The city of Naples is a wonderland for water-based activities. Whether you’re into boating, kayaking, paddle boarding, or fishing, you’ll find a near-endless list of great destinations offering unforgettable water activities for all ages.
If you’re searching for some of the best places in Naples for water recreation, here are several places you might want to check out:
Naples Municipal Beach and Pier
The Naples Fishing Pier has been one of the city’s most famous landmarks for over a century. Located close to the vibrant Third Street South, the pier once served as the entry point for newcomers arriving in Naples by boat. Today, the pier is a popular spot for anglers – simply bring your own rod and pick a spot on the pier, or just enjoy watching others reel in a catch. Even non-fishing enthusiasts will enjoy a trip to the pier, as it’s a fantastic place to soak in the views or watch wildlife.
The Naples Municipal Beach and Pier is open 24/7, offering opportunities for night fishing or strolling under the moonlight.
Everglades National Park Boat Tours
Enjoy a scenic journey through the Everglades, one of the top natural attractions in the city. Drop by Everglades National Park and join a tour of the enchanting Mangrove Wilderness, which is available several times a day. Before the tour, make you visit the West Coast Visitor’s Center, which features exhibits and displays which will help you prepare for the tour.
While on the tour, an experienced guide will be present to provide information on the various wildlife and vegetation.
Sweet Liberty
Sweet Liberty is a 53-foot catamaran available for tours and private charters. Docked at Crayton Cove’s Naples City Dock, the sailboat can take up to 40 passengers on a scenic cruise across Naples Bay, which is surrounded by views of gorgeous natural mangroves and stately waterfront mansions. Upon reaching the Gulf of Mexico, the vessel will make its way to the historic Keeywadin Island, which is only accessible by boat. The island is known for its powder-soft white sands.
Big Cypress National Preserve
The expansive 700,000-acre Big Cypress National Preserve is the best destination for adventurers on a budget. Located right next to Everglades National Park, the preserve is home to a variety of rare species, including the Florida manatee, Florida panther, and plenty of alligators.
Start your adventure in the Big Cypress Swamp Center, which features a boardwalk that serves as an excellent vantage point for spotting anhingas up in the tress and manatees in the waters. Head inside the center and listen to the fascinating sounds of limpkins and pig frogs, or drive around Loop Road for some of the best wildlife sightings in the area.
Naples Bay Resort
Boating enthusiasts will love Naples Bay Resort, which offers day rentals and top-quality boating equipment. Their fleet of power boats includes center console boats specially designed for fishing tours and deck boats that can accommodate up to ten passengers.
Boaters can then explore the Gordon River, the surrounding bay waters, and Keewaydin Island, before hitting the fishing villages of Marco Island for a delicious seafood feast.
