Embracing the Outdoors Fun Activities for Kids in Naples, Florida
Nothing beats the thrill of being outdoors and the natural playground it offers particularly for kids. This is especially true in Naples, Florida, a city blessed with a wealth of outdoor beauty and activities, fostering an environment where children can discover, explore, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether it’s hunting for seashells on pristine beaches, exploring the lush wilderness, or engaging in fun-filled sports, Naples truly has it all. In this blog post, we’ll be sharing some of the best outdoor activities for kids in Naples, so you can plan for a day of fun and adventure with your little ones.
Take Advantage of Naples’ Stunning Beaches
If there’s one thing Naples is synonymous with, it’s the city’s breathtaking beaches. Not only are they the perfect setting for utmost relaxation, but they also offer a host of opportunities for fun and adventure for kids. One of our favorites is the Lowdermilk Beach Park. With its soft white sand, calm waters, and fantastic amenities, it’s a perfect spot for families. Aside from swimming and building sandcastles, kids would also enjoy their adventure playground and duck pond.
For a more unique beach experience, consider visiting Clam Pass Park. It’s not just a beach but also a beautiful nature preserve. Kids will love the exciting tram ride through a mangrove forest to reach the beach. Once there, they can explore the tidal pools which are often teeming with interesting marine life. For more information about Naples’ beach parks, check out NaplesGov.com.
Explore Naples’ Rich Flora and Fauna
Naples is home to numerous parks and reserves, making it a perfect setting for kids to get up close with nature. One must-visit place is the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, a 13,000-acre preserve housing the largest remaining stand of Bald Cypress in North America. The 2.25-mile boardwalk is perfect for kids, providing an accessible path to observe the swamp’s wildlife, including alligators, otters, and a variety of bird species.
For a more interactive experience, head to Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens. Here, kids can feed giraffes, watch wildlife shows, and even engage in treasure hunts. Also, don’t forget Naples Botanical Garden which is an interactive kid-friendly place where children can play in a treehouse, splash in a water play area, and learn about plants and animals. For more detailed information, you can visit the Naples Zoo website, and Naples Botanical Garden website.
The Everglades: A Natural Marvel for Young Explorers
Naples, Florida, is the gateway to the Everglades – a 1.5-million-acre wetlands reserve that offers an array of educational yet thrilling explorations for children. Filled with mangrove forests, marshes, and pine flatwoods, it is home to an abundant variety of wildlife that includes rare and endangered species like the American crocodile, Florida panther, and West Indian manatee.
Everglades National Park
A visit to the Everglades National Park is a must for any family in Naples. This expansive wilderness offers numerous kid-friendly activities. The Anhinga Trail, for instance, is an easy walk on a paved path and boardwalk that winds through a sawgrass marsh. It’s a popular spot for spotting a variety of wildlife such as alligators, turtles, anhinga, heron, and egrets – a delight for both young and older wild-life enthusiasts.
Give your kids a chance to earn a Junior Ranger Badge. This program, perfect for kids ages 5-13, encourages them to complete a series of activities during their park visit, explore the park, learn about the National Park Service, and ways to protect natural resources.
Airboat Tours
For a more fast-paced adventure, an airboat tour offers an exhilarating way to see the Everglades. Companies like Everglades City Airboat Tours offer trips that are both safe and informative, with knowledgeable guides who provide fascinating insights into the area’s ecosystem and wildlife. The thrill of gliding over the water at high speeds is sure to light up the faces of your little ones. Remember to pack sunblock, hats, and plenty of water to keep everyone comfortable on the ride.
Dive into Fun at Sun-N-Fun Lagoon
When the Florida heat gets too much to handle, Sun-N-Fun Lagoon is the perfect place to cool down. This family-friendly water park features five thrilling water slides, a lazy river, a lap pool, and an interactive water playground for the kids.
Tadpole Pool
For the youngest members of the family, the Tadpole pool is a safe and fun choice. With a depth of just 1 foot, this area features fun interactive water elements like small slides and spray toys. It’s the perfect place for toddlers to splash around.
Turtle Cove and Dolphin Dive
Older kids and teens will love Turtle Cove and Dolphin Dive. Turtle Cove has lily pads and floating logs for adventurous kids to climb and jump off into the 4 feet deep water. Dolphin Dive, on the other hand, has two diving boards and a 9-feet deep water pool for an adrenaline-fueled plunge.
The park also offers swim lessons and aqua camps during the summer, making it a fantastic place for kids to build their confidence in water while having a great time.
Explore the Naples Botanical Garden
Another wonderful outdoor activity for kids in Naples is a visit to the Naples Botanical Garden. This 170-acre, world-class garden paradise features plants from around the world and a dedicated Children’s Garden.
Children’s Garden
Children’s Garden is a magical place where kids can play, explore, and learn about the natural world. It includes a treehouse, butterfly house, hidden animal sculptures, and various interactive exhibits that change seasonally. The Children’s Garden also features a splash play area so kids can cool off after exploring.
The butterfly house offers kids a chance to witness the life cycle of butterflies up close. They can observe caterpillars, chrysalises, and adult butterflies of various species. This immersive experience provides a fantastic learning opportunity and is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Family Programs at the Garden
The Naples Botanical Garden offers a variety of family programs that are fun and educational. Programs like W.O.N.D.E.R. in the Garden encourage kids to engage with nature through activities like bird watching, gardening, and nature-inspired arts and crafts. The garden also hosts seasonal events and camps that provide kids with deeper learning experiences about horticulture and conservation.
In Naples, Florida, the great outdoors are always open, inviting everyone, especially the young ones, to learn about, appreciate, and interact with nature. It’s a place where memories are made and a love for the environment is cultivated. So go ahead, dive into fun, and embrace the outdoors!
Nature Adventures for Kids
When it comes to embracing the great outdoors, Naples, Florida shines as a beacon of opportunities. This sunny city has a wealth of natural gems that are perfect for kids to explore. From parks to nature reserves, the options are endless. So, pack the sunscreen, a picnic lunch, and your sense of adventure, and let’s explore the top nature adventures for kids in Naples!
1. Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary
The Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is a wonderful destination for families with children. This 13,000-acre preserve is home to the largest old-growth Bald Cypress forest in North America. The sanctuary offers a 2.5-mile boardwalk that meanders through wet prairie, marsh, and the stunning bald cypress forest. On your walk, watch out for the sanctuary’s rich wildlife- from alligators to otters, colorful birds, and a variety of insects and butterflies. Guided tours are available, providing a fantastic way for kids to learn about the ecosystem and the importance of preserving it. Located just 30 minutes east of downtown Naples, it’s a must-visit for nature-loving families.
2. Rookery Bay Reserve
Another great place to let your kids experience the beauty of nature firsthand is the Rookery Bay Reserve. Covering 110,000 acres, the reserve is one of the few remaining undisturbed mangrove estuaries in North America. Kids will love the hands-on exhibits at the Environmental Learning Center, which include aquariums, interactive displays, and a touch tank where they can get up close and personal with marine life. The Reserve also offers guided kayak tours that are suitable for older kids and teenagers. These tours glide through the peaceful waters of the mangrove forest, offering a unique way to explore this unique ecosystem.
3. Naples Botanical Garden
Naples Botanical Garden is a 170-acre, world-class garden paradise that features plants from around the world. Kids will absolutely love the children’s garden, where they can play in a tree house, splash around in a water play area, build sand castles, or even dig up dinosaur bones! For the little botanists in the making, the butterfly house is a must-see. It’s filled with diverse species of colorful butterflies that flutter around the flowers and plants. The garden offers several educational programs that are tailored for children, making it a fantastic, fun, and educational experience.
Outdoor Sports and Activities
Naples, Florida isn’t just about tranquility and nature – it also offers a plethora of outdoor activities that are sure to get your kids’ adrenaline pumping. From water sports to miniature golf and more, there’s something for every active child out there.
1. Sun-N-Fun Lagoon
What better way to embrace the outdoors than by splashing around in a water park? Sun-N-Fun Lagoon is Naples’ premier water park and it’s guaranteed to provide a day full of fun for kids. The park features five thrilling water slides, a lazy river, a lap pool, and a water playground for toddlers. The ‘Tadpole pool’, with its interactive play features and smaller slide, is perfect for the youngest visitors.
2. Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens
For a great day out, head to the Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens. It’s not just a zoo, it’s also a historic botanical garden. Your kids can marvel at the variety of animals from alligators to zebras, enjoy live animal shows, and even take a boat cruise to see monkeys on an island. The zoo’s Primate Expedition Cruise is particularly popular with families, as it provides up-close views of several species of primates.
3. Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples (C’MON)
While not strictly an outdoor activity, the Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples deserves a mention for its dedication to child-led play and exploration. With 12 interactive, mind-stimulating exhibits, children can pretend to be farmers, builders, archaeologists, and more. They can also indulge in outdoor play in the museum’s backyard, which features a water play area, a climbing structure, and a variety of outdoor games.
Beach Fun in Naples
No visit to Naples, Florida, would be complete without spending some quality time on its stunning beaches. Known for its calm waters and white sandy beaches, Naples offers some of the best seaside experiences in Florida. Here are some of the top beach destinations to consider:
1. Lowdermilk Park
Lowdermilk Park is one of the city’s premier beachfront parks. With its white sandy beach, calm waters, picnic spots, and two lovely playgrounds, it’s perfect for a fun family day at the beach. The park also has a duck pond and volleyball courts, adding to the fun. Don’t forget to stay for the sunset, as Lowdermilk Park offers some of the most captivating sunset views in Naples.
2. Clam Pass Beach Park
Clam Pass Beach Park is perfect for families who love exploring. To get to the beach, visitors take a free tram ride through a three-quarter-mile boardwalk, which winds through mangroves. Kids will love the adventure and the chance to spot wildlife, including herons, turtles, and more. Once you reach the beach, the soft sand and clear blue waters are perfect for a day of sunbathing, swimming, and sandcastle building.
3. Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park
If you’re looking for a bit of adventure, head to Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park. This beautiful state park offers a wide array of outdoor activities. In addition to swimming and sunbathing, kids can also go snorkeling, fishing, or bird-watching. There are also barbecue grills available, perfect for a family picnic.
Conclusion
With its combination of beautiful natural scenery, abundant wildlife, and a range of outdoor activities, Naples, Florida is a fantastic choice for families seeking to embrace the outdoors. Whether you’re exploring the swamps, kayaking through mangroves, enjoying the beach, or simply having fun in the local parks, Naples provides an endless list of options for kids to connect with nature and have a blast. So why wait? Start planning your family’s outdoor adventure in Naples today!
Nothing beats the thrill of being outdoors and the natural playground it offers particularly for kids. This is especially true in Naples, Florida, a city blessed with a wealth of outdoor beauty and activities, fostering an environment where children can discover, explore, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether it’s hunting for seashells on pristine beaches, exploring the lush wilderness, or engaging in fun-filled sports, Naples truly has it all. In this blog post, we’ll be sharing some of the best outdoor activities for kids in Naples, so you can plan for a day of fun and adventure with your little ones.
Take Advantage of Naples’ Stunning Beaches
If there’s one thing Naples is synonymous with, it’s the city’s breathtaking beaches. Not only are they the perfect setting for utmost relaxation, but they also offer a host of opportunities for fun and adventure for kids. One of our favorites is the Lowdermilk Beach Park. With its soft white sand, calm waters, and fantastic amenities, it’s a perfect spot for families. Aside from swimming and building sandcastles, kids would also enjoy their adventure playground and duck pond.
For a more unique beach experience, consider visiting Clam Pass Park. It’s not just a beach but also a beautiful nature preserve. Kids will love the exciting tram ride through a mangrove forest to reach the beach. Once there, they can explore the tidal pools which are often teeming with interesting marine life. For more information about Naples’ beach parks, check out NaplesGov.com.
Explore Naples’ Rich Flora and Fauna
Naples is home to numerous parks and reserves, making it a perfect setting for kids to get up close with nature. One must-visit place is the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, a 13,000-acre preserve housing the largest remaining stand of Bald Cypress in North America. The 2.25-mile boardwalk is perfect for kids, providing an accessible path to observe the swamp’s wildlife, including alligators, otters, and a variety of bird species.
For a more interactive experience, head to Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens. Here, kids can feed giraffes, watch wildlife shows, and even engage in treasure hunts. Also, don’t forget Naples Botanical Garden which is an interactive kid-friendly place where children can play in a treehouse, splash in a water play area, and learn about plants and animals. For more detailed information, you can visit the Naples Zoo website, and Naples Botanical Garden website.
The Everglades: A Natural Marvel for Young Explorers
Naples, Florida, is the gateway to the Everglades – a 1.5-million-acre wetlands reserve that offers an array of educational yet thrilling explorations for children. Filled with mangrove forests, marshes, and pine flatwoods, it is home to an abundant variety of wildlife that includes rare and endangered species like the American crocodile, Florida panther, and West Indian manatee.
Everglades National Park
A visit to the Everglades National Park is a must for any family in Naples. This expansive wilderness offers numerous kid-friendly activities. The Anhinga Trail, for instance, is an easy walk on a paved path and boardwalk that winds through a sawgrass marsh. It’s a popular spot for spotting a variety of wildlife such as alligators, turtles, anhinga, heron, and egrets – a delight for both young and older wild-life enthusiasts.
Give your kids a chance to earn a Junior Ranger Badge. This program, perfect for kids ages 5-13, encourages them to complete a series of activities during their park visit, explore the park, learn about the National Park Service, and ways to protect natural resources.
Airboat Tours
For a more fast-paced adventure, an airboat tour offers an exhilarating way to see the Everglades. Companies like Everglades City Airboat Tours offer trips that are both safe and informative, with knowledgeable guides who provide fascinating insights into the area’s ecosystem and wildlife. The thrill of gliding over the water at high speeds is sure to light up the faces of your little ones. Remember to pack sunblock, hats, and plenty of water to keep everyone comfortable on the ride.
Dive into Fun at Sun-N-Fun Lagoon
When the Florida heat gets too much to handle, Sun-N-Fun Lagoon is the perfect place to cool down. This family-friendly water park features five thrilling water slides, a lazy river, a lap pool, and an interactive water playground for the kids.
Tadpole Pool
For the youngest members of the family, the Tadpole pool is a safe and fun choice. With a depth of just 1 foot, this area features fun interactive water elements like small slides and spray toys. It’s the perfect place for toddlers to splash around.
Turtle Cove and Dolphin Dive
Older kids and teens will love Turtle Cove and Dolphin Dive. Turtle Cove has lily pads and floating logs for adventurous kids to climb and jump off into the 4 feet deep water. Dolphin Dive, on the other hand, has two diving boards and a 9-feet deep water pool for an adrenaline-fueled plunge.
The park also offers swim lessons and aqua camps during the summer, making it a fantastic place for kids to build their confidence in water while having a great time.
Explore the Naples Botanical Garden
Another wonderful outdoor activity for kids in Naples is a visit to the Naples Botanical Garden. This 170-acre, world-class garden paradise features plants from around the world and a dedicated Children’s Garden.
Children’s Garden
Children’s Garden is a magical place where kids can play, explore, and learn about the natural world. It includes a treehouse, butterfly house, hidden animal sculptures, and various interactive exhibits that change seasonally. The Children’s Garden also features a splash play area so kids can cool off after exploring.
The butterfly house offers kids a chance to witness the life cycle of butterflies up close. They can observe caterpillars, chrysalises, and adult butterflies of various species. This immersive experience provides a fantastic learning opportunity and is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Family Programs at the Garden
The Naples Botanical Garden offers a variety of family programs that are fun and educational. Programs like W.O.N.D.E.R. in the Garden encourage kids to engage with nature through activities like bird watching, gardening, and nature-inspired arts and crafts. The garden also hosts seasonal events and camps that provide kids with deeper learning experiences about horticulture and conservation.
In Naples, Florida, the great outdoors are always open, inviting everyone, especially the young ones, to learn about, appreciate, and interact with nature. It’s a place where memories are made and a love for the environment is cultivated. So go ahead, dive into fun, and embrace the outdoors!
Nature Adventures for Kids
When it comes to embracing the great outdoors, Naples, Florida shines as a beacon of opportunities. This sunny city has a wealth of natural gems that are perfect for kids to explore. From parks to nature reserves, the options are endless. So, pack the sunscreen, a picnic lunch, and your sense of adventure, and let’s explore the top nature adventures for kids in Naples!
1. Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary
The Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is a wonderful destination for families with children. This 13,000-acre preserve is home to the largest old-growth Bald Cypress forest in North America. The sanctuary offers a 2.5-mile boardwalk that meanders through wet prairie, marsh, and the stunning bald cypress forest. On your walk, watch out for the sanctuary’s rich wildlife- from alligators to otters, colorful birds, and a variety of insects and butterflies. Guided tours are available, providing a fantastic way for kids to learn about the ecosystem and the importance of preserving it. Located just 30 minutes east of downtown Naples, it’s a must-visit for nature-loving families.
2. Rookery Bay Reserve
Another great place to let your kids experience the beauty of nature firsthand is the Rookery Bay Reserve. Covering 110,000 acres, the reserve is one of the few remaining undisturbed mangrove estuaries in North America. Kids will love the hands-on exhibits at the Environmental Learning Center, which include aquariums, interactive displays, and a touch tank where they can get up close and personal with marine life. The Reserve also offers guided kayak tours that are suitable for older kids and teenagers. These tours glide through the peaceful waters of the mangrove forest, offering a unique way to explore this unique ecosystem.
3. Naples Botanical Garden
Naples Botanical Garden is a 170-acre, world-class garden paradise that features plants from around the world. Kids will absolutely love the children’s garden, where they can play in a tree house, splash around in a water play area, build sand castles, or even dig up dinosaur bones! For the little botanists in the making, the butterfly house is a must-see. It’s filled with diverse species of colorful butterflies that flutter around the flowers and plants. The garden offers several educational programs that are tailored for children, making it a fantastic, fun, and educational experience.
Outdoor Sports and Activities
Naples, Florida isn’t just about tranquility and nature – it also offers a plethora of outdoor activities that are sure to get your kids’ adrenaline pumping. From water sports to miniature golf and more, there’s something for every active child out there.
1. Sun-N-Fun Lagoon
What better way to embrace the outdoors than by splashing around in a water park? Sun-N-Fun Lagoon is Naples’ premier water park and it’s guaranteed to provide a day full of fun for kids. The park features five thrilling water slides, a lazy river, a lap pool, and a water playground for toddlers. The ‘Tadpole pool’, with its interactive play features and smaller slide, is perfect for the youngest visitors.
2. Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens
For a great day out, head to the Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens. It’s not just a zoo, it’s also a historic botanical garden. Your kids can marvel at the variety of animals from alligators to zebras, enjoy live animal shows, and even take a boat cruise to see monkeys on an island. The zoo’s Primate Expedition Cruise is particularly popular with families, as it provides up-close views of several species of primates.
3. Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples (C’MON)
While not strictly an outdoor activity, the Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples deserves a mention for its dedication to child-led play and exploration. With 12 interactive, mind-stimulating exhibits, children can pretend to be farmers, builders, archaeologists, and more. They can also indulge in outdoor play in the museum’s backyard, which features a water play area, a climbing structure, and a variety of outdoor games.
Beach Fun in Naples
No visit to Naples, Florida, would be complete without spending some quality time on its stunning beaches. Known for its calm waters and white sandy beaches, Naples offers some of the best seaside experiences in Florida. Here are some of the top beach destinations to consider:
1. Lowdermilk Park
Lowdermilk Park is one of the city’s premier beachfront parks. With its white sandy beach, calm waters, picnic spots, and two lovely playgrounds, it’s perfect for a fun family day at the beach. The park also has a duck pond and volleyball courts, adding to the fun. Don’t forget to stay for the sunset, as Lowdermilk Park offers some of the most captivating sunset views in Naples.
2. Clam Pass Beach Park
Clam Pass Beach Park is perfect for families who love exploring. To get to the beach, visitors take a free tram ride through a three-quarter-mile boardwalk, which winds through mangroves. Kids will love the adventure and the chance to spot wildlife, including herons, turtles, and more. Once you reach the beach, the soft sand and clear blue waters are perfect for a day of sunbathing, swimming, and sandcastle building.
3. Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park
If you’re looking for a bit of adventure, head to Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park. This beautiful state park offers a wide array of outdoor activities. In addition to swimming and sunbathing, kids can also go snorkeling, fishing, or bird-watching. There are also barbecue grills available, perfect for a family picnic.
Conclusion
With its combination of beautiful natural scenery, abundant wildlife, and a range of outdoor activities, Naples, Florida is a fantastic choice for families seeking to embrace the outdoors. Whether you’re exploring the swamps, kayaking through mangroves, enjoying the beach, or simply having fun in the local parks, Naples provides an endless list of options for kids to connect with nature and have a blast. So why wait? Start planning your family’s outdoor adventure in Naples today!