Are you looking to enjoy the charm of Naples without spending all your retirement savings?
If so, East Naples is the ideal area for you! Enjoy the exemplary quality of life in the Paradise Coast while maintaining easy access to downtown and the city’s gorgeous beaches.
Paradise Meets Practical
East Naples is an unincorporated community in Collier County. It is also the county seat.
While the cost of living in downtown Naples certainly doesn’t compare to downtown New York or LA, a penthouse overlooking the beach is no small purchase. If you’re moving to Naples on a fixed income or want to keep your housing costs low, you will want to explore East Naples. This is the most affordable area where you can be close to 5th Avenue, 3rd Street, and the beach.
There are many gated communities, subdivisions, and community HOAs in this part of town. In these bundled communities, your quarterly HOA fees can cover anything from landscaping to your golf course membership. This is often the most economical way to join a club.
The Communities of East Naples
This was one of the first neighborhoods to be developed outside of the Naples city limits, so homes in this community tend to be bit older than in North Naples or Golden Gate. The Mediterranean-inspired architecture of Old Naples carries into many of East Naples’ homes.
In this part of town, you’ll find more condos and townhomes than single-family homes. These are an excellent option for seasonal residents. In many cases, the neighborhood fees in these communities will cover the upkeep of your property, so you don’t have to worry about an overgrown lawn while you’re away.
Additionally, there are many gated and all-inclusive communities in East Naples. These planned neighborhoods offer heightened security and access to members-only amenities and community events.
Here are just a few of East Naples’ planned communities:
- Abaco Bay: Just off Bayshore Drive, Abaco Bay is a Key West-inspired condominium community. From here, a quick 5-minute drive will deliver you to Naples’ pristine beaches. You also have easy access to 5th avenue and its fine dining, nightclubs, luxury shopping, and live theater. Originally built in 1985, this community has been newly renovated.
- Foxfire: This gated community, spread over 385 acres, houses 27 holes of golf designed by Arthur Hills. Other outdoor amenities include three lighted Har-Tru tennis courts and an Olympic-size swimming pool. The Clubhouse has three dining locations, a fitness center, library, and card rooms. Golf and country club memberships are included for all homeowners.
- Windstar on Naples Bay: With over 554 residences, including family homes, villas, coach houses and condominiums, Windstar is an East Naples jewel. 320 acres of land on Naples Bay house an 18-hole golf course designed by Tom Fazio, formal to casual dining locations, six Har-Tru tennis courts, and a wellness center.
The Great Outdoors Awaits You
If the Naples lifestyle has a hallmark, it’s spending time outdoors in the unparalleled beauty of the Paradise Coast. 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.
Naples, like many southern cities, was designed with cars in mind, so it can be difficult to walk from one district to another. If you’re looking for a healthier way to explore the city, try renting a bicycle from Island Bike Shop or Bayshore Bike Rental. You can use them to explore at your leisure or join a guided bike tour.
The Naples Botanical Garden is a must-see. This 170-acre paradise is the youngest garden to ever receive the American Public Gardens Association’s Award for Garden Excellence. This world-class garden showcases the natural vegetation of America’s tropics and incorporates flora from all over the world.
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 40 minutes from East Naples.
Make the Move to East Naples Now
You don’t have to drain your bank account to live in one of America’s most beautiful landscapes. In East Naples, the perks of city living are just a short drive away from your personal oasis.
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Breakfast
Hoot’s
Simple and delicious breakfasts are the star at this East Naples institution. Classic diner platters feature eggs, grits, home fries, bacon, biscuits, and more. But don’t overlook specialty items like the Andouille Scramble and the Tumbleweed Pasta.
Joe’s Diner
For 15 years, Joe’s has served one of the best breakfasts on the Paradise Coast. New York bagels, giant pancakes, and crepes are menu highlights. Their Famous Crunchy French Toast is coated in Frosted Flakes and granola – a unique and delicious combination that stands out in a sea of boring breakfasts.
Skillet’s
Skillet’s aims to elevate breakfast to new heights. Their unique flavor combinations take center stage at this unfussy eatery. Monthly specials highlight seasonal ingredients, like ginger cranberry pancakes in December. Besides their eponymous egg-and-potato skillets, you must try the potato pancakes, served with hot cinnamon apples and sour cream.
Lunch
Michelbob’s
This diner is a Naples staple. The warm dining room is decorated with vintage Coca-Cola paraphernalia, and the menu features classics like baby back ribs, BBQ chicken and wings. Don’t skip their famous dessert – peanut butter pie!
Spanky’s Speakeasy
For a great meal at a great value, you can’t beat Spanky’s. The dining room is decorated with an Americana theme, and fans of Little Rascals will especially love the many nods to the movies throughout the décor. Sandwiches, salads, soups and burgers make up the bulk of their lunch menu. For something different, you can bring in your own freshly-caught fish and the kitchen will prepare it for you.
Tacos and Tequila
This is not your average Tex-Mex joint. Tacos and Tequila Cantina offers a wide array of authentic Mexican tacos, as well as concoctions like the Chicken Pancake Taco – featuring buttermilk chicken battered with pancake mix, cheddar jack cheese, and maple syrup.
Dinner
Aldo’s
Delicious food and great customer service combine at Aldo’s. This eatery has all your Italian favorites, minus the sky-high prices of some other ristorantes. The Veal Aldo’s is not to be missed.
Celebration Park
This unique food truck park is a culinary paradise. International flavors collide at this varied open-air market. Grab a drink at the permanent Tiki Bar, listen to the live music, and enjoy a unique evening on the water. Vendors include Islands Seafood, GiGi Gourmet, Mega Sabor, Zen Fusion, Cousins Maine Lobster, Rudino’s Pizza & Grinders, Nawty Hogg BBQ, and Gyros 2 Go.
Texas Tony’s Ribs & Brewhouse
Tony Phelan was inspired to start this popular restaurant when a contractor at his home mentioned he liked to smoke his own meat with orangewood. This eatery brings the classic Texas barbeque experience to the Paradise Coast. The original Naples location has proved so successful that a second site opened in Cape Coral in 2019.
Bayshore Bike Rental
One of the best ways to explore Naples is by bicycle. Why drive around the city in a car when you can take advantage of the gorgeous weather? The shop doesn’t just have bikes – you can also treat yourself to some ice cream, popcorn and more. Whether you want to indulge before or after your ride is up to you.
Coral Cay Adventure Golf
36 holes of mini-golf are spread over two exciting courses at this hub of family fun. In summer, misters run to keep you cool while you fight the wacky obstacles on the courses.
The Everglades
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 40 minutes from East Naples.
Island Bike Shop
On the south side of East Naples, this is one of the best places to rent or buy a bicycle. Join a guided bike tour and see Naples from a local’s perspective. Or go it alone and explore the city at your leisure. If you ever need a tune-up, their in-house shop can get you back on the road in no time.
Naples Bay Resort Boat Rentals
This boat rental spot is minutes away from the high-end shopping of Fifth Street South. If you’re ready to take your outdoor exploration from the shops to the slips, head to Naples Bay Resort. They have three sizes of boat available for self-piloting, or you can hire a charter and relax while one of their captains shows you the sights.
Naples Botanical Garden
This spectacular garden is a must-see. This 170-acre paradise is the youngest garden to ever receive the American Public Gardens Association’s Award for Garden Excellence. This world-class greenspace showcases the natural vegetation of America’s tropics, and incorporates flora from all over the world.
On The Pontoon
If you want to be the captain while you explore Naples’ waterways, you can! Experiences boaters will love the service at On The Pontoon. They have vessels of all sizes, including models with GPS navigation. Set sail from Celebration Park and explore the gorgeous homes of Port Royal or the untouched beaches of Keewaydin Island.
Sudgen Regional Park
If salt water isn’t your preference, you can still hit the beach in East Naples. This gorgeous park on the shores of Lake Avalon has a beautiful freshwater beach. Go water skiing or sailing on the 60-acre lake – if you’re inexperienced, no problem! Classes are offered for beginners of every age and physical ability. Every year, a popular 4th of July Celebration is held here.
TPC Treviso Bay, Naples
Formerly a private club, the incredible course at Treviso Bay was opened to the public in 2011. This PGA course was designed by Arthur Hill with consultation from Hal Sutton. The Champion Tour’s ACE Group Classic was held at the 7,367-yard course in 2009.
B&B Naples Towncentre 6
This 6-screen theatre is the perfect place to catch a new movie. Tickets are slightly lower than national average prices, and special deals, like $5 Treat Yourself Tuesday Tickets, can’t be beat. Special event movie series like Fall Fun, Halloween Horror, and Live From B&B It’s Saturday Night are unbeatable fun.
Florida Athletic Development Center
Whether you’re a professional athlete or a hobbyist, an adult or a kid, there’s always more to learn about your sport of choice. This center was developed so athletes of all experience levels could train, both individually and in groups. Coaches specialize in baseball, softball, volleyball and golf.
Headpinz
Bowling isn’t the only attraction on offer at Headpinz. Laser tag, arcade games, and VR experiences make this a perfect place for kids and fun-loving adults. If you want to bowl in a brand new way, sign-up for Hyper Bowling. This variation on a classic game has point multipliers, fouls, and Buster – a point-thief that can upend your game at a moment’s notice!
Inplay
This is more than the average indoor playspace. Seasonal camps and homeschool programs are held throughout the year, combining playtime with education. Kids learn about science, math and art through interactive crafts and lessons. Come by for free play or enroll your little one in these special programs.
January
Naples Winter Wine Festival
This event was named one of the top 10 arts and entertainment events for wealthy Americans by the Luxury Institute. This lavish event is a fundraiser for the Naples Children & Education Foundation. Their aim is to improve the lives of Collier County’s underprivileged children, specifically through funding the gap in pediatric oral health, medical intervention, early childhood education, social welfare, and after-school programs. Come to the Festival and enjoy amazing wine and gourmet food for a good cause.
March
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
The 45th Naples St. Patrick’s Day Parade will be on Saturday, March 13, 2021. This parade began as an informal event, led by Naples residents. Now, the annual event draws over 40,000 participants and spectators.
April
Minto US OPEN Pickleball Championships
Pickeball is a Naples favorite. The 5th annual event was postponed due to COVID-19. But plans are already underway for 2021’s triumphant return. Over 2,600 competitors and 13,000 spectators are expected to attend.
July
Fourth of July Fireworks
This annual show takes place on Naples’ most recognizable landmark: the Naples Pier. Spectators sit on lawn chairs along Naples Beach to take in the display. In fact, you can see the fireworks from just about any spot in downtown Naples.
Independence Day Parade
The Naples 4th of July parade is a boisterous affair, lasting over two hours from beginning to end. The route travels across Broad Avenue South, Third Street South, 5th Avenue South, and 8th Street South, passing City Hall.
October
Artcrafters Fine Art & Craft Show
From October through April each year, ArtCrafters hosts monthly art shows in Cambier and Fleischmann Parks. Presenting artists are chosen by a panel of judges, and featured mediums include painting, pen and ink, pastels, photography, jewelry, sculptures, and textiles.
Brew Ha-Ha Craft Beer Festival
Mercato Shops in North Naples hosts this festival featuring over 60 craft beers. Participating breweries include SweetWater, Wicked Weed, Motorworks, 3 Daughters, and many more. Proceeds from this event go to the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Southwest Florida.
Stone Crab Festival
Tin City’s premiere event is a celebration of Florida’s native stone crab, as well as other incredible regional seafood. Live music and plentiful food make this a can’t-miss event!
Swamp Buggy Races
Golden Gate Estates is the home of the Swamp Buggy Races. For over 70 years, this annual event has drawn crowds from all over Florida. The “swamp buggy” is an all-terrain vehicle that was first invented to traverse Southern Florida’s challenging landscape. Informal races eventually grew into a time-honored tradition that spans two centuries.
December
Christmas Boat Parade
This festive display travels along Naples Bay, spreading holiday cheer in its wake. Grab a waterfront seat anywhere along the route to take in this tradition. Some of the prime places to view the parade are Landings and Bayview Parks, the Naples City Dock, Tin City, Kelly's Fish House, and The Boat House Restaurant.
