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Destination Naples, Florida

Exploring home

Posted on July 25, 2016

Inner Beauty

The beaches in Naples, Florida are spectacular! and one of the top reasons people love visiting Naples. Consistently calm gulf waters, sunshine, clean & quiet beaches are enjoyed by all ages. My favorite beach is Clam Pass Park, you might enjoy a 3/4 mile walk to the beach on the lovely boardwalk or take a shuttle that runs continuously from the parking area. Clam Pass has a cafe, beach rentals (kayaks, chairs, umbrellas & more) plus shower and restroom facilities.  Clam Pass Park

Golfing! Tee off on one of Naples 95! golf courses. The weather is great year ’round (my golfing friends tell me to schedule a sunrise tee time in the summer months and stay hydrated)
Fun fact; this summer the Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club’s course is being renovated. Sixty-five years ago, an 11-year-old kid was on vacation and ended up playing golf with his dad at the Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club. He shot a 37, the first time he broke 40 for nine holes. That young boy was golf legend Jack Nicklaus. Mr Nicklaus is a consultant for the $4.5 million dollar re-do! We can’t wait to see the response when the course reopens!

Speaking of the Naples Beach Hotel, don’t miss the sunset celebration There is live music & dancing under the stars every Sunday night. This beach bar is favorite hang out among locals and visitors, alike. Sunset is always break time for the band, give your feet a little rest, find a spot to watch the sun say goodnight and then dance the night away. Check on their website for hours, in the summer the entertainment is from 6-9.

If you find yourself in recovery Monday morning head over to my recent fabulous discovery Kunjani coffee shop. In addition to a great cup of coffee, Kunjani has a gallery of fine art, handmade and unique crafts. A percentage of proceeds from sales in the gallery and coffee are used to give back to the communities they support. Love.  (Kunjani Coffee Shop on FacebookDon’t forget to check their Facebook page for special events ranging from Yoga to pop up shops.

Year long residents of Naples retreat to their homes when the frequent afternoon storms hit. Nothing wrong with taking a break and resting up for an evening of activities! But, what should you do and not waste a moment of fun while your on vacation? Check out the Revs Institute. Car buffs, history lovers and those who appreciate beautiful design will be awed by this private collection of automobiles. I strongly recommend the docent led tour. Make sure to plan your visit ahead, admission to the museum must be reserved in advance.
Art lovers will enjoy the 30,000 square foot Baker Museum- Artis Naples. 

Shopping and dining options are abundant in Naples from Third Street South and Fifth Avenue north to the Villages on Venetian Bay, Waterside Shops and Mercado.
For a fun night check out Taste of Naples Tours. This 5 hour chauffeured and hosted food & wine tour, begins and ends at your door. Aboard a luxurious 10 passenger coach, you’ll be served specially selected wines while learning about the Naples area from your delightful hostess and owner, Sandy. The tour includes two separate {hidden gems} dining stops and a wine tasting. 

Nature Lovers! Southwest Florida offers many opportunities for you. The Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens is not only an animal lovers paradise it is home to many tropical plant species. The Botanical Gardens is a favorite outdoor attraction for Naples visitors. My number one outdoor activity is the Conservancy of Southwest Florida, hike the trails, take a leisurely boat tour of the Gordon River or explore the mangroves and waterways on your own with a kayak rental.

I wish I could explore all of the wonderful things to see and do in Naples with you! I’ve left out  many  more of my own favorites and once you visit I’m sure you’ll have plenty  to add to the list.