Naples Zoo. PHOTO PROVIDED

Naples has been a vacation destination for decades. It’s known for its beaches and upscale dining and affinity for the arts. Some say it is the gateway to the Everglades, but there are a whole lot of unique experiences to take part in before you get to the wild, rugged world of Everglades National Park.

There is something for everyone, whether you’re seeking a peaceful vacation to connect with nature, dining out each night and eating some of the best meals in the region, or you want to claim your spot on the beach and soak all of it up.

Naples has a variety of beaches from which to choose and you can’t go wrong with literally any one of them. Naples is known for its laid-back, but refined and luxurious lifestyle. There is a lot to do here and some hidden gems, if you know where to look. If you’re looking to try a more private beach, Keewaydin Island is only accessible by boat and it’s a local weekend hangout favorite. It’s the place to go to chill out and enjoy the area’s natural beauty.

The perfect Naples day is waking up early and visiting one of the most distinctive botanical gardens. It will put you in the mood for a day of relaxation and peace. Next, visit downtown Naples for brunch and stroll along Fifth Avenue South. Walk to the beach or get in your car and drive to any of the beach accesses along Gulfshore Boulevard. Go back to your home and get ready for dinner and try one of the award-winning restaurants listed below. Repeat.

Or you can go on an adventurous day trip to the Everglades to see an extraordinary variety of wildlife, including over 360 bird species, alligators, panthers and more.

Everglades National Park isn’t technically located in Naples, but it’s worth a mention since it’s something you have to see when you’re in Florida. And you’re so close! You just can’t miss seeing this landscape that is so unique to the Sunshine State.

Dine on Fifth Avenue South

Choose an upscale restaurant like Osteria Tulia, Chops City Grill or Truluck’s Ocean’s Finest Seafood and Crab. When you’re done with dinner, enjoy walking down the avenue with the twinkling lights up in the trees. The ambiance and Italian-inspired architecture makes you feel like you’ve been whisked away on a magical European adventure.

Explore Tin City

Tin City is reminiscent of an old fishing village, which is what Naples was originally before the secret of how beautiful and serene it was got out to the rest of the country. Enjoy waterside shopping after a day at the beach and some of the Naples and Gulf Coast-themed items you’ll undoubtedly pick up along the way. Don’t miss dinner at the Riverwalk Restaurant. It’s some of the best seafood fare around.

More info: www.tincityofnaples.com

Address: 1200 Fifth Ave. S., Naple

Catch a sunset

You can watch a sunset from any of the beaches and we highly recommend that you do. If you want some company and probably some clapping when the sun goes down, a group normally gathers at the Naples Pier during season. The whole pier isn’t yet open due to ongoing repairs from Hurricane Ian, but the beach itself is open to the public.

PLACES TO GO

Naples Botanical Garden

The garden screams paradise from every corner of its 170 acres. See themed gardens and exclusive plants from around the world. It’s a great way to end or start your vacation. Or you can visit every day. It’s up to you.

More info: www.naplesgarden.org

Address: 4820 Bayshore Dr., Naples

Naples Zoo & Caribbean Gardens

A nationally accredited zoo featuring a mile of paved walking path winding past rare and beautiful animals – including lions, giraffes, monkeys, pythons and bears – residing within a rare tropical garden. Combining conservation and recreation, Naples Zoo offers run for every generation.

More info: www.napleszoo.org

Address: 1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd., Naples