How to Spend 1 Day in Naples

Naples—with its soft white sand, plentiful sunshine, and access to outdoor water adventures—is among South Florida's most relaxing beach getaways. Here are some tips for making the most of limited time in this neo-Mediterranean city by the sea.

Morning: City Sightseeing

Start your day in Naples with a tour around town. For something different, sign up for a self-guided scavenger hunt on your smartphone—have fun and get introduced to some of the city’s historical attractions and architectural gems at your own pace. Highlights around town include the shops and cafes of palm-lined Fifth Avenue, Millionaires’ Row mansions, and 19th-century Naples Pier, which offers one of the best views in town. If time permits, take a stroll through the tropical Naples Botanical Garden or, if you’re traveling with kids, the Naples Zoo. 

Afternoon: Manatee Matinee

When in Naples, it's easy to take advantage of water adventures. Spend the afternoon on a marine boat safari in search of Florida manatees, tropical birds, alligators, and dolphins that make their homes in the mangroves and waterways of southwest Florida. If you have a little extra time, do some shelling on one of Naples' white sand beaches. Active travelers might opt for an afternoon kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding tour instead. These tours typically offer the chance to spot local wildlife at a protected estuary and mangrove forest inside Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park and Barefoot Beach Preserve.

Night: Florida Sunset

Naples is famous for its sunsets, and you have a couple of options for seeing one this evening. Head out to Naples Pier for a view without getting on a boat. Or choose a sunset cruise on the Gulf of Mexico, which allows you to see some of the town’s most exclusive neighborhoods, like Port Royal, from the water. After dark, grab a bite to eat at one of the restaurants along Fifth Avenue South, or see what’s on at the Philharmonic Center for the Arts, a venue that frequently hosts international orchestras, Broadway plays, and other live performances.