Nestled along the Gulf of Mexico, Naples, Florida, is renowned for its pristine beaches, luxurious lifestyles, and vibrant arts scene. But beyond its well-trodden tourist attractions lie hidden gems known mostly to locals.
These off-the-beaten-path experiences offer a unique glimpse into the subtler, yet equally charming, side of Naples. Here’s your insider guide to exploring Naples like a true local on your Gulf Coast getaway.
Unique Eats and Nightlife in Naples
1. Staff Only
- Address: 1200 Central Ave #105, Naples, FL
- Website: staffonlynaples.com
Tucked away in the trendy confines of The District, Staff Only is a speakeasy that transports you back to the Prohibition era. Head to the website, and you’ll be greeted with the cheeky prompt “Start an Application.” Keep clicking, and you’ll find the hidden reservation page.
With a door discreetly marked and accessible only to those in the know (hint: look for a vintage phone booth), this spot offers a seductive ambiance complemented by craft cocktails and live jazz on the weekends. It’s the perfect way to kickstart or wrap up your vacation in Naples. Settle in among the crushed seating and enjoy.
2. The Vine Room
- Address: 465 5th Ave S, Naples, FL
- Website: vineroom.com
- Opening Hours: 5 PM-11 PM
For wine aficionados, the Vine Room is a must-visit. After browsing the multitude of downtown boutiques, cruise over to this speakeasy-style wine bar, which features a meticulously curated selection of international wines paired with small plates that highlight local ingredients. The rustic decor, featuring reclaimed wood and soft lighting, creates a warm, inviting atmosphere ideal for a relaxed, low-energy night on vacation.
3. Sidebar
- Address: 475 5th St S, Naples, FL
- Website: facebook.com/sidebarnaples
- Opening Hours: 4:30 PM-11:30PM
Opened in 2019, Sidebar has quickly become a favorite of locals who are craving quality cocktails. Located just off the main drag, Sidebar offers a laid-back vibe with its innovative cocktails and creative tapas-style dishes. It’s a favorite among locals who appreciate its modern take on classic drinks and its outdoor seating area, which is perfect for Naples’ balmy evenings.
4. Backwater Jacks Bar and Restaurant
- Address: Marina Pointe Dr. SW, Bonita Springs, FL
- Website: bonitabaymarina.net/backwaterjacks
- Opening Hours: 11 AM to 8 PM
Off the typical tourist radar, Backwater Jacks offers an authentic Florida dining experience in the aptly named Bonita Bay. If being on the water makes you happy, this could be a good option for you, as Backwater Jack’s is only accessible by boat. Say “yes” to adventure and enjoy a meal with waterfront views and a menu full of fresh, local seafood.
5. The Kitchen & The Mini Bar
- Address: 1200 Central Ave Suite 106, Naples, FL
- Website: kitchenandminibar.com
- Opening Hours: 4:30 PM to 10 PM
The Kitchen & The Mini Bar is a dual concept that caters to both casual diners and those seeking a more refined experience. The Kitchen serves up hearty, comforting dishes with a gourmet twist, while The Mini Bar is a chic, compact space with a focus on signature cocktails and small bites. Together, they serve up a versatile experience that can satisfy any culinary craving. Enjoy with a side of live music while you have a cool craft cocktail in hand!
6. Third Street South Farmer’s Market
- Address: 1207 3rd St S, Naples, FL
- Website: thirdstreetsouth.com/gallery/third-street-farmers-market
- Opening Hours: Saturday mornings, 7:30 AM to 11:30 AM
If your trip to Naples includes a Saturday, you absolutely can’t miss checking out the Third Street South Farmer’s Market. This is your key to experiencing Naples like a local. From organic fruits and veggies to artisanal cheeses, fresh bread, beautiful flowers, dog treats, and handmade jewelry, you’ll find it all here.
Whether you’re hunting for unique souvenirs or simply want to sample the deliciousness of Naples, this place has got you covered. And thanks to its early hours, you can definitely fit a trip to the market in with your other Naples, FL itinerary plans.
Natural Gems in Naples
7. Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary
- Address: 375 Sanctuary Rd W, Naples, FL
- Website: corkscrew.audubon.org
- Opening Hours: 8 AM-3PM
This protected wetlands area is a true deep dive into the iconic flora and fauna of Florida’s nature. A nature lovers’ paradise, you’ll be able to spend plenty of time in this sanctuary as you traverse over 13,000 acres of wildlife.
Walk on the boardwalk trail through different terrains, such as wet prairies, marshes, and even ancient cypress forests. Keep your camera ready, as you’ll likely spot alligators, birds, and maybe even a bear or two—not to mention endangered plant species!
Pro tips:
- Wear long sleeved shirts and pants to help keep the abundant yellow flies and deer flies at bay!
- Keep your eyes peeled for is the world’s largest Ghost Orchid! Rarely does it bloom for most of the year (even setting records!).
8. Freedom Park
- Address: 1515 Golden Gate Pkwy, Naples, FL
- Opening Hours: 8 AM to dusk
For a touch of nature, Freedom Park is a hidden oasis not far from Naples’ center. You can meander along the boardwalks and take in peaceful views of freshwater lakes or bird-watching opportunities at one of the various lookout pavilians. It’s truly a serene spot to unwind and connect with Florida’s natural beauty.
9. Gordon River Greenway
- Address: 1590 Goodlette-Frank Road, Naples, FL
- Website: gordonrivergreenway.org
Snag a peaceful nature escape with a visit to the Gordon River Greenway. This natural trail offers scenic walks, jogging paths, and biking trails along the Gordon River. It’s an ideal place for an active day out or a peaceful stroll among lush greenery and vibrant wildlife.
10. Lowdermilk Park
- Address: 1301 Gulf Shore Blvd N, Naples, FL
- Opening Hours: Dawn until dusk
While Naples has over 40 beach accesses, we have a soft spot for Lowdermilk Park. North of Old Naples, this more tranquil beach park grants you access to picnic areas, tiki huts, and over 1000 feet of powder-white sand shoreline. It’s perfect for a truly relaxing beach day, so don’t forget your sunscreen!
11. Naples Botanical Garden
- Address: 4820 Bayshore Dr, Naples, FL
- Website: naplesgarden.org
- Opening Hours: 8 AM to 2 PM
The Naples Botanical Garden gives you over 90 acres of possibility to explore tropical and subtropical flora. You’ll learn not only about the plants but also about the methods of sustainability and conservation.
Visitors can explore the various gardens, learn about plant conservation efforts, and even participate in workshops and educational programs. You’re sure to learn something new as you make your way from the water lily ponds to the collections of tropical plants and everything in between. Afterward, stop at the Fogg Cafe for some refreshments!
Cultural Gems in Naples
12. The Revs Institute
- Address: 2500 Horseshoe Dr S, Naples, FL
- Website: revsinstitute.org
- Opening Hours: 10 AM to 4 PM
With a mission to preserve the future of the past, the Revs Institute is a hidden gem dedicated to the study and preservation of automotive history. This museum showcases a collection of rare and beautifully restored vintage automobiles, providing a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of the car industry. This is one of the top things to do near Naples for any car enthusiast!
13. The Naples Art District
- Address: J and C Boulevard & Shirley St, North Naples, FL
- Website: naplesartdistrict.com
This is one of the best ways to get plugged into the creative scene in Naples. A 17-year project in the making, the Naples Art District is now the largest concentration of professional artist galleries in Southwest Florida.
A trip to this vibrant area will give you the chance to explore paintings, ceramics, sculptures, jewelry, and photography from the local artist collective. If one of the locally-made pieces catches your eye, you can take a piece of the thriving art scene home with you as a souvenir!
14. Dolphin Explorer Educational Journey
- Address: 951 Balk Eagle Drive, Marco Island, FL
- Website: dolphin-study.com
- Opening Hours: Depends on the tour you book
A daytrip is worth it for this unique educational and entertaining activity on nearby Marco Island. The Dolphin Project’s mission is to track and observe bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat. When you join this one-of-a-kind tour, you can become a citizen scientist and help naturalist collect data while sailing around on the Dolphin Explorer. You’ll even get to visit Keewydin Island’s uninhabited beach.
15. Historic Tin City
- Address: 1200 5th Ave S, Naples, FL
- Website: tincityofnaples.com
- Opening Hours: 10 AM to 9 PM
You can browse over 40 shops at historic Tin City, nestled in the Old Naples waterfront district. Tin City transports visitors back to the 1920s, when it was the hub for clam, shelling, oyster, and fishing industries, connecting visitors to Naples’ nautical past.
An afternoon exploring the tin-roofed buildings filled with nautical and nature-themed gift shops is sure to send you home with the perfect souvenirs. After your shopping spree, stop at either of the waterfront restaurants for the freshest seafood around.
16. Matlacha Village
Pronounced “mat-la-SHAY,” meaning “Big Warior” in Seminole, this colorful village is a must-visit daytrip to include if you have any art-lovers in your group. This rioutously colorful village all came about because of creativity.
When the commercial fishing industry started to dry up in the 90s, residents decided to bring in visitors another way: by painting all of the buildings in the brightest colors imaginable! The result is a charming and one-of-a-kind town with ever-evolving artwork.
Snap pictures of pink palm trees or the “junktiques” on display in the front yard of the Doll Lady’s House. Spend your day sightseeing, fishing, or kayaking around!
Book Your Vacation in Naples
By exploring these hidden gems, you’ll experience the depth of charm that Naples has to offer beyond its famous sunsets and sandy shores. This is your cheat sheet to seeing Naples through the eyes of a local. Find your perfect accommodation now and enjoy your stay in Southwest Florida!
