5 minute read
Retail Rapture
More than a mere pastime, shopping in Naples is a delightful duty.
By Chelle Koster Walton
Shopping is one of the best ways to discover a sense of place in Naples, where the goods range from stunning watercolors depicting local seascapes to high-end designer fashion, jewelry and accessories.
Thanks to Naples’ mild climates year-round, shopping is as much an outdoor activity as it is retail therapy. Start with the newest up-and-coming destinations and then make the rounds.
Naples Design District
This district in the outskirts of downtown Naples quietly built a reputation for itself over the years. But there’s nothing quiet about it anymore. What started at the intersection of Central Avenue and 10th Street South as a destination for fi ne antiques, art, home accessories and other design elements has grown to become a 12-block area where luxury living spaces, restaurants and boutiques create an unbeatable neighborhood. Stop for a cup of cold brew, a craft beer or an organic lunch as you fi nd all the essentials for your dream home — from original art to handcrafted furnishings.
Fifth Avenue South
A foray into Fifth Avenue South reveals a sophisticated mix of sidewalk cafés and bistros, exclusive art galleries, jewelry stores and boutiques selling everything from kids’ and adult fashions to European antiques and whimsical beach-themed gifts. Even budget shoppers can discover rare, wish-list fi nds at Carolyn’s on Fifth, the designer consignment shop that off ers aff ordable treasures, from fashion jewelry to home décor.
Fifth Avenue is also home to an arts center and Sugden Community Theatre, where The Naples Players perform. The area generally exudes artful festivity, but that’s especially true during its regularly scheduled festivals and events held at Cambier Park.
The Best of Everything is the place to fi nd the perfect gift for yourself or someone special. They carry a unique collection of fashion jewelry, sunglasses, hats, handbags and many other must-have accessories. In addition to the Fifth Avenue location, you can fi nd them on Tamiami Trail North.
Tin City
A few blocks off Fifth, Tin City Waterfront Shops combines Naples’ reputation for watersports, shopping and dining in one colorful, historic complex. When you’re in the market for on-the-water outings — including fi shing, sightseeing, sunset cruises, dolphinsighting and shelling tours — head to Pure Florida, which has its fl agship location right there. The nearby shops carry casual resort styles, jewelry and fun souvenirs and gifts. Feed your soul (and body) at one of Tin City’s gourmet casual dining stops or waterfront restaurants, including Pinchers Crab Shack, a well-loved, locally owned seafood institution.
Third Street South
Intersecting with Fifth Avenue, Third Street South takes you into the very heart of Old Naples, where the historic pier once served as a threshold to the city on the Gulf. Statesmen and celebrities plied the historic district, which still attracts residents and visitors with refi ned sensibilities. The shops here raise shopping to an art. Consider Marissa Collections, which carries top-brand designers, such as Oscar de la Renta and Judith Leiber, as well as John Craig and Maus & Hoff man, both top men’s fashion labels.
As legendary as its shopping is the Third’s dining scene, which tempts visitors day and night. From Mediterranean cuisine and fi ne steak to regional Italian, modern American cuisine and the cleverly crafted cocktails at The Bevy, the restaurants here have long been behind Naples’ reputation for top-rate dining.
Village Shops on Venetian Bay
Channel an escape to the canals of Italy at this shop ’til you eat waterfront enclave. The stores carry the fi nest and most diverse wares, from top men’s fashions at Mondo Uomo to Florida lifestyle at JK Collections. Relax over a cocktail and a fl avorful meal while you enjoy the Village Shops’ waterside dining. T-Michaels Steak & Lobster House shows off its view with its fl oor-to-ceiling windows, a perfect complement to your favorite prime beef cuts and fresh catches.
Waterside Shops
Waterside brings that same Naples allure of bling and high-end designer goods to North Naples, close to the Naples Grande. The alfresco shopping center is an escape from the everyday with its splashy water features, lush vegetation and winding pathways. Homewares, status-brand tags and dazzling jewelry stores combine with open-air restaurants to create a singular destination. Tourneau, an offi cial Rolex watch purveyor, sells a prestigious line of new and pre-owned timepieces, while John Craig is renowned for its sophisticated menswear. Find a complete line of distinctive rings, bracelets and necklaces at Yamron Jewelers.
Mercato
One of Naples’ newest shopping, dining and nightlife playgrounds, Mercato hums with vibrant energy. Anchored by the Silverspot dinein luxury cinema experience, its clusters of casual to fi ne restaurants along with nightlife draws are sprinkled among familiar brands like Whole Foods, Sur La Table and Nordstrom Rack. Check out its website for a schedule of free outdoor movie showings and other special events.
Points North
Bonita Springs and Estero provide their own reasons to take your shopping mission north. Promenade Shops in Bonita delivers a small, power-packed area for searching out art, gourmet food, jewelry and couture. Miromar Outlets and Coconut Point, on the other hand, off er vast opportunities to fi nd everything on your list, including clothing, gifts and delectable dining experiences.
If you’d rather stay in and not venture out, you’re in luck. Everything from toiletries and beach necessities to treasured gifts to commemorate your stay can be found at the lobby-level Naples Grande Gift Shop. Find the practical and indulgent: spa and beauty products, jewelry, snacks and resort wear right at the resort.
