From the sun-kissed beaches to the vibrant Naples Pier, there’s an adventure in Southwest Florida’s gem at every turn. Whether you’re sampling the finest beer and wine at Celebration Park or combing the sands of your favorite beach like the picturesque Barefoot Beach, Naples, Florida, beckons with boundless attractions.
So, dive into this treasure trove of experiences and uncover the myriad things to do—the rich marine life, cultural wonders, and immense natural beauty are calling. Ready to explore Florida’s Paradise Coast? Let’s get started and discover why Naples is the jewel of Southwest Florida!
23 Things to Do in Naples, Florida
Immersive Nature and Wildlife Experiences
From the lush pathways of the Conservancy of Southwest Florida to the playful residents of Naples Zoo, Naples is a living postcard of nature’s splendor waiting to captivate your senses.
1. Explore the Wilderness at Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary
Wander through Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary’s sprawling boardwalk; let the wilderness whisper its ancient tales as you traverse this awe-inspiring natural haven.
2. Visit the Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens
Engage with exotic creatures and stroll amidst lush botanical beauty at Naples Zoo; an enchanting fusion of wildlife sanctuary and tropical garden that promises a day of fascination.
3. Encounter the Everglades on a Day Trip
Set out from Naples and Marco Island and embrace the wild heart of South Florida with an Everglades adventure that unveils the mystique of these legendary wetlands.
4. Wildlife and Scenery at Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park
Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park is a natural masterpiece, combining idyllic shores and encounters with Florida’s diverse marine and terrestrial life.
Cultural Enrichment and Museums
Steeped in stories, Naples’ museums are treasure troves of history and artistry, inviting one to take a scholarly stroll through time, from the pioneering days to the poignant narratives that shaped the region.
5. Discover Art at The Baker Museum
Step inside The Baker Museum and embark on a visual feast of art collections. From contemporary masterpieces to Chihuly glass sculptures—this treasure trove within the Naples Philharmonic Center captivates art enthusiasts and casual observers alike.
6. Step Back in Time at the Naples Depot Museum
Travel to the Naples Depot Museum, where history comes alive amidst art collections and relics of Naples’ storied railways. The echoes of the past resonate through exhibits that celebrate pioneering spirits and the transformative nature of transportation.
7. Learn at the Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center
The Holocaust Museum & Educational Center is a sentinel of remembrance, fostering learning and reflection through its poignant exhibits. Witness artifacts, hear powerful stories, and honor the resilience of the human spirit amidst the solemn lessons of history.
8. Experience the Naples Historical Society’s Historic Palm Cottage
Step through the time threshold into the Historic Palm Cottage, a precious gem polished by the Naples Historical Society. Built in 1895 and steeped in local lore, guided tours through this cherished abode lend whispers of Naples’ formative years. History breathes among the verdant Norris Gardens, offering a glimpse of a simpler yet equally rich chapter under the Floridian sun.
Outdoor Recreation and Adventure
With the sun on your back and the breeze in your hair, Naples beckons adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts to explore its natural playground. Kayak through twisting mangrove tunnels, pedal along coastal paths, or cast a line into the Gulf’s bounteous waters for an authentic Florida experience.
9. Kayaking Through Mangrove Tunnels
Paddling through the serene mangrove tunnels, you’ll feel like you’ve entered a different realm. These unique formations, where saltwater kisses freshwater, boast an assortment of wildlife as vibrant as the Naples sunsets. And the best part? Kayak tours come with all the gear you need—just show up with a sense of adventure and your camera to capture the untamed beauty of these natural wonders.
10. Take a Naples Electric Bike Tour
For those looking to kick the excitement up a notch, an electric bike tour of Naples offers a thrilling way to breeze through the city. Perfect for families, this eco-friendly journey lets you soak up the sights without breaking a sweat.
11. Sail With the Naples Nantucket Yacht Group
If you’ve set your sights on something a tad more luxurious, sailing with the Naples Nantucket Yacht Group is the ticket. Embrace the spirit of Southwest Florida’s high seas as you cruise past the iconic Naples Pier, sip on beer and wine, and toast to the good life.
Celebrate the day at Celebration Park, where you can grab a table, relish food truck goodies, and recount your seafaring stories under the twinkling stars.
12. Embark on a Fishing Excursion in Naples Waters
Imagine the sun on your back and the gentle bob of the boat as you wait for that nibble that’ll turn into the day’s catch. Fishing in Naples Waters is not just an opportunity to reel in redfish or snook; it’s a chance to learn from folks who fish as they breathe—effortlessly and passionately.
No experience? No problem. They hand you the rod and show you the ropes, ensuring that even newbies can feel the thrill of a successful catch, maybe right off Naples Pier.
Unique Tours and Sightseeing
Talking about Naples and skipping the unique tours is like having a peanut butter and jelly sandwich without the peanut butter—sure, it’s still tasty, but you’re missing out on the good stuff.
13. Glide Through the City on a Segway Tour
Skip the sweat and see Naples in style on a Segway tour. Forget the foot fatigue; a Segway scoots you around to all those must-see spots with zero hassle. A knowledgeable guide will whisk you past palm-lined streets to the iconic Naples Pier and more, making for an equally educational and effortless tour.
14. Savor the Scenes With Naples Trolley Tours
For a taste of everything Naples offers without figuring out the map, jump aboard a trolley tour. The hop-on, hop-off nature means you can tailor your day as you please, all while soaking in the narrated tales and intriguing facts about this piece of paradise. It’s a rolling array of the city’s sights, and, honestly, what’s not to love about that?
15. Experience Naples from the Water With Pure Florida Boat Tours
If you’ve never seen Naples from the deck of a boat, you’re in for a treat. Pure Florida’s boat tours give you front-row seats to dolphins at play and the Gulf’s calm expanse, with a backdrop of sun-drenched sky and the gentle hum of the boat’s motor.
Tailor-made for those craving a connection with the water, these tours offer insights and views you can’t get any other way. It’s Naples through and through—the salt-kissed breeze, the splash of waves, and a sense of well-being that flows as freely as the Gulf’s tides.
Vibrant Shopping and Marketplaces
Naples’ shopping scene is as vibrant and varied as the coral reefs beneath its waves. From chic boutiques to bustling markets, there’s a treasure trove of finds waiting to be discovered by those who love to browse, buy, or simply soak up the lively atmosphere of the Paradise Coast’s retail paradise.
16. Explore Boutique Shops at 5th Avenue South
In the heart of Downtown Naples, 5th Avenue South is the catwalk of commerce, adorned with boutique shops that cater to the refined taste. Flanked by art galleries and eateries, this stretch is more than shopping – a cultural experience that pulses with the beat of Tamiami Trail’s lively thoroughfare.
17. Browse the Third Street South Farmers Market
Looking for that island-style flair? The Third Street South Farmers Market is a slice of local life, sprouting up with lush produce, freshly caught seafood, and artisanal goods. Drift from stand to stand, absorbing the community spirit and savoring treats that scream ‘fresh from Florida’—it’s a foodie’s paradise with a side of sunshine.
18. Unique Finds at Tin City Waterfront Shops
Take a stroll through Tin City in Old Naples, and you’ll find yourself in a rustic throwback to the days when fishers hawked their daily catch. These days, it’s a shopping utopia, threading together a tapestry of specialty stores, waterfront eateries, and the irresistible allure of boat rides. And when evening falls, why not cap off your day with a cold one at Ankrolab Brewing before diving into the night-time chorus of the Florida Everglades?
Entertainment and Performing Arts
The cultural tapestry of Naples is rich, with entertainment and performing arts that pay homage to the region’s history and modern vibrancy. Whether you’re looking for a night of laughter or an afternoon delving into the past, Naples has a venue for every interest.
19. Laugh Out Loud at Off The Hook Comedy Club
Looking for a side-splitting evening? Off The Hook Comedy Club in Everglades City is your ticket to tears-of-joy laughter. This hotspot is where the comedy’s as fresh as the catch of the day, and the courses in Naples are full of local flavor.
20. Catch a Show at the Sugden Community Theatre
For those whose idea of a great night doesn’t involve sand between their toes, the Sugden Community Theatre offers a vibrant alternative. This local gem decks itself with productions that run the gamut from laugh-out-loud comedies to heart-string-tugging dramas.
21. Enjoy a Movie Night at Silverspot Cinema
Now, if you’re the type to debate popcorn flavors over the meaning of a film’s ending, Silverspot Cinema is your kind of haven. With plush seats that make you forget you’re not on your couch, this theater’s a swanky spot to catch the latest blockbusters and indie flicks. It’s about the experience, you know?
Discover Naples’ Rich Marine Life
Want a splash of wonder in your Naples adventure? Dive into a sea of marvels at the Gulf of Mexico. This colossal blue playground is teeming with life, and Naples serves up that front-row seat to the underwater majesty.
22. Observe Manatees on a Guided Tour
Imagine drifting along the Gulf of Mexico, the sun sketching gold on the waves while gentle giants nudge by. That’s the manatee tour for you. Guides who know these waters like the back of their salty hands will lead you into the manatees’ serene world. You can usually count on a few hours of cruising with these aquatic teddy bears, and even if they’re playing hide-and-seek, the ride alone’s a worthwhile float.
23. Spot Dolphins on a Marine Adventure
Ever tried looking a dolphin in the eye while it flips through the air like it owns the place? Yeah, it’s a hoot, and guess what—Naples is just the stage for it! Climb aboard one of those boats, cutting through the waves, and set off on a marine adventure. It’s a salty escapade that’ll leave you with stories and a sun-kissed glow.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is so great about Naples, FL?
It’s a straight-up jewel tucked on Florida’s Paradise Coast. Between chowing down at one of its 700+ eateries and soaking up the sun on its pristine beaches, there’s little wonder why it’s a snowbird’s paradise. It’s not just for the retired crowd, though. Thrill-seekers and chill-seekers alike can also find their bliss here. It’s a magnet for anyone craving a slice of the sublime.
2. What is Naples, Florida, best known for?
You’ll hear Naples praised for its sunsets that look straight out of a dream, its love affair with outdoor charms, and its sandy soles—the beaches. This spot is a poster child for the good life under the sun if you’re into outdoorsy stuff, top-notch eats, or aimlessly meandering in a picturesque locale.
3. Is Naples, Florida, worth visiting now?
Worth it? Absolutely. From trivia nights at Bone Hook Brewing to monkey bread so good it ought to be illegal, this town’s still got its groove. Hotels in Naples are fluffing up their pillows, the lazy river’s flowing, and the sun’s still shining—now’s as good a time as any to visit.
Wrapping Up
Naples isn’t just a pretty face with a beachy grin. It’s got depth—the kind you write home about. With a cultural scene as rich as its coastal waters and outdoor escapades for days, this town is no one-trick pony.
People come for the brochure highlights, but they stay for the surprises. The local zest, the flavors waiting in every hidden corner, the colorful characters—a whole package wrapped up in that laid-back tropical vibe. Naples, you charmer, you’ve done it again.
I was born and raised in the northern United States, and one thing I learned pretty early on in life is: I hate the cold and snow. Sure, there’s something charming about the first snowfall of the year, but after that, I’m out.
While a part of my heart will always lie in New England, the older I get, the more I want to escape it during the coldest months.
That’s where the snowbirding lifestyle earned its appeal for me. When the bad weather starts to loom, I head south to find warmer climates to get me through until spring and warmer weather returns.
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