If you're seeking the definitive Naples travel guide, then your search is over. As an experienced traveler, I'm thrilled to share my insights about this beautiful city. With almost 300 days of sunshine each year and stunning sea views, Naples is a perfect holiday destination. In my guide, you'll find out all the incredible things it has to offer—from the best places to visit and things to do, to where to stay and secret local gems. All the tips I'm providing will help make your getaway in Naples an unforgettable experience.
Best Time to Visit
In Naples, the sun shines almost every day, but in summer, odds are your tanning session will get interrupted by daily afternoon thunderstorms that could last between 20 minutes to several hours. If you don't mind warmer-than-usual weather and balancing your day with indoor and outdoor activities; the summer months are a great way to explore this lavish coastal city on a budget. Restaurant reservations are easier to secure, beaches are significantly less crowded and lodging rates are much more affordable. Plus, you will get to see many vivid rainbows in the sky, and who doesn't like that? On the contrary, December through March is considered to be peak season, with sunny days and temperatures in the 70s and 80s, no rain, and most importantly, no snow. The population increases dramatically from 22,000 to more than 300,000 as snowbirds migrate from colder states to escape the freezing weather and relish paradise temperatures during the winter months. To enjoy the best of both worlds, I recommend visiting Naples in the Fall(Oct/Nov) or Spring(April/May); these months often offer a nice balance of good weather and reasonable crowds, in comparison to peak and off-peak months.
The image was taken outside of our lanai at Costa Del Sol vacation rental in August
Where to Stay
Naples is a city located in Collier County Florida. It is made of approximately 16.5 total square miles, 12.5 of which are land and 4 square miles of water. Depending on personal preference, family size, length of stay, and budget you may want to rent a hotel or rent a vacation home with a private pool. If you prefer the latter, I have the perfect recommendation for you!
Vacation Rentals:
Del Sol Collection offers two incredible vacation rental properties: Beso Del Sol and Costa Del Sol. Both homes are tucked away in a protected, gated community providing 24/7 security, five miles from the beach and downtown area. This spacious 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom homes can comfortably host larger families and are pet friendly! Come stay with us and experience paradise.
Hotels:
Here is a list of my favorite Naples Hotels that are worth checking out should you prefer a hotel instead.
The Ritz Carlton - Luxury beach resort with 2 posh restaurants, 2 golf courses & a day spa, plus an outdoor pool.
The Inn on Fifth - Upscale hotel with a rooftop pool, and a spa located right on 5th Ave.
Naples Bay Resort and Marina - Refined quarters with balconies in a bayside resort offering dining, tennis & a marina, plus pools.
LaPlaya Beach and Golf Resort - Beachfront luxury resort that offers a front-row seat to Florida's panoramic Gulf Coast of sparkling turquoise waters and sugar-white beaches
Experience Paradise
While all opinions and recommendations are always my own, my content on this blog may contain affiliate links to, tours I've completed and enjoyed. This means I get a small commission (at no additional cost to you) if you book a stay or purchase a product after clicking one of those links. As always, I am so thankful for your support so I can continue to offer free resources!
Play Golf at Tiburon
Naples, Florida is a golfer's paradise, boasting more than 170 courses designed by some of the most renowned golf course designers in the world like Jack Nicklaus and Tom Fazio. Specifically, Tiburon Golf Club features two 18-hole courses masterfully crafted by Greg Norman - twice winner of The Open Championship and former No. 1 ranked player in the world. The courses at Tiburon Golf Club offer golfers of all levels a challenging yet enjoyable round of golf. The Gold Course features a traditional Scottish links-style layout with undulating greens, while the Black Course offers a more traditional parkland layout with tree-lined fairways and water hazards. In addition to the exceptional golf courses, Tiburon Golf Club offers a world-class clubhouse with luxurious amenities, including a pro shop, locker rooms, and dining options. The clubhouse also serves as the host site for the PGA Tour's annual QBE Shootout, a popular event featuring some of the top golfers in the world. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or a beginner looking to improve your game, Tiburon Golf Club provides an unforgettable golfing experience in the heart of Naples, Florida.
Catch a sunset at Naples Pier
The Naples Pier, located on the Gulf of Mexico at the West end of 12th Avenue South, is an iconic spot for locals and tourists alike. Visitors enjoy fishing, bird-watching, spotting dolphins, and taking in spectacular sunset views. The Pier features ADA-accessible beach access matting with restrooms and showers nearby. There's also a convenient concession stand onsite offering beer, wine, or snacks to make your stay more enjoyable. The Naples Pier has a long and rich history, dating back to 1888 when it was first built as a freight and passenger dock. Over the years, it has been rebuilt and renovated several times, and today it stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Naples. Aside from its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, the Naples Pier also plays an important role in the local community. It serves as a gathering place for fishermen, bird-watchers, and beach-goers of all ages. It is also a popular spot for events and celebrations, including weddings, beach parties, and holiday gatherings. If you're visiting Naples, be sure to add the Naples Pier to your itinerary. Whether you're fishing, bird-watching, or simply taking a leisurely stroll along the beach, you'll find plenty to enjoy and admire at this iconic site.
Book a boat tour and cruise around Ten thousand Islands, Cape Romano, and go Shelling
Beaches in Naples, Marco Island, and 10,000 Islands are renowned for their shelling activities. With bright white sands backgrounded by tranquil waters of the Gulf of Mexico, visitors experience impressive collections of seashells rolling onto the shoreline. Furthermore, follow your guide to collect fun facts about the natural environment and look out for wildlife species like Manatees or Dolphins!
Visit Naples Zoo Caribbean Garden
Naples Zoo is a wonderful destination for families looking for a fun and exciting outing. Come meet the animals, feed the giraffes, and learn about wildlife conservation. It's a great way to make memories that will last a lifetime.
Stroll Naples Botanical Garden
The Naples Botanical Garden is a 170-acre lush landscape of cultivated gardens and preservation land. It's the perfect place to take in the beauty of nature or relax with friends. Pet owners will be glad to hear that pets are welcome on Sundays and Tuesdays from 8AM to 11AM, with some restrictions. Bank of America cardholders will also get a special treat: every first weekend of the month, these cardholders can present their cards for free admission for everyone in their party. Experience something extraordinary at The Naples Botanical Garden!
Clear Kayak in Delnor-Wiggins State Park
Discover the wonders of marine life while kayaking through mangroves in a glass-bottomed Kayak. You may come across species such as dolphins, manatees, stingrays, or other wildlife in their natural habitat! This is a perfect opportunity for you to observe these animals up close and gain insight into their behaviors and habitats.
Explore Naples on a Polaris Slingshot
Experience the beauty of Naples and its surroundings as you zip along in an up-to-date two-person autocycle. Make lasting memories while admiring the area's sights and sounds in a sleek, stylish ride. Enjoy the day!
Enjoy a musical performance at the Artis
The Bakers Museum offers an array of cultural activities, ranging from art exhibitions to musical performances. Located in Naples, it is the largest theatre in the city and a must-visit attraction. The museum is known for its exceptional collection of paintings, sculptures, and artifacts from local and international artists. They also hold regular events and exhibitions that showcase leading talents in the art world. Moreover, the theatre offers a diverse cultural program, featuring classical concerts, dance performances, and theatre productions. The state-of-the-art facilities and professional staff ensure that visitors have a comfortable and enjoyable experience. In conclusion, the Bakers Museum presents an opportunity to immerse oneself in the arts and experience the rich cultural heritage of Naples. Whether you are a seasoned art enthusiast or a casual visitor, you are sure to find something that appeals to your tastes and interests. Enjoy an unforgettable experience at the Bakers Museum!
Wander the Gordon River Greenway
The Gordon River Greenway Park is a 140-acre ecological corridor located in the center of urban Naples. The park provides visitors with an opportunity to view wildlife and appreciate Southwest Florida's natural beauty. It features trails that are suited for various activities like walking, jogging, biking, roller-blading, and skateboarding. Additionally, the park offers leashed-dog-friendly areas; fishing and look-out piers; kayak/canoe launch with storage rack; bike racks; restrooms with water fountains; a playground with a treehouse; as well as picnic pavilions. The park's greenways follow the Gordon River, which flows towards Naples Bay. The natural landscape within the park includes wetlands, uplands, and hammock forests. Visitors can explore the flora and fauna of the park, including birdwatching from the observation decks. The park's wetlands are known for attracting herons, egrets, and other wetland birds. One of the unique features of the Gordon River Greenway Park is the bike path that connects to other trails in the area, including the Naples Greenway and the Coastal Link Trail. This makes it possible for visitors to explore more of the natural beauty of Southwest Florida. The Gordon River Greenway Park is open from sunrise to sunset, and admission is free. The park is a great place for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to experience the natural beauty of Naples.
Visit Marcato
Mercato has something for everyone. From beauty parlors and boutiques to delicious dining options both indoors and outdoors, car shows, live music, holiday events and so much more - this is your one-stop-shop with plenty of exciting activities all year long. Make sure you check out their calendar of events to stay up to date on the latest happenings.
Favorites to dine:
Late-night Favorites:
Cavo Lounge - Swanky gastropub with glam decor turning out crafted cocktails & elegant small plates. Cavo transforms from an elegant dinner and serene lounge setting to a dance club at night
Burn by Ricky Patel - Upscale locale offering fine cigars & high-end spirits in a swanky space with outdoor seating.
Downtown - 5th Avenue and 3rd Street South
The shopping, dining, and entertainment options offered by both 5th Avenue and 3rd Street South make them renowned locations for locals and visitors alike. Whether you're in search of upscale shops, gourmet restaurants, or trendy art galleries, these two areas have got it all! Plus, their array of seasonal events makes them especially enticing in the not-so-cold winter months.
Dining Favorites on 5th Avenue
Sails Restaurant - Upscale European fare, seafood towers, wine & cocktails in elegant environs with an open kitchen. On weekends, they serve a bottomless champagne brunch that is worth every penny.
Del Mar Naples - Inspired by Mediterranean coastal cuisine, our chefs use flavors from Greece, Southern Spain, Morocco, France, Italy & Turkey.
Osteria Tulia - Classic Italian cuisine & fine wines in a rustic-chic farmhouse ambiance.
Kilwins - There are many ice cream shops in Naples and there are many Kilwins around the USA, but I swear, there is something special about this one. Be sure to give the toasted coconut flavor and be your own judge!
Dining Favorites on 3rd Street
Campiello Ristorante & Bar - Rustic contemporary Italian menu featuring savory meats cooked over an open fire, pizzas from the wood-burning oven, and modern interpretation of traditional Italian dishes
Mediterrano - Tantalizing dishes from the coasts of Spain, Greece, Italy, and Morocco. This Restaurant has been ranked #1 on TripAdvisor consecutively since 2017 and was featured on OpenTable's 100 Best Restaurants for Outdoor Dining in 2022
Sea Salt - Modern seafood dishes with global salts & spices served in a hip, upscale space with patio seating. I enjoy sitting at their bar during lunch/happy hour, their Wagyu beef burger is to die for.
Janes Cafe on Third - a Laid-back and casual eatery that serves breakfast and lunch. Jane's elegant courtyard is enhanced with a Koi pond and a fountain and is dog friendly.
Shop at The Waterside Shops, The Village Shops on Venetian Bay, and Tin City
Waterside Shops is an open-air upscale mall, located on Tamiami Trail in Pelican Bay, just to the north of Napless. The mall features many luxury brands like Saks Fifth Avenue, Louis Vitton, Hermes, Gucci, Rolex, Van Cleef & Arpels, and many more.
The Village Shops on Venetian Bay is a waterfront complex with a high-end feel, offering many local boutiques & restaurants with outdoor seating. Be sure to reserve an outdoor table at M Waterfront Grille and enjoy a superb meal with breathtaking views of the bay, you might get lucky and spot dolphins while you dine.
Tin City is a specialty shopping district in Naples. It is open-air, specializing in souvenirs, antiques, and local handmade novelties.
Discover Naples Hidden Gems
Here’s a carefully selected list of the best-known local spots which many visitors have yet to discover... Shhhh...
Beaches:
If you are up for a short trek and don't mind crossing a lagoon, I highly recommend visiting TigerTail Beach. Follow the red arrow drawn on the map above for the short adventurous path that will end with a big reward; a gorgeous beach, fewer crowds, and plenty of shells for you to find. Need I say more? However, good things come at a higher price, and there are some things you should keep in mind before committing your day to this beach; depending on the tide, the lagoon can be anywhere between your knees and shoulders- carrying too many things or children can get difficult. Additionally, during the summer "wet" season avoid going in the afternoons, having to trek through the lagoon in a thunderstorm can be dangerous and scary (been there and it was not fun). Lastly, the water in the lagoon is not very clear, there is seaweed and the sand will feel mushy, to avoid this yucky feeling wear your water shoes.
Keewaydin Island
Keewaydin Island is an 8-mile-long pristine beach that is only accessible by boat. It is known for world-class shelling and is a local hotspot for residents who embrace the Florida lifestyle. On weekends, the island can deliver whatever beach vibe your heart desires, from an uninhabited private beach retreat to a party on the water. Hungry but forgot to pack your snacks? No problem! Visit one of the food boats to purchase food, ice cream, and adult beverages, just remember, they are only available on weekends. If that doesn't sound tempting enough, Keewaydin Island is the only beach in Collier county that allows on-leash dogs, so your furry friends don't have to miss a fun day in the sun. To reach the Island you can book a ride with Hemingway Water Shuttle (dogs not allowed on board) or rent a private boat from one of the many rental companies in the area.
Restaurants:
While Naples is primarily known for its exquisite white-sand beaches, it is also gaining a reputation as a top gastronome destination. As a self-proclaimed foodie, I do enjoy "fining and dining" at the downtown restaurants, but there are several hidden gem restaurants in Naples that deserve recognition, too.
The Cave Bistro & Wine Bar - The decor and atmosphere make you feel transformed into a wine cave in Tuscany. It is a fun unique setting with a diversified wine list and a great selection of appetizers and dinner entrees.
Trattoria Mangia - Do not let the size of this cute little Italian restaurant fool you, it might be smaller in size but large in flavor.
Twisted Sheep Pizza - A small and trendy spot offering artisanal pizza pies with creative toppings, plus carefully sourced beers & sodas.
Nosh on Naples Bay - If you are craving a great cocktail or a sophisticated meal, be sure to check out Nosh. This gorgeous restaurant opened its doors in January of 2022 and has been treating its customers like royalty ever since.
Riptide Brewing Company is a local brewery that has two locations in SWFL, one in Naples and another in Bonita Springs. If you are seeking a casual, laid-back place to drink and have a good time, this is it. Riptide does not sell food on the premises but often has a good food truck in the back.
Thank you for reading "The Ultimate Travel Guide to Naples" and I hope this helps you plan the perfect trip to America's paradise coast. If you have any questions please reach out and I will be happy to answer. Please don't forget to Subscribe Here and follow my social media and subscribe to the blog for more local recommendations. I look forward to sharing more Naples content with you soon!