Did you know that Naples has been named the happiest city in America for 4 consecutive years?
Why? It must be the white-sand beaches, high-end shopping, world-class dining, abundant golfing, and excellent healthcare. And did we mention no state income tax and the City of Naples is among the lowest property taxes in the state? In the City of Naples, you get the best aspects of a big city but with small-town charm!
Who Lives In The City Of Naples?
Roughly 22,000 people live in the City of Naples. It is the 181st largest city in Florida, and sits in Collier County, the largest county in Florida by land. 54% of the city is female, and 52.5% are over 65.
The rate of owner-occupied housing is 78.3% - much higher than the national average of 60.0%. The median value of owner-occupied units is $988,500.
The median household income of city residents between 2015 and 2019 was $107,013. Interestingly, Naples has among the highest concentration of millionaires in the country. Roughly 9.6% of the population (or 15,300 households) are millionaires.
City Setting, Small Town Feeling
The City of Naples is an excellent choice for retirees, people looking for a seasonal home, and corporate workers who want to shift into a new gear. At Naples Relocation Experts, we often work with professionals who are moving from New York, Chicago, and LA seeking a slower pace and better quality of life.
The Paradise Coast is one of America’s hidden gems. In Naples, you have all the luxuries of a big city without the hassles. Our clients have remarked that the friendliness and relaxed atmosphere are reminiscent of the Midwest, but the cultural offerings rival the Northeast.
In The Middle of The Action
To take full advantage of The Paradise Coast’s cultural institutions and historic architecture, you’ll probably want to look for a home inside the City of Naples. The city boasts over 100 art galleries, from fine art to folk art.
Gulfshore Playhouse and TheatreZone are two local, professional theatres that employ artists from all over the country. Artis–Naples hosts The Naples Philharmonic and
The Baker Museum.
World-class dining is another of Naples’ strengths. Executive Chef Michael Mir serves a culinary experience at Bha! Bha! Persian Bistro on Fifth Avenue.
Dine outdoors at Mediterrano, named one of America’s best al fresco restaurants by Forbes and OpenTable. Or breathe in the ocean air with a seat on the water at The Boathouse on Naples Bay.
The Great Outdoors
Of course, what really sets the Paradise Coast apart is the stunning environment. The city got its name because it reminded its founders of the gorgeous scenery in Naples, Italy. The Gulf Coast has some of America’s most pristine beaches, and incredible weather to enjoy them in. Summer highs average in the low 90s, and winter lows rarely dip below the mid-50s.
The City’s most famous landmark is the Naples Pier. Built in 1888, the pier extends 600 feet into the Gulf of Mexico. All year, locals and tourists alike visit to fish, socialize, and celebrate. Unlike other areas, you don’t need a fishing license to fish from the pier, making it a perfect place to bring guests who are only visiting for a few days.
On New Year’s Eve and the Fourth of July, fireworks are hosted by the city. The Pier is also called “little United Nations,” for the diversity you’ll find walking its boards during the busy tourist season.
The Naples Beach Club, a famed institution for over 70 years, will begin renovations in 2021. The Beach Club is known for its 104 acres of recreation space (including golf and tennis) and the Sunset Beach Bar, where members and visitors have a front-row seat to the splendor of the Gulf of Mexico.
A must for outdoor enthusiasts is a visit to the Everglades, one of America’s most unique landscapes. These 1.5 million acres of wetland are a World Heritage Site, International Biosphere Reserve, a Wetland of International Importance, and a specially protected area under the Cartagena Treaty. There are three entrances to this nature preserve, which are not connected. The Gulf Coast Visitor Center is approximately 45 minutes from downtown Naples.
Make the Move The City Of Naples
Living near pristine beaches, world-class golfing and designer shops doesn’t have to be a fantasy. Don’t compromise your vision of paradise and settle for another city. You’ve worked your whole life for this moment – let’s make it perfect.
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Breakfast
The Café on 5th
This 5th Avenue hotspot was inspired by European sidewalk bistros. Their aim is so serve healthy, “sumptuously simple” meals. The Café serves light and fluffy omelets, breakfast sandwiches, and superfood bowls. Don’t miss their challah French toast!
EJ’s Bayfront Café
This energetic café serves Naples's best-rated breakfast. Head Chef Eric Becker is a graduate of Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts. His casual spot on the bay is the perfect place for an alfresco brunch. Additionally, this restaurant is pet-friendly. Walk straight from the City of Naples Dog Park and take in the sea breeze while you eat.
The Rooster Food + Drink
Hearty southern-style breakfasts are the name of the game at The Rooster. Fried green tomatoes, shrimp and grits, and chicken and waffles are menu highlights. For a less traditional (but still delicious) breakfast, try the crunchy almond grouper.
Lunch
Food and Thought
Food and Thought is more than just a grocery store. They carry only organic goods and have a wide selection of prepared foods. They also have a café and a juice bar, as well as a clothing shop.
Mama Mia’s
One of the oldest and best pizza parlors in Naples. This unfussy pizzeria also serves subs and salads. A casual spot for a delicious pie.
Pastrami Dan’s
Since 1975, Pastrami Dan’s has offered some of the best sandwiches in Southwest Florida. Don’t let the limited menu fool you – this shop is not to be missed.
Dinner
Bha! Bha! Persian Bistro
Michael Mir’s Persian Bistro is the realization of a dream 20 years in the making. This isn’t merely an excellent restaurant – it’s a culinary experience. Specialties include Pistachio Lamb Meatballs and Roasted Quail with Albaloo Polo.
BiCE Ristorante
Since 1926, the Bice Group has served classic Italian fare all over the world. Their first authentic eatery was founded as a family business and is now one of the most respected restaurant groups in the world.
Bleu Provence
Executive Chef and founder Lysielle Cariot has created one of Naples’ most beloved dining experiences. This Zagat-rated French restaurant has won the Wine Spectator Grand Prize for five consecutive years. It was also the Reader’s Choice for Best Restaurant in Naples Illustrated in 2018 and 2019.
The Boathouse on Naples Bay
The atmosphere may be casual, but the food is world-class. Enjoy fresh-caught seafood while you breathe in the ocean air with a seat on the water.
Charred
The Pepper family has been serving Naples since 1985. With two butcher shops and three restaurants, the Jimmy P’s restaurant group is a mainstay of the Paradise Coast. This steakhouse is as laid-back as it is delicious.
The Continental
From Chef Andrew Wicklander, D’Amico’s Continental is a high-end dining paradise. This steakhouse specializes in Waygu cuts and grass-fed beef.
The Dock at Crayton Cove
Since 1976, this waterside spot has been home to some of Naples’ best seafood. All tables are seated on a first-come, first-served basis, so there’s no need for a reservation. Best of all, you can pull your boat right into a slip and dine on the water.
Mediterrano
Since 1976, this waterside spot has been home to some of Naples’ best seafood. All tables are seated on a first-come, first-served basis, so there’s no need for a reservation. Best of all, you can pull your boat right into a slip and dine on the water.
Molto Trattoria
Head chef and co-owner Liliana Neri isn’t your average restauranteur. This authentic Italian spot is operated by herself and her children, serving family recipes passed down from Liliana’s parents – who were chefs, themselves.
Sail’s
French, Italian and Greek flavors mingle in Sails’ heavenly cuisine. Offering homemade pasta, Kobe beef, a raw bar and exquisite cocktails, the only way to improve on a dinner here is to have it in their private dining room – an underground cave lined with their impressive wine selection.
Sea Salt
Chef and owner Fabrizio Aielli is always creating new magic in his kitchen. The menu changes daily at this chef-driven seafood haven. Famously, Chef Aielli uses over 130 international variations of salt to concoct his masterpieces.
Tommy Bahama
Tommy Bahama is now an international brand, but the very first restaurant in their group is still a local favorite. The original Tommy Bahama is still serving delicious food at their Third Street dining room, including their world-famous coconut shrimp.
Truluck’s
Truluck’s serves over 112,000 pounds of fresh (never frozen) Florida Stone Crab every year. Their crab is humanely harvested in the Florida Keys, and arrives at their restaurants to be served within 24 hours. Everything about this restaurant is exquisite, from the atmosphere to the desserts.
3rd Street
Third Street is sometimes called the Birthplace of Naples. Here, you can explore historic architecture, visit local art galleries and search for hidden treasures at the boutiques. Stores include A Mano Home, Clothes, and Jewelry, Marissa Collections, and Paradise Antiques of Naples.
5th Avenue
This historic street reaches from the Tamiami Trail to the Gulf of Mexico. Here, you can window shop (or shop shop!) in the heart of Old Naples. Visit national brands like White House Black Market and local boutiques like Rouze. Don’t forget to snag a treat while you explore! Grab ice cream from Kilwins, confections from Grace and Shelley’s Cupcakes, or coffee from The Brick Coffee & Bar.
Tin City
Tin City’s Waterfront Shops are an excellent place to while a day away. The many locally-owned shops carry everything from women’s fashions to folk art. Make sure you have a meal right on the water at one of the two dockside restaurants.
Cambier Park
Just south of 5th Avenue, this park is nestled in the heart of downtown Naples. The 12.84-acre property has a community center, five lighted shuffleboard courts, two bocce courts, a lighted basketball court, the Arthur L. Allen Tennis Center, a bandshell, children's playground, and softball field.
Charlie C. Anthony Park
Named for Naples’ own PFC Charlie C. Anthony, who was posthumously awarded the Silver Star, the Bronze Star, and the Purple Heart for his service during Vietnam. This 7.92-acre park sits on the shores of the Gordon River. Amenities include a fishing pier, walking trail, tennis courts, a lighted basketball court, a playground, and picnic shelters.
Dolphin Explorer
South of Naples is Marco Island, one of the Gulf’s most beautiful and secluded areas. The 10,000 Islands Dolphin Project is a long-term study of the dolphin families who live off Marco Island. You can see these dolphins up-close on the Dolphin Explorer, a twice-daily eco-tour.
Key West Express
The easiest way to visit the southernmost point in the US is to cruise down. This ferry is faster and more comfortable than driving to Key West and boasts a full bar onboard. In Key West, visit historic spots like the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, Fort Zachary Taylor, the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum, the Shipwreck Museum, and the Butterfly Conservatory. At night, enjoy the unparalleled nightlife of Duval Street. Key West is closer to Cuba than to mainland Florida, and the gorgeous scenery and tropical atmosphere is not to be missed.
Lowdermilk Park
One of Naples' premier beachfront locations, Lowdermilk Park is a public access beach. Amenities include sand volleyball courts, two playgrounds, picnic tables, shower facilities, and two gazebos for rent. The concession stand, managed by Rita’s Italian Ice, serves beachside favorites like hamburgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, salads, and beverages.
The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club
A famed institution for over 70 years, this Naples institution will begin renovations in 2021. The Beach Hotel & Golf Club is known for its 104 acres of recreation space (including golf and tennis) and the Sunset Beach Bar, where members and visitors have a front-row seat to the splendor of the Gulf of Mexico.
Miss Naples Catamaran
Catamaran Cruises are one of Naples’ most thrilling outdoor offerings. The Miss Naples Catamaran sets sail daily for sightseeing tours, beach shelling trips, and sunset cruises. Sail the Gulf and observe dolphins, sea turtles, and manatees in their natural habitat. At sunset, you might even see the mysterious “Green Flash.”
Naples Landings
The best view of Naples Bay is found at this City of Naples park. This boat launching site is in the middle of downtown Naples. Amenities include a change machine, restrooms, playground, gazebo, and picnic tables.
Naples Pier
Built in 1888, the Naples Pier extends 600 feet into the Gulf of Mexico. All year, locals and tourists alike visit to fish, socialize, and celebrate. Unlike other areas, you don’t need a fishing license to fish from the pier, making it a perfect place to bring guests who are only visiting for a few days. On New Year’s Eve and the Fourth of July, fireworks are hosted by the city. The Pier is also called “little United Nations,” for the diversity you’ll find walking its boards during the busy tourist season.
Naples Preserve
This 9.5-acre site is the home of the former National Champion Myrtle Oak Tree. A boardwalk winds between two Florida Upland Habitats: Pine Flatwoods and Oak-Rosemary Scrub. You might spot the native gopher tortoise, as well as other local plant and animal life. And don’t miss the Pollinator Garden, an outdoor garden planted to attract butterflies, bees, and other local pollinators.
Naples Princess Gulf & Bay Cruises
This newly-renovated yacht will take your breath away. Daily lunch, dinner and sunset hors d’oeuvres cruises are a luxurious way to see the sights of the Gulf of Mexico and Naples Bay. Also available for private charters and special events.
North Gulfshore Beach Access
This public beach access is tucked between the condos of Seagate and North Gulf Shore Boulevard. This upscale area is sometimes called Seagate Beach and is a secluded spot on the Gulf of Mexico.
Naples Grande Golf Club
One of Naples’ premiere gold courses is only available to guests of the Waldorf Astoria Naples. For an unparalleled staycation, book a room and try this course designed by Rees Jones. Don’t be deceived by the first five holes – this course ramps-up in intensity as it goes.
Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens
This nationally-accredited zoo is also a nationally-accredited botanical garden. Planted in 1919, the tropical plant life was installed 50 years before the zoo was established. Exhibits were designed not to disturb the flourishing garden, creating unique habitats that place guests steps away from the animals.
Artis – Naples
The campus of Artis – Naples is home to two of the city’s cultural institutions: The Naples Philharmonic and The Baker Museum. The 20-year-old Baker Museum is home to a large permanent collection and hosts several special exhibitions annually. Rodin: Truth Form Life and Magritte: Reflections of Another World are two exhibits that will be available in early 2021. The Naples Philharmonic was founded in 1982 as a chamber orchestra and has quickly grown to a world-renowned institution. Music Director Andrey Boreyko has helmed the symphony since 2014.
Brambel’s Tea Room
Just off 5th Avenue, down a hidden floral passageway called the “Rue de Fleur” is a cozy English tea room. Serving fresh-baked scones, shepherd’s pie, and a selection of over 50 teas, this spot is a local gem. Stop in for a quick bite or indulge in a formal afternoon tea.
Collier County Museum at Government Center
The Collier County Museums chronicle the history of Southwest Florida from prehistory to the present day. Learn about the mastodons and colossal sharks that roamed the ancient landscape, see a World War II Sherman Tank, and explore a recreated Seminole fort.
Gulfshore Playhouse
This professional theatre company is a jewel on the Paradise Coast. Founder and Producing Artistic Director Kristen Coury leads this world-class theatre, which showcases artists from all over the country. Each year, their season includes exciting new works, like Scapino, by Broadway’s Jeff Binder, and American classics, like Lerner & Lowe’s My Fair Lady. Visit for a single show, or become a season ticketholder so you don’t miss a thing.
Naples Historical Society at the Historic Palm Cottage
This historic home was built in 1895 by Walter N. Haldeman, a Naples founding resident. A landmark in the National Register of Historic Places, this property features 3,500 square feet of artwork, furnishings, and period tools. Tour this beautiful home, or take a walking tour of Old Naples, led by the Historical Society’s docents.
Naples Train Museum
This museum is a must-see for any children in your life. Just steps from the high-end shops of Fifth Avenue, this attraction is housed in the Seaboard Coast Line Railway Station, which is a designated landmark in the National Register of Historic Places. Kids will love riding the outdoor train and visiting exhibits with Thomas the Tank Engine.
TheatreZone
For 15 years, TheatreZone has produced high-quality professional shows from their space on the campus of the Community School of Naples. Founders Mark and Karen Danni performed on Broadway before leaving New York for the Paradise Coast. TheatreZone brings-in performers from all over the country to perform in classic plays and musicals, as well as original music revues.
