Welcome to Florida’s paradise coast
Florida’s Paradise Coast – Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades – combines a sophisticated arts and culture scene with natural wonders and the barefoot charm of a beach-lined coastline. Whether you’re after a fun family holiday or a luxurious romantic escape with someone special, packing your hiking shoes and sense of adventure is a must as this diverse destination is full of surprises.
The Gulf of Mexico sunsets from the iconic Naples Pier are legendary and wonderful wildlife spotting opportunities abound. Small burrowing owls live on Marco Island. Other areas are home to bobcats, black bears, panthers, and more than 350 species of birds. The Everglades are the world’s largest wetlands and the only place in the world where you can see alligators and crocodiles in one spot.
There are plenty of ways to immerse yourself in nature and ‘go wild’ here. Take an eco-friendly guided kayak tour and learn about the western Everglades tropical jungle, mangroves and cypress swamps. Or, if you feel the need for speed, zoom across the ocean on a jet ski as you spot dolphins playing in the waves near Marco Island. Like the sound of 10,000 islands instead of just one? A Ten Thousand Islands half day cruise sails across Chokoloskee Bay and through the islands of Everglades National Park with an expert naturalist who showcases the area’s history and wildlife and answers questions during the trip.
Culture lovers are also spoiled for choice with art galleries and museums plus theatre, opera, and live music performances galore. Check the schedule at Artis—Naples, home of the Naples Philharmonic Orchestra, for upcoming concerts and shows. The centre is also home to The Baker Museum, one of Florida’s best fine arts museums, with 30 galleries to explore. Add 100 independent art galleries in Naples alone and you’ll quickly discover how easy it is to appreciate the thriving arts and cultural scene.
With so many things to see and do, you’re sure to work up an appetite but there’s no danger of going hungry. Tuck into grouper sandwiches at the Snook Inn on the Marco River or head to Brook’s Burgers which was recently named as one of the top three burger spots in the United States. Don’t miss the Donut Burger which has two hot glazed donuts instead of a bun. Or you could hit the town at Old Naples, the top spot to ‘see and be seen’, and enjoy superb cocktails and people watching.
Wherever your adventures take you along Florida’s Paradise Coast, one visit is never enough.
