Naples is a premier vacation destination with outstanding services and activities. However, there are plenty of exciting day trips from Naples to explore, from stunning beaches to many hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Related Blog: Top 5 Things to Do in Naples This Summer
1. The Everglades
The Florida Everglades is the largest tropical ecosystem in the United States. There are many plant species you can find in the Everglades, including vulnerable or endangered species. You can also find many bird species, including the American bald eagle, manatees, alligators, crocodiles, and Florida Panthers that inhabit the preserve.
You may explore the wildlife in several places, including Big Cypress National Preserve, Everglades National Park, and the Ten Thousand Islands. These parks also provide the option to kayak through the lovely Florida mangrove, fish, or even take an airboat tour.
2. Sanibel & Captiva Islands
Visit some of the most beautiful islands in Florida for an incredible day’s excursions from Naples. These islands, about an hour from Naples, are all about outdoor activities. Captiva has the cleanest seas for swimming, scuba diving, and parasailing since it is home to some of the best beaches in Florida. The island also offers several educational experiences such as the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife. Captiva is known for the shells on the beach that people visit for shelling.
Sanibel Island is famous for its sunsets, lighthouse, and luxury resorts. It’s the perfect place to relax and get close to nature. A great place to visit is Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge, where you can see migratory birds, manatees, and dolphins. Another great place to visit is the Edison and Ford Estates where you can enjoy 20 acres of historical buildings and gardens including the 1928 Edison Botanical Research Laboratory.
3. Sarasota
Another great day trip is about an hour and a half away and has some of the highest-rated beaches in the world. Sarasota is also known as Florida's Cultural Coast® with many opportunities to experience art and culture. One of Sarasota’s biggest attractions is the Ringling Museum of Art which features an extensive collection of art from around the world. You can also visit the Ca’ d’Zan, the home of John and Mable Ringing, and the Circus Museum which features artifacts from the Ringing Brothers Circus.
4. Marco Island & Goodland
The island is just 30 miles south of Naples and flanked by Goodland and Capri's peaceful islands. This Gulf Coast getaway is famous for its white-sand beaches, beautiful seas, and lush vegetation. Marco Island is an excellent spot to unwind and escape daily life's stresses. If you fancy camping or canoeing, you can visit the Collier-Seminole State Park, part of South Florida's colossal mangrove swamp.
Alternatively, you may visit Briggs Nature Center, which has a half-mile boardwalk where they can watch animals in their natural environment. The island also has some of Florida's most elegant and fancy restaurants. Renting a boat and going onto Keywaden Island is also very popular for locals & visitors.
5. Matlacha & Pine Island
A trip to Pine Island, north of Ft. Myers, is reminiscent of a visit to Old Florida. Known for its tranquil backwaters, it is one of the region's most popular fishing and paddling spots. On your way in, you should stop at colorful Matlacha, a little spit of land between Pine Island and the mainland with unique art galleries and entertaining restaurants. A trip along the Calusa Heritage Trail will take you back to 1500 years ago when the land was once a Calusa Indian community.
6. Miami
Drive over Alligator Alley to the east coast and visit Miami and South Beach if you're looking for a little more of a big city feel. Miami offers a lot, from shopping and sightseeing to fancy hotels and restaurants. A walking tour is one of the most remarkable ways to discover and explore Miami.
The city is very favorable to pedestrians, and other intriguing areas exist, such as the Art Deco Historic District. It is located on Miami Beach between 5th and 23rd Streets, along Ocean Drive, Collins Avenue, and Washington Avenue.
If you are looking to move to Southwest Florida on a part-time or full-time basis, consider moving into a luxury home community or building a custom home that provides easy access to our beaches.
London Bay Homes can build your luxury home in Southwest Florida from Naples to Sarasota. Contact us to learn more about our beautiful residences in Southwest Florida and start building your luxury home.
