Naples
Welcome to Naples, the tropical delight that offers clear coastal waters and a dynamic city life. Since its rapid growth in the 1960s, this city in Collier County has been popular with visitors who come to enjoy nature, explore rich cultural landmarks and witness brilliant sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico.
Spend early mornings along the city’s 7-mile (11-kilometer) stretch of beach-lined coastland. Enjoy a picnic in the shady areas of the Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park or cool off with a dip in the temperate ocean waters. Venture farther north to find Barefoot Beach, a perfect location for snorkeling, collecting shells or fishing in the nearby mangroves.
See the best of nature at the Naples Botanical Garden, which features the sabal palm, Florida’s state tree. For a rejuvenating daytrip, explore the Audubon Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary and investigate 14,000 acres (5,665 hectares) of bald cypress forest.
After seeing some of the region’s flora, engage with the animals at the Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens. On lazy afternoons, play a round of golf at one of the city’s numerous courses or explore shopping districts downtown along 3rd Street South and 5th Avenue South. Learn about the history of Naples with a visit to Palm Cottage and its 19th-century relics or the Collier County Museum, which features intriguing inventions and informative exhibits. Don’t miss the incredible sunset views as you relax or fish at the century-old Naples Pier.
Experience the artistic side of Naples with an expressive dance or musical show at the Artis—Naples cultural center. Browse the extensive exhibition halls and the spectacular architectural design of The Baker Museum and then enjoy a lighter moment with stand-up comedy in Daniel’s Pavilion.
Naples is about a two-hour drive west of Miami. Move quickly around this spread-out city by car and utilize affordable parking wherever you go. On a pleasant Naples evening, find a trendy bar by the beach and plan another exciting day.