NAPLES, A TROPICAL oasis nestled on Florida’s Southwest Gulf Coast (aka Paradise Coast), welcomes boaters with its vibrant blend of things to see and do and its laid-back, relaxed vibe. From an abundance of natural attractions and incredible fishing excursions to luxurious city-side amenities, Naples is an all-in-one destination with something for everyone.
The white sandy shoreline of Naples Beach is a popular lure for shelling and sunning, but your visit wouldn’t be complete without catching a brilliant sunset from the historic 600-foot Naples Pier. The completely renovated pier, which is open 24/7 for fishing and bird and dolphin watching, is the most-visited attraction in Naples. Explore the surrounding natural beauty by renting a standup paddleboard and traveling through all the mangroves. Naples Paddleboard Accessories & Surf Supply has kiteboards, paddleboards and kayaks and offers lessons, rentals and free delivery.
For the golf enthusiast, Naples — often called the golf capital of the world — has more than 90 championship golf courses, including the Rookery at Marco and the Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort. Two other incredible outdoor must-dos are the 52-acre Naples Zoo and the stunning Naples Botanical Garden.
Dining options range from casual to gourmet with a bounty of regional fresh seafood offerings. A night on the town wouldn’t be complete without a stroll down Naples famed main street, Fifth Avenue South, a beautiful promenade of high-end shops, restaurants, cafes, and antique stores. Art lovers will want to explore Gallery Row, along Broad Avenue South, and its nearly 100 galleries. Nearby is Waterside Shops, an outdoor luxury retail destination with more than 60 restaurants and shops.
WHERE TO DINE
- 1500 South (1500 Fifth Avenue South, 239-774-1500) This waterfront restaurant features a unique blend of Southern and international avors by celebrity chef Art Smith. Reservations required.
- Osteria Tulia (466 Fifth Avenue S., 239-213-2073) The rustic Italian cuisine — pizzas, entrees, house-made pastas — is complemented by a delectable wine list.
- Ridgway Bar & Grill (1300 Third Street S., 239-262-5500) A landmark locale in historic Naples that provides casual or elegant dining, an extensive wine list and fresh-baked breads and desserts.
- Sea Salt (1186 Third Street S., 239-434-7258) The contemporary seafood dishes are prepared with seasonal, organic and sustainable ingredients from local farmers and shermen.
WHERE TO DOCK
- Naples Bay Resort (239-530-5134, naplesbayresort.com) boasts a 97-slip marina with direct access to the Gulf of Mexico. There are an array of amenities including several pools with a lazy river and waterfall along with several dining options such as the BlueWater Bar & Grill.
- Naples Boat Club (239-430-4994, naplesboatclub.com) is a full-service, state-of-the-art marina with 167 dry-rack boat storage spots, 47 wet slips and the Wharf Tavern Restaurant. Its locale on the historic Olde Naples waterfront is just minutes from the city’s luxurious Fifth Avenue shopping mecca.
