Naples is Southwest Florida's cornucopia of socialites, glitterati, and wealth. Located between Miami and Fort Myers, this affluent city is known for its opulent hidden mansions, resplendent sandy beaches, and restaurants.
Take a 15-20 minute catamaran Primate Expedition Cruise on Lake Victoria and get a personal close look at the endangered wild species on each island.
Hike Audubon's boardwalk, a 2.5-mile expedition through Pine Flatwoods, the Everglades' ecosystem, and the oldest bald cypress forest in North America.
Transport yourself back to a time when rapacious, sprawling saber cats ruled the Everglades' grasslands and discover ancient archaeological artifacts and civilizations detailing Florida's past.
Discover the mangrove habitats of Florida's hidden species as you paddle down the Gordon River on a kayak expedition.
Take a boat ride on the Faka Union Canal for a 90-minute manatee tour and welcome these gentle sea cows as they surface the water to greet you.
Known for its spectacular regional food and inventive daily specials, HB's On the Gulf draws tourists who love to spend a romantic dinner facing the waterfront. For a $35 tantalizing filet mignon medallions dinner served with béarnaise sauce and grilled asparagus, visit Shula's Steak House.
From March to May, Naples' pleasant weather makes for sun-filled beach days. Winter temperatures average in the mid-70s, making it the perfect weather for travel but it is also inundated with tourists and exorbitant prices.
Take United Airlines, American Airlines, or any of the major domestic airlines into Fort Myers' Regional Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW). From there, drive for 42 miles to Downtown Naples.
Amtrak stops at Naples Municipal Airport and Southwest Florida International Airport. Prices vary depending upon which destination you are arriving from.
From RSW, private car services are highly recommended instead of taxis. Fifth Avenue Transportation and Naples Transportation average about a $70 ride to Naples.
Greyhound takes you from Fort Myers to Naples for $15. However, prices vary depending on the departure location.
The Doubletree Suites Naples dwells on the Cocohatchee Creek Preserve two miles from Naples' beaches. Rates start at $140 a night and amenities include laundry/valet service, pool, and a coffee maker. The Park Shore Resort offers a private heated pool and an outdoor Jacuzzi.
Coquina Sands - Coquina Sands overlooks magnificent homes, an alluring landscape, and is a hub for shopping centers.
Old Naples - when you visit Old Naples, you enter a world comprised of traditional architecture and modern real estate surrounded by tropical landscaping and shops.
Aqualane Shores - defined by its lavish stores, restaurants, and sunken canals, this waterfront community overlooks the Gulf of Mexico.
Buses are run by Collier Area Transit (CAT) Monday through Saturday from 6 am to 7 pm. Bus fair is $1 but seniors, students, and the disabled pay half fare. Daily passes are available for $3.
Arkway Taxi provides door-to-door service 24 hours a day for $55 and up. Licensed cabs start their normal tariff at $5 with $3 for every mile.
Enterprise has several facilities throughout Naples and rentals start at $35 a day.
Located in the Old Naples district, 5th Avenue is a cynosure of stores, cafes, hotels, and amazing restaurants that run alongside its sidewalk. Downtown Naples is a fisherman's wharf enveloped by a plethora of retail stores. Naples Fashion House and the Village Shops on Venetian Bay sell stylish women's clothing, handbags, and necklaces that average from $20 to $500.
Naples has a variety of products inspired by its Latin American communities. Oakes Farms Market delivers daily fresh produce with a great selection of dry goods, dairy items, fresh meats, and seafood. A gallon of milk costs $3.63, a loaf of white bread is $2.53, and one pound of rice starts at $2.08.