15 Best Things to do in Naples, Florida

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.

Things to do in Naples, Florida

1. Spot dolphins in the Gulf of Mexico

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!

2. See manatees and other wildlife with expert guides

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!

3. Wander the Naples Botanical Garden

Florida itself is full of beautiful, unique vegetation. Its climate allows for a variety of beauty that can’t easily be seen anywhere else in the U.S. Naples Botanical Garden is the perfect place to wander through incredible displays of plants and flowers from around the world. Think water lily pools, lush green rainforests, and boldly colored flowering trees and plants. 

You can freely browse the gardens in self-guided whimsy or choose to hop on a staff-led tour if you get there early! Guided tours go out every morning at 9:30 am, and they’re included in your admission ticket. We loved the guided option as it gave us some insight into what work goes into maintaining this peaceful space. 

If you’re not up for walking around in the Florida humidity among an actual rainforest, you can opt to take a garden tram tour for $45 USD. It covers 45 minutes of electric cart exploring with an expert guide and your garden ticket. 

General adult admission is $27 USD, and kids up to 17 years old can visit for free during the summer months! Visitation hours in the summer (June 1st – September 30th) are 8 am to 2 pm daily and 9 am to 5 pm in the fall and winter months (October 1st to May 31st). 

4. See Naples on an electric trike tour

Exploring a city on foot is great—until you realize how far everything is, especially in the Florida heat. That’s why opting for this electric trike tour makes wandering a whole lot more convenient. It allows you to cover way more ground than walking while still getting an up-close look at Naples’ most iconic sights. 

The trikes themselves are so fun. You’ll have the option to sit or stand while riding, making it one of the most comfortable ways to see the city. Unlike Segways, these zippy little transporters are easy to navigate—no awkward balancing act required! 

You’ll cruise past marinas filled with luxury yachts and zip down palm-lined streets – such an iconic Florida experience! The route will take you by Naples Pier, Cambier Park, and the historic Palm Cottage. Perhaps the best part is rolling through Port Royal, home to some of the most jaw-dropping mansions in the country. Seeing those estates up close feels like a sneak peek into another world!

With the Florida heat cranked up to 98 degrees Fahrenheit (37 degrees Celsius), the breeze you get while cruising on the trikes is a welcome bonus. With a small group of just 20 people, there are plenty of great photo ops, plus a relaxed yet informative vibe. 

This tour is a fun and breezy way to experience Naples. You’ll definitely want to check this one out!

5. Explore the Everglades National Park on a motorboat

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!

6. Go shopping at the historic Tin City Waterfront Shops

I love a good shopping day when traveling, especially at locally owned businesses that offer unique gifts and handmade treasures I can take home. The Tin City Waterfront Shops encapsulate all of that, with a slice of Old Florida charm! 

Originally built as a fishing and seafood packing hub in the 1920s, Tin City still retains much of its historic waterfront character today.

Located along the Naples waterfront, this strip of tin-clad boutique shops and restaurants holds special significance in the hearts of many visitors. You’ll find anything from natural handmade soaps and skincare products at Naples Soap Company to coastal artwork by local Florida artists at Docks by Jen. 

After working up an appetite shopping my little heart out, I like to head over to Pinchers for lunch. Their menu is full of the best fresh seafood you can find in Naples! It’s also a relaxing setting to watch the boats come and go and pelicans swooping in and out of view. 

7. Kayak through mangroves and with wildlife

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 this pedal kayak tour is the perfect balance! 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 are incredibly easy to use, which makes the whole tour feel effortless and relaxing. Drifting through the shaded mangroves, surrounded by nothing but nature, is truly a unique experience.

You’ll likely encounter manatees slowly drifting through the water and dolphins playing in the surroundings. 

Each guide has a clear passion for the local wildlife and environment. They’re quick to point out different bird species, explain how the ecosystem thrives, and make sure you don’t miss a single wildlife sighting.

If you’re feeling a little adventurous, there’s also the option to explore by paddleboard instead of pedal kayaks. Standing up offers a whole new perspective and an added balance challenge for those wanting something a bit 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!

Related Read: Want to see how we put our favorite activities together? This ultimate Naples, Florida itinerary covers the top tours, sights, and even restaurants!

8. Visit Marco Island on a wildlife sightseeing and shelling tour

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 is a blast, with dolphins playfully riding the wake and seabirds soaring overhead. Gliding through the Ten Thousand Islands, you’ll get a firsthand look at the winding mangrove tunnels that create a thriving ecosystem for Florida’s coastal wildlife. 

Once you reach Cape Romano, it is all about the shelling! It’s such a relaxing time, sifting through an endless selection of shells washing up with the tide. From perfectly intact conch shells to delicate sand dollars, the variety is unreal. It feels like your own private treasure hunt!

With the maximum number of travelers on each tour capped at 14, this tour feels very laid back, unrushed, and informative with expert local guides. Luckily, each boat is fully shaded, so when you’re gliding along to Cape Romano, you can sit back and relax out of the direct heat.

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!

9. Delve into Naples art and culture

When I envision Naples, I see vibrant, bold colors of a beachy aesthetic. The culture and surrounding visuals of the city are rooted in coastal elegance. There are so many artsy shops, galleries, and displays that embody this style. That’s why I love setting aside a day to visit the districts of 5th Avenue South and 3rd Street South. 

Strolling along either of these popular streets, you’ll find a multitude of art galleries that range from paintings to sculptures and ceramics. 

I like wandering around the luxurious, upscale shops to see what the latest Florida-coded styles are (and try to avoid peeping at the price tags- it’s all for the eyes). There are also plenty of cafés and restaurants tucked between the galleries, making it easy to turn a stroll into an afternoon out.

Performance art is heavily represented here as well. The Sugden Community Theatre hosts several exceptional live plays put on by The Naples Players. In nearby Cambier Park, outdoor concerts and events are often hosted at their band shell, where admission is always free. 

10. Relax on a sunset catamaran sail

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!

11. Drive your own Fun Go Cat Boat on Marco Island

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, you’ll set off in a small group with your guide leading the way. You’ll start out cruising at a relaxed pace through the mangroves, taking in the lush scenery and keeping an eye out for wildlife. You’ll likely spot dolphins along the way, making it all the more special! 

Once you reach the open sea, you can pick up speed—hitting 30 miles per hour (48 kilometers per hour) on the smooth water; what a blast! 

Your last stop is a private island, where you’ll have 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!

12. Get around the city on a vintage hop-on-hop-off trolley

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, hop aboard this vintage trolley tour, which gives you the perfect mix of sightseeing, history, and flexibility to explore at your own pace.

The tour covers over 100 points of interest, from historic landmarks to the city’s most scenic spots. The guides focus on keeping things engaging with fun facts and local insights, making it easy to soak in Naples’ charm without feeling like you’re sitting through a history lecture. 

The best part? With the freedom to hop on and off whenever you want, you’ll never feel rushed and have plenty of time to explore.

One of the best stops is The Village Shops on Venetian Bay, where you can wander through waterfront boutiques, grab a bite to eat, and admire the stunning views. The trolley also passes by some of Naples’ most beautiful neighborhoods, giving you 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!

13. Take a beach day

Lounging on the beach is a perfectly decent way to spend a vacation day, especially in Naples. Nearly 9 miles (14.5 km) of powdery white sand and calm, Gulf Coast waters truly make the whole beach experience in Naples top-tier. 

Accessible public beaches like Naples Beach or Lowdermilk Park offer beautiful expanses of sand to plop down on for an afternoon or watch the sunset in the evenings. Lowdermilk is fun for group outings with a concession stand and beach volleyball, while the area around the historic Naples Pier is perfect for dolphin spotting.

If you’re looking for something a little more nature-driven, head to Delnore Wiggins State Park or Clam Pass. Delnore Wiggins costs $6 USD for parking and is excellent for snorkeling, shelling, and swimming. Clam Pass has a $10 USD parking fee with an excellent mangrove reserve surrounding the gulf. A golf cart shuttle takes you directly to the shore instead of lugging around beach gear for the 15- minute walk. 

No matter where you choose to spend your beach day in Naples, you’ll be met with unbeatable views and soft white sand. 

14. Visit the Audubon Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary

You can’t go to Florida without exploring some swamp land (and maybe spotting a few gators). The Audubon Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is an amazing outdoor wonderland of Florida wildlife and old-growth bald cypress trees on the western edge of the Everglades. 

Walking along its 2.25-mile (3.6 km) long boardwalk is an enchanting experience. You’ll get to witness a Bald Cypress tree forest that has existed for nearly 600 years, along with the variety of songbirds that add a lovely soundtrack to your visit. You’ll likely spot alligators, herons, white-tailed deer, turtles, snakes, and river otters. It’s a plethora of life in the sanctuary! 

General admission tickets are $17 USD and can be purchased in advance online. The sanctuary is open daily from 8 am to 1 pm from May 1st to December 15th and 8 am to 3 pm from December 16th to April 30th. We recommend wearing good walking shoes and packing some bug spray! 

15. Go Jet Skiing through the Ten Thousand Islands

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.

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!

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!

10 BEST Things to do in Miami, Florida

10 Best Things to do in Savannah, Georgia

10 Best Things to do in Fort Lauderdale, Florida