Exploring Naples
From its shell-strewn beaches to its upscale art galleries, the haunting cypress strands of Big Cypress and the most tangled maze of mangrove-lined waterways in America in the Ten Thousand Islands, Naples is undeniably a majestic tropical destination. Founded in 1887, it was shaped by millionaire developers from the start, including Barron Collier, who pushed the Tamiami Trail to completion.
As the gateway to natural landscapes across South Florida, including Everglades National Park and the many parks and preserves protecting much of the Big Cypress Swamp, Naples offers many eco-adventures through its nature centers and outfitters. Within the city are tropical gardens and parks, wave-washed natural shores, and waterways to explore.
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Recent Articles
Crossing Big Cypress
It’s Florida’s roughest, wettest, weirdest backpacking trip, best tackled with friends. Along this 30 mile stretch of the Florida Trail in the heart of Big Cypress National Preserve, immersing in the swamp is the point of the hike. Sandra tackled it as the final stretch of her multi-year 1,110-mile section hike of the Florida Trail, end-to-end.
Florida’s Utopia
At the Koreshan Unity in Estero, Florida, a group of believers gathered in 1894 to build their paradise. It is now a National Historic Site and a Florida State Park. Walk the trails and streets of “New Jerusalem” to learn its story.
Adding to the Life List
Although John is a native Floridian, our research trip to South Florida became an opportunity for him to see many natural “firsts” in Florida that most people have on their life lists.
Stranding Steves at Fakahatchee
Exploring Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park for a chapter of a new book we’re writing, a pair of park rangers named Steve guide us to the park’s beauty spots
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Where to Stay in Naples
Naples is known for its luxurious resorts. But you can also enjoy comfy lodgings within the walkable downtown like The Inn on Fifth and the Trianon Old Naples. For a romantic getaway, try the Lemon Tree Inn, a boutique hotel with an Old Florida vibe, or the Marco Island Lakeside Inn, the quiet choice on the island. The Mariner is a great choice for families with its large suites.
Excepting Rock Creek RV Resort, an adult RV park, camping is primarily out in the wild spaces along the Tamiami Trail heading east, with Trail Lakes Campground in Ochopee, and seasonal campgrounds in Big Cypress National Preserve. If you prefer a room while swamp tromping, the Ivey House in Everglades City is a great base camp for adventure.
NEARBY: Big Cypress National Preserve, Everglades National Park, Estero, Everglades City, Fort Myers. Immokalee, Marco Island. | PART OF: Southwest Florida