Photo by Bailey Rapp on Unsplash

Top 10 Things to do in Naples, Florida


 

Naples city is on the Gulf of Mexico in southwest Florida. This city is famous for its high-end shopping, fine dining, carnivals and golf courses.

A popular landmark in this city is the Naples Pier which was built in 1888. It is a popular fishing spot and also the perfect place to spot dolphins.

There are endless pristine white sandy beaches, an island, and mangrove-lined creeks. A stroll through the tranquil streets will give you a paradise-like feeling.

This destination is perfect for families, nature lovers and beach enthusiasts. With so much to do from the museums, world-class gastronomic experience, cultural events and beautiful beaches.

As you plan your trip to Naples, here are the top 10 things to do in Naples, Florida.

1. Stroll The Famous Naples Pier

Photo by Bailey Rapp on Unsplash

Naples Pier is one of the most famous tourist attractions in the city. It is located on a lovely beach on the Gulf Coast of Florida. The Pier runs from the end of 12th Avenue.

There are several amenities and fun activities to do at this Pier hence why it is popular. If you love fishing, this is the place to be. Other activities include bird watching, dolphin spotting, and beach volleyball.

You will also find shaded areas where you can enjoy your meal or at the concession stand. Do not miss the beautiful sunset.   

Address: Naples Pier Naples, FL 34102

2. Naples Botanical Gardens

Photo by Scott.zona – Wikimedia

The Botanical Gardens is spread over 170 acres of land. It is filled with different species of plants from all over the world.

This garden acts as a conservatoire for a collection of plants. It offers nothing short of natural beauty and peace. There are different gardens for different plants and flowers.

Check out the water garden that features beautiful water lilies, the Caribbean garden with more than 150 plumerias, the Brazilian garden filled with South American palms, aroids, and bromeliads.

The Naples Botanical Gardens receives more than 220,000 visitors per year.

Address: 4820 Bayshore Dr, Naples, FL 34112

3. Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary

Photo by Rubyk – Wikimedia

Get a glimpse of the Everglades ecosystem by visiting the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary.

It is 30 minutes east of the city. This sanctuary is home to the most endangered plant and animal species.

There is a 4-kilometre boardwalk that leads to the flat woods, wet prairies, and a marsh. At the end of the marsh is the largest bald cypress forest in the United States.

You may be lucky to spot alligators, otters, white-tailed deer, and red-bellied turtles.

One beauty of this Sanctuary is the Ghost orchid which blooms all year long, something that is rare for orchids.  

If you visit between March and November, wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants. Yellow flies and deer flies are very common at the Sanctuary during peak season.

Address: 375 Sanctuary Road West

4. Enjoy a meal at Celebration Food Truck Park

Photo by Nathalia Segato on Unsplash

This is one of the newest and trendiest places to go enjoy a meal from a food truck. The park has a dozen food trucks offering the best and most sumptuous delicacies.

Located on Bayshore Drive, there are a ton of activities to do since the park is close to Naples Bay. You can keep busy with the board games and corn holes. It is a fun place for families with kids.

Stroll through the promenade, check out the tiki bar, drink craft beer and partake in the international culinary experience.

Address: 2880 Becca Avenue, Naples, FL 34112

5. Baker Museum

Museum-lovers will enjoy a visit to the Baker Museum. It is one of the cultural attractions in Naples. Locals know it is as Artis Naples.

This museum was opened in 2000 and has more than 30,000 square feet and 15 galleries filled with incredible artefacts.

There is a permanent collection that showcases works by artists using diverse media. Some of the featured artists are Roy Lichtenstein, Diego Rivera, and Alexander Calder.

The arts featured in this museum is a reflection of the cultural vibrancy of Florida’s southwest community. It tells of Mexican and American Art between the 20th and 21st centuries.  

Address: 5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard, Naples, FL 34108

6. Marco Island Beaches

The beaches of Marco Island are long, wide and are more pristine than those at Naples. Although the beach is only 9.6 kilometres long, it is surprisingly wide.

While some sections of the beach have towering condos, there are enough untampered sections to lay your towel enjoy the sun.

The central access of the beach is where you will find umbrellas for rent, volleyball nets and people getting a tan all over.

Marco Island is the largest of the 10,000 islands. The beach here is perfect for shelling. It is also home to the remnants of the Caxambas Clam Colony.

The Marco Island Historical Museum is worth checking out for a history of the Island. 

7. Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park

Photo by Ebyabe – Wikimedia

This is one of the world’s best beaches that features pristine sands against the Gulf of Mexico.

The park is a favourite of many that visit Naples because of the endless activities available here. Most visitors enjoy sightseeing and spending time at the beach.

You can go see the coral reefs, snorkel, pick seashells, bird watching, hike, fish, enjoy a picnic or take part in one of the water sports. The park has guided tours to the turtle nursery popular during hatching season.

There are umbrellas and chairs available for rent as well as several food vendors.

Address: 11135 Gulf Shore Dr, Naples, FL 34108

8. Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens

Photo by Exupery67 – Wikimedia

The Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens is found inside a tropical garden. The garden was established in 1919. Animals have moved here a few years after.

Covering 43 acres, the Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens Caribbean is a favourite of many families. It is home to more than 70 species of animals as well as exotic plants.

This is a perfect gate away from the beach where you can see tigers, giraffes, alligators and birds too.

 Address: 1590 Goodlette-Frank Road, Naples

9. Lowdermilk Park

Lowdermilk is one of the most popular beachfront parks in Naples. It is at Fifth Avenue South and has a wide beach with several modern amenities.

Families with kids will enjoy the playground, pond, sports courts and gazebos. Adults can play beach volleyball.

There are food vendors on-site, picnic areas, bathrooms and showers.

One evening activity that is popular here is watching the sunset. Catch the green flash of the sunset an optical and meteorological phenomenon.  

Address: 1301 Gulf Shore Blvd N, Naples

10. Fifth Avenue South

For an exclusive shopping experience, head over to Fifth Avenue South in the heart of Naples. Not only will you enjoy shopping but also admire the old and modern architecture.

Stroll and window shop at the boutiques, jewellery shops. You can also take a break and enjoy a meal in one of the finest restaurants here. There are also art galleries worth a visit.

Other dining options include bakeries, coffee shops and ice cream parlours. This is a window shopper’s paradise.

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