Naples Hotel Guide

With a long history as one of the world's premier resort destinations, this seaside retreat in Southwest Florida offers elegance and uncompromising natural beauty in a refined tropical atmosphere.

Its unspoiled public beaches stretch for 10 miles along the Gulf of Mexico. The historic Naples Fishing Pier, which reaches 1,000 feet into the aquamarine water, is a special gathering spot for lovers at sunset.

Attractions include the Teddy Bear Museum, Jungle Larry African Safari, and the Zoological Park. Night-time activities are abundant - from fine dining and dancing to live theater and concerts. And Naples is just a stone's throw from the wilderness of the Florida Everglades.

Lodging is just as varied. The city whose motto is "rich in pleasures" offers more than 5,500 rooms ranging from deluxe resort properties to inexpensive motels.

Downtown Naples generally is considered Fifth Avenue South (Olde Naples) and Third Street South (Historic Olde Naples). These two restored areas, now more than ever reminiscent of the Naples of Italy, feature elegant shopping and dining that ranges from old world to cutting edge. Olde Naples encompasses the avenues from 10th South to 14th South and includes Third Street South.

Tree-lined Third Street South, bordered by the Gulf of Mexico and Naples Bay, is dotted with fountained courtyards and more than 100 fine shops, art galleries, outdoor cafes, and fine dining establishments featuring fresh seafood. Third Street South even has its own outside concierge desk, believed to be America's first. So, if you need an umbrella or someone to hold your packages, check out this place.

The Fifth Avenue corridor contains chic galleries, trendy boutiques, and an array of eateries. Hotels in this area include The Inn on Fifth, Inn by the Sea, The Olde Naples Inn & Suites and The Cottages of Naples.

Lining the Gulf of Mexico are (from south to north) Gulf Shore Boulevard and Drive, Seagate Drive, and Vanderbilt Beach Road and Drive. Lodging in this vicinity includes LaPlaya Beach Resort, Edgewater Beach Hotel, The Registry Resort, and Sea Crest Condo/Motel, which borders Gulf Shore.

Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41) cuts through Naples and is another plentiful source for lodging, usually cheaper than what you will find downtown or near the beaches. In the city of Naples, U.S. 41 is also called 9th Street North or South (determined by whether it is north or south of Central Avenue). When it reaches downtown Naples, it becomes Route 41 East. If you get lost, don't worry. Neapolitans are friendly and will be happy to point you on your way.

Another rich locale of lodging is the Golden Gate Parkway (County Road 886) and Tollgate Boulevard, off Interstate 75. Hotels here are just 7 miles from the beach and on the way to the Florida Everglades, about 30 miles south.

Although there is a trolley in Naples to show you the sights, mass transportation is not available. If you are not driving your own vehicle or being chauffeured by a friend, it's best to rent a car. Car rentals are usually quite inexpensive. You can get limo service at either the Naples Municipal Airport or at the Southwest Florida International Airport in Fort Myers. Taxi service is also available.

Once you've gotten to your hotel, you may never want to leave.

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