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I’m always so grateful that I had the opportunity to spend several years of my childhood growing up in Southwest Florida. We moved to Naples when I was in middle school and while it’s changed quite a bit since then, it still has the same slow pace, beautiful beaches, and charm that I remember loving so much. My family and I recently spent a week in Naples and I took note of our favorite restaurants, beaches, hotels, and things to do.
About Naples
Naples, Florida has a rich history dating back to the late 1800s, but in the last 30 years, the city has experienced significant growth and development. It is known for its pristine beaches & wetlands and fabulous weather in the late fall through late spring. If you’re a local, you know there’s a one hundred percent chance of it being hot and rainy nearly every day in the summer! Naples has also become a hub for the arts, with numerous galleries and cultural events throughout the year.
Let’s Shop!
If you’re in historic Old Naples, you must stroll down 5th Avenue South. It’s a mix of glamour and laid-back charm full of lush blooms and stunning architecture. J.McLauglin was expanding their location when I visited and I can see why! It’s the **perfect** shopping destination while in Naples. Their crisp linen shirts, classic knits, flowing dresses, oh-so-flattering white pants, wicker totes, casual meets chic sandals and heels, and all the accessories you need for a perfectly curated warm weather getaway.
We stopped by the Village Shops on Venetian Bay one afternoon for ice cream and wandered around the waterfront village. I snuck into Fabec Young Co while waiting on the kids to finish their treats and wanted to put the entire shop in my suitcase! They carry all of my favorite homewares and have all the accessories for a perfect tablescape. There is also a second J.McLaughlin for anyone staying near Venetian Bay.
The Waterside Shops are another lovely destination for an afternoon stroll. Shops galore, beautiful fountains, and restaurants make this one of my favorite spots in town.
Where To Stay
La Playa Beach & Golf Resort This resort is slowly re-opening after Hurricane Ian but is truly a beautiful property in an amazing location.
Edgewater Beach Hotel: An all-suite beachfront property with a stunning pool and restaurant.
The Ritz Carlton, Tiburon: Perfect for golf enthusiasts or someone seeking some time at the spa, this hotel is just three miles from the Gulf. It features a massive pool with cabanas, a splash area for the crew, and waterslides for everyone!
Dining Favorites
I did quite a bit of research before our trip and immediately made a reservation for Sails Restaurant in Old Naples. Think crisp white walls, beautiful banquets, thoughtful lighting, and an adventurous menu. We enjoyed an early dinner and were blown away by the food. The staff was incredibly kind and accommodating. Make sure to try the blackberry cocktail (I have a similar recipe here!) and the tomato salad.
Our family has been going to The Dock at Crayton Cove for years. They needed major renovations after the hurricane last year and I was so happy to see how quickly it was restored. The menu has something for everyone (kids included) and the location over Naples Bay makes it the perfect spot to watch the boats come in and out while keeping the kids entertained. They don’t take reservations so we went for a late lunch and missed the rush.
If you’re staying near (or visiting) Clam Pass, you must swing into Kunjani Craft Coffee & Gallery for a coffee. If you’ve been around for a while you know I love a good flat white (two shots of espresso with just a bit of steamed milk). The owner is from Zimbabwe and set up shop in Naples. We enjoyed our coffees there every morning… and some afternoons!
The French is a charming brasserie down the street from Sails. An extensive lunch menu and darling outdoor cafe puts it at the top of my list!
Things to do in Naples
- Spend a day at the beach. Clam Pass, Vanderbilt Beach & Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park are some of my favorites.
- The Naples Philharmonic puts on over one hundred orchestral and chamber concerts a year so there is something for everyone.
- The Baker Art Museum: One of the foremost fine art museums in Southwest Florida, the Baker emphasizes modern & contemporary art. Slip away from the sunshine and take a stroll during a hot afternoon
- Naples Zoo: A zoo and historic botanical garden, home to giraffes, lions, Florida panthers, sloths, zebras and tigers. My children love getting up close with the giraffe to hand-feed them lettuce! Perfect for visiting on a cooler winter day when it’s not warm enough to lounge down by the beach.
- Botanical gardens: This 170-acre garden features a variety of tropical plants, including cultivated gardens reflecting the plants and cultures of Florida, Brazil, Asia, and the Caribbean.
- A sunset cruise over the Gulf of Mexico aboard the Sweet Liberty, a 53′ catamaran.
- Rent a boat and drop a line!
