Published: December 24, 2023
By: By Susan Rosser
It’s all too easy to overlook the fact that we reside in a state driven by tourism. I’ve been accused of rarely venturing beyond a three-mile radius from my home. However, Florida offers abundant family travel opportunities beyond a certain world that revolves around a mouse. Naples is only about a two-hour drive from most of South Florida.
Here are just a few options that await you on the opposite side of our state. Why not gather the family, load up the car, and head west to Florida’s Paradise Coast?
Sunset Cruise
In case you forgot, the sun sets in the west, making the west coast of Florida an ideal spot to watch the sun sink beneath the horizon. Of course, you can watch from the beach, but witnessing the scene while on the water is an experience the kids will remember. Naples Princess Sunset Cruise offers a couple of different options including a Sunset Dinner Cruise and a More Than Hors D’oeuvres Cruise. For more information, call 239-649-2275
or visit http://www.naplesprincesscruises.com.
Segway Tour
Embark on an exciting Segway guided tour, one of the many adventures awaiting your family in Naples. Cruise along, enjoying the breeze, and discover points of interest, from misty oceans to rolling waves. The unique feature of a Segway tour is its access to places unreachable by conventional vehicles, including Naples Fishing Pier, Crayton Cove, Port Royal and other hidden gems. Explore local eateries guided by experienced experts who will share fascinating historical insights. Keep an eye out for playful dolphins during your journey. Starting at the Tin City Shopping Center, your tour will lead you to the scenic neighborhood of Port Royal, exploring areas inaccessible to tour buses. Each participant will be equipped with a helmet and Segway for a novel and adventurous experience. Closed-toe shoes are mandatory, and Segway tours are subject to weather conditions. Trike Tours USA has tour options for all ages and experience levels. They are located at Tin City Waterfront Shops at 1200 Fifth Ave. S. in Naples.
For more information, visit http://www.triketoursusa.com.
A Little Nature
For the nature lovers in your family, there is no shortage of kayak tours available of the mangrove mazes and tunnels around Marco Island. Discover the wildlife of Southwest Florida up close and personal. The scenic beauty of Southwest Florida is full of picturesque landscapes filled with lush vegetation. The area is also full of diverse ecosystems, including mangrove tunnels, estuaries and coastal waterways. Kayaking allows visitors to explore these environments and observe the rich biodiversity, including various species of birds, fish and marine life. The peaceful nature of kayaking also enhances the chances of encountering wildlife in their natural habitats.
There are also over 150 species of birds to see in the area, plus manatees and dolphins. It’s a nature enthusiast’s dream. Kayakers can get up so close and personal with the mangroves and be able to spot some of the tiniest creatures who call the mangroves home. It’s also perfect for budding nature photographers to practice their craft. And, of course, there are a plethora of shells to discover.
If you’re looking for some nature education for the kids or yourself, many guides are quite knowledgeable and will share insights about the local flora and fauna. Expect to learn a good deal about Florida’s mangrove habitats and the importance of conservation during a guided trek.
And, if you want to cover more ground faster, some tour companies offer Jet Ski tours of the 10,000 Islands. Zip past the tiny uninhabited islands that make up this pristine area of Florida.
Places to check out…
Shurr Adventures
Marco Island Mangrove Maze Adventure
32016 Tamiami Trail East, Everglades City
http://www.shurradventures.com
Florida Adventurers
Mangrove Tours
Isle of Capri Paddle Park
1295 Capri Blvd. Naples,
http://www.floridaadventuresandrentals.com/marco-island-mangrove-tours
Marci Eco Tours
291 Collier Blvd., Marco Island
Fifth Avenue
At the heart of Naples is Fifth Avenue South. This iconic strip encapsulates the city’s charm – offering a blend of sophistication and coastal living. Strolling down the avenue, visitors will find charming boutiques and a whole host of restaurant options, from fine dining to casual fare. At night, the avenue exudes energy as al fresco dining is popular. Beyond shopping and dining, Fifth Avenue South offers a bit of cultural enrichment. Art galleries dot the strip and showcase a vibrant display of local and international artwork. Sidewalk performances and live music contribute to the avenue’s lively atmosphere. For a complete list of shops, restaurants, galleries and more,