Wild & Wonderful

Widely known for its sophistication and charm, Naples is also a gateway to South Florida’s wild and wonderful subtropical ecosystem.

By Jeffrey Laign

Naples has another side. To find it, you have to take to the woods — or a park or an island. The best part is that you’ll be in for quite the adventure, because there are all sorts of ways to experience the city’s wild wonders.

Take an airboat ride through the winding waterways of the Everglades. Post a photo of a frolicking dolphin jumping up out of the water. Learn why alligators have such thick skins. Explore on your own or step into the wilderness with an experienced local guide from a Naples ecotourism company.

“Everglades National Park is also home to more than 300 species of birds. You can expect to encounter bald eagles, ospreys, herons, egrets, pelicans and roseate spoonbills.”

National Parks

A trip to Naples is incomplete without a visit to Everglades National Park. The protected park is brimming with wildlife and birds. Be on the lookout for turtles, alligators, manatees, dolphins and more. Rent a kayak at the Gulf Coast Visitor Center to discover the park’s treasures from the water or hike the park’s many trails. Everglades National Park is also home to more than 300 species of birds. You can expect to encounter bald eagles, ospreys, herons, egrets, pelicans and roseate spoonbills.

Also worth a visit is Collier State National Park, nestled within one of the largest mangrove swamps in the world. Plan a camping trip or a simple picnic there and experience the Florida wetlands in all their glory.

Wildlife Sightings

Love mangroves? Manatees do, too! Don’t miss Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, which is home to one of the last remaining undisturbed mangrove estuaries. The reserve is one of 29 national estuarine research reserves in the United States. You can explore the area on your own or take a boat or kayak tour.

You’ll also want to explore Keewaydin, a beautiful barrier island between Naples and Marco Island. The island’s beach is covered by soft, white sand and colorful seashells; and the waters are home to breathtaking aquatic wildlife.

Pure Florida organizes dolphin watch cruises and eco-tours, where you can hunt for one-of-a-kind seashells on Keewaydin. Along the way, the captain can point out where dolphins like to hang — so have your camera ready. Don’t worry if you miss one. Your guide is an expert at spotting them!

Naples Waterway and Wildlife Tours also takes visitors to Keewaydin with drop-offs at the north and south ends of the island. On a good day — and most of them are — you’re likely to spot dolphins bobbing in the waves. As you stroll along the open beach, you may encounter sand dollars, starfish and sea urchins.

So, go ahead! Take a walk on the wild side and be sure to post your pics on Instagram so your friends and family back home can catch a glimpse of Florida’s fascinating natural wonders.