Naples, Florida Off the Beaten Path to Hidden Gems
Introduction
Welcome to our ‘Best Kept Secrets’ series where we uncover hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations just waiting for you to discover! Today, we set our sights on Naples, Florida, a beautiful city known for its high-end shopping, world-class culture, and sophisticated dining. But Naples isn’t just about glitz and glamor. If you take the road less traveled, you’ll find charming neighborhoods, unspoiled natural beauty, and unique local spots. Join us as we embark on a journey to Naples, Florida off the beaten path.
1. Discover Old Naples
The historic heart of the city, Old Naples is a must-visit for those looking to experience the real Naples, away from the regular tourist trail. This quaint neighborhood, lined with banyan trees and charming cottages, is a delightful mixture of past and present.
Start your day by taking a leisurely stroll along Third Street South, where you’ll find a variety of local boutiques, cafes, and art galleries. Make sure to stop by Tommy Bahama’s, a popular local store with a tropical feel, before heading to the iconic Naples Pier, perfect for a sunset view.
For food lovers, don’t miss the Third Street South Farmer’s Market that sets up shop every Saturday morning. Here you’ll find a range of fresh local produce, baked goods, and handcrafted items, making it a great place to get a taste of the local culture.
2. Explore Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary
If you’re a nature lover, the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is a hidden gem you won’t want to miss. This 13,000-acre preserve is home to the largest remaining stand of Bald Cypress in North America. It’s a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 200 species of birds to spot, including the rare Painted Bunting.
The sanctuary offers a 2.5-mile boardwalk trail that takes you deep into the heart of the swamp. Along the way, you’ll encounter a variety of wildlife, from alligators and otters to deer and even the occasional panther. It’s a peaceful and immersive experience that truly showcases the natural beauty of South Florida.
After a day of exploring, unwind at the Sanctuary’s Blair Audubon Visitor Center. Here, you can learn more about the sanctuary’s conservation efforts, enjoy panoramic views of the swamp from the observation deck, and even participate in interactive exhibits. It’s the perfect way to cap off your visit to this off-the-beaten-path destination.
Hidden Foodie Spots in Naples
Exploring the hidden gems in Naples, Florida, wouldn’t be complete without a dive into the city’s culinary scene. Naples is a melting pot of flavors with a thriving food scene that might surprise you with its unexpected diversity and creativity.
1. The Local
As the name suggests, The Local prides itself on sourcing fresh ingredients locally. They serve farm-to-table and sea-to-table meals, celebrating the bounty of Florida’s farms, ranches, and seas. Try their avocado toast with poached eggs for breakfast or their sea scallops with linguine for dinner. Their menu changes according to what’s in season, so there’s always something new to try.
2. Osteria Tulia
For lovers of Italian cuisine, Osteria Tulia is a must-visit. This rustic Italian gastropub located on 5th Avenue South offers a uniquely intimate dining experience. Their dishes, like the Zucchini Blossoms and Black Grouper, are prepared with locally sourced ingredients and a contemporary twist. Don’t miss out on their signature craft cocktails and extensive wine list.
3. Grouper & Chips
Grouper & Chips is a classic Naples establishment. As the name suggests, they specialize in grouper, a local fish, served in a variety of ways – fried, grilled, or blackened. Their laid-back atmosphere and affordable prices make it a favorite among locals. Don’t forget to try their key lime pie for dessert.
Exploring the Natural Wonders of Naples
Despite the lure of its sophisticated downtown, Naples’ true charm lies in its unspoiled natural beauty. From secluded islands to lush botanical gardens, Naples is a paradise for nature lovers.
1. Rookery Bay Reserve
One of the few undisturbed mangrove estuaries in North America, the Rookery Bay Reserve is a hidden gem for ecotourism. You can explore the 110,000-acre preserve through guided kayak tours, bird-watching, and hiking. Don’t miss the Environmental Learning Center with hands-on exhibits and aquariums that showcase the area’s biodiversity.
2. Keewaydin Island
Accessible only by boat, Keewaydin Island is a mesmerizing barrier island primarily used for conservation. It’s a perfect place for a beach picnic, shelling, and spotting wildlife like dolphins and sea turtles. The southern part of the island hosts a seasonal food boat “market” where you can grab a bite.
3. Naples Botanical Gardens
The Naples Botanical Garden is a 170-acre paradise featuring plants and flowers from the tropics and subtropics between the latitudes of 26 degrees North and 26 degrees South. The Garden’s interactive children’s area makes it a perfect day out for families. Check their calendar for workshops, concerts, and other special events.
Discover Naples’ Art Scene
Despite being a small city, Naples has a thriving art scene with an impressive collection of galleries and public art installations.
1. Artis—Naples
Home to the Naples Philharmonic and the Baker Museum, Artis—Naples is the city’s premier arts venue. The Baker Museum houses a diverse collection of modern and contemporary art, while the Philharmonic offers a variety of performances from classical concerts to Broadway shows.
2. Naples Art District
The Naples Art District is the largest concentration of professional working studios and galleries in southwest Florida. Experience the vibrant arts scene during Art Alive events, where galleries and studios open their doors to the public every first Wednesday and Saturday of the month.
3. Third Street South Farmer’s Market
While not strictly an art venue, the Third Street South Farmer’s Market is a trove of handmade crafts and local art every Saturday morning. Apart from fresh produce, you can find unique jewelry, ceramics, and other artisan goods here.
With this guide, you’re now ready to explore the hidden gems of Naples, Florida. Don’t forget to mingle with the locals and ask them for their recommendations as well. The city has an abundance of charm waiting to be discovered.
Explore the Old Naples Historical District
If you want to experience the rich history of Naples, Florida, the Old Naples Historical District is a must-see. This charming area isn’t just the city’s heart; it’s a place where past meets present in the most delightful way. Although it’s not exactly Naples’ best-kept secret, many guests overlook its architectural allure and historical significance, focusing on downtown’s bustling life or the beach’s sun-kissed allure.
Begin your exploration on Third Street South, where you’ll find a blend of luxurious boutiques, art galleries, posh restaurants, and lushly landscaped plazas. Dotting this area are historic Naples Cottages, exuding old Florida charm with their colorful wooden structures and tin roofs.
Make sure to visit the Naples Historical Society’s Historic Palm Cottage near the Naples Pier for a deep dive into the city’s fascinating past. This 1895 structure is Naples’ oldest house, and it offers guided tours showing off its period furniture and revealing the city’s history.
The Naples Depot Museum
Just a few blocks away is the Naples Depot Museum, housed in the restored Seaboard Air Line Railway passenger station. This museum showcases the city’s transport history from swamp buggies to railroads, making it a perfect spot for history buffs and train enthusiasts alike.
Discover the Natural Beauty of Rookery Bay
A little off the traditional path, Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve offers an untouched piece of paradise where you can connect with nature. This 110,000-acre reserve is a vital part of the area’s ecology, protecting one of the last undisturbed mangrove estuaries in North America.
The Environmental Learning Center here offers hands-on exhibits, a 2,300-gallon aquarium, and a touch tank filled with marine life. You can kayak or canoe through the mangrove forests, take a guided boat tour, or simply hike the trails and enjoy the stunning wildlife, including rare birds and manatees.
Turtle Time at Keewaydin Island
If you’re looking for an adventurous outing, consider a boat trip to Keewaydin Island. This barrier island is a hidden gem that’s only accessible by boat, known for its shell-laden beaches and as a nesting ground for loggerhead sea turtles.
While the island is inhabited, the natural beauty here is well-preserved, making it a perfect place for a day of picnicking, swimming, and shell hunting. Just remember to respect the wildlife, especially during the turtle nesting season from May to October.
Savor Local Delights at Naples’ Farmers Markets
For a taste of local life, don’t miss out on Naples’ Farmers Markets. Not only are they a great place to pick up fresh Florida produce, but they offer a variety of local crafts, baked goods, and specialty products.
The Third Street South Farmers Market is one of the most popular, held every Saturday morning throughout the year. Here, you’ll find a wide range of items, including fresh flowers, seafood, pastries, honey, and more. Live music adds to the festive atmosphere, making it a delightful experience for all
Local Wineries & Breweries
If you’re a wine or beer enthusiast, Naples has several local wineries and craft breweries to explore. The Naples Beach Brewery, the city’s first craft brewery, offers tours and tastings, allowing visitors to learn about the beer-making process while enjoying their unique brews.
The nearby Palm Cottage Winery should be on your itinerary if you’re more into wines. It offers tastings of its unique tropical fruit wines, including mango, guava, and passion fruit, made with 100% Florida-grown fruits.
Exploring Naples, Florida, off the beaten path leads to a wealth of experiences that showcase the city’s rich history, natural beauty, and local flavors. These hidden gems provide a unique perspective of Naples, making your visit an unforgettable adventure.
Introduction
Welcome to our ‘Best Kept Secrets’ series where we uncover hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations just waiting for you to discover! Today, we set our sights on Naples, Florida, a beautiful city known for its high-end shopping, world-class culture, and sophisticated dining. But Naples isn’t just about glitz and glamor. If you take the road less traveled, you’ll find charming neighborhoods, unspoiled natural beauty, and unique local spots. Join us as we embark on a journey to Naples, Florida off the beaten path.
1. Discover Old Naples
The historic heart of the city, Old Naples is a must-visit for those looking to experience the real Naples, away from the regular tourist trail. This quaint neighborhood, lined with banyan trees and charming cottages, is a delightful mixture of past and present.
Start your day by taking a leisurely stroll along Third Street South, where you’ll find a variety of local boutiques, cafes, and art galleries. Make sure to stop by Tommy Bahama’s, a popular local store with a tropical feel, before heading to the iconic Naples Pier, perfect for a sunset view.
For food lovers, don’t miss the Third Street South Farmer’s Market that sets up shop every Saturday morning. Here you’ll find a range of fresh local produce, baked goods, and handcrafted items, making it a great place to get a taste of the local culture.
2. Explore Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary
If you’re a nature lover, the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is a hidden gem you won’t want to miss. This 13,000-acre preserve is home to the largest remaining stand of Bald Cypress in North America. It’s a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 200 species of birds to spot, including the rare Painted Bunting.
The sanctuary offers a 2.5-mile boardwalk trail that takes you deep into the heart of the swamp. Along the way, you’ll encounter a variety of wildlife, from alligators and otters to deer and even the occasional panther. It’s a peaceful and immersive experience that truly showcases the natural beauty of South Florida.
After a day of exploring, unwind at the Sanctuary’s Blair Audubon Visitor Center. Here, you can learn more about the sanctuary’s conservation efforts, enjoy panoramic views of the swamp from the observation deck, and even participate in interactive exhibits. It’s the perfect way to cap off your visit to this off-the-beaten-path destination.
Hidden Foodie Spots in Naples
Exploring the hidden gems in Naples, Florida, wouldn’t be complete without a dive into the city’s culinary scene. Naples is a melting pot of flavors with a thriving food scene that might surprise you with its unexpected diversity and creativity.
1. The Local
As the name suggests, The Local prides itself on sourcing fresh ingredients locally. They serve farm-to-table and sea-to-table meals, celebrating the bounty of Florida’s farms, ranches, and seas. Try their avocado toast with poached eggs for breakfast or their sea scallops with linguine for dinner. Their menu changes according to what’s in season, so there’s always something new to try.
2. Osteria Tulia
For lovers of Italian cuisine, Osteria Tulia is a must-visit. This rustic Italian gastropub located on 5th Avenue South offers a uniquely intimate dining experience. Their dishes, like the Zucchini Blossoms and Black Grouper, are prepared with locally sourced ingredients and a contemporary twist. Don’t miss out on their signature craft cocktails and extensive wine list.
3. Grouper & Chips
Grouper & Chips is a classic Naples establishment. As the name suggests, they specialize in grouper, a local fish, served in a variety of ways – fried, grilled, or blackened. Their laid-back atmosphere and affordable prices make it a favorite among locals. Don’t forget to try their key lime pie for dessert.
Exploring the Natural Wonders of Naples
Despite the lure of its sophisticated downtown, Naples’ true charm lies in its unspoiled natural beauty. From secluded islands to lush botanical gardens, Naples is a paradise for nature lovers.
1. Rookery Bay Reserve
One of the few undisturbed mangrove estuaries in North America, the Rookery Bay Reserve is a hidden gem for ecotourism. You can explore the 110,000-acre preserve through guided kayak tours, bird-watching, and hiking. Don’t miss the Environmental Learning Center with hands-on exhibits and aquariums that showcase the area’s biodiversity.
2. Keewaydin Island
Accessible only by boat, Keewaydin Island is a mesmerizing barrier island primarily used for conservation. It’s a perfect place for a beach picnic, shelling, and spotting wildlife like dolphins and sea turtles. The southern part of the island hosts a seasonal food boat “market” where you can grab a bite.
3. Naples Botanical Gardens
The Naples Botanical Garden is a 170-acre paradise featuring plants and flowers from the tropics and subtropics between the latitudes of 26 degrees North and 26 degrees South. The Garden’s interactive children’s area makes it a perfect day out for families. Check their calendar for workshops, concerts, and other special events.
Discover Naples’ Art Scene
Despite being a small city, Naples has a thriving art scene with an impressive collection of galleries and public art installations.
1. Artis—Naples
Home to the Naples Philharmonic and the Baker Museum, Artis—Naples is the city’s premier arts venue. The Baker Museum houses a diverse collection of modern and contemporary art, while the Philharmonic offers a variety of performances from classical concerts to Broadway shows.
2. Naples Art District
The Naples Art District is the largest concentration of professional working studios and galleries in southwest Florida. Experience the vibrant arts scene during Art Alive events, where galleries and studios open their doors to the public every first Wednesday and Saturday of the month.
3. Third Street South Farmer’s Market
While not strictly an art venue, the Third Street South Farmer’s Market is a trove of handmade crafts and local art every Saturday morning. Apart from fresh produce, you can find unique jewelry, ceramics, and other artisan goods here.
With this guide, you’re now ready to explore the hidden gems of Naples, Florida. Don’t forget to mingle with the locals and ask them for their recommendations as well. The city has an abundance of charm waiting to be discovered.
Explore the Old Naples Historical District
If you want to experience the rich history of Naples, Florida, the Old Naples Historical District is a must-see. This charming area isn’t just the city’s heart; it’s a place where past meets present in the most delightful way. Although it’s not exactly Naples’ best-kept secret, many guests overlook its architectural allure and historical significance, focusing on downtown’s bustling life or the beach’s sun-kissed allure.
Begin your exploration on Third Street South, where you’ll find a blend of luxurious boutiques, art galleries, posh restaurants, and lushly landscaped plazas. Dotting this area are historic Naples Cottages, exuding old Florida charm with their colorful wooden structures and tin roofs.
Make sure to visit the Naples Historical Society’s Historic Palm Cottage near the Naples Pier for a deep dive into the city’s fascinating past. This 1895 structure is Naples’ oldest house, and it offers guided tours showing off its period furniture and revealing the city’s history.
The Naples Depot Museum
Just a few blocks away is the Naples Depot Museum, housed in the restored Seaboard Air Line Railway passenger station. This museum showcases the city’s transport history from swamp buggies to railroads, making it a perfect spot for history buffs and train enthusiasts alike.
Discover the Natural Beauty of Rookery Bay
A little off the traditional path, Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve offers an untouched piece of paradise where you can connect with nature. This 110,000-acre reserve is a vital part of the area’s ecology, protecting one of the last undisturbed mangrove estuaries in North America.
The Environmental Learning Center here offers hands-on exhibits, a 2,300-gallon aquarium, and a touch tank filled with marine life. You can kayak or canoe through the mangrove forests, take a guided boat tour, or simply hike the trails and enjoy the stunning wildlife, including rare birds and manatees.
Turtle Time at Keewaydin Island
If you’re looking for an adventurous outing, consider a boat trip to Keewaydin Island. This barrier island is a hidden gem that’s only accessible by boat, known for its shell-laden beaches and as a nesting ground for loggerhead sea turtles.
While the island is inhabited, the natural beauty here is well-preserved, making it a perfect place for a day of picnicking, swimming, and shell hunting. Just remember to respect the wildlife, especially during the turtle nesting season from May to October.
Savor Local Delights at Naples’ Farmers Markets
For a taste of local life, don’t miss out on Naples’ Farmers Markets. Not only are they a great place to pick up fresh Florida produce, but they offer a variety of local crafts, baked goods, and specialty products.
The Third Street South Farmers Market is one of the most popular, held every Saturday morning throughout the year. Here, you’ll find a wide range of items, including fresh flowers, seafood, pastries, honey, and more. Live music adds to the festive atmosphere, making it a delightful experience for all
Local Wineries & Breweries
If you’re a wine or beer enthusiast, Naples has several local wineries and craft breweries to explore. The Naples Beach Brewery, the city’s first craft brewery, offers tours and tastings, allowing visitors to learn about the beer-making process while enjoying their unique brews.
The nearby Palm Cottage Winery should be on your itinerary if you’re more into wines. It offers tastings of its unique tropical fruit wines, including mango, guava, and passion fruit, made with 100% Florida-grown fruits.
Exploring Naples, Florida, off the beaten path leads to a wealth of experiences that showcase the city’s rich history, natural beauty, and local flavors. These hidden gems provide a unique perspective of Naples, making your visit an unforgettable adventure.