Why You Should Live in Naples
One of the many joys of living in a country club community in Florida is that sunshine, sports, recreation, entertainment, and dining are all in your backyard. But there are plenty of reasons to broaden your horizons, including where sun meets sand, in the surrounding areas. In 2019, the Naples, Marco Island, and the Everglades area attracted 1,928,600[1] international and U.S. visitors. So, why not take advantage of all the offerings that visitors travel to enjoy?
The City of Naples was first inhabited by the Calusa and Seminole Indian tribes. It was designed as a winter resort in the late 1880's, and the opening of a railroad passenger depot in 1927 began bringing tourists to the city. The construction of Tamiami Trail, a major route between Naples and Miami, was completed in 1928 and brought with it even more visitors. With its beachfront location, Naples became known as a place for "summerland in wintertime." You can experience this 19th century history and charm firsthand today! Wander leisurely and discover treasures on your own or take a guided walking tour through the historic downtown district.
Historic Palm Cottage, close to the Naples Pier, was built in 1895 and has been designated by the Registry of Historic Places as a national landmark. The house is truly Floridian: it was built using handmade cement made up of sand, shells, and water! Historic Palm Cottage also boasts The Norris Gardens with six themed gardens brimming with the diversity of native Florida plants.
Don't miss out on strolling the beautifully landscaped promenades at one of the most exclusive address in the United States, 5th Avenue South, located in the heart of Naples' historic downtown district. The ambience is a unique blend of sophistication and casualness, with art galleries, gift shops, boutique fashion stores, and entertainment. There are ample choices for fine dining and casual restaurants, many of which have outdoor sidewalk dining so you can also enjoy the weather and people-watching.
There is also a wide array of amazing outdoor adventures and activities to entertain adults, children, and families. There are 30 miles of magnificent white sand beaches where you can build castles, soak up the sun, or participate in water sports, including snorkeling. Conveniently located just a few miles from The Club at Olde Cypress, the Sun-N-Fun water park is perfect for the whole family with its water slides, lazy river, falls, kiddie pools, and dive and lap pools. Or, take a guided boat tour through the Gulf of Mexico to a secluded island and see monkeys, lemurs, and gator feedings. Interested in observing graceful manatees? Then take a boat tour in the Everglades to search for them and you'll surely spot many. And don't miss out on visiting the famous Naples Pier to enjoy fishing, view dolphins, and experience one of the most breathtaking sunsets in the U.S. Prefer land animals? Exotic animals abound in the NGALA Wildlife Preserve, where you can also have a delicious meal under a tent and experience a variety of entertainments. You'll also see a variety of animal species at the Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens.
Naples has so much to see and do that you will want to visit again and again. If you are fortunate enough to be a resident, be sure to explore too. There are many reasons to be appreciative that you can enjoy "summerland in wintertime" year-round!
[1] https://www.paradisecoast.com/