Situated at the southeastern corner of the Florida peninsula, the charming seaside town of Naples is an excellent option for a weekend retreat, romantic escapade, or family vacation.
The region boasts an abundance of water activities, luxury dining, and high-end shopping, even though its immaculate beaches alone are enough for a leisurely holiday. The extremely welcoming residents here are more than eager to share their local tips about the Paradise Coast.
Although information indicates that Naples accommodates some of the wealthiest individuals in the United States, living expenses here are still more reasonable compared to other well-known Florida locations such as Miami or Palm Beach. Despite hearsay that the city lacks diversity, I, as a Black woman, feel exceptionally secure and embraced by the community here.
Here’s the essential information for making the most out of your inaugural visit to Naples.
When is the ideal period to visit Naples?
March and May are considered the ideal months to explore Naples. Remarkably, it hasn’t turned into a trendy spring break location, so you’ll find it tranquil during this season. The climate is at its finest, and lodgings are fairly priced.
During June through September, Naples becomes quite warm, with high amounts of precipitation and average temperatures exceeding 90ºF (32ºC), at times even surpassing 100ºF (38ºC). If you decide to visit during this period, remember to pack an umbrella since Florida’s hurricane season lasts from July to October. Although the weather may be unpredictably troubling, you may find reasonable offers during these months.
Winters in Naples are moderate but still offer a break from chilly conditions, with average temperatures resting in the mid-70s Fahrenheit (around 24ºC). This season is also perfect for birdwatching and observing wildlife.
For how long should I plan to stay in Naples?
Naples is an ideal spot for a three-day weekend excursion, and I find it particularly suitable for those aiming for a brief solo or romantic holiday to relish the white sandy shores and delicious cuisine. If you stay for an extended period, consider making time for day trips to nearby locales such as Fort Myers and Everglades National Park.
What’s the best way to get to Naples?
Even though Naples does have its own airport, it mainly caters to those on private flights. Actually, while visiting the city, one can frequently spot sleek jets above throughout the day.
Nevertheless, you’ll likely consider flying into Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW), found in Fort Myers, which is about a 35-minute drive to Old Naples. Typical rideshare expenses range around $50 or so, depending on the hour of the day.
Is navigating around Naples straightforward?
Without a doubt, Naples is a very pedestrian-friendly city in most locales, primarily near and around the lively 5th Ave South. For those interested in renting a vehicle, it’s an uncomplicated city to drive in without much congestion, and it includes a fair selection of both paid and complimentary parking facilities.
Based on personal experience, rideshares are the most convenient means of getting around, particularly for short weekend visits. Uber wait times are brief, averaging three to five minutes, and fares fluctuate between $7–16 per journey.
Accommodation Choices in Naples
Having opened its welcoming doors in 2023, the AC Naples Marriott stands as a wonderful choice for a warm yet lavish stay. Located merely a mere five-minute drive from 5th Ave South, you’ll find an array of fine boutiques and dining venues. Nestled in the core of Old Naples, this three-story establishment delivers an intimate, boutique-like ambiance alongside superior service, contemporary rooms, a rooftop pool, and the Mediterranean-inspired Limón bar. A night’s stay will approximately set you back $160–200.
For those seeking more economically-friendly hotel selections during their visit, consider the Courtyard Naples (about $114–240 per night) or the Residence Inn Naples (about $118–175 per night).
Several lodging choices are available for convenient beach access, like the Naples Grande Beach Resort (about $197–235 per night) or the Naples Bay Resort & Marina (around $190–219 per night).
Must-Do Activities in Naples
Discover the Idyllic Shorelines
Indeed, the beaches of Southwest Florida live up to the buzz, featuring a selection of delightful white sands. My personal top pick in Naples is, without a doubt, Clam Pass Park. Entry is without charge (aside from a $10 parking cost), accessible daily to the public from 8am until sundown. Upon your arrival, a short walk awaits, along a three-quarter-mile wooden boardwalk, easily traversed via the complimentary tram service. Covering 35 acres, the beach hosts ample marine life as well as coastal birds. Further activities, such as nature treks and fishing, are abundantly available.
Although the slightly costly beach chairs and umbrellas, this family-friendly beach offers serene, azure waters and captivatingly gleaming seashells dispersed across the sands. A snack bar, restrooms, bicycle racks, and foot showers are also provided. Don’t forget to bring your towels, as rentals are not openly accessible; they are preserved for guests of the beachfront accommodations.
Additionally, you can visit well-loved beaches like Vanderbilt Beach, Tigertail Beach, and Marco Island Beach. For those seeking dog-friendly beaches, head over to Bonita Beach Dog Park, Gulfside City Park Beach, and Lighthouse Beach Park. Numerous water-centric pastimes to consider at regional beaches include parasailing, jet skiing, and dolphin observing.
Experience Activities Beyond the Beach
For the enthusiasts of nature, make your way to the Naples Botanical Gardens to observe rainforest vegetation, succulent arrangements, and pools adorned with water lilies within tropical-inspired gardens. The gardens also boast regular child-friendly events and a restaurant featuring garden vistas by the name of the Fogg Café.
Annual event highlights encompass the Naples Seafood & Music Festival, the Naples Craft Beer Fest, and Naples Downtown Art Fair.
Embark on a Boat Tour
For an engaging local boating experience, La Gondola provides private tours in downtown Naples aboard authentic Venetian gondolas – ideal for an intimate evening out in the locale. Another popular choice is Naples Princess Cruises. Ensure to make advanced bookings for both, as they tend to fill quickly.
Saboreando y bebiendo en los mejores restaurantes de Nápoles
Campiello: Si hay un lugar que podría hacerte confundir Nápoles, Florida, con su homónimo italiano, es Campiello. Este restaurante italiano galardonado ofrece un menú contemporáneo rústico con carnes y pizzas al horno de leña – pide la Margherita.
D’Amico’s Continental Naples: Este sofisticado asador carnicero ha sido clasificado no solo entre los mejores de Florida sino también del país – y con razón. Comúnmente conocido como The Continental, este sitio ofrece un menú lleno de opciones de carnes premium, mariscos y cócteles, y una impresionante lista de vinos de 39 páginas.
Jane’s Café on 3rd: Incluido casi en todas las guías gastronómicas de Nápoles y aclamado por todos los locales, el célebre lugar para brunch Jane’s Café on 3rd ciertamente está a la altura de las expectativas, desde su “lobster smashed avocado Benedict” hasta su tostada francesa.
Rocco’s Tacos and Tequila Bar: Si buscas algo más informal, Rocco’s Tacos es una excelente elección para tacos, birrias, quesadillas y hamburguesas de taco. Para quienes viajan con presupuesto limitado, también hay habituales horas felices y especiales los martes de tacos.
Lo que más me gusta hacer en Nápoles
Como amante de las cafeterías, me agrada visitar estos establecimientos en cada lugar que visito para disfrutar de una buena taza de café junto a los locales. Algo acerca del ambiente y la atmósfera me hace sentir en casa sin importar dónde esté en el mundo. EJ’s Bayfront Cafe fue una experiencia sencilla pero encantadora en un viaje reciente a Nápoles.
A menudo hay una breve espera para entrar, pero el menú es un sueño para los amantes del brunch, y es conocido por tener algunos de los mejores platos reconfortantes en la ciudad. Está a solo pasos del océano y cuenta con abundante espacio al aire libre. Un favorito de los fanáticos es la tostada francesa rellena de plátano con pan jalá cortado grueso, relleno de plátanos en rodajas y envuelto en canela y azúcar. La comida llega increíblemente rápido, y el servicio es de primera calidad.
¿Cuánto dinero necesito para Nápoles?
Aunque Nápoles es una de las ciudades más adineradas de América, los alojamientos son bastante accesibles – especialmente si limitas las excursiones. Comprar en boutiques locales es lo que más puede afectar tu presupuesto, especialmente a lo largo de la 5ta Avenida Sur. La comida y las bebidas tienen precios justos, y la mayoría de los restaurantes no imponen cargos adicionales por servicio.
Podrías planear fácilmente una estancia de dos noches por menos de $1000, incluyendo un vuelo de ida y vuelta sin escalas desde Nueva York, por ejemplo.
Costos promedio:
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Cena para dos: $80–215 (o más)
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Brunch para dos: $60–90+
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Hotel de gama media fuera de temporada, entre semana en verano: $100–250+
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Cerveza/pinta en el bar: $7–10
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Cóctel: $15–18
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Helado: $6–8
Mariya viajó a Nápoles por invitación de Marriott Bonvoy. Lonely Planet no acepta regalos a cambio de una cobertura positiva.