Did you know that Naples is one of the most visited beaches in South Florida? Naples, Florida’s gulf coast gem, is home to charming streets and luxurious restaurants. Both tourists and residents love Naples’ blue skies, warm waters, and beautiful beaches.
Naples offers a mixture of southern charm and luxury vacation fun. However, it can be challenging to choose from so many activities in Naples.
It is one of the most exciting destinations in the world that is always worth a visit. It offers something for everyone, whether looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation.
Naples offers a luxurious waterfront lifestyle and a vibrant arts and culture scene. There is also a wide variety of activities. This city in southwest Florida is truly a paradise.
Naples is also known as the “American Riviera.” This is where the sprawling Palm Beach lifestyle meets South Florida’s quintessential vibe.
When is the best time to visit Naples?
When you plan your vacation, exceptional weather is a great thing. South Florida has an average of 280 sunny days each year. Here are some things to remember when planning a trip to this beautiful city on the Gulf of Mexico.
People who want to escape the harsh winter climates of northern Europe love Naples. For seniors, December to March is the best time to visit Naples. First, however, remember that this gem has been discovered by many.
But Naples is spectacular during the Christmas holidays. So plan to get the best accommodation.
How to get to Naples
You can drive or fly to Naples, Florida. Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) is the closest airport, located approximately 35 minutes from Naples. Driving to Naples, Florida, is an option that’s less expensive if you are traveling within Florida.
Are you willing to discover all Naples, Florida, has to offer? Explore all Naples, Florida, has to offer in the way of arts and cuisine. You don’t have to stick with Tamiami Trail.
We’ve put together a list of twenty things to do in Naples so that you can fully immerse yourself in what we have to offer. For more ideas about planning your vacation or mini-getaway, keep reading.
Things to do in Naples for Families With Kids
Families with children need to find a family-friendly vacation spot. Family vacations are a tradition that is passed down from generation to generation.
Planning a Florida family vacation will require that you know the best things to do together. Your family vacation can be turned into an educational adventure. The beach is a great place to take the family, but there are many other things they can do, see and learn.
Children will enjoy learning about Naples and discovering new things. In addition, you will have many opportunities to capture special moments with your family.
Plan your day so that you get as much as possible. Take advantage of your mornings to explore Naples. Take the children to the beach after lunch.
Family-oriented excursions are great fun for all ages. Many of the activities that you’ll find are suitable for all ages, even adults.
Naples is a destination you will want to return to again and again. This is our recommended itinerary for Naples. These activities can be done in a single visit.
- Boat tours
Boat tours offer a relaxing way to see the natural beauty of Naples, Florida. There are many boat tours available in Naples to suit your needs. You don’t need to bring kids, as plenty of boat tours will make you feel like a romantic couple.
The prices for these tours are between $40 and $130 per person, with some exceptions.
Sand Dollar Shelling
Sand Dollar Shelling is one of our favorite family-friendly activities in Naples. The captains are friendly and knowledgeable, making it a memorable experience. In addition, their staff will engage you throughout the trip, answering your children’s questions or sharing fun facts.
Your group will go on a guided seashell-finding tour to an island with a beautiful beach and jaw-dropping shells from the Ten Thousand Islands. Unfortunately, this island is only accessible by boat.
Everyone will receive a bucket to collect any shells they find once they have arrived. In addition, you will be given tips and tricks by the captain on locating specific shells, such as the Junonia Shell or Conch Shell.
Your family may be able to see dolphins, who will chase you and jump out of the wake as close as your arms reach.
Book your Shelling Tour today if this is the first time you have been!
Pure Florida
Pure Florida boat tours provide narrated sighting excursions that take you to hidden Florida treasures such as Gordon’s River or Naples Bay. Children will love dolphin-watching from the second deck of their double-decker boats. The wildlife of Florida will also be introduced to you.
Children under 12 years old can enter for free if an adult accompanies them.
Marco Island Fishing
Are you a keen fisherman in your family? This family trip will take you on fishing trips that last from three to eight hours.
You can choose from the following:
- Fishing in the backwater
- Coastal fishing
- Shark fishing
A three-hour Shark Hunt will entertain the children if you need more.
- Kayaking
Another fun activity for your Florida vacation is kayaking in Naples, Florida. You can rent a kayak, explore Collier County’s waterways, or join preplanned tours.
When planning your Naples vacation, Florida trip, there are many options.
Rookery Bay
Rookery Bay National Estuarine Reserve covers more than 110,000 acres. In addition, Collier County’s coastlines are comprised of 40 natural mangroves and uplands.
Kayaking tours allow visitors to explore the reserve. There are several options for guests to choose from:
- Mangrove Tunnels and Mudflats Tour
- Hearts of Rookery Bay Kayak Tour
- Sunset Bird Rookery Tour
- Excursion to Ancient Islands by Self-Guided
Rookery Bay also houses the Environmental Learning Center.
Tours can last from two to three hours. Prices range from $55 to $75 for each person.
Paradise Coast Kayak Tours
Another fun activity in Naples, Florida, is Paradise Coast’s ECO Kayak Tours. The ECO tours are great for anyone with no kayaking experience. However, you can also enjoy it if you have experience.
The tours include visits to hidden tunnels and mangrove trails. The tours last approximately two hours. Prices range from $59 to $69 for each person.
- Parks
Florida vacations don’t have to be expensive. Disney World, Busch Gardens, and Sea World are our most popular attractions. In addition, families often seek out low-cost or free activities to keep their children entertained when they travel with children.
Naples, Florida, has many beautiful parks perfect for a day of relaxation. Bring a picnic or stop by an Ice Cream Shop for a delicious treat.
Bring your camera with you to capture family memories in these parks.
Barefoot Beach Preserve
Barefoot Beach Preserve offers 341 acres of land to explore. You can spend the whole day on the nature trail or in the butterfly garden.
There are concession stands and public showers on the site. You can either tour the grounds on your own or ask a park ranger for a guided tour.
Cambier Park
Every weekend Cambier Park hosts free concerts. It is situated in downtown Naples, Florida.
There are many amenities available for everyone at the park. You can check out the unique playground for children and the bocce and shuffleboard courts. There are also tennis courts.
You have plenty of green space to choose from and many picnic spots.
Naples Zoo
The 343-acre site of Naples Zoo is located at Caribbean Garden. The zoo’s hours of operation are 9 am to 4:30 pm daily. You should check the schedule to confirm holiday closures and other special hours before you plan your trip.
Your family can participate in a seated safari and alligator feeding at the zoo. There is also an anteater and honey badger exhibit. The zoo also offers primate exhibit cruises and giraffe feeding experiences.
You have three options for guided tours.
Tour of the Wild
Participants will be able to learn more about the animals who call the zoom home. Participants will also learn about the zoo and how to care for them.
Conservation Tour
This tour is focused on wildlife conservation efforts both locally and globally. Participants will be introduced to the rainforests of South America and Africa.
Botanical Adventures Tour
The Caribbean Gardens is an excellent place for families to explore and learn about plants and their habitats.
Naples Zoo has the Safari Squad, a family-oriented learning program. Classes for children from 1 to 4 are available for your family. Classes are subject to change, and registration is required in advance.
- The Golisano Children’s Museum
Take a day to visit the Golisano Children’s Museum. Parents with small children should visit the museum. The museum is filled with educational and entertaining activities that will keep your little ones busy for hours.
There are 17 exhibits you can explore. We have listed some to help you get started on planning your visit.
Race to Space
This space adventure includes building a spacecraft and wearing astronaut costumes. Participants can also test their rockets.
Johnsonville Backyardville
For kids, the Johnsonville museum exhibit is a great thing to do in Naples. Children use their imaginations to play with other kids in the hedge maze or water play area. There are also bubbles.
The Everglades
Naples, Florida, is near the Florida Everglades. Fun-filled activities can be used to introduce children to the subtropical ecosystem. This activity simulates thunderstorms and the sounds of Everglades residents. It also involves climbing an old mangrove.
Non-members and residents can pay $15-$18 for admission to the museum. They accept only debit and credit cards.
Romantic Things to Do In Naples
Romantic getaways are a great way to spice up your relationship. You will have no trouble planning your Naples, Florida, couple’s vacation. There are so many things to do.
Naples, Florida, is a paradise. It’s part of Florida’s Paradise Coast. Naples isn’t just for romantic getaways. It is also an excellent destination for honeymoons and weddings.
The perfect setting for a romantic getaway is the Gulf of Mexico. However, to fully enjoy this city’s many attractions and activities, you must stay longer than a weekend.
Spend your time at the beaches, museums, or shopping. You can take a sunset cruise or enjoy a 5-star dinner at one of the five-star restaurants in the evenings. After dinner, go to the nightlife and dance all night.
Naples has many resorts and hotels of world-class quality.
All you need to make your trip successful is within the city limits of Naples or just a few minutes away in nearby towns. You can also enjoy the nearby attractions on your romantic getaway.
Let’s consider some things you should consider when planning romantic activities in Naples.
Private Sunset Tour
You can take sunset tours during your Naples visit. Sunset boat tours take place against the stunning backdrop of a Florida sunset. Charter a private tour to enjoy a romantic getaway.
If you have never seen one, it is something to see.
The cruises can last anywhere from one and a quarter to three hours, depending on which tour operator you choose. It is important to find out what the tour covers and whether there are additional charges.
Naples Boat Tours
Naples Boat Tour is a popular option for sunset tours. In addition, our company offers a private two-and-a-half-hour cruise on a pontoon boat that can hold up to six people.
Light beverages and encourages guests to order dinner at a local restaurant for a memorable experience onboard.
You will be able to see places that larger boats cannot reach. There will be native wildlife in Naples. The waterfront homes that line the tour route will appeal to those who enjoy the life of the famous and wealthy.
Spa Treatments
A couple’s spa activity should be included in your romantic getaway. Unwind and relax with a full body massage, a facial, and manicures or pedicures.
Spa dates are a way for you and your partner to have fun with each other outside of dancing and dinner. It is a way to connect and be spiritually in touch with your partner.
The spa date is a great way to set the tone for your trip. You can relax together and let go of all the stress of your daily life so that you are fully present during your vacation.
These are some of our recommendations.
The Ritz-Carlton Naples Spa
The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club Resort has a world-class spa. If you are a Ritz-Carlton Spa Member, you can also use the Naples Spa.
It is a great experience, even though it is on the higher end.
If you are flying to Naples or returning from a long journey, Restorative Therapy can help with jet lag. In addition, Mindful Massage is an excellent way of releasing stress.
Woodhouse
Woodhouse Spa, Naples, Florida, offers various spa services, including facials, body treatments, and massages.
You can choose from an a-la-carte menu or preplan your trip with one of their spa packages.
- Rent a car and go on a road trip
For exploring Naples and the Florida Everglades, car rentals are a great way to rent a car in Naples. It takes approximately two hours to drive from Naples to Miami, Florida.
A car rental is an intelligent decision considering all the activities in and around Naples. Getting to your destination faster is more accessible, and you can leave when ready.
Decide whether you prefer to take the classic route or drive around Naples in an exotic sports car or sedan. These car rental companies offer daily and weekly rates.
Budget Car Rental – 2100 Davis Blvd, Naples, FL 34104
Thrifty Car Hire – Fort Myers – Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW), 10991 Terminal Access Rd. Fort Myers, FL 339313
Instant Luxury Rentals – 4851 Tamiami Trail North Park Shore, Suite 201, Naples, FL 34103
Cloud 9 Exotics, 3045 Davis Blvd. Naples, FL 34104
Enterprise Rent-A-Car – 571 Airport-Pulling Rd N, Naples, FL 34104
Before making a decision, check the parking rates at your hotel and calculate the cost of parking at your destination.
- Plan a Staycation in Naples, Florida, at Resorts
You can book a stay at one of their most popular resorts if you visit Naples, Florida.
It is hard to deny the benefits of staying in a resort. You will find luxurious rooms and great amenities. There are many dining options available and plenty of recreation. Many resorts also offer spas and entertainment.
Naples aims to find a resort with a view from the water.
Naples Bay Resort & Marina
Naples Bay Resort & Marina offers a place to call home. The community is large and has a marina. You can also rent boats. In addition, you can choose from guest rooms or suites in The Residences. Or you can rent a vacation home.
All accommodations offer luxury accommodations to suit your budget. Enjoy breathtaking views, fine dining, and spa services. You also have access to the Naples Bay Club.
The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort in Naples
Golf enthusiasts will love the Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort plan. All the 5-star amenities a Naples, Florida resort offers are yours. Access to the Tiburon Golf Club is a bonus.
Naples Grande Beach Resort
The 23-acre Naples Grand Beach Resort is located on 23 acres of waterfront property. The resort boasts an 18-hole course, 15 tennis courts, three swimming pools, and the Mangrove Pool.
This resort is family-friendly and offers beach access and rooms with Gulf views.
What can you do on the weekend in Naples?
A weekend getaway can be just as relaxing as a vacation. Weekends are great for a friend’s getaway, a bachelorette or bachelorette party, and a Florida vacation.
There are many activities to fill your weekend in Naples, FL, so you don’t have to worry about what to do. There are many things to do in Naples, such as visiting tourist attractions or going on excursions. You can also enjoy the local cuisine at several restaurants and bars.
Naples is rich in history. Discover hidden treasures such as the Palm Cottage, which can be explored. To learn more about the rich history of the town, you can take one of the recommended walking tours.
You could spend your weekend in Naples visiting museums if museums are your thing. These include:
- Naples Depot and Train Museum
- Collier County Museum
- Naples Holocaust Museum
- Baker Museum at Artis Naples
Naples, Florida, has many museums. No matter your age or interest, there are many activities that you can enjoy. Let’s take a look at some of these offerings.
- Fishing Excursion
Imagine the turquoise waters and freshest fish you have ever caught. You can make it a reality by booking a fishing charter in Naples. This is a great fishing company.
Marco Island Fishing Charters
This company is located just outside of Naples and ventures into the backwaters where sharks and fish thrive. With Marco Island Fishing Charters, you can choose between a 4- or 6-hour-long trip. These tour options are available:
- Fishing in the backwater
- Inshore fishing
- Shark fishing
- Shore fishing
Captain Evan and his crew will provide tips for reeling in great fish onboard the fishing tour.
This charter is the best for novice to advanced anglers. You can also expect live bait and rods, reels, as well as tackle. A fishing license will be issued, and your catch will be cleaned and filled.
- Golfing
Since the pandemic, golf vacations have increased in popularity. Golfers love to travel to the best gold courses across the country and even the world. For golfers who want to practice their skills or take part in clinics for gold, Naples, Florida, is a great place.
These greens are important to consider when you’re looking for activities in Naples.
Valencia Golf & Country Club
Valencia Golf & Country Club has an 18-hole, newly renovated public course. You can expect to be greeted by knowledgeable, professional staff. You will find the following amenities:
- All-Grass Range 30 Stations
- Putting green measuring 5,000 sq. ft
- Chipping green 5,550 sq. ft
If you are looking to improve your game, the facility offers lessons in golf for all levels.
The Black Course at Tiburon
The Black Course is located on the grounds of the Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort and offers a challenging course for players. It is designed around waterways, greenside bunkers, Coquina shell waste, and pine trees.
After a round of golf, guests have the option to relax in one of the pool areas or dine in the restaurant.
- Shopping
Both residents and tourists love shopping in Naples. There is something for everyone in the shopping areas. We have everything you need, whether you are looking for something for your special occasion, window shopping, or retail therapy.
Village Shops at Venetian Bay
Venetian Bay offers a unique shopping experience. It is a modern version of Venice’s canals with underground tunnels. Village Shops features upscale shops, wine shops, and a Tommy Bahama. The perfect restaurant for lunch or dinner can be found here.
10th Street Trail of Treasures
This area is a favorite among consignment buyers in Naples, Florida. You can find treasures in their consignment shops by strolling down 10th Street.
Naples Farmers Market
Many visitors consider supporting local businesses important. Visitors have become more inclined to visit farmer’s markets while visiting new cities. You can find the times and days of these markets.
- Third Street South Farmers Market
- South Collier Farmers Market
- Vanderbilt Farmers Market
Continue to Third Street South’s farmers market, then go to the other stores before going to 5th Avenue South.
- The Philharmonic Center for the Arts
The Philharmonic Center for the Arts is a great place to end the day. It features museum exhibits, performances, and learning opportunities. Check the calendar to find out about the fun activities available at the center when you plan your trip to Naples, Florida.
Activities are available for all ages. Children will leave with a new perspective and a unique experience when they visit the museum with their families.
It’s possible to make it a date night and attend one of the concerts held during the week or on weekends. You can check their calendar to plan your visit around a particular performance.
Museum exhibits often include a lecture series. The exhibits can be viewed, and you can get a detailed understanding of the visual arts events from lecturers and curators from around the country.
Naples Nightlife
It’s easy to find things to do in Naples for visitors who are looking for activities. As more people move to Naples, the vibrant nightlife in Naples continues to grow. Tourists are attracted to the area for its beautiful beaches and recreational sports.
Electric entertainment is possible at spots like Fifth Avenue South, Mercato, and Third Street South.
About thirty restaurants and bars can be found on Fifth Avenue South. With its variety of bars and restaurants, Third Street South is not far. It is also close to the Naples Pier, making it a popular spot for nighttime gatherings.
Mercato is a popular entertainment spot downtown. It is home to a cinemaplex, popular restaurants, bars, as well as many retail shops. It also hosts live music, outdoor movies, and holiday events.
Naples, Florida, also boasts a vibrant live music scene. It includes everything from classic rock to steel drum bands. In addition, some bars and resorts allow the public to participate in live sessions.
Only some people are interested in going to clubs for entertainment. However, there are many other options for nightlife in Naples. These are just a few ways you can enjoy the nightlife vibe.
- Bars
A Florida vacation is complete without missing out on the fun of visiting bars in Naples. Most people love to spend the day at the beach. This is what makes beachside bars so popular.
However, Naples still has a lively bar scene at night. These are some of the best spots to bar-hop after a long day at the beach.
Bar Tulia
Bar Tulia Naples has two locations. The one at the Mercato is the other. It’s located on the famous 5th Avenue South. It is renowned for being a culinary innovator with its Italian-inspired pub dishes and the finest craft bartenders in Naples.
Blue Martini
The Blue Martini is a club and bar that caters to younger patrons. The Blue Martini location in Mercato offers live entertainment and a house DJ.
The London Club
The London Club, Naples’ premier live music venue, is excellent for a romantic night. You can enjoy drinks and dinner at the Claw Bar while listening to live music. The Bellasera Resort is home to the London Club.
- Movie Theater
These theaters will show you the film you have been waiting for when it premieres in Naples. Movies are a great activity to add to your list.
Teenagers have reached a point where they no longer want to be ruled by their parents. If they are looking for a bit of independence, you can research movie theatres when planning a trip.
Silverspot Cinema
Silverspot Cinema is offered by Mercato. It features 12 screens and stadium seating. Silverspot offers more than hotdogs and popcorn. Moviegoers have the option to choose from made-to-order items such as wings, loaded nachos, and ahi tuna bites. There are also a variety of flatbreads.
They have a full-service bar for adults.
B & B Theaters
Although a smaller theatre, B & B Theaters offers full-service theatre with the following amenities.
These make it possible for everyone to go to the movies.
- Bowling
Bowling is a must-do when we talk about things to do in Naples. There are many reasons people visit Naples. Families can visit Naples for business trips or family reunions.
You can still engage in the same activities as you would at home, even if you are away for an extended period of time. Bowling is an enjoyable activity that you can enjoy anywhere there’s a place to bowl.
Bowland Entertainment Center
Bowland Entertainment Center is located on Tamiami Trail and has 24 lanes of bowling. It also offers automatic scoring, making it easy to play. If you are lucky, you can attend one of their Glow Bowl events.
Nemo’s Sports bistro is available on-site with a full menu. You won’t miss big sporting events thanks to the full-service bar and large-screen HD TVs.
HeadPinz Naples
HeadPinz is more than a bowling alley. They have 32 lanes. Hyperbowling is also available. This arcade has 40 games and a Virtual Reality coaster ride. You can also eat on-site.
HeadPinz can host special events.
You can enjoy free or almost-free things while you are visiting Naples.
Is it possible to visit Naples and have an unforgettable experience without having to pay for activities? Yes. This is the beauty of Naples, Florida.
Vacations can be expensive. It is nice to have some relief from the expense of transportation, accommodation, food, and other event costs. It’s not difficult to find free activities in Naples, Florida. They are proud of their rich cultural heritage and want to share it with others.
The city has done everything possible to offer free, family-friendly cultural events. All you need is the willingness to search for them. Some opportunities don’t even require any research, to be honest.
Many beaches and parks in Naples are either free or very affordable.
There are many fun activities, such as kayaking, boat tours, walking tours, and kayaking. You can explore Naples without the help of a guide if you are resourceful and curious. All you need is a map and the willingness to plan your day.
Let’s take a look at some ideas to help you enjoy Naples without spending a fortune.
- Relax at the Beach
Free access to the best beaches of Naples, Florida. Florida is a popular destination for tourists who want to take in the gorgeous weather and relax at the beach. The beauty of the beaches is one of the main attractions of Naples.
You may not be aware that there are many beaches along the Naples coast if you plan a trip to Florida. Each one has its unique characteristics.
These include:
Naples Pier Beach
The most popular area for beach activities in Naples is the Naples Municipal Beach & Fishing Pier. You will find plenty of activities to enjoy at the 25th Avenue South location.
The pier extends across the Gulf of Mexico and measures approximately 1,000 feet in length.
The pier is open every day except Sundays. Overnight fishing is prohibited.
You will find plenty of facilities on the beach, including toilets, showers, and concession stands. There are also eating areas. There is a bait shop on-site for those who wish to fish. Volleyball nets can be rented for recreation.
Seagate Beach
Seagate Beach Club is not to be confused. This beach is more for those who want to relax and take a peaceful stroll. There are few attractions, and parking is limited at the beach.
Clam Pass Park
Clam Pass Park is a boardwalk that gives you access to the beach. It covers approximately 35 acres. Dogs are not permitted in the park.
There are many amenities available, including a guided nature hike, bike racks, and bike racks, bathrooms, life jackets, and a tram that takes you to the parking areas.
A restaurant is available on-site, so you don’t have to go outside the park to get food.
Vanderbilt Beach Park
Vanderbilt Beach Park covers 5 acres and is family-friendly. You will find basic amenities like restrooms, concessions, and foot showers. There is also a metered and a parking garage.
Vanderbilt can be found near several beachfront hotels.
Delnor-Wiggins Pass, State Park
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) manages Delnor-Wiggins, a state park. Many activities are available in the park, such as boating, fishing, scuba diving, and snorkeling. You can also swim.
Barefoot Preserve Beach and County Park
The Barefoot Veach is a paradise for sunbathers. It is 342 acres in size. The basic amenities are available, as well as:
- Learning Center with Natural History Exhibits
- Butterfly & Cactus Gardens
- A trail for 1-Mile Walking
Collier County beaches, parks for more information about Naples, Florida’s beach scene.
- Walking Tour
Naples is a great place to go on walking and hiking tours. To learn more about Naples’ history and landmarks, take the Old Naples Free Walking Tour.
Take a Naples Trolley Tour Map with you and go on an adventure. You can ride the trolley all day for a fee.
Get your bags packed! It’s time to visit Naples.
We hope you enjoyed our guide to Naples, Florida. Naples is a beach paradise that has something for everyone.
Naples and the surrounding areas offer world-class shopping and a variety of outdoor activities. There are also many nationally recognized restaurants. Of course, you can experience Naples for yourself, so don’t just take our word for what it offers.
