Best Things To Do in Naples, Florida: Beaches, Nature & Culture
Naples greets you with sun-soaked beaches, calm waterways, and downtown streets that buzz with life. Plan for beach days, nature trails, fishing or boating, and a mix of dining and arts that fit any mood or budget.
Walk the powdery white sand, catch sunsets at the pier, or launch a boat to quiet islands and winding mangroves. Botanical gardens, quirky museums, local breweries—they’re all here. Or just wander Fifth Avenue South for shops and restaurants. Whether you’re after pure relaxation, a little adventure, or something for the family, there’s plenty to do.
Top Places to Stay in Naples, FL
| Hotel | Reviews |
|---|---|
| Inn at Pelican Bay 800 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Pelican Bay, Naples, FL 34108, United States of America | 1,006 |
| Home2 Suites By Hilton Naples I-75 Pine Ridge Road 3685 Kramer Drive, Naples, FL 34109, United States of America | 720 |
| Staybridge Suites - Naples - Marco Island, an IHG Hotel 9401 Triangle Blvd, Naples, 34113, United States of America | 709 |
| GreenLinks Golf Villas at Lely Resort 7995 Mahogany Run Lane , Naples, FL 34113, United States of America | 258 |
| Naples' Hidden Gem 415 12th Avenue Northwest, Naples, FL 34120, United States of America | 447 |
| Vanderbilt Beach Resort 9225 Gulfshore Drive North, Naples, FL 34110, United States of America | 218 |
| TownePlace Suites Naples 5425 Juliet Boulevard, Naples, 34102, United States of America | 352 |
| Inn On Fifth 699 Fifth Avenue South, Naples, FL 34102, United States of America | 276 |
| Cove Inn on Naples Bay 900 Broad Avenue South, Naples, 34102, United States of America | 891 |
| DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Naples 12200 Tamiami Trail North, Naples, FL 34110, United States of America | 201 |
| Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham Naples 3557 Pine Ridge Road, Naples, FL 34109, United States of America | 1,602 |
| The Fairways Inn of Naples 103 Palm River Blvd, Naples, FL 34110, United States of America | 1,107 |
| Naples Park Central Hotel 40 Tamiami Trail North, Naples, FL 34102, United States of America | 1,694 |
| Holiday Inn Express & Suites Naples Downtown - 5th Avenue, an IHG Hotel 1785 Fifth Avenue South, Naples, FL 34102, United States of America | 1,138 |
| The Capri Inn 955 7th Avenue South, Naples, FL 34102, United States of America | 1,049 |
| Hilton Naples 5111 Tamiami Trail North, Naples, FL 34103, United States of America | 571 |
| Best Western Naples Plaza Hotel 6400 Dudley Dr , Naples, 34105-3849, United States of America | 2,303 |
| Edgewater Beach Hotel 1901 Gulf Shore Boulevard North, Naples, FL 34102, United States of America | 336 |
| Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Naples 3808 White Lake Boulevard, Naples, FL 34117, United States of America | 260 |
| Hampton Inn Naples - I-75 2630 Northbrooke Plaza Drive, Naples, FL 34119, United States of America | 204 |
| Holiday Inn Express - Naples South - I-75, an IHG Hotel 3837 Tollgate Boulevard, Naples, FL 34114, United States of America | 365 |
| Best Western Naples Inn & Suites 2329 9th Street North, Naples, FL 34103, United States of America | 2,310 |
| Naples Grande Beach Resort 475 Seagate Drive, Pelican Bay, Naples, FL 34103, United States of America | 1,469 |
| Gulfcoast Inn Naples 2555 Tamiami Trail North, Naples, FL 34103, United States of America | 561 |
| Residence Inn by Marriott Naples 4075 Tamiami Trail North, Naples, FL 34103, United States of America | 246 |
Explore Naples’ Best Beaches
Naples has soft white sand, calm Gulf water, and easy access to nature preserves. Stroll historic piers, picnic in shady parks, or take a boat out to quieter islands just off the coast.
Naples Pier and Sunset Views
Head to Naples Pier at 25 12th Avenue South to watch fishermen, spot dolphins, or just soak in those classic Gulf sunsets. The pier stretches out into the water with benches, a little concession stand, and showers nearby on Naples Municipal Beach.
Sunrise and sunset pull in photographers and couples—no surprise there. Get there early for parking and a quieter spot on the sand. The beach around the pier is wide and soft, perfect for kids or a pickup beach game.
You can fish from the pier without a boat, and sometimes you’ll find bait for sale. After dark, wander back toward Third Street South for restaurants and shops if you’re hungry post-sunset.
Family-Friendly Beaches: Lowdermilk Park & Clam Pass Park
Lowdermilk Park is great for families, with playgrounds, shaded picnic spots, and two public gazebos you can rent for lunch. Concessions sell snacks and basics, and lifeguards usually watch over things during busy months.
Clam Pass Park feels different: a long boardwalk through mangroves leads to a wide, quiet beach. Hop on the free tram from the parking lot if you’re not up for the walk, or stroll it for a better look at the wildlife and some shade.
Both have restrooms and easy parking. Lowdermilk is closer to downtown and works for a quick beach trip, while Clam Pass is more about nature, shallow water, and a bit more peace and quiet.
Natural Beauty at Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park
Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park protects a classic Florida beach with dunes, tidal inlets, and clear shallow water. There’s a small entrance fee and limited parking, so get there early if it’s busy season.
Swim, shell, kayak, or picnic—lifeguards are there sometimes, depending on the season. Trails through the dunes take you to lookouts where you might spot birds or marine life in the pass between the mainland and Keewaydin Island.
If you’re into snorkeling or paddleboarding, the pass channels are usually calm. And if you want a resort experience, Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club is just a short drive away.
Discover Barefoot Beach and Keewaydin Island
Barefoot Beach Preserve keeps things simple—undeveloped beachfront, sea grapes for shade, and a shoreline that’s great for shelling or birdwatching. Boardwalks and picnic pavilions make it easy to settle in for the day.
Keewaydin Island, south of Marco Island, is car-free and mostly untouched. You’ll need a private boat, water taxi, or kayak from Marco Island or the Tigertail area to get there. Once you arrive, it’s just miles of shells, nesting birds, and hardly any crowds.
Barefoot and Keewaydin both deliver peaceful walks and some of the best shell hunting around. You’ll want to pack water, shade, and dry bags—there aren’t many services, so whatever you bring is what you’ve got for the day.
Experience Naples’ Natural Wonders
Walk ancient cypress boardwalks, tour lush gardens, meet rescued animals up close, or cruise through mangrove-lined waters. Every spot shows off a different side of Southwest Florida’s wetlands, wildlife, and plant life.
Adventure at Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary
Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary lets you walk a 2.25-mile boardwalk through bald cypress forest that feels straight out of another era. Bring binoculars—you might spot wood storks, herons, or a rare bird at the rookery viewing areas.
Go early or late for cooler air and more wildlife. Wear sturdy shoes and don’t forget bug spray; the boardwalk can be damp, and mosquitoes definitely show up in warmer months. The visitor center has maps and a short film about the sanctuary’s conservation work and the Everglades watershed.
Stroll the Naples Botanical Garden
Naples Botanical Garden spreads themed gardens across 170 acres, with trails showing off plants from Florida, the tropics, and dry regions. Stroll the Florida Garden for native grasses and wildflowers, then cross over to see palms, orchids, and bright bromeliads from the Caribbean and Brazil.
Give yourself an hour or two to see the main gardens and lakefront boardwalk. Guided tours and plant labels make it easy to learn what’s edible, what brings in pollinators, and what survives Florida’s wild weather. The garden also runs seasonal classes and family programs if you want to get hands-on.
Wildlife at Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens
Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens focuses on animal care and habitat restoration along shaded walkways and islands. You’ll see tigers, primates, rescued reptiles, and old banyan trees forming a canopy over the ponds.
Get tickets early to catch scheduled feedings or keeper talks. The zoo supports conservation locally and globally. If you’re with kids, check for interactive experiences like giraffe feeding or educational shows—they make learning about animals a lot more fun.
Explore Rookery Bay and the Ten Thousand Islands
Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve offers guided kayak trips, boat tours, and an education center focused on estuaries and the Ten Thousand Islands. From Naples or Marco Island, join a boat trip to see mangrove tunnels, coastal wildlife, and nesting birds.
Guided paddling tours get you up close to dolphins, manatees, and shorebirds, plus you’ll learn safe routes through the tidal creeks. For deeper exploring, longer boat tours wind through the Ten Thousand Islands’ maze, showing off how the Everglades’ freshwater mixes with Gulf waters to support rich fisheries.
Discover Downtown Naples
Downtown Naples blends beach access, art, and shopping in a walkable area. Palm-lined streets, galleries, boutiques, plus easy access to the pier and waterfront parks—it’s all close by.
Stroll Fifth Avenue South
Fifth Avenue South is the main drag for shopping and dining downtown. Step from a sidewalk café into an art gallery, or cross to browse boutiques and coastal shops. Many restaurants have outdoor tables, so you can eat while people-watching under the palms.
Look for pop-up events and live music along the avenue. Parking garages and meters are nearby, so short visits are easy. Whether you want coffee, pastries, or a seafood dinner, Fifth Avenue keeps things walkable and simple.
Explore Third Street South
Third Street South is quieter and feels more tucked away than Fifth Avenue. Smaller galleries, specialty shops, and cozy bistros fill shaded courtyards. Hunt for local art, handmade jewelry, or boutique home goods here.
Third Street links to Crayton Cove and the waterfront. From here, it’s easy to join a boat tour or stroll down to Naples Pier. The vibe is relaxed and slow-paced—plan to linger at a gallery or sit outside for a meal.
Historic Old Naples and Palm Cottage
Old Naples centers near the water and keeps a small-town, historic feel. You can walk quiet streets lined with classic Florida homes and reach the pier in minutes. The Naples Historical Society keeps local history alive and runs Palm Cottage, one of Naples’ oldest houses.
Tour Palm Cottage for period rooms and exhibits about early settlers. The Historical Society hosts tours and events that show how Naples grew from a fishing village to a resort town. If you’re a history buff, this area brings the past right up close.
Immerse Yourself in Arts and Culture
Check out visual art, live orchestral music, and community theater—all close to downtown. Museum exhibits, symphony shows, and plays cover a lot of ground for different tastes and ages.
The Baker Museum at Artis—Naples
The Baker Museum, part of Artis—Naples, rotates exhibitions of modern and contemporary art. Expect paintings, sculpture, and themed shows that change throughout the year, plus a permanent collection with regional pieces.
Plan an hour or two to browse. The museum has guided tours, audio guides, and sometimes lectures on key works and artists. Check the Artis—Naples website for exhibition dates and tickets before you go.
The building is accessible and there’s a small museum shop and a café nearby. If you time it right, you can pair your visit with a concert or lecture in the same complex.
Performances at Naples Philharmonic
The Naples Philharmonic plays at Artis—Naples and brings classical, pops, and family concerts to town. Catch symphony programs, guest soloists, and holiday shows year-round.
Buy tickets early for big concerts, especially holidays or summer guest artists. Seating includes orchestra and balcony—check the venue map for the best view at your price point.
Look for community concerts and student matinees if you’re traveling with kids. Show up early for pre-concert talks or lobby displays—they often highlight the night’s program.
Experience the Naples Players at Sugden Community Theatre
The Naples Players stage plays and musicals at Sugden Community Theatre downtown. See contemporary dramas, classic comedies, or big musicals—local actors and directors put on the shows.
Shows run in seasonal cycles, with evening and some matinee options. Tickets are affordable, and you can sometimes join talkbacks or meet the cast after select performances.
Sugden Theatre is intimate, so you’re never far from the stage. Check the Naples Players’ schedule to book seats, or look into volunteer and youth program options if you want to get more involved.
Family-Friendly Activities
Naples has hands-on play, water fun, and exhibits that keep kids entertained while parents get a breather. Splash pads, interactive science, and simple nature labs work for toddlers up through tweens.
Fun at Sun-N-Fun Lagoon
Sun-N-Fun Lagoon, inside North Collier Regional Park, gives kids a place to cool off without Gulf waves. The water playground has shallow splash zones, small slides, and fountains that little ones can enjoy safely.
There’s a zero-entry pool and shaded picnic spots close by. Lifeguards are on duty during peak hours, and the park has restrooms and changing rooms so you can settle in for the afternoon.
Bring swim gear, sunscreen, and water shoes. Parking’s easy, and concessions sell snacks if you don’t bring your own.
Interactive Learning at Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples
The Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples is all about hands-on learning for kids ages 1–10. Little ones can dive into pretend-play spots like a market or vet clinic, mess around with blocks and simple machines, or get busy at sensory stations that help with fine motor skills.
Exhibits change out regularly, so you’ll probably spot something new every time. Staff are often running quick programs or story times—sometimes you’ll want to join in, sometimes it’s nice to just hang back and watch.
Check the museum’s website for hours and tickets. The place is stroller-friendly, has family restrooms, and there’s a small café if you need a snack break.
Hands-On Discovery at the Dalton Discovery Center
The Dalton Discovery Center puts science and nature front and center, with real specimens and simple experiments. Kids can handle fossils, poke around at shells and bones, and learn about local ecosystems thanks to displays that actually tell you where everything came from.
Volunteers and staff will often jump in with demonstrations—maybe showing how a feather or a shell tells you something about the animal it came from. It’s a pretty compact spot, so you can see most of it in a single visit (which is great if your kid’s attention span is, well, short).
You’ll probably spend 45–90 minutes here, depending on how curious your kid is. The center hands out worksheets and activity guides if you want to turn the outing into a mini lesson.
Boating, Adventure & Outdoor Activities
Want to explore mangroves, chase a sunset, or try your luck fishing for snook and tarpon? You’ll find boat tours, fishing charters, paddle sports, and nature trails that get you right up close with wildlife.
Sightseeing by Boat with Naples Princess and Pure Florida
Hop on a Naples Princess cruise for a laid-back, narrated ride along the Gulf or bay. The two-hour sunset trip shows off the skyline, fancy beachfront houses, and you’ll probably spot dolphins. Covered decks, restrooms, and good photo ops make it easygoing.
Pure Florida runs shorter eco- and sightseeing cruises, plus longer shelling and sunset outings. Their captains love pointing out birds, manatees, and mangrove tunnels while sharing local nature tidbits. Both companies leave from downtown marinas and fill up fast on holiday weekends—bring a hat, sunscreen, and your camera.
Fishing and Water Sports
You can book a fishing charter for a half or full day to go after snook, redfish, grouper, or snapper. Charters provide the gear and know the local waters. If you’re after something more chill, try a bay fishing trip for sight-casting near the flats and mangroves.
For more active water fun, grab a paddleboard, kayak, or jet ski. Guided kayak trips wind through mangrove tunnels and shallow estuaries where you might spot herons or manatees. Local outfitters are usually happy to store your stuff, point out launch spots, and give a quick paddling or safety lesson before you go.
Explore the Gordon River Greenway
The Gordon River Greenway has a paved boardwalk and loop trail running through mangrove estuaries and along the river. Walk, bike, or birdwatch from the viewing platforms or just chill on a shady bench. It’s a solid pick for families.
Nearby launch points let you pair a walk with a quick kayak paddle into quieter waters. The trail’s well marked and close to central Naples, so you can squeeze in a nature break between shopping or lunch. Keep an eye out for osprey, ibis, or even the occasional otter by the shore.
History, Local Flavor & Unique Attractions
Naples has a quirky mix of local history, wildlife conservation, craft beer, and festivals that give the city its personality. You’ll see how it grew from a tiny rail stop to a coastal spot known for nature and seafood.
Uncover Stories at Naples Depot Museum
The Naples Depot Museum lets you step back and see how the railroad shaped the city. It’s housed in a restored 1927 depot near the airport, with original railcars, old photos, and artifacts tracing Naples’ growth from swampy outpost to tourist town.
You can check out the historic Seaboard Air Line railcar and old uniforms. The displays show how the depot connected growers, goods, and visitors across Florida. If you’re into hands-on history, look for guided tours and special exhibits—they change things up seasonally.
Dive into Collier County Museum
The Collier County Museum digs into regional stories you won’t find in most travel guides. It’s set on a campus with outdoor exhibits and covers early pioneers, the indigenous Calusa, and how things changed after the railroad and the airport arrived.
Inside, you’ll spot artifacts, oral histories, and rotating exhibits about fishing, farming, and local wildlife. The museum runs community programs and kid-friendly activities that show how the Everglades, the coast, and local industry shaped daily life here.
Ankrolab Brewing Co. & Naples Festivals
Ankrolab Brewing Co. brings local flavor with small-batch IPAs, lagers, and seasonal brews. The taproom often hosts community nights and food trucks, so you can sample what’s on tap and chat with locals.
Naples throws events like the Stone Crab Festival, where you’ll find regional seafood and live music. Most festivals blend food vendors, craft booths, and family fun. Double-check event calendars before you go—festivals usually line up with stone crab season and draw a crowd from all over Southwest Florida.
Get to Know the Conservancy of Southwest Florida
The Conservancy of Southwest Florida runs programs to protect local marine life and habitats. Stop by their center to see exhibits about sea turtles, manatees, and coastal restoration.
You can join a guided eco-tour, help with a beach cleanup, or watch wildlife rehab in action. The Conservancy also hands out maps and tips for exploring nearby preserves and waterways, so you can get a real feel for Naples’ wild side and learn how conservation keeps it all going.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here’s a quick rundown of where to go, what to do outdoors, family spots, dining, top beaches, and arts venues in Naples. Each answer points you to specific places and tips you can use right away.
What are the top attractions to visit in Naples?
Head to the Naples Pier for sunset views and dolphin sightings.
Walk the boardwalk trails at Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary through ancient cypress forests.
Stroll Old Naples and Fifth Avenue South for shops and historic buildings.
Take a sightseeing cruise or rent a boat to check out Naples Bay and the islands.
Can you recommend some outdoor activities in Naples?
Go shelling and swimming at low tide on Keewaydin Island or other barrier islands.
Book a dolphin-watching or sunset cruise from Naples Bay for wildlife on the water.
Rent an e-bike or moped to ride along Gulf Shore Boulevard and through scenic neighborhoods.
Try a guided airboat tour in the wetlands and mangroves nearby.
Are there any family-friendly activities in Naples?
Spend a day at Lowdermilk Park or Clam Pass Park for beaches and picnic spots.
Take a narrated Naples Trolley Tour if you want to learn local history without lots of walking.
Visit the Naples Zoo or go on a guided nature walk at local preserves for kid-friendly wildlife.
Look for fishing charters and shallow-water boat tours that welcome kids.
Where can I find the best dining experiences in Naples?
Check out Fifth Avenue South and Third Street South for everything from fancy restaurants to casual cafés.
Try the waterfront seafood spots for fresh Gulf catches and sunset views.
Join a food tour to sample local eats and see where the chefs shop.
Look up menus for outdoor seating and reservations, especially on weekends.
What are the must-visit beaches in Naples?
Naples Pier Beach has wide sands and a long pier for walks and wildlife spotting.
Lowdermilk Park is great for families with picnic shelters, playgrounds, and restrooms.
Clam Pass Beach has a boardwalk through mangroves leading to calm water.
Keewaydin Island and other barrier islands are perfect for shelling and a quieter beach vibe.
How can I experience the arts and culture scene in Naples?
Catch a live show by The Naples Players at the Sugden Community Theatre—there’s just something special about seeing theater in person.
Pop into local art galleries or wander through the Baker Museum, where you’ll usually find fresh exhibitions and a taste of regional creativity.
Keep an eye on the calendar for outdoor concerts and those lively festivals along Fifth Avenue South.
Maybe join a historic walking tour if you’re curious about local landmarks and the stories behind Naples’ cultural roots.