DESTINATION > NAPLES, FL
I f you’re traveling down Florida’s west coast, Naples is one of the last places to restock and refuel before setting off for the Keys, 100 miles south. But Naples is worth more than a quick stop. The city offers boaters a myriad of recreational opportunities, great restaurants and first-class beachfront accommodations that invite you to linger longer on the Paradise Coast. Naples was founded in 1886 but was only accessible by boat until 1927 when the Florida railroad system was finally extended; the “Tamiami Trail” highway linking Miami to Naples and points north wasn’t completed until two decades later.This relative isolation spared Naples the fate of its east coast neighbors, keeping runaway development in check. Today, Old Naples — the roughly 15-block area south of Central Avenue — retains much of its early-20th century charm, and Naples Pier, the neighborhood’s 130-year-old focal point, is a great place to get your bearings and catch a brilliant Gulf sunset before heading out to the area’s top-flight eateries. Pier amenities include restrooms and a concession stand selling bait, food and beach supplies. For a unique food and entertainment experience, Celebration Park in the Bayshore Arts District near Naples Botanical Garden is home to a permanent food truck rally, pavilion, picnic tables and open-air tiki bar.The brainchild of local entrepreneur Rebecca Maddox, Celebration Park is a magnet for foodies, lovers of live entertainment and visitors seeking a laid-back Florida vibe. Looking for a special spot to spend a night on land? Consider the Hotel Escalante, an 11-bungalow Mediterranean-style retreat with a pool, spa and first-rate restaurant set amidst courtyard fountains, tropical gardens, private patios and verandas. NAPLES, FLORIDA BY RICHARD KERN PHOTOS BY RICK FESENMEYER
Saltwater and freshwater fishing is a top leisure pursuit in Naples, netting ambitious anglers an array of species such as redfish, snook, tarpon, grouper and snapper. How about an Everglades airboat or kayak tour? Or maybe a hike at one of the area’s many parks? Audubon Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary and Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park are two local favorites. Also, 10 public golf courses are at your fingertips. And don’t forget the Naples Zoo, Botanical Gardens, upscale shopping on Fifth Avenue South, or just stretching out on miles of pristine beach. Seagate Beach and Lowdermilk Park Beach are two of the best. If you’re here in November, January or March, check out the Swamp Buggy Races at Florida Sports Park — the only place in the world to see these weirdly awesome machines. If your transportation interests trend toward the classics, Revs Institute on Horseshoe Drive has 100+ restored and preserved “automobiles of historic significance” on display. m l
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