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Nestled on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Naples is more than just palm-lined beaches and upscale resorts, it’s also your perfect launchpad for unforgettable day trips. Within just 50 to 100 kilometers, places to visit near Naples you’ll find barrier islands, wildlife sanctuaries, artistic fishing towns, and tropical waterways teeming with dolphins and manatees. Whether you’re craving adventure, serenity, or a taste of Old Florida charm, these getaways deliver a fresh change of scenery without straying too far from Naples’ comfort zone.
Top 10 Places To Visit Near Naples
Ready to swap flip-flops for hiking boots or trade cocktails for kayaking? Let’s dive into the 10 places to visit near Naples just a short drive away.
1. Sanibel Island
Photo: G. Lamar / Wikimedia Commons
Sanibel Island is a beachcomber’s dream and a nature lover’s sanctuary. Renowned for its world-class shelling, the island’s curved shape naturally collects thousands of rare shells along its shores. It’s also known for its peaceful vibe, free of high-rises or large commercial development. The Sanibel Lighthouse offers scenic views and a slice of history. The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge spans 6,400 acres and is perfect for spotting herons, roseate spoonbills, and otters.
Location: 60 km from Naples
Attractions: Lighthouse, wildlife refuge
Activities: Shelling, birdwatching, cycling
Must-Try Food: Fresh grouper sandwich, crab cakes
2. Captiva Island
Photo: Mickey Løgitmark / Wikimedia Commons
Captiva Island, tucked just north of Sanibel, feels like a secluded slice of paradise. Known for its laid-back energy and stunning beaches, it’s a favorite among couples and nature seekers. The calm, clear waters are perfect for snorkeling and spotting colorful fish and playful dolphins. Rent a kayak or join a sailing class to explore the quiet inlets and mangrove tunnels. With vibrant sunsets that paint the sky in pastels, this island is a romantic’s dream.
Location: 70 km from Naples
Attractions: Beaches, reefs, sailing schools
Activities: Snorkeling, dolphin watching, sailing
Must-Try Food: Key lime pie, fresh snapper tacos
3. Everglades City
Photo: Ebyabe / Wikimedia Commons
Everglades City offers a wild, untamed glimpse into Florida’s most famous swampy wilderness. It’s the western gateway to the Everglades and a hub for ecotourism. Hop on an airboat for a thrilling ride through sawgrass marshes or rent a kayak to paddle peacefully through mangrove-lined creeks. The town has a rustic, Old Florida charm with historic buildings and local seafood shacks. Make sure to visit the Museum of the Everglades for cultural insights.
Location: 60 km from Naples
Attractions: Ten Thousand Islands, seafood festival
Activities: Kayaking, airboating, wildlife viewing
Must-Try Food: Stone crab claws, gator bites
4. Shark Valley, Everglades National Park
Photo: paulsmithrj / Wikimedia Commons
Shark Valley, part of Everglades National Park, is an incredible gateway into Florida’s wild ecosystem. The 15-mile paved loop is popular with cyclists and visitors taking the guided tram tour. At the trail’s midpoint stands a 65-foot observation tower, providing panoramic views of the vast “River of Grass.” Along the way, it’s common to see alligators sunning themselves right off the path. The area teems with birds like anhingas and egrets. Bring binoculars for close-up viewing and plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
Location: 85 km east of Naples
Attractions: Observation tower, loop trail
Activities: Biking, birdwatching, tram tours
Must-Try Food: Picnic – pack your own; no cafes on site
5. Marco Island
Photo: olekinderhook / Wikimedia Commons
Marco Island is the largest of Florida’s Ten Thousand Islands and blends upscale resort living with coastal charm. It boasts soft, white-sand beaches ideal for sunbathing or shelling. Tigertail Beach is perfect for watersports—try paddleboarding or explore the tidal lagoon. For a touch of seclusion, take a boat to Keewaydin Island, a hidden gem with no roads or bridges. Dolphin and manatee sightings are common, especially during boat tours. Don’t miss the island’s spectacular sunsets, best viewed on a catamaran cruise.
Location: 35 km from Naples
Attractions: Tigertail Beach, Keewaydin Island
Activities: Jet skiing, paddleboarding, shelling
Must-Try Food: Lobster rolls, coconut shrimp taco
6. Matlacha & Pine Island
Photo: Bobby Bouvier / Unsplash
Matlacha (pronounced Mat-luh-shay) is a quirky, colorful island village that feels like a living art gallery. Every building is brightly painted, and the town is filled with charming galleries, seafood joints, and boutiques. The Matlacha Bridge, dubbed “The Fishingest Bridge in the World,” is great for casual anglers. You can also rent a kayak and paddle through quiet mangrove tunnels. Continue onto Pine Island for a more rural, Old Florida experience with tropical fruit groves and local shell shops. It’s ideal for culture lovers and kayakers alike.
Location: 100 km north of Naples
Attractions: Matlacha Bridge, Pine Island Sound
Activities: Kayaking, art shopping, fishing
Must-Try Food: Grouper tacos, conch fritters
7. Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary
Photo: Marc Ryckaert / Wikimedia Commons
Run by the Audubon Society, Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is a biodiverse gem showcasing one of the last remaining old-growth bald cypress forests in North America. The 2.5-mile elevated boardwalk takes you through wetlands, marshes, and ancient forest without disturbing the ecosystem. Keep your eyes open for rare wood storks, barred owls, otters, turtles, and even the occasional bobcat. It’s incredibly peaceful, especially early in the morning. The facility has an education center and gift shop as well. Rainy days are actually ideal, as wildlife becomes more active.
Location: 50 km northeast of Naples
Attractions: Bald cypress forest, boardwalk
Activities: Birdwatching, nature walks, photography
8. Fort Myers Beach
Photo: qwesy qwesy / Wikimedia Commons
Fort Myers Beach is a vibrant coastal destination with powdery white sands, shallow turquoise waters, and a laid-back, beachy atmosphere. It’s perfect for families, couples, and groups looking to enjoy parasailing, jet skiing, or just lounging under a rented umbrella. Times Square is the hub of activity, filled with street performers, shops, and open-air bars. For a peaceful retreat, Lovers Key State Park is nearby, offering nature trails and dolphin sightings.
Location: 70 km from Naples
Attractions: Lovers Key, beachfront promenade
Activities: Parasailing, beach volleyball, cruises
Must-Try Food: Shrimp baskets, beachside cocktails
9. Bonita Springs
Photo: Jswfl09 / Wikimedia Commons
Bonita Springs is a laid-back beach town offering a blend of beautiful natural spaces and authentic Florida charm. Bonita Beach Park has soft sand, picnic spots, and calmer crowds than the more touristy areas. Explore the Imperial River by kayak, or head to the pristine Barefoot Beach Preserve, known for its wildlife and minimal development. It’s not uncommon to see gopher tortoises, manatees, or wading birds. With less commercialization, it’s a top pick for those seeking serenity close to Naples.
Location: 25 km from Naples
Attractions: Barefoot Beach Preserve, Imperial River
Activities: Kayaking, hiking, swimming
Must-Try Food: Beachside seafood, Cuban sandwiches
10. Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park
Photo: Ebyabe / Wikimedia Commons
Delnor-Wiggins Pass is one of Naples’ top natural escapes, prized for its clean shoreline and crystal-clear Gulf waters. It’s a fantastic spot for snorkeling among small reefs and coral patches just offshore. The park’s estuarine environment also makes it great for kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply enjoying a beachside picnic. There’s a designated fishing area at the pass, and birdwatchers will love the regular sightings of ospreys and herons. Facilities include restrooms, shaded picnic areas, and grills.
Location: 15 km from Naples
Attractions: Mangroves, estuary, coral patches
Activities: Snorkeling, fishing, paddling
Naples may steal the spotlight, but it’s the surrounding gems that truly complete the picture of Southwest Florida’s magic. From shell-strewn shores and flamingo-filled swamps to neon-hued villages and pristine state parks, places to visit near Naples offer its own slice of paradise just beyond city limits. So pack your sunscreen, charge your camera, and hit the road along with TripXL,because the best part of Naples might just be the journey beyond it.
Cover Photo: Zsolt Cserna / Unsplash
