Discovering Naples, Florida: A Weekend Guide for Uncovering Hidden Gems
Nestled on the sun-drenched beaches of the Gulf of Mexico, Southwest Florida is known for world-class shopping, dining, and an abundance of golf courses. Boasting some of the nation's best beaches and calmest seas, Naples makes a splash with both water lovers and recreationists. Enjoy sailing, fishing, and sightseeing in the tranquil waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Embark on a guided nature tour of the area and explore its lush subtropical foliage while soaking up some peace and quiet. Experience the unmatched beauty of Florida's wildlife, from mangrove swamps to manatees, dolphins, alligators, and birds of numerous species.
Naples is located in the Paradise Coast comprising of four main areas:
Naples - seaside luxe & open-air attractions
Marco Island - a beach community with a wild side
Everglades City - pristine spaces & offbeat places
Immokalee & Ave Maria - gaming, ranchland & rugged landscapes
Close to airports like Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW), Naples Airport (APF), Fort Lauderdale International Airport (FLL), and Miami International Airport (MIA), it's also easy to get there.
Want to get around town with ease? For the best in luxury transportation in southwest Florida, Naples Transportations & Tours offers the largest and luxurious fleet with more than 75 vehicles, that range from sedans to motor coaches. From resort groups to weddings, airport transportation, night outs, and more, NT&T is able to take care of all your needs.
PLACES TO STAY IN NAPLES:
This expansive, luxurious beach and golf resort located along Florida's Gulf Coast amongst mangroves. Discover this cozy beachfront accommodation and delight in a relaxing getaway filled with outdoor recreation, stunning surrounding views, and natural surroundings.
FORA Perks:
$100 hotel/resort credit
breakfast daily
upgrade & extended check in/out whenever possible
This easy going yet upscale resort offers brand new guest rooms and suites, a luxurious spa and countless activities with weeping views of the Gulf of Mexico.
FORA Perks:
$100 hotel/resort credit
breakfast daily
upgrade & extended check in/out whenever possible
A golfer's paradise with upscale restaurants and a lounge bar overlooking the 18-hole golf course, plus bespoke spa treatments and endless beach activities.
FORA Perks:
$100 hotel/resort credit
breakfast daily
upgrade & extended check in/out whenever possible
The Inn on Fifth
Sophisticated boutique hotel located in the heart of Naples offers a stunning setting for an exquisite stay with fine-dining restaurants and luxury poolside amenities, full service spa, and Club Level Suites.
Highly recommend the Club Level Suites, there you will have access to a private rooftop w/ jacuzzi, a lounge serving complimentary continental breakfast, evening hors d'oeuvres, and sweet treats. Every evening, relax in the lounge while sipping on a cocktail or a glass of wine from the top-shelf self-service bar. Main thing to note with the Club Level Suites is that the building is located directly across from the main hotel on Fifth Avenue.
THINGS TO DO IN NAPLES:
It's easy to get your steps in when you're in Naples with it's walkable neighborhoods and districts. Discover the areas that make up the Old Naples Downtown District, Fifth Avenue South and Third Street South. These cherished districts boast blocks of tree shaded sidewalks, relaxing courtyards with bubbling fountains, public art and cascading floral displays.
Whether you are looking for adventure, fun on the water, nature, exploring or simply relaxing, Naples have a wide variety of activities for you to choose from arts, culture & history, golf, boating, fishing & diving, tours, to outdoors and nature. Check out some of what this city has to offer:
Beach Shelling Cruise with Sweet Liberty
Everglades Airboat Tour
Everglades Swamp Buggy Eco Tour
La Gondola Naples - experience Venice in SWFL
Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary
Exotic Wildlife Experience
Catamaran Sailing - cruise the Gulf of Mexico in style on the Miss Naples
Naples Bay Luxury Cruise - book your day or sunset cruise on Naples Princess
Deep Sea Fishing
Wave Runner Nature Tour
Guided Segway Tour
Naples Shopping Excursion
Walking & Tasting Tour
Micro Brewery Hop
Baker Museum of Art
Naples Botanical Garden
Edison Ford Winter Estates - explore historic homes, museum, garden, and laboratory
Catch the magical sunset on the southwest side of Florida as the glowing sun dip onto the horizon. Here a few locations to catch the sunset: on the water with on nightly sunset cruise, Tigertail Beach near Marco Island (tip: go there a little early to go shelling along the shore), or the Naples Pier for the quintessential sunset celebration (tip: get there early to secure the ultimate sunset-viewing seat).
Events for Every Season:
Winter - outdoor festivities like vintage car shows, open-air art festivals, and food & wine events
Spring - Swamp Buggy races
Summer - nightly celebration for sun setting
Fall - restaurant week, holiday lights, lighted boat parades, open-air markets, and "snow" falling on Third Street South
Stone Crab Season - enjoy during the season from October 15th and last through May 1st
PLACES TO EAT AND DRINK IN NAPLES:
If you are going to dine during the season from October to May, you will want to book those reservations in advance to avoid a long wait for a table.
Baleen (Dinner) - located at the LaPlaya Resort and Golf Club on Vanderbilt Beach serving high-end dining with a modern, seafood focused menu and views of sand, sea, and sunset.
Ocean Prime (Dinner & Drinks) - located in the Inn on Fifth on the iconic Fifth Avenue South is an upscale chain known for sophisticated décor, long wine list, classic steak and seafood menu.
Truluck's (Dinner) - located in the Inn on Fifth dishes out upscale seafood and steak with a deep wine list and swanky interior décor.
Tin City (Dinner) - a waterfront boardwalk with casual shopping and restaurants.
Turtle Club Restaurant (Lunch and Dinner) - watch the sunsets at this premier b4eachfront restaurant.
Village Pub Venetian Bay (Lunch and Dinner) - a waterfront pub with a whimsical nautical menu with views of the Venetian Bay. Grab a beer at the bar or fireplace and enjoy the live entertainment.
You can create the perfect getaway, whether you're planning a romantic weekend, a family vacation, large wedding or milestone event. Find a place to stay that's just your style - resort luxe, boutique chic, traditional hotel, extended stay, or family suites.
Whether you drive or fly, book Naples, Florida for your long weekend and soak up the sunshine!
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