Looking for the ultimate weekend getaway? Check out the unpretentious, low-key destination of Naples, Florida. The 22,000 residences have been voted the happiest people in America, and once you visit you will know why.
A small town vibe with all of the luxury amenities you would expect from a cosmopolitan metropolis, Naples is one of the wealthiest cities in the United States. Residents include the founders of Time Warner and Best Buy, Florida Governor Rick Scott and NBA Legend Larry Bird.
You never know whom you will see in the streets of Naples (Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban have been visitors) and The Naples Winter Wine Festival brings in notable chefs- in the past Daniel Boulud, Wolfgang Puck, Tom Colicchio, Bill Telepan, John Besh and Eric Ripart have all been in attendance.
Getting There:
Unknown to most, Naples is a luxury hub in the United States. Naples Municipal Airport (private jet airport) is one of the busiest in the US, and during high season, you can find more than $1 billion dollars in aircraft sitting on the runway, not including the several air charter carriers. Located a few miles from the central business district, this Regional Southwest Airport in Fort Myers is the closest.
Stay:
The Four Star Diamond Inn of Fifth is a boutique hotel located in the heart of Naples on 5th Ave. Divided into two separate art deco buildings located across the street from each other, the hotel features a gorgeous spa, an outdoor pool and lounge area. Get a good nights sleep by being cradled by a bed of clouds with mattresses by Stearns and Foster, outfitted by the softest microfiber sheets imaginable. All rooms have juliet balconies, L’Occitane toiletries, lavish bathrobes and marble bathrooms with his and her sinks, separate toilet area and lighted makeup mirrors.
Guests that opt to stay in the Club Level Suites have access to a 24-hour concierge and lounge, as well as upgraded amenities. The cozy lounge is always filled with beverages and snacks, along with a continental breakfast and a daily happy hour. A full premium bar is available, as well as ports and desserts served in the late evening.
Club Level guests also have the use of the house cars- two Teslas that can transport you to the beach, airport or surrounding areas. If you want to stay close by, enjoy complimentary tennis privileges at Cambier Park with 12-lighted Hydro-Grid Har-Tru courts or take advantage of the golf privileges at exclusive Naples courses.
Play:
There is something for everyone in the city of Naples. The gorgeous fine white sand beaches have been voted some of the best beaches in the United States. With 1,000 square feet of beachfront, Lowdermilk Park is a short distance from downtown Fifth Avenue, and is a hotspot for locals as well as visitors. Amenities include a playground, volleyball court, duck pond and picnic tables for breezy lunches. Located just south of downtown, the Naples Municipal Pier will give you the perfect Instagram sunset shot, complete with emerald waters, miles of gorgeous coastline and the fishing pier in the background.
Make sure to pay a visit to Old Naples, the quaint historic neighborhood nestled between tall coconut trees and a playful mixture of beach cottages and mansions located between the Naples Beach Hotel and Golf Club and South Golf Drive.
Palm Cottage, an original landmark built in 1895 is on the National Register of Historic Places. Tin City is a colorful shopping district on Gordon River that was once a booming fishing village. Indulge in old world charm while exploring over 30 boutiques, 2 restaurants, tour shops and the history showroom, showcasing the evolution of Tin City. The award-winning Naples Botanical Garden features colorful blooms from around the world in 10 different garden settings, spread out over 170 flourishing acres. Perfect for families, groups and couples year-round events include lectures, music in the garden and sculpture installations.
If you are feeling adventurous, visiting the Everglades National Park is a quick day trip. The largest tropical in the United States has some of the most untouched lands. The network of wetlands and forests are home to over 350 species of birds, 300 species of fish and countless threatened species such as the American Crocodile and Florida Panther. On a day trip with Everglade Area Tours, explore the 10,000 islands with a certified, formally trained Florida Master Naturalist. During the four hours, explore by boat, kayak and walking overland discovering the flora and fauna, shells and the history of the area, including the history of the Native Americans living here 3,500 years ago.
Eat:
With 35 restaurants located in downtown Naples alone, you can find any type of food ranging from fresh Seafood, French, Mexican, Italian, Asian and more.
This is the place to be for a sizable steak and seafood menu, decadent cocktails and significant wine list. The modern space gets cozy with South Florida accents of enclosed coral in the entrance, and a friendly, hospitable staff. The Modern American eatery is known for their Jumbo Lump Crab Cake, and the only difference at Ocean Prime Naples is the special of Blackened Snapper with Corn Spoon Bread and Jalapeno Corn Tartar. Save room for dessert, and make the hard decision between the infamous Gooey Butter Cake, 15-Layer Carrot Cake or Peanut Butter Chocolate bomb.
Sea Salt is known for their sea bream catch of the day, coming in off the hook-and-line day boats that morning. The delicate white fish pairs perfectly with the organic local produce and naturally raised meats curated by Chef Fabrizio Aielli.
However you decide to spend your weekend, Naples is the perfect choice.
water view
Inn on Fifth
Aerial view of Inn on Fifth
Blackened Snapper at Ocean Prime
Luxury Travel by Justluxe
