹

Exploring Naples’ Beautiful Beaches

The beaches in Naples, Florida, are stunning. My top pick is Naples Beach. It has the famous Naples Pier, perfect for sunset views or walks. The beach’s soft sands and calm waters make it peaceful, attracting both locals and tourists.

Naples Beach and the Iconic Pier

The Naples Pier is great for sightseeing and is close to downtown shops. It’s easy to go from beach time to shopping and dining. The pier is a beloved spot, even with recent damage, it still offers beautiful views and a nice atmosphere¹².

Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park is a nearby treasure, ranked 10th best beach in 2014. It has over a mile of pristine sands for relaxation and wildlife watching¹³. Tigertail Beach is perfect for those who love nature and water sports, with both developed and wild areas.

Other Popular Beach Spots

There are many amazing beaches beyond Naples Beach. Lowdermilk Park has volleyball courts and a playground, great for families¹². Barefoot Beach Preserve County Park is ranked 6th best in America, offering a peaceful beach experience¹³. Lovers Key State Park is known for its beauty and wildlife, named one of Florida’s top 10 beaches by the Travel Channel¹³.

Dog Beach Park at Lovers State Park has special areas for dogs of all sizes, so they can play safely in the sand and water¹³. Whether you want to swim, parasail, or just relax, Naples’ beaches have something for everyone.

Resorts and Hotels in Naples

Naples hotels and resorts are right on the beautiful coast. They offer everything from fancy beachfront resorts to places great for families. Each spot is designed to make your trip unforgettable, blending comfort with luxury.

Luxurious Beachfront Resorts

The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, is a top choice among Naples resorts. It has over 42,000 square feet for events and offers many daily services. Guests can enjoy fine dining and stunning ocean views.

The resort is all about luxury, with valet parking and a top-notch spa. It makes sure every guest’s needs are met.

Family-Friendly Accommodations

The Naples Bay Club is perfect for families. It has free wifi and a huge fitness area. The resort has fun spots like private cabanas and a Lazy River.

Families can try modern food at NOSH on Naples Bay or warm pastries at Cafe on the Bay. A shuttle service makes it easy to get around downtown Naples.

Resort/Hotel	Amenities	Notes
The Ritz-Carlton, Naples	Beach services, E-bike rentals, Water park access	Check-in at 4:00 pm, Check-out at 11:00 am14
Naples Bay Club	Complimentary wifi, Fitness center, Private cabanas	Features Family Pool and Lazy River15

Golfing in Naples

Naples, FL, is a top spot for golf lovers with over 90 courses. It has private clubs, public courses, and resort facilities for all skill levels. From the tough greens at Hibiscus Golf Club to the beautiful views at Tiburon Golf Club, there’s something for everyone.

Top Golf Courses in the Area

Lely Resort and Tiburon are among the best golf courses here, each with two public courses¹⁶. Arrowhead Golf Course and Eagle Lakes Golf Club are great for those who don’t want to join a private club¹⁶. The variety of courses keeps the golf community strong.

Naples also has golf academies and training facilities¹⁷. There are shops for golf gear and lessons, showing Naples’ dedication to golf¹⁷. Working with the PGA of America makes Naples a key place for golf.

Course Name	Location	Type
Tiburon Golf Club	Naples	Resort
Eagle Lakes Golf Club	Naples	Public
Hibiscus Golf Club	Naples	Public
Collier’s Reserve Country Club	Naples	Private
Lely Resort	Naples	Public

Outdoor Adventures and Nature Attractions

Exploring Naples outdoors is a great adventure for nature fans and thrill-seekers. The area leads to the Everglades, where I can see alligators and many bird types. The Everglades’ beauty is unmatched, and it’s a chance to learn about its special ecosystems. The Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary has a 2.5-mile boardwalk for a deep nature dive, where I can see otters and turtles¹⁸.

Visiting the Everglades and Wildlife Refuges

The Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve is huge, covering 110,000 acres. It’s home to 150 bird species and other endangered animals¹⁸. The Naples Botanical Garden is also a must-see, with 170 acres of plants and a top horticulture award¹⁸. The Gordon River Greenway Park has 2.5 miles of trails for hiking and is dog-friendly¹⁸.

Boating and Fishing Opportunities

Naples is perfect for water lovers, with great boating and fishing spots. Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park is great for kayaking, and deep-sea fishing charters are available for those who want to explore further¹⁹. The area’s marine life makes fishing exciting, and swimming on the Gulf of Mexico’s beaches is a great way to unwind after a day of fun¹⁹.

FAQ

What are the best things to do in Naples, Florida?

Naples is great for many activities. You can enjoy Naples Beach and its famous pier. The city also has a lively arts scene and upscale shopping on Fifth Avenue South and Third Street South.

Seafood lovers will find top-notch dining options. Outdoor fans can explore the Everglades and enjoy water sports.

What is the weather like in Naples?

Naples has almost constant sunshine all year. Summers are hot and humid, while winters are mild. Temperatures usually range from the mid-70s to low 90s Fahrenheit in summer.

Are there any family-friendly activities in Naples?

Yes, Naples has lots for families. You can visit the zoo, play in parks, or learn at the Naples Botanical Garden. Many beaches are safe and fun for kids.

What dining options are available in Naples?

Naples has a wide range of dining spots. From casual beach bars to fancy restaurants, there’s something for everyone. Seafood lovers will enjoy local dishes like stone crab. Many restaurants offer beautiful views.

What are some popular beaches in Naples?

Naples Beach is great for walks and sunsets. Lowdermilk Park and North Gulfshore Beach are also favorites. They have soft sand and calm waters perfect for swimming and sports.

Where can I find upscale shopping in Naples?

Fifth Avenue South and Third Street South are the places to go for high-end shopping. Fifth Avenue has luxury boutiques and art galleries. Third Street has local shops and fashion stores. Both areas have cafes for breaks.

What are the best golf courses in Naples?

Naples is famous for its golf courses. Tiburon Golf Club and Naples Grande Golf Club are top choices. They offer challenging greens and beautiful views.

What type of accommodations are available in Naples?

Naples has many places to stay. You can choose from luxury resorts like The Ritz-Carlton Naples to family-friendly hotels. There’s something for every budget and preference.

How can I explore the Everglades from Naples?

To see the Everglades, take eco-tours to spot wildlife like alligators and birds. Naples also offers boating and fishing charters. These give you a chance to see the area’s natural beauty.

Travel Booking Links

Source Links

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15. Naples Bay Resort & Marina | Luxury Resort | Official Site – https://www.naplesbayresort.com/
16. Public Golf Courses – https://www.naplesgolfguy.com/public-golf-courses/
17. Golf Courses in Naples, FL – PGA of America – https://www.pga.com/play/fl/naples?srsltid=AfmBOoqghmqzddIe74zPMxgyTIZCNUuKMeSKWRtFuBu0XF-aZ1R6Xape
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