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Trying to plan the perfect trip to Naples, Florida? You’re in the right place!
We’ve explored this Gulf Coast gem inside and out, and whether you’re here for the beaches, wildlife, or laid-back luxury, Naples has something for everyone. From spotting dolphins in the Ten Thousand Islands to gliding through mangroves in a kayak, there’s no shortage of adventures. And if relaxing on the water with a sunset cruise sounds like your style, we’ve got that covered, too!
To help you make the most of your trip, we’ve rounded up the best things to do in Naples. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or just looking for a fun day, these experiences are worth adding to your itinerary.
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this manatee sightseeing tour! We boated through the Everglades mangrove and saw manatees, alligators, birds, and so much more. It was a true Florida experience!
Check out the 2,000+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
- Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Naples, Florida
- 1. Spot dolphins in the Gulf of Mexico
- 2. See manatees and other wildlife with expert guides
- 3. Kayak through mangroves and with wildlife
- 4. See Naples on an electric trike tour
- 5. Visit Marco Island on a wildlife sightseeing and shelling tour
- 6. Drive your own Fun Go Cat Boat on Marco Island
- 7. Relax on a sunset catamaran sail
- 8. Explore the Everglades National Park on a motorboat
- 9. Get around the city on a vintage hop-on-hop-off trolley
- 10. Go Jet Skiing through the Ten Thousand Islands
- Where to Stay in Naples, Florida
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Renting a Car in the USA
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Things to do in Naples, Florida
1. Spot dolphins in the Gulf of Mexico
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Time: 8:45 am, 11:30 am, and 2:15 pm
- Highlights: Explore the Ten Thousand Islands, including an isolated barrier island by boat with commentary from your guide, swim in the Gulf of Mexico, look for marine animals and seashells
- Inclusions: Driver/guide, bottled water, small-group tour
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 900+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
The Ten Thousand Islands might be one of Florida’s most incredible natural areas, but exploring them on your own? That’s another story. With so many waterways and remote islands, getting lost or missing the best spots is way too easy. That’s why we booked this small-group boat tour from Marco Island, and let me tell you—it was the best decision.
Captain Glenn was awesome from the start, making sure we were comfortable before cruising through this maze of mangrove islands. Almost immediately, we spotted a few manatees from a distance, their snouts just barely breaking the surface.
Then, the dolphins stole the show, swimming right alongside our boat and playfully leaping through the wake. Birdwatchers would love this tour, too! We saw so many different species soaring overhead or perched along the shoreline.
But the best part was stepping onto a remote barrier island that’s only accessible by boat. The water was warm, the sand was soft, and the shelling was unbelievable! We found so many unique shells that we had to leave some behind.
We loved how peaceful and immersive this tour was, offering a chance to explore a pristine part of Florida without the crowds. If you want a mix of wildlife spotting, island-hopping, and just a solid time out on the water, this tour is the way to do it—just be sure to book early, as it sometimes sells out!
Secure this popular tour here and get ready to explore the Ten Thousand Islands!
2. See manatees and other wildlife with expert guides
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times from 10 am to 4 pm
- Highlights: See manatees, alligators, sharks, birds, and more in their natural habitat on this Everglades wildlife tour, learn about the local ecosystem and wildlife from your captain
- Inclusions: Coast Guard-certified captain, polarized sunglasses, and phone camera lenses, free parking
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 2,400+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Spotting manatees in the wild can be hit or miss—unless you know exactly where to look. Instead of hoping for a lucky sighting, we hopped on this Everglades wildlife tour, where the chances of seeing these gentle giants are over 90%. And with only seven people per boat, it felt more like a private excursion than a typical tour.
Captain John was delightful from the start, balancing in-depth knowledge with a fun, lighthearted approach that made the experience even better. As we cruised through the peaceful waterways, he pointed out different bird species, gators lurking near the mangroves, and even a few sharks gliding just below the surface.
But the real highlight, of course, was the manatees! It didn’t take long before a few of them swam right up to the boat, their massive, slow-moving bodies just inches away. Watching them float so effortlessly was mesmerizing—like underwater teddy bears just bobbing along.
The provided polarized sunglasses and phone lens made a huge difference, cutting the glare and making it much easier to capture clear photos of the manatees beneath the surface.
Between the wildlife encounters, the covered boat keeping us shaded, and Captain John’s great storytelling, this was our favorite thing we did in Naples. For an unforgettable chance to see Florida’s most famous sea creatures up close, grab a spot on this boat tour before it fills up!
Check out the 2,000+ 5-star reviews and book our favorite Naples tour!
3. Kayak through mangroves and with wildlife
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 10 am
- Highlights: Get an up-close view of Florida’s coastal mangrove forests on this kayaking or paddleboarding tour, see wildlife like dolphins and manatees up close, get hands-on guidance and training
- Inclusions: Guide, kayak with pedals or paddle board, life jacket, pictures, safety briefing
- Rating: 5 stars (check 980+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Exploring Florida’s mangroves by kayak sounds like a fantastic adventure—until you remember how much upper body strength traditional kayaking requires. That’s why we loved this pedal kayak tour! No need to paddle endlessly—just pedal at your own pace and enjoy the ride while taking in the natural beauty all around.
The kayaks were incredibly easy to use, which made the whole tour feel effortless and relaxing. Drifting through the shaded mangroves, surrounded by nothing but nature, was unlike anything we’d experienced before.
At one point, we even saw a manatee slowly drifting through the water and dolphins playing just ahead of us.
Our guide Rammel’s passion for the local wildlife and environment was clear from the start, and he had a way of making every detail so fascinating. He pointed out different bird species, explained how the ecosystem thrives, and made sure we didn’t miss a single wildlife sighting.
There’s also the option to explore by paddleboard if you prefer. Standing up offers a whole new perspective and an added balance challenge for those looking for something more active!
For a stress-free way to explore Florida’s untouched coastal beauty, this kayak adventure allows you to experience the mangroves like never before. Check out the glowing 5-star reviews here and see why this tour is a favorite among travelers!
Book this award-winning kayak tour here and get flexible payment options!
4. See Naples on an electric trike tour
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times from 9 am to 6:30 pm
- Highlights: Guided tour exploring Naples by electric trike, see Naples Pier, Cambier Park, Historic Palm Cottage, the yacht club, and more
- Inclusions: Tour guide, trike rental, small-group tour
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 130+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Exploring a city on foot is great—until you realize how far everything is, especially in the Florida heat. That’s why we opted for this electric trike tour, which let us cover way more ground than walking while still getting an up-close look at Naples’ most iconic sights. Plus, with the option to sit or stand while riding, it was one of the most comfortable ways to see the city.
Our guide, Irie, made the experience even better. He was kind, patient, and incredibly knowledgeable, sharing fun facts and history at every stop while keeping the tour lighthearted and fun. We cruised past marinas filled with luxury yachts and zipped down palm-lined streets – it was an iconic Florida experience!
Even with the Florida heat cranked up to 98 degrees Fahrenheit (37 degrees Celsius), it wasn’t too bad, thanks to the breeze we got while cruising on the trikes. And unlike Segways, these were incredibly easy to navigate—no awkward balancing act required!
The route took us past Naples Pier, Cambier Park, and the historic Palm Cottage, but the best part was rolling through Port Royal, home to some of the most jaw-dropping mansions in the country. Seeing these estates up close felt like a sneak peek into another world!
With a small group of just 20 people, plenty of great photo ops, and a relaxed yet informative vibe, this tour was a fun and breezy way to experience Naples. We’ll definitely do this one again!
Check availability and book this tour here to get FREE cancellation options.
5. Visit Marco Island on a wildlife sightseeing and shelling tour
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 9 am, 11:30 am, and 2 pm
- Highlights: Boat tour exploring Florida’s Gulf waters south of Naples, pick shells, enjoy the beautiful sights, learn about the mangroves that make up the Ten Thousand Islands
- Inclusions: Local guide, cooler with ice, shell bags, bottled water, small-group tour
- Rating: 5 stars (check 950+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you love dolphins, seashells, and off-the-beaten-path adventures, this small-group boat tour to Cape Romano is an absolute must. There’s nothing quite like skimming across the Gulf of Mexico, spotting marine life, and stepping onto a remote beach where the tide constantly delivers new treasures to the shore.
The boat ride itself was a blast, with dolphins playfully riding our wake and seabirds soaring overhead. We even saw an osprey flying into its nest! Gliding through the Ten Thousand Islands, we got a firsthand look at the winding mangrove tunnels that create a thriving ecosystem for Florida’s coastal wildlife.
Once we reached Cape Romano, it was all about the shelling! We could have stayed there for hours, sifting through the endless selection of shells washing up with the tide. From perfectly intact conch shells to delicate sand dollars, the variety was unreal. It felt like our own private treasure hunt!
But what really made this trip stand out was our guide, Captain Jessica. Her knowledge of the area’s wildlife and history made the journey even more interesting, and her enthusiasm was contagious. She knew exactly where to go for the best shelling and made sure everyone had an unforgettable experience.
Whether you’re here for the wildlife, the thrill of the boat ride, or the incredible shelling, this tour delivers on all fronts. But don’t just take our word for it—read the 5-star reviews here and see why this is the best way to explore Cape Romano!
Reserve your spot on this incredible Cape Romano boat tour here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
6. Drive your own Fun Go Cat Boat on Marco Island
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 9:30 am
- Highlights: Explore the thousands of islands around Marco Island by a two-person Go Cat Boat, easy to drive and maneuver, while looking for dolphins, manatees, and birds, learn all about the area’s flora and fauna
- Inclusions: Guide, exclusive Go Cat Boat luxury catamaran, bottled water, pictures of your adventure, small-group tour
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 240+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Exploring the mangroves by boat is one thing, but driving your own two-person Go Cat? That’s next-level fun. This Go Cat boat tour is perfect whether you’re an experienced boater or a complete novice—the fiberglass catamarans are incredibly easy to maneuver, making for a thrilling yet stress-free ride through the stunning backwaters of the Ten Thousand Islands.
After a quick but detailed lesson on driving, we set off in a small group with our guide, Baron, leading the way. He did a great job making sure everyone felt comfortable and even rotated places so each boat had a turn in the front.
We cruised at a relaxed pace through the mangroves, taking in the lush scenery and keeping an eye out for wildlife. The water was calm, the air was fresh, and spotting dolphins gliding nearby made it all the more special!
Once we reached the open sea, we picked up speed—hitting 30 miles per hour (48 kilometers per hour) on the smooth water was an absolute blast! Our last stop was a private island, where we had time to collect some beautiful shells and take a quick swim before heading back.
It’s important to note that you’ll need a Temporary Boater License ($9.99 USD) before you can captain your own Go Cat if you were born after January 1988. It’s a quick and easy process, so don’t let it keep you from this adventure. Take our word for it—this is one adventure you don’t want to miss!
For an unforgettable adventure, book this Go Cat tour here!
7. Relax on a sunset catamaran sail
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times from 10 am to 6 pm
- Highlights: Set sail on a beautifully appointed Catamaran to see southwest Florida by water, photograph the local wildlife, swim to a secluded, pristine beach for shelling (if option selected), beautiful sunset views (if option selected)
- Inclusions: Captain, soda, water, and other drinks, toast at sunset (if option selected)
- Rating: 4.8 (check 500+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
There’s nothing worse than ending a trip and realizing you never took the time to just relax. After days of exploring, this sunset cruise was exactly what we needed. And with a boat named Cool Beans, we knew we were in for a great time!
Captain Patrick made sure we felt welcome from the moment we stepped on board. With plenty of room to move around, we found a comfortable spot, sipped on a cold drink, and let the gentle breeze take over.
With the wind in our sails, we glided effortlessly across the water, the gentle sway of the boat making it easy to unwind. As the sun began to set, the sky transformed into a canvas of warm oranges and soft pinks, setting the perfect scene for a peaceful evening on the water.
The Gulf of Mexico looked stunning in the golden light, and we even spotted dolphins playing in the distance. The whole atmosphere was peaceful yet lively, with everyone enjoying the smooth ride and occasional laughs with our fantastic hosts.
Unlike some boat tours that rely heavily on motors, Cool Beans offers a true sailing experience you won’t forget. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening or just a chance to unwind on the water, this sunset cruise delivers!
Reserve this unforgettable tour now and pay later when you book it here!
8. Explore the Everglades National Park on a motorboat
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 9:30 am and 2 pm
- Highlights: Explore the unique ecosystem of the Everglades on this small-group motorboat tour, disembark on an isolated island
- Inclusions: Captain, snacks, bottled water, insect repellent, ponchos, safety equipment
- Rating: 5 stars (check 380+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Visiting the Everglades sounds incredible—until you find yourself crammed onto a packed boat, struggling to see past a sea of tourists. That’s exactly why we booked this small-group motorboat tour, and it made all the difference. With fewer people on board, we had an unobstructed view of this wild, untouched ecosystem and the chance to truly appreciate its beauty.
Our captain, Josh, knew these waters like the back of his hand. He effortlessly navigated through the Ten Thousand Islands, pointing out wildlife along the way and sharing fascinating stories about the history of the Everglades.
Thanks to his keen eye, we spotted all kinds of unique fish, sea turtles, birds, manatees, and even a few playful bottlenose dolphins. At one point, we watched an osprey swoop down and snatch a fish straight out of the water—nature’s version of a grab-and-go meal!
Halfway through, we pulled up to an isolated island, where the only sounds were the gentle lapping of waves and the occasional call of a bird. Wandering along the shoreline, we searched for seashells washed up by the tide and admired the feeling of having an entire island practically to ourselves. It was the kind of peaceful, off-the-grid moment that makes you forget about everything else.
If you want an intimate, up-close look at one of Florida’s most unique ecosystems, this is the tour for you. Read the rave 5-star reviews here and grab your spot before it sells out!
Book this top-rated tour here and get FREE cancellation up to 24 hours before you go!
9. Get around the city on a vintage hop-on-hop-off trolley
- Duration: 1 day
- Time: 8:30 am–3:30 pm
- Highlights: Explore Naples and learn about the area on a guided vintage trolley tour, hop on and off at your leisure, visit over 100 points of interest, explore the shops and restaurants overlooking the Venetian Bay
- Inclusions: Professional guide
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 90+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Naples is packed with gorgeous beaches, high-end shopping, historic sites, and some of the most stunning waterfront views in Florida—but trying to figure out where to start? That’s a whole different story. Instead of stressing over an itinerary, we hopped aboard this vintage trolley tour, which gave us the perfect mix of sightseeing, history, and flexibility to explore at our own pace.
The tour covers over 100 points of interest, from historic landmarks to the city’s most scenic spots. Our guide, Rick, kept things engaging with fun facts and local insights, making it easy to soak in Naples’ charm without feeling like we were sitting through a history lecture.
The best part? With the freedom to hop on and off whenever we wanted, we never felt rushed and had plenty of time to explore.
One of our favorite stops was The Village Shops on Venetian Bay, where we wandered through waterfront boutiques, grabbed a bite to eat, and admired the stunning views. The trolley also passed by some of Naples’ most beautiful neighborhoods, giving us a glimpse of the luxurious homes that line the coast.
If you’re visiting Naples for the first time, this is the best way to get a feel for the city while making sure you don’t miss a thing. By the end of the tour, you’ll know exactly which spots to revisit and the best places to hit for the rest of your trip. Hop on, sit back, and enjoy Naples in style!
Get ready to see the best of Naples and reserve your seat on this trolley tour here!
10. Go Jet Skiing through the Ten Thousand Islands
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 9 am and 12 pm
- Highlights: Take a Jet Ski tour around Marco Island and through the waters of Ten Thousand Islands and secluded locations inaccessible to boats or kayaks, see dolphins and sea creatures
- Inclusions: Local guide, 30-minute safety briefing, must have a valid ID, and a Boaters Safety Certificate
- Rating: 5 stars (check 290+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Exploring Florida’s waterways sounds amazing—until you realize many tours can’t reach the narrow mangrove tunnels. Kayaks are fun, but paddling for hours in the heat isn’t for everyone. That’s exactly why we booked this Jet Ski tour through the Ten Thousand Islands—it was an adrenaline-pumping ride packed with adventure and incredible wildlife sightings.
Before heading out, our guide Kris gave a thorough (but quick!) safety briefing to make sure everyone felt comfortable on their Jet Ski. Then, we were off!
The ride itself was an absolute blast! We zipped past uninhabited islands, cruised through the pristine estuary, gawked at the Cape Romano Dome House, and spotted wildlife all along the way. Flying across the open water at full speed felt like the ultimate thrill!
Kris was not only knowledgeable but hilarious, keeping us entertained with fun facts about the ecosystem while leading us to some of the best viewing spots. We saw dolphins playfully swimming nearby, a gentle manatee gliding past, and an incredible variety of birds soaring overhead—the kind of up-close encounters you’d never get on your own.
If you’re looking for a high-energy way to experience the Ten Thousand Islands, this tour should be at the top of your list! Just make sure you have a valid ID and check the boating requirements ahead of time—Florida law requires a Boater Safety Certificate for certain riders.
Read the hundreds of 5-star reviews and secure your Jet Ski adventure here!
Where to Stay in Naples, Florida
Now that you have a bucket list for your Naples trip, you need somewhere perfect to stay! Our personal preference is to stay as close to the beach as possible, and luckily, that’s pretty doable in Naples. Here are three excellent hotel options for a range of budgets:
Luxury – $$$
Bellasera Resort is not only a luxury resort in Naples, but it’s also located on 5th Avenue and within walking distance to the best shops, charming streets, and restaurants. The resort offers a shuttle to the beach, so you’re a quick drive away. On-site, you can enjoy the high-end pool and cabanas, hot tub, and balconies with a view from every room. They offer suite-style accommodations that are large, bright, and comfortable.
Prices start at $350 USD per night and can be booked here on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
I love the Cove Inn on Naples Bay for a moderate-priced hotel option. As the name suggests, it sits on Naples Bay, giving incredible views that you can enjoy from the pool or your room! They offer double or king rooms with private balconies, and some come with a kitchenette. The rooms are modern and provide all you’ll need for a comfortable stay.
Rooms range from $150 to $270 USD per night and can be reserved on Booking.com.
Budget – $
Naples Garden Inn is a budget-friendly hotel and just a 5-minute drive from the beach! This is a quaint inn, offering cozy rooms that are double, king, or suite-style. There’s an onsite pool that offers afternoon tea daily, and you can enjoy the continental breakfast in the mornings. Prices start at $107 USD per night.
Check availability and book this hotel here on Booking.com.
For more options, see all of the hotels in Naples here!
Renting a Car in the USA
The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country’s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in the USA
- Drive on the right: In the U.S., vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left. If this is different than your home country, take some time to adjust before hitting busy streets!
- Know the local rules: Speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ between states. For example, turning right on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign indicates otherwise. Always check the specific rules for the states you’ll be driving in.
- Add full insurance: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance, especially in the U.S., where long distances, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather can lead to unexpected situations. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable!) to add this peace of mind when you book.
- Choose the right car: Consider the nature of your trip. For city driving, a compact car is convenient, while for road trips or national park visits, an SUV might be more comfortable. With Discover Cars, it’s easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, fuel efficiency, and more to find the perfect fit.
What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Some rental companies may require it, so it’s best to check in advance.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
If you’re looking for a beach getaway in a historic, charming city, Naples will be your perfect vacation destination! We had so much fun sailing through Florida’s stunning blue waters, exploring Mangroves, and finding the best spots in the city. If you tick off a few of these top activities, I know you’ll love Naples as much as we did!
Before you go, check out our other USA blogs! We love sharing our favorite places and experiences with fellow travelers. Here are a few related blogs that might be helpful as you plan your next adventure!
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