Naples on the Gulf 2023

NAPLES On the Gulf

GET OUTSIDE! HIKING, BOATING, ECO-ADVENTURES

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS NEIGHBORHOODS, DINING, CULTURE, SHOPPING

A FAMILY AFFAIR NAPLES IS A PLAYGROUND FOR ALL AGES

DON’T LIMIT YOURSELF WHEN CHOOSING A BANK

Big-bank products and services with a customized, community-focused approach — that’s what our Founder and CEO Ed Wehmer had in mind when opening the first Wintrust Community Bank 30 years ago.

We’re proud to be in the people business, and we love going the extra mile to provide personal service for all our customers. It starts with delivering a superior suite of banking products and extends to how we greet our customers when they stop by the bank or call us. We offer a wide array of specialties and experts who can help you make the best financial decision for today and in the future.

Wintrust Wealth Management®

OUR OFFERINGS INCLUDE:

Best of Both Worlds

Wintrust hasn’t forgotten what it is or what it set out to be — a place where you can get big-bank products with community-bank hospitality. Stop by Wintrust Banking Center today to say hello and learn how they can help you achieve your financial goals.

An award-winning professional with over two decades of experience in the Naples and Marco Island real estate market, Michelle Thomas is well-known for her deep familiarity with the area. Specializing in everything from luxury golf course estates to gorgeous Gulf-front condominiums, she has a passion for pairing her customers with pristine properties.

As a Collier County resident of nearly 30 years, community service is at the forefront of her business, donating a portion of each commission to local charities. Michelle works with a diverse customer base, from the international purchaser to the first-time homebuyer, with a commitment to an exceptional experience.

An accomplished industry leader, Michelle has achieved numerous accolades and has been ranked among REAL Trends “The Thousand,” America’s Best Real Estate Professionals list and is a Five Star award winner. She is a member of the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing and is a Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist.

• #1 Team in Naples, Florida (YTD)

• #1 Team at Premier Sotheby’s International Realty

• #3 Team in the State of Florida

• #28 Team in the United States

• Over $300M Sold in 2021

Board

2022-2023 Greater Naples Chamber Board of Directors

Chairs

JULIE A. SCHMELZLE, Chair Bank of America

BLAKE GABLE, Chair-Elect Barron Collier Companies

GARRETT RICHTER, Immediate Past Chair

First Foundation Bank

Vice Chairs

DERRICK AYERS

Premiere Plus Realty

DAVID GORDLEY

First Horizon Bank

JASON HUNTER KORN, ESQ.

Dentons Cohen and Grigsby

CEE CEE MARINELLI

Barron Collier Companies

JEANNE L. SEEWALD

Hahn Loeser & Parks, LLP

BRIAN GOGEUN

Barron Collier Companies

CHRIS VERNON

Vernon Litigation Group

Honorary Directors

RUSSELL A. BUDD

PBS Contractors

JEFFREY D. FRIDKIN

Grant Fridkin Pearson, PA

DUDLEY GOODLETTE

Henderson Franklin, Starnes & Holt, PA

CJ HUESTON Corporate Dimensions, Inc.

DAN LAVENDER Moorings Park

EDWARD A. MORTON

Board Glencoe Diversified Holdings

KATHERINE "KATIE" SPROUL

Halstatt, LLC

DAVID WESTON Consultant

Ex-Officio

AMY PATTERSON Collier County Government

KEVIN RAMBOSK

Collier County Sheriff's Office

ELOY RICARDO

North Collier Fire Control & Rescue District

LESLIE RICCIARDELLI

Collier County Public Schools

Directors

BILL BARKER

Barker Strategic Solutions

TED BILL

Wire Experts Group

MICHELLE BORDERS

Naples Network Services

SCOTT BURGESS

David Lawrence Centers for Behavioral Health

EILEEN CONNOLLY-KEESLER

Collier Community Foundation

KRISTEN COURY

Gulfshore Playhouse

JOHN DEANGELIS

DeAngelis Diamond

BILL GASTON BUILD, LLC

MARY BETH GEIER

Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation

KERRY GEROY

Naples Global Advisors

ANDY HILL

Andrew Hill Investment Advisors

CLARK HILL

Hilton Naples

PAUL HILTZ

NCH Healthcare System

BUDDY HORNBECK III

Gallagher Lutgert Insurance

GREG JOHNSON

Conditioned Air

CLAUDINE LEGER-WETZEL

Stock Development

TINA MATTE

Gravina Smith Matte & Arnold

MICK MOORE

Vanderbilt Beach Resort

MARY MORTON

Moorings Park

JAY NEWMAN

The Athens Group

PATRICK O'CONNOR

Sotheby's International Realty

TIMOTHY REITER

Fifth Third Bank

ADAM RYZENMAN

Wells Fargo Bank N.A.

HECTOR SANCHEZ

Central Wire

JOHN W. SCHMIEDING

Arthrex, Inc.

CHRIS SIMONEAU

Lee Health

RANDY SMITH

Naples Transportation and Tours

ASIF SYED

21 Spices by Chef Asif

VICKI TRACY

Gulf Coast International Properties

JAMIE ULMER

Healthcare Network

PATRICK UTTER

Collier Enterprises

LEAH VALENTI

TECO Peoples Gas

LISA VAN DIEN

London Bay Homes

ANDREW VANVALIN

Pulte Family Charitable Foundation

PABLO VEINTIMILLA

Centennial Bank

MICHAEL A. WYNN

Sunshine Ace Hardware, Inc.

MATTHEW ZWACK

Owen Ames Kimball

DENNIS GOODMAN

NAPLES On the Gulf

Publisher Liz Goodman

EDITORIAL

Editorial Director Daphne Nikolopoulos

Editor Cathy Chestnut

Creative Director Olga M. Gustine

Senior Art Director Ashley Meyer

Digital Imaging Specialist Leonor Alvarez Maza

Contributing Photographers & Illustrators

Caleigh Amor, Shane Antalick, Samantha Bloom, Michael Caronchi, Arnold Collens, Mary Dominguez, Molly DuVall, John Eder, Dennis Goodman, Clifford Pickett, Pat Shapiro

ADVERTISING

Account Manager Liz Goodman, 239-595-7269, egoodman@palmbeachmedia.com

Advertising Services Coordinator Pamela Schultz

PRODUCTION

Production Director Selene M. Ceballo

Production Manager Lourdes Linares

Digital Pre-Press Specialist George Davis

OPERATIONS

Chief Operating Officer Todd Schmidt

Accounting Specialist Mary Beth Cook

Accounts Receivable Specialist Ana Coronel

Distribution Manager Judy Heflin

Circulation Manager Marjorie Leiva

IT Manager Keith Gonzalez

Group Publisher Terry Duffy

HOUR MEDIA, LLC

CEO Stefan Wanczyk

President John Balardo

PUBLISHERS

Welcome to Paradise Le er

from the President

Naples has ranked as a favorite destination for decades thanks to its great weather, attractions, accommodations, dining, beaches, and more. Whether you’re a first-time visitor, a returning guest, or looking to relocate, we want you to explore our tropical paradise with pristine golf courses and a vibrant arts scene where our businesses, community leaders, and partners work to make Naples the best place to live, work, and play.

As we celebrate both Collier County’s and the City of Naples’ 100th anniversary, and the Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce’s 75th anniversary, we want to reflect on the economic opportunity that we continually strive to create for all. While Hurricane Ian challenged us, the recovery process is well on its way. We’re a resilient region!

The chamber takes pride in being a thought-leader and has led the way on addressing long-term issues facing our county, including career and technical education, workforce housing, leadership development, and ensuring water quality.

From the natural beauty of the Everglades and our white-sand beaches to our philanthropic giving and advantageous economic climate, the Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce serves as the voice of businesses in our community and as a connection between employers, government, and nonprofits. We are at the center of discussions to ensure our community remains one of the best in the nation.

As we usher in celebrations this year, I want to welcome you to the 2023 edition of Naples on the Gulf, the official visitor and relocation guide of the Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce.

Sincerely,

MICHAEL DALBY President & CEO Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce

#NaplesFlorida

FROM COASTAL ESCAPE TO URBAN ENCHANTMENT, DISCOVER THE CHARMS OF THE PARADISE COAST

Arthrex One campus...the new hotspot @arthrex_inc

Strutting the runway at Scene to be Seen @naplesart

Laughing it up with Steel Magnolias @gulfshoreplay @gulfshore.playhouse

Smokin' Berries and Bubbles cocktail! @oceanprimenaples

Settling into a cozy, adults-only cabana @naplesgranderesort

DARRON R SILVA

CALEIGH AMOR

No. 1

“BEST PLACES TO LIVE” IN 2021-2022

Numbers

6

A Naples 264 100

INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION IN COLLIER COUNTY

COLLIER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS DISTRICT’S GRADE FOR 2017-2021 (FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION)

DAYS OF SUNSHINE (BEST PLACES)

$244 million

AMOUNT RAISED TO SUPPORT LOCAL CHILDREN IN NEED THROUGH THE NAPLES WINTER WINE FESTIVAL SINCE 2001

75+

LOCAL ART GALLERIES AND ARTIST STUDIOS

99 80%

OF COLLIER COUNTY IS UNDEVELOPED AND IN CONSERVATION

2,305 Miles

LENGTH OF EVERGLADES WATERWAY KAYAK AND CANOE TRAILS (NATIONAL PARK SERVICE)

SQUARE MILES, THE LARGEST COUNTY IN FLORIDA BY LAND

COLLIER COUNTY, NAPLES, AND EVERGLADES CITY CELEBRATE THEIR CENTENNIALS IN 2023

Beach

Bound

DIP A TOE OR DROP A LINE INTO LOCAL WATERS

The Naples area is home to 30 miles of unique white-sand beaches. The gently sloping shoreline of the Gulf of Mexico makes it a safe and relaxing place to wade in the waters. (Gulf temperatures generally range from 68° Fahrenheit in early February to 88° in early August.)

Due to Hurricane Ian in September 2022, check collierparks.com or naplesgov.com for the status of operations and water advisories.

South Marco Beach

Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park

Beach Guide

Tigertail Beach

Tigertail Beach is the jewel among the smooth, wide beaches along Marco Island’s western shore. On the island’s north end, the pristine beach can be accessed by five boardwalks though a mangrove forest. Across the tidal bay is Sand Dollar Island, a popular nesting area for a wide variety of birds. The beach is known for its abundance of shells, sand dollars, and as a bird migration superhighway. (Location: 430 Hernando Drive, Marco Island)

Naples Pier

For 130 years, the Naples Pier has been the pulse of Naples Beach. This historic landmark is an ideal place to stroll, lounge, fish, boogie-board, and wade. The pier was damaged in Hurricane Ian, and a portion of it is open as the city works on more repairs and a redesign. Metered parking is located nearby, with additional parking and access points along Gulf Shore Boulevard. (Location: West end of 12 Avenue South, Naples)

WHERE TO PARK

All parking spaces require a payment or a valid beach parking permit. Full-time residents and property taxpayers can park for free with a city or county beach parking permit. (Any disability permit holder may park at any space without payment.) Without a permit, beachgoers should use metered parking spaces, pay stations, and side streets.

Naples Pier

Barefoot Beach

Vanderbilt Beach

JOHN EDER

DENNIS GOODMAN

Barefoot Beach

One of the last undeveloped barrier islands in Southwest Florida, Barefoot Beach is regularly rated among the country’s best beaches. The 342-acre preserve was damaged in Hurricane Ian so check the status of its operations. (Location: 505 Barefoot Beach Blvd., Naples)

Clam Pass

The three-quarter-mile boardwalk through the mangroves at Clam Pass is a nature-filled jaunt. The tidal ecosystem is home to various birds and other wildlife, and the mangrove roots provide important spawning grounds for fish and shellfish. Once you’ve made it through—on foot or on the courtesy tram—one of Naples’ most scenic beaches awaits. With a concession stand, restrooms, equipment rentals, and more, you won’t need to bring much. There are nearly 200 parking spaces, so you rarely have to search for a spot. (Location: Corner of Crayton Road and Seagate Drive)

Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park

Secluded and relaxing, the park boasts of one of the most unspoiled beaches in the United States. Get your cameras ready, because natural wildlife abounds. Along the nature trails and open waters, expect to spot resident and migratory birds, tortoises, dolphins, and more. The park’s waters are perfect for fishing and shelling. The park was damaged in Hurricane Ian so check the status of its operations at floridastateparks.org. Parking fee: $6 per vehicle. (Location: 11135 Gulfshore Drive, Naples)

Barefoot Beach

Tigertail Beach

North Gulf Shore Beach

This beach is accessible at both the end of Seagate Drive and North Gulf Shore Boulevard via foot. There are 38 parking spaces at the end of Seagate Drive. There are no other amenities at this county beach. (Location: Gulf Shore Boulevard North, Naples)

South Marco Beach

South Marco Beach has public parking on Swallow Avenue, a short walk across South Collier Boulevard to one of only two public beaches on the island. The scenic walk to the beach is lined with sable palms and plush hotels. (Location: 930 S. Collier Blvd., Marco Island)

Vanderbilt Beach Park

This is one of the most popular beaches because of its natural beauty and amenities. Side street parking is available. Snacks and watersports rentals are available at Vanderbilt Inn. Parking fee: $8 per vehicle. (Location: West end of Vanderbilt Beach Road)

Keneca Coastal offers luxury mini coach bus day excursions from Naples to South Florida destinations such as Miami, Palm Beach, Sarasota, Wellington, Boca Grande and more!

Whether guests visit the glitz and glamour of world-class Palm Beach, the gorgeous Vizcaya Museum and Gardens in Miami, the spectacular Ringling Museum in Sarasota or the Winter Equestrian Capital of the World in Wellington, Keneca Coastal is committed to exceeding guest’s expectations one magical trip at a time.

Clam Pass JOHN EDER

The Breakers

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park

#NaplesFlorida

WHERE TO FISH

Naples Pier

This prime beach and sightseeing spot attracts a variety of fish and fishing enthusiasts. No fishing license is necessary here, though it is prohibited on Sunday and 11 p.m. to 5 am. Monday through Saturday.

Lake Trafford

Head to Immokalee for bass, bluegill, crappie, and shellcracker fishing at the 1,500-acre freshwater lake. The headwaters of the historic Everglades watershed is home to a marina, pier, boat ramp, airboat excursions—and plentiful alligator and bird populations.

Tigertail Beach

Fish in the tidal pools or wade across the lagoon to drop your line at Sand Dollar Beach.

Ten Thousand Islands

Strike out from Everglades City on boat or kayak to explore the rich mangrove estuarine within this chain of islands. Hundreds of species of fish can be found here in salt, fresh, and brackish waters.

Ge ing Started

A license is required for freshwater and saltwater fishing. Exceptions are for people younger than 16; Florida residents older than 65 or disabled; fishing from a for-hire vessel or a licensed pier; or a Florida resident in the U.S. armed services. for three days, seven days, or a year. Additional permits are needed for snook, lobster, and tarpon.

Licenses, issued by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC), are available at:

• Collier County Tax Collector offices

• Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission: MyFWC.com or (888) FISH-FLORIDA (347-4356)

• Select bait and tackle shops

• Retailers including Walmart and Sunshine Ace Hardware

Download a guide at MyFWC.com that shows fish species, when each is in season, legal sizes, and catch-number limits.

Ten Thousand Islands

Blue Zones: Embracing the

Power 9

BY BLUE ZONES PROJECT SWFL

THE PATH TO WELL-BEING IS A MARATHON, NOT A SPRINT

NCH Healthcare System knew this concept when it sponsored Blue Zones Project Southwest Florida in 2015 with the goal of decreasing chronic disease and helping residents live longer, healthier, and happier lives. Since its start, Southwest Florida has become a Blue Zones Certified Community for impacting the well-being of more than 275,000 individuals and 850 organizations throughout Collier County and southern Lee County.

A er Blue Zones Project was launched, well-being in the Naples-ImmokaleeMarco area ranked as the healthiest place in the nation for five consecutive years, per Gallup well-being data.

community initiative that works with individuals, homeowners associations, faith-based organizations, restaurants, grocery stores, schools, and businesses to help make healthy choices easier. The idea is to implement best practices and encourage small changes in the environment that have a profound effect on wellbeing over time.

This is done using National Geographic Society research that found nine commonalities among people around the world who live the longest and healthiest lives. These longevity hotspots are known as Blue Zones and the principles they follow are dubbed the “Power 9.”

If you’re hearing about it for the first time, Blue Zones Project SWFL is a

MOVE NATURALLY

Here are the Power 9, and examples of how they are playing out in realtime in the community:

1 2

The longest-lived people in the world don’t spend their time exercising in a gym. Instead, they simply move more within their natural environment. This includes activities like walking, gardening, swimming, or biking. Southwest Florida offers ample opportunity for these activities through its many parks, trails, and beaches.

PURPOSE

People who have purpose—a sense of their gifts and strengths that they regularly utilize—tend to live about seven years longer than those who do not. This is typically exercised through volunteering for a cause that is important to you, at church, or your children’s school. There are hundreds of nonprofits in Collier County. Here is a good place to start your search: volunteercollier.com. Blue Zones Project also facilitates workshops to help people define their sense of purpose.

DOWNSHIFT

Long-term stress raises cortisol levels that can cause inflammation and a host of other health problems. Downshift techniques to help combat stress and anxiety include meditation, tai chi, yoga, and spending more time in nature. Find programs through local parks, recreational facilities, private studios, and events such as Donation Yoga Naples (donationyoganaples.com). There are endless opportunities for spending time in nature at a beach or park. See “Where the Wild Things Are” on page 38to get started.

BELONG

Belonging to a faith-based community has many benefits that include a sense of peace, support, and acceptance. Blue Zones Project Southwest Florida works with nearly 40 faith-based organizations in the community to help make healthy choices easier for their congregations.

FAMILY FIRST

80 PERCENT RULE

“Hara hachi bu!” The longest-lived people in Okinawa, Japan, use this term to remind themselves to stop eating when their stomachs are 80 percent full. The 20 percent gap between not being hungry and feeling full could be the difference between maintaining proper weight or gaining it. Take time to eat more slowly and eat in the company of family or friends to allow for conversation between bites.

PLANT SLANT

Loading your plate with plantbased foods has been proven to add years to your life. A recent study by JAMA Internal Medicine found that shifting three percent of caloric intake from animal to plant protein corresponded with a 10 percent decrease in death from any cause. Blue Zones Project works with local restaurants to add more healthy options to their menus. Check out the Blue Zones Project list of approved restaurants: southwestflorida.bluezonesproject.com.

WINE WITH FRIENDS @ 5

People in all Blue Zones (except Adventists) drink alcohol moderately and regularly do so with friends (accompanied with food). In Sardinia, Italy, a Blue Zone, residents are famous for their daily consumption of a regional red wine called cannonau that has a high polyphenol content linked to heart health.

RIGHT TRIBE

Maintaining good family relationships and ensuring that family comes first can make us feel safe and loved, and provides a sense of belonging. This reduces stress and elevates the feel-good chemicals in our brain that lead to healthier outcomes and a strong sense of well-being.

Blue Zones Project provides access to free Power 9 tools and resources through the Sharecare online platform to help power community well-being. Start with the RealAge health assessment. Each person—no matter where they are in their health journey—is provided a customized wellbeing plan and evidence-based programs to help them live their best (and youngest) life.

Surrounding yourself with people that practice healthy behaviors will increase the likelihood of you doing the same. You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with. If you spend time with people who engage in unhealthy behaviors, chances are, you will, too. Participate in a Blue Zones Project walking or a plant-based potluck group. In Japan, spending time with your tribe on a positive endeavor is called a moai (“meeting for a common purpose”).

Naples Airport is proud to support our community as it recovers from the devastating effects of Hurricane Ian. The ongoing recovery from Hurricane Ian would not have been possible without the help of several organizations who delivered donations and supplies, transported volunteers, rescued pets, and evacuated residents through the Naples Airport. We are grateful to have been able to work with disaster relief, public service, and airport partners through these recovery efforts.

Meet the Natives

LAND, SEA, OR AIR: GET TO KNOW SOME OF OUR “WILD” NEIGHBORS

BY CONSERVANCY OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

Newcomers often wonder about the whimsical, pouch-billed birds perched on local fishing piers or large nests teetering atop utility poles. The Sunshine State is literally teeming with terrestrial, aquatic, and avian wildlife. More than 130 native species of animals are threatened or endangered in Florida—and many make their home in Southwest Florida. Whether they’re outgoing or shy, get to know a few of your neighbors’ “cool factors.”

Florida Panther

Scientific name: Puma concolor coryi

Adult size: 7 to 8 feet from the nose to tail tip

Weight: 100 to 160 pounds

Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

Habitat: Confined to Southwest Florida’s pinelands, hardwood hammocks, and mixed swamp forests

Diet: Deer, wild hogs, raccoons, armadillos, snakes, and even alligators

Status: Endangered, with an estimated 120 to 230 panthers in Florida

Cool factor: Panthers are good swim-

mers and have a keen sense of smell and 130-degree field of vision.

Osprey

Scientific name: Pandion haliaetus

Adult size: 2 feet with a 6-foot wingspan

Weight: 3 to 4 pounds

Lifespan: 30 years

Habitat: Coastal marine habitats, lakes, rivers, and swamps

Diet: Saltwater catfish, mullet, spotted trout, shad, crappie, and sunfish

Status: Included in Florida’s Imperiled Species Management Plan

Cool factor: Ospreys usually mate for life. Their large stick-and-sod nests can be spotted in trees and on telephone poles, channel markers, and nesting platforms.

Loggerhead Sea Turtle

Scientific name: Caretta caretta

Adult size: 3 feet

Weight: 250 to 300 pounds

Lifespan: More than 50 years

Habitat: Temperate and tropical regions of the ocean

Diet: Fish, crustaceans, jellyfish, and occasionally seagrass and algae

Status: Threatened

Cool factor: Mature sea turtles return to the same beaches where they hatched to lay their own eggs.

American Alligator

Scientific name: Alligator mississippienesis

Adult size: More than 11 feet

Weight: Up to nearly half a ton

Lifespan: 50 years

Habitat: Slow-moving freshwater rivers, swamps, marshes, and lakes

Diet: Fish, snails, and other invertebrates, as well as birds, frogs, and mammals that come to the water’s edge

Status: Threatened

Cool factor: As an alligator’s teeth are worn down, they are replaced. An alligator can go through 3,000 teeth in a lifetime.

habitats

Diet: Small fish that form schools near the surface of the water

Status: Included in Florida’s Imperiled Species Management Plan

Cool factor: A foraging pelican dives headfirst from as high as 50 feet. Once a fish is captured, the pelican tips its head upward or to the side to drain the water from its bill pouch.

River Otter

Scientific name: Lontra canadensis

Adult size: 3 to 5 feet

Weight: 11 to 31 pounds

Lifespan: 10 years

Habitat: Rivers, creeks, lakes, ponds, and swamps

Diet: Fish, crayfish, and turtles

Status: Native Cool factor: Otters can swim 8 miles per hour and dive to depths of 36 feet. They are mostly nocturnal and live in waterside burrows.

Gopher Tortoise

Scientific name: Gopherus polyphemus

Adult size: Up to 15 inches

Weight: 8 to 15 pounds

Lifespan: 40 to 60 years

Habitat: Well-drained, sandy soils found in habitats such as longleaf pine sandhills, oak hammocks, scrub, pine flatwoods, dry prairies, and coastal dunes

Diet: Low-growing plants, such as wiregrass, broadleaf grasses, gopher apple, and legumes

Status: Threatened

Cool factor: They spend up to 80 percent of their time in burrows that average 15 feet long and more than 6 feet deep. These burrows offer shelter for more than 350 other species.

Neighbor Be a good

WE ALL PLAY A PART IN MAKING SURE THESE NATIVES REMAIN HAPPY AND HEALTHY. WHETHER YOU ARE A LONG-TIME RESIDENT OR FIRST-TIME VISITOR, HERE ARE SOME TIPS FOR BEING A GOOD NEIGHBOR.

LEAVE NOTHING BUT FOOTPRINTS. A major cause of harm to wildlife is plastic pollution. Bottle caps, ribbons, balloons, and monofilament fishing line kill or maim birds, sea turtles, and marine mammals. (More than 700 pelicans die each year in Florida from entanglement in fishing gear.) Use less plastic and clean up litter.

OBSERVE SAFE SPEEDS on the roads and on the water to avoid collisions with wildlife.

Brown Pelican

Scientific name: Pelecanus occidentalis

Adult size: 4 feet, with a 7-foot wingspan

Weight: 11 pounds

Lifespan: 10 to 25 years

Habitat: Estuaries and coastal marine

Get Up Close

The Conservancy of Southwest Florida is a nonprofit environmental protection organization established 58 years ago. Learn about Southwest Florida’s ecosystems, plants, and wildlife, rent kayaks, visit the von Arx Wildlife Hospital, or take a boat tour. The Susan and William Dalton Discovery Center recently underwent a $4.5 million renovation and expansion. Learn more at conservancy.org.

DON’T FEED WILDLIFE. This poses a threat to humans, domestic animals, and the wildlife being fed. Feeding pelicans is prohibited by law.

TAKE NOTHING BUT PICTURES. Florida has strict laws that prohibit the capturing, harming, or harassment of Florida’s native species, including live shells, sea stars, urchins, and sand dollars.

Fr Swamps

to Uplands

A PRIMER ON NATURAL LANDSCAPES IN COLLIER COUNTY

To newcomers, Southwest Florida’s topography might seem flat and unchanging, but don’t let its subtleties fool you. Changes in elevation coupled with rainfall create distinct habitats that are home to a web of life for native wildlife, birds, insects, plants and trees, fish, and reptiles. You’re probably familiar with the beaches, so here’s a primer on the other natural habitats you will encounter as you explore these lands.

BY CONSERVANCY OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

Cypress Swamps

These swamps experience seasonal changes in water levels that fluctuate during wet and dry months. Elevations determine hydroperiods—how long soils are saturated or flooded. Many species have adapted to live in this variable habitat, such as the predominant cypress tree. Their knees (above-ground extensions of their roots) and their buttresses (wide, fluted bases) provide stability and increase surface area for gas exchange. Cypress trees are deciduous conifers; they lose all their needles in the fall and winter.

Pine Uplands

This habitat is high in elevation, at least for this region. A few inches in elevation makes a big difference for pine forests—high and dry areas dominated by slash pine. The trees get their name from early settlers who “slashed” the bark of the pines and collected the sap to make turpentine and rosins.

Hardwood Hammocks

1 2 3

Tropical hardwood hammocks are found along both coasts of South Florida, and throughout the Everglades and Florida Keys. Hammocks are called “tree islands” because they rise from wet, low-lying areas. Oaks, sweetgum, hickories—more than 120 species of tropical plants—provide cool and shady refuge for deer and other wildlife during hot summer months.

DENNIS GOODMAN

DENNIS GOODMAN

LEIF JOHNSON

Mangrove Forests

Mangroves play a unique and important role in Southwest Florida’s ecosystem. Red mangroves ring coastal estuaries. Their intricate root systems act as a nursery for many small fish, crustaceans, shellfish, and other marine life during their earliest stages of life. They also provide shelter and nutrients for wading birds and land creatures and protect the coastline from storm-driven waves.

Hike

WITH CONSERVATION COLLIER

SINCE 2002, COLLIER COUNTY VOTERS HAVE APPROVED OF THIS TAXPAYER-FUNDED CONSERVATION LAND ACQUISITION PROGRAM.

TODAY THERE ARE 4,345 ACRES IN 21 DIFFERENT LOCATIONS. TWELVE SITES ARE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC FOR HIKING, WALKING, AND JOGGING. HERE ARE THE FIVE LONGEST TRAILS BASED ON LINEAR FEET.

PEPPER RANCH PRESERVE: 72,000 (6315 Pepper Road, Immokalee)

CARACARA PRAIRIE PRESERVE: 14,800 (2320 Corkscrew Road, Immokalee)

Sawgrass Marshes

in these important habitats for amphibians. Sawgrass is a sedge with “teeth” lining the edges of its leaves. Marshes provide a haven for alligators, otters, apple snails, dragonflies, and wading birds to nest and raise their young.

GORDON RIVER GREENWAY: 9,400 (Two Access Points: 1590 Goodlette-Frank Road and 1596 Golden Gate Parkway, Naples)

RED ROOT PRESERVE: 2,800 (1330 Limpkin Road, Big Corkscrew Island)

ALLIGATOR FLAG PRESERVE: 2,100 (7875 Immokalee Road, Naples) 6

Open-water Sloughs

Sloughs (pronounced SLOOs) are deep marsh habitats that are slow-moving paths of freshwater utilized by many species, sometimes as a travel corridor. This environment is active with wildlife because it remains wet year-round. Sloughs shed floodwaters and improve the quality of the water as it makes its way into the estuaries in the Gulf of Mexico and Florida Bay.

These grassy, freshwater wetlands allow for water to move from north to south, making its way from Lake Okeechobee into Florida Bay. Grasses and sedges grow

Caracara Prairie Preserve

Pepper Ranch Preserve

MOLLY DUVALL MOLLY DUVALL

DENNIS GOODMAN

DENNIS GOODMAN

LEIF JOHNSON

Where the Wild Things Are

Take a walk on the wild side at special places with unique habitats and ecosystems where you can explore Florida’s flora and fauna while hiking, paddling, cycling, swimming, camping, relaxing, or photographing nature’s beauty. Do yourself a favor: Research each location to plan a visit tailored to your interests and needs.

AUDUBON'S CORKSCREW SWAMP SANCTUARY

375 Sanctuary Road W., Naples (239) 348-9151 • corkscrew.audubon.org

BIG CYPRESS NATIONAL PRESERVE

Big Cypress Swamp Welcome Center

33000 Tamiami Trail East, Ochopee (239) 695-4758 • nps.gov/bicy

Oasis Visitor Center

52105 Tamiami Trail East, Ochopee (239) 695-4111 • nps.gov/bicy

COLLIER-SEMINOLE STATE PARK

20200 Tamiami Trail E., Naples (239) 394-3397 • floridastateparks.org

CONSERVATION COLLIER PRESERVES (239) 252-2961 or (239) 252-2979 colliercountyfl.gov

CREW LAND & WATER TRUST

Bird Rookery Swamp Trail

1295 Shady Hollow Blvd., Naples

Marsh Trail 4600 County Road 850 (Corkscrew Road), Immokalee (239) 657-2253 • crewtrust.org

Cypress Dome Trails 3980 County Road 850 (Corkscrew Road), Immokalee (239) 657-2253 • crewtrust.org

CYPRESS COVE LANDKEEPERS GORE NATURE EDUCATION CENTER 4261 40th Ave. S.E., Naples Reservations required (203) 241-2400 • cclandkeepers.com

EVERGLADES NATIONAL PARK GULF COAST VISITOR CENTER

815 Oyster Bar Lane, Everglades City (239) 695-3311 • nps.gov

FAKAHATCHEE STRAND STATE PRESERVE

137 Coastline Drive, Copeland (239) 695-4593 • floridastateparks.org

FLORIDA PANTHER NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

12085 State Road 29 S., Immokalee (239) 657-8001 • floridastateparks.org

PICAYUNE STRAND STATE FOREST 2121 52nd Ave. S.E., Naples (239) 348-7557 • myfwc.com

Audubon's Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary

ROOKERY BAY NATIONAL ESTUARINE RESEARCH RESERVE

300 Tower Road, Naples (239) 530-5940 rookerybay.org

TEN THOUSAND ISLANDS NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

Marsh Trail and Observation Tower 21004 Tamiami Trail E., Naples (239) 657-8001 • fws.gov

Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve

Get Involved

If you have a passion for protecting wild spaces and water quality in the region, there are a number of nonprofits you can join or volunteer with— whether you want to get your hands dirty or help out in other ways. Here is a good place to start:

Worlds Apart:

America’s Everglades

The Everglades region—a vast, nearly flat, seabed that was submerged at the end of the last Ice Age—is so unique that it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. Why? The greater Everglades region:

○ Is the largest subtropical wilderness reserve on the North American continent.

○ Contains the largest mangrove ecosystem in the Western Hemisphere and the largest continuous

stand of sawgrass prairie.

○ Is the most significant breeding ground for wading birds in North America, and a major corridor for migration.

○ Is home to more than 2,000 species of plants and animals, including more than 20 rare, endangered, and threatened species.

○ Protects inland communities against hurricanes.

○ Provides drinking water for nine million people in South Florida.

AUDUBON OF THE WESTERN EVERGLADES audubonwe.org

CAPTAINS FOR CLEAN WATER captainsforcleanwater.org

COLLIER COUNTY WATERKEEPER colliercountywaterkeeper.org

CREW LAND & WATER TRUST crewtrust.org

CYPRESS COVE LANDKEEPERS cclandkeepers.com

THE EVERGLADES FOUNDATION evergladesfoundation.org

FLORIDA WILDLIFE FEDERATION

floridawildlifefederation.org

FRIENDS OF ROOKERY BAY rookerybay.org

KEEP COLLIER BEAUTIFUL keepcollierbeautiful.com

NAPLES NATIVE PLANTS fnpsnaples.org

THERE ARE NO OTHER EVERGLADES IN THE WORLD. THEY ARE, THEY HAVE ALWAYS BEEN, ONE OF THE UNIQUE REGIONS OF THE EARTH; REMOTE, NEVER WHOLLY KNOWN. NOTHING ANYWHERE ELSE IS LIKE THEM.”

——Marjory Stoneman Douglas

DENNIS GOODMAN

DENNIS GOODMAN

ARNOLD COLLENS

Arts & Culture

Be Inspired

FROM ENRICO CARUSO TO COUNTRY JAMS, EDWARD HOPPER TO HISTORY, THERE ARE PLENTY OF VENUES TO TICKLE YOUR MUSE

The Paradise Coast is a cultural haven brimming with diverse experiences offered by more than 75 art galleries and artist studios, five history museums, award-winning art festivals, and several stages for vibrant performing arts.

And the area’s rich scene continues to expand. The world-class, 8.5-acre ArtisNaples campus is undergoing transformative changes through a $150 million master plan. Gulfshore Playhouse, a professional theater, is building a $60 million theater campus at the gateway to downtown Naples. On Fi h Avenue South, The Naples Players is planning a $15 million expansion and upgrade of the Sugden Community Theatre.

The diversity of Hispanic culture in the region is being celebrated with themed exhibitions and special events at a host of venues during the year-long ¡Arte Viva! Fest (paradisecoast.com/arte-vivafestival).

Whether you’re in the mood for high culture or relaxing entertainment, the arts take center stage in Naples.

Cultural Guide

Artis—Naples

The Baker Museum

Naples Philharmonic 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples (239) 597-1900 or (800) 597-1900 artisnaples.org

Arts Center Theatre at Marco Town Center 1089 N. Collier Blvd., Marco Island (239) 394-4221 • marcoislandart.org

Centers for the Arts

Bonita Springs (239) 495-8989 artcenterbonita.org

Center for Visual Arts

26100 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs

Center for Performing Arts

10150 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs

Collier Museum at Government Center 3331 Tamiami Trail E., Naples (239) 252-8476 colliermuseums.com

Conservancy of Southwest Florida 1495 Smith Preserve Way, Naples (239) 262-0304 conservancy.org

Future Gulfshore Playhouse cultural campus

Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs

Naples Ballet

The Naples Players

Naples Botanical Garden

4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples (239) 643-7275 • naplesgarden.org

Naples Design District

Bordered by Fifth Avenue South, Seventh Avenue North, U.S. 41, and Goodlette-Frank Road, Naples naplesdesigndistrict.com

The Naples Players Sugden Community Theatre 701 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (239) 263-7990 • naplesplayers.org

More Inspiration

Art Council of Southwest Florida artcouncilswf.com

Friends of the Library collier-friends.org

Gulf Coast Big Band gulfcoastbigband.com

Gulf Coast Orchid Alliance gulfcoastorchidalliance.org

Marco Island Historical Society themihs.info

Naples Artcrafters naplesartcrafters.com

Florida Gulf Coast University

10501 FGCU Blvd. S., Fort Myers Bower School of Music & the Arts (239) 590-7581 • fgcu.edu/concerts

TheatreLab at FGCU (239) 590-7581 • fgcu.edu/theatrelab

Wasmer Art Gallery at FGCU (239) 590-7199 • fgcu.edu/artgalleries

Grand Piano Series

Throughout the community (646) 734-8179 grandpianoseries.org

Gulfshore Opera

Throughout the community

3281 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples (239) 529-3925 • gulfshoreopera.org

Gulfshore Playhouse

The Norris Center

755 Eighth Ave. S., Naples (239) 261-7529

gulfshoreplayhouse.org

Hertz Arena

11000 Everblades Pkwy., Estero (239) 948-7825 • hertzarena.com

Historic Palm Cottage 137 12th Ave. S., Naples (239) 261-8164

napleshistoricalsociety.org

Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center

975 Imperial Golf Course Blvd., Naples (239) 263-9200 • hmcec.org

Immokalee Pioneer Museum at Roberts Ranch

1215 Roberts Ave. W., Immokalee (239) 252-2611 • colliermuseums.com

Koreshan State Historic Site 3800 Corkscrew Road, Estero (239) 992-0311 • floridastateparks.org

Marco Island Center for the Arts

1010 Winterberry Drive, Marco Island (239) 394-4221 • marcoislandart.org

Marco Island Historical Museum

180 S. Heathwood Drive, Marco Island (239) 252-1440 • colliermuseums.com

Museum of the Everglades

105 W. Broadway Ave., Everglades City (239) 252-5026 • colliermuseums.com

Naples Art Institute 585 Park St., Naples (239) 262-6517 • naplesart.org

Naples Art District

Bordered by Trade Center Way, Taylor Road, Pine Ridge Road, and AirportPulling Road, Naples naplesartdistrict.com

Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens

1590 Goodlette-Frank Road, Naples (239) 315-7626 • napleszoo.org

The Norris Center at Cambier Park

755 Eighth Ave. S., Naples (239) 213-3058 • naplesgov.com

Opera Naples Wang Opera Center

2408 Linwood Ave., Naples (239) 963-9050 • operanaples.org

Revs Institute

2500 S. Horseshoe Drive, Naples (239) 687-7387 • revsinstitute.org

Seminole Casino Hotel

506 S. First St., Immokalee (239) 658-1313 seminoleimmokaleecasino.com

The Studio Players Golden Gate Community Center 4701 Golden Gate Pkwy., Naples (239) 398-9192 • thestudioplayers.org

TheatreZone Community School of Naples

13275 Livingston Road, Naples (888) 321-3090 • theatre.zone

UAC Cooperative Gallery 967 Fourth Ave. N., Naples (239) 254-8242 • uaccollier.org

Naples Ballet naplesballet.net

Naples Concert Band naplesconcertband.org

Naples Historical Society napleshistoricalsociety.org

Naples International Film Festival artisnaples.org

Naples Jazz Society naplesjazzsociety.com

Naples Performing Arts Center naplesperformingartscenter.com

Naples Porcelain Artists porcelainstudio.com

Seraphic Fire seraphicfire.org

Southwest Florida Music Education Center swflmusic.org

Southwest Florida Pastel Society pastelsociety.org

Stardust Memories Big Band stardustmemoriesbigband.com

United Arts Council of Collier County uaccollier.com

Voices of Naples voicesofnaples.org

Naples Philharmonic

Gulfshore PlayhouseSeraphic Fire

NAPLES CREATIVE LLC

75 YEARS

of Progress & Prosperity

THE GREATER NAPLES CHAMBER IS THE COMMUNITY NEXUS FOR THE BUSINESS COMMUNITY, WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT, ECONOMIC EXPANSION, AND TOMORROW’S LEADERS

The Greater Naples Chamber has come a long way since its start 75 years ago, when it mainly promoted the intrinsic charms of Naples on the Gulf. It goes without saying that this is not your grandad’s chamber. It’s evolved into a modern hub in the wheel of economic prosperity for businesses, students, leaders, and the community—today and into the future—a balancing act that continues expanding.

The chamber is like a river with many tributaries. As one organization, it has many initiatives seeking to sustain a strong economy and keep Collier County a great place to live, work, and play. It’s the voice of business, acting as the liaison with local, state, and federal agencies, the school district and higher education institutions, and charitable foundations to effect real and meaningful change. For the past three years, it has served the role of the Collier

County Economic Development Office, aiding startups and companies looking to relocate their operations to the Greater Naples area and providing resources for financial incentives.

Throughout its 75-year history, the Greater Naples Chamber has worked to bring the community together. Here’s a snapshot of select initiatives that make the Greater Naples Chamber a true community resource that exceeds all expectations.

HELPING EMPLOYERS THRIVE POLICY INITIATIVES

When the COVID-19 pandemic unleashed unknown uncertainty, the Greater Naples Chamber partnered with local, regional, statewide, and federal organizations and agencies to assess the effects of Florida’s business shutdown. The chamber served as a connector between employers, government, and nonprofits on pandemic-related issues and resources. It contacted hundreds of members, facilitated conversations between elected officials and employers, and continued to educate and inform employers.

During the pandemic, it also worked to attract remote workers to Collier County. As more businesses allowed remote work during the pandemic, the chamber began marketing the area as a haven for remote workers. If you can work from anywhere, why not work in paradise?

As it has in the wake of other emergent issues, including hurricanes, the chamber kept its membership—and the public—abreast of criti-

cal resources to keep their engines running in terms of layoffs, loss of income, financial aid and grant programs, and other attendant issues.

But that’s really no surprise. The chamber excels at connecting businesses to the resources they need to thrive. From the local to the national, it also partners with business-support organizations including the Florida Small Business Development Center at Florida Gulf Coast University, SCORE Naples, and GrowFL.

The chamber works closely with businesses looking to relocate or open in Collier County. One example is Uline, which built a 915,000-square-foot warehouse and distribution center off Collier Boulevard, north of the Paradise Coast Sports Complex. The $96 million state-of-the-art facility will distribute Uline’s shipping supply products across Florida. The company offers same-day shipping on more than 40,000 products and employs more than 8,500 people across the continent. It is expected to open in spring 2023, bringing with it 220 higher-than-average-wage jobs.

The Greater Naples Chamber is engaged in several policy initiatives: workforce training and workforce housing, water quality, and economic diversification and opportunity. It offers an Advocacy Watch newsletter so members can stay informed.

It has identified workforce housing and workforce training as its top public policy priorities.

To that end, chamber leaders work with Florida Gulf Coast University, Florida SouthWestern State College, and Hodges University on studies that analyze evolving demographics, economic indicators, and workforce projections so it knows what is in high demand—and will be in the future. One example is its role in connecting and coordinating state funding for the Center for Manufacturing Excellence, which is training local graduates and career changers on state-of-the-art manufacturing and robotic arm programming.

ALL OF THESE THINGS IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF LIFE IN COLLIER COUNTY,” SAYS GREATER NAPLES CHAMBER CEO/PRESIDENT MICHAEL DALBY.

One initiative resulted in the Future Ready Collier program, designed to propel kindergarten readiness and post–high school career readiness. A separate project assessed local career and technical training options, leading to plans for a future high-tech campus.

Through the Leadership Collier Foundation, it connects students to internships, informational interviews, job shadowing, and internships, providing them with a be er understanding of careers available locally.

Leadership Collier Foundation’s Talent Development initiative works to close the gap between education and business. It has worked with more than 1,020 students, 24 educators, and 102 employers to help bridge this gap.

Here are some highlights of the chamber’s important policy work.

FOR ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION…THE CHAMBER SUPPORTS:

• Local and statewide incentive programs to recruit, retain and expand high-wage, high-skill jobs in targeted industries that diversify the local economy

• Policies and initiatives that protect private property rights, while supporting growth that fosters commercial, industrial, and maker spaces

• Policies, initiatives, and infrastructure improvements that prepare and protect coastal communities against the impacts of climate change and sea level rise

• Florida Flex training grants for companies seeking to train employees

FOR WORKFORCE TRAINING…THE CHAMBER SUPPORTS:

• Collier County’s allocation of $15 million in local option sales surtax revenue to acquire or construct additional career and technical education space

• Educational programs that encourage work-based learning opportunities, including mentorships, career shadowing, and internships

• Full state funding for programs provided by the state technical college system, including Lorenzo Walker Technical College and Immokalee Technical College

• State legislation that expands and incentivizes work-based learning opportunities, including career and technical training, internships and apprenticeships, and post-secondary education

• Sustained funding levels to accomplish Everglades Agricultural Area projects and the implementation of critical infrastructure projects north and south of Lake Okeechobee

• Implementing Blue-Green Algae Task Force recommendations to reduce nutrient pollution from all sources to protect the public, businesses, and the environment

• Strengthening stormwater standards for urban landscape and agricultural runoff

• Funding for upgrading and building advanced wastewater treatment systems to reduce nutrients in reuse/ reclaimed irrigation water

• The establishment of statewide septic tank inspection and maintenance requirements and public and private incentives to upgrade septic systems or convert septic to sewer

• Local appropriations to address aging infrastructure

FOR WATER QUALITY… THE CHAMBER SUPPORTS: FOR WORKFORCE HOUSING…THE CHAMBER SUPPORTS:

• Collier County’s allocation of $20 million in local option sales surtax revenue to acquire and support construction of affordable workforce housing

• Developing local zoning and growth management policies that incentivize the development of affordable workforce housing for rent or purchase

• Fully funding the state and local Sadowski Housing Trust Funds, which are funded through stamp tax fees from real estate deals

INFRASTRUCTURE AND COLLIER COUNTY’S ONE-CENT SALES TAX

The Greater Naples Chamber worked closely with county officials to ensure the 2018 passage of a one-cent surtax to raise an estimated $490 million over seven years to fund a slate of needed projects, including road improvements, a new mental health and addiction treatment facility, and a workforce housing land trust.

Mentoring Leaders

LEADERSHIP COLLIER FOUNDATION

Whether you are a young professional, entrepreneur, or top executive, Leadership Collier Foundation (LCF) programs help residents understand the community in ways they could not anticipate. Participants get an insider’s perspective of health care, law enforcement, the environment, education, local government, agriculture, and social services, walking away empowered with a deeper understanding of how the community functions—and inspired to make a difference.

LCF is a nonprofit subsidiary of the Greater Naples Chamber that was founded in 1989 to expose local business leaders to the community’s societal and economic challenges. Since then, LCF has expanded its umbrella to foster

engagement in young professionals and high school students. Each year, about 100 new class members participate in its three programs: Leadership Collier, Associate Leadership Collier, and Youth Leadership Collier.

Leadership Collier participants go behind the scenes to learn about successes and challenges at various places, from the operating room to the landfill, from a swamp to a school campus. Each year’s curriculum is modified to create a variety of experiences.

“No one can understand everything that’s going on in their community,” says Leadership Programs Vice President Amanda Pearson. “There’s a vast difference between reading about education in our school system and hearing directly from our superintendent or the university president. We provide exclusive experiences and in-depth conversations you wouldn’t have otherwise.” Each year, the 40 selected applicants who participate in Leadership Collier o en choose a cause or issue to address as a class. Some topics they’ve tackled: building affordable housing with Habitat Collier, volunteering as poll workers, and spearheading a project to ensure underprivileged third graders had an

educational outing at the beach—the first visit for many of them.

A robust network of more than 2,000 LCF alumni feel more connected and engaged in Collier County. The vast majority serve on nonprofit boards and public advisory commi ees, elected officials, or mentors to underserved youth. “A lightbulb goes off for every individual,” says Pearson. “Now they understand how their business is a link in our community and how to plug themselves into roles they’re passionate about, and the work of the Greater Naples Chamber, to cultivate economic opportunity for all.”

There are several opportunities for professionals to network, learn, socialize, and make an impact while growing their leadership skills. Learn more: napleschamber. org/leadershipcollier.

A TOAST TO LONGSTANDING CHAMBER MEMBERS

Talk about longevity! These local companies have been members of the chamber for four or more decades. Today, the chamber has 1,200 members representing 50,000 employees—a synergy between local businesses and the greater community that withstands the test of time.

48 YEARS

Manhattan Construction (Florida)

47 YEARS

Barron Collier Companies

Collier Enterprises

Edgewater Beach Hotel

Gallagher

Gulfshore Insurance, Inc.

John R. Wood Properties

Naples Daily News

Premier Sothebys International Realty Head Office

Stantec Consulting Services Inc.

Suncoast Beverage Sales

Sunshine Ace Hardware Third Street South Area Association

46 YEARS

DeVoe Cadillac

The Dock at Crayton Cove

Naples Lumber & Supply Company

44 YEARS

Coastland Center

Phillips Harvey Group

43 YEARS

Carlson Harris General Contractors

Cummings & Lockwood LLC

Naples Zoo

41 YEARS

Coastal Engineering Consultants

40 YEARS

D. Garrett Construction

NCH Healthcare System

Naples Area Board of REALTORS® Park Shore Resort

Let’s Network!

MEET NEW AND LONG-ESTABLISHED BUSINESS OWNERS IN YOUR FIELD OR IN SPECIALTIES YOU’RE SEEKING TO WORK WITH…WHILE HAVING A LITTLE FUN IN INTERESTING VENUES

REGULAR EVENTS

Member Meet & Greet

These virtual gatherings are limited to 25 members to introduce themselves and connect with other members and staff.

Business A er 5

This casual networking event invites business professionals to share lively ideas, create connections, and build relationships. Hosted at a different member venue, Business A er 5 includes food, beverages, and dynamic entertainment.

Accelerated Networking Lunch

This popular luncheon is an energetic, leadproducing session for chamber members. A endees enjoy a fast-paced program of ideas, contacts, and referral exchanges over lunch.

Wake Up Naples

Make this breakfast the most important part of your business diet each month. Hosted at the Hilton Naples, this popular breakfast event includes dynamic speakers and valuable networking opportunities.

ANNUAL EVENTS

Annual

Meeting & Reception

This major annual event is an opportunity to celebrate successes, raise funds for the chamber’s initiatives, and present awards to outstanding individuals and businesses.

Get Involved Collier! Volunteer Expo

The Leadership Collier Foundation, United Way of Collier and the Keys, Collier Community Foundation, and Greater Naples Chamber leadership invites Leadership Collier alumni and classmates and residents to learn more about opportunities to engage in the community.

Chamber Classic Golf Tournament

This fun, 25-year tradition supports the chamber’s efforts to serve as a connector, advocate, and leader—a great opportunity to network while enjoying course exclusivity and great food and prizes.

Distinguished Public Service Awards

Established in 2003, these awards recognize outstanding contributions by public service individuals and teams to the well-being of Collier County.

Youth Business Fair

Young entrepreneurs, grades K-12, show-

case and sell their unique product or service to the public. Participants gain hands-on experience in the free market and reap the rewards of their inventiveness. Proceeds benefit the Leadership Collier Foundation’s work-based learning programs for local students.

Leadership Collier Foundation Graduation

This graduation celebrates each year’s Leadership Collier and Associate Leadership Collier classes and includes the presentation of the foundation’s annual Distinguished Alumni Award.

Leadership Collier Foundation Alumni Association Holiday Party

This year-end holiday celebration is the perfect time to catch up with classmates, make new connections with alumni, and enjoy holiday cheer.

Naples Chamber Jingle & Mingle Holiday Party Mix and mingle with some holiday jingle at this annual soiree.

CELEBRATING 75 YEARS

A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE GREATER NAPLES CHAMBER

1923: Collier County and the City of Naples are established.

1947: Community and business leaders band together to form the Naples Chamber of Commerce, which soon hires its first staff member and becomes a member of the Florida State Chambers of Commerce.

1951: The chamber is established as a nonprofit.

1950s: The chamber serves as a place to go for verifying references and making reservations, and as a social club. Three local women serve terms as president: Beatrice Briggs, Mamie Tooke, and Joan Longshore.

1961: The chamber moves into the unique hexagonal building on the Tamiami Trail that is now called the Hedges Family Eco-Center at Naples Preserve.

1989: Leadership Collier programs are launched.

2003: Leadership Collier Foundation becomes a nonprofit. The chamber’s Distinguished Public Service Awards are established.

2014: The chamber joins forces with the county to develop a strategic plan for business retention, expansion, and growth.

2015: The chamber, Naples Children & Education Foundation, Collier Community Foundation, Champions For Learning, and Collier County Public Schools collaborate to launch Future Ready Collier, a working group of more than 60 organizations.

2018: The chamber spearheads the campaign to encourage voters to support a local one-cent surtax to fund critical projects in Collier County.

2023: Work is underway on several of the projects that are being funded by the local one-cent surtax.

GREATER NAPLES CHAMBER MISSION

To cultivate economic opportunity for all. We advance that mission by focusing on public policy priorities that promote a business-friendly environment, enhance and expand our workforce, and invest in our community.

To launch, expand, or relocate your business, or learn about networking and businesses resources, contact the Greater Naples Chamber: (239) 262-6376 or info@napleschamber.org.

Just three blocks from Gulf beaches. Complimentary beach package with beach shuttle, towels, chairs and bottled water. Convenient to golf courses, shopping, art galleries and all attractions. Each of the following services are provided to guests at no charge: Wi-Fi, garage parking, fitness center and bicycles. Home to Shula’s Steak House, voted best steak house in Southwest Florida. Plus no resort fees. It all adds up to happiness poolside. Always get the lowest price only when you book direct at Naples.Hilton.com or call 1 800 HILTONS.

2022-2023 Season

Magnolias Steel

Robert Harling BY

Directed by Kristen Coury

NOV 12-DEC 11, 2022

Preview: Nov 10 & 11

Dominique Morisseau BY

Directed by Marshall Jones III

JAN 7-29, 2022

Preview: Jan 5 & 6

LERNER & LOEWE’S

Book & Lyrics by Alan Jay Lerner

Music by Frederick Loewe

Directed by Je rey Binder

Feb 11-MAR 12, 2023

Preview: Feb 9 & 10

Neil Simon BY

Directed by Peter Amster

MAR 25-APR 16, 2023

Preview: Mar 23 & 24

Carey Crim BY

Directed by Kristen Coury

APR 29-MAY 14, 2023

Preview: Apr 27 & 28

Ways

Savoring the Flavors

Collier County—carved from a vast, swampy backcountry and named Barron Gi Collier Sr.—is marking the 100th anniversary of its founding. It’s no coincidence that the City of Naples, Everglades City, and Collier County Public Schools are also celebrating their centennials.

Since Collier undertook the arduous project of connecting both sides of the state by completing the Tamiami Trail (aka U.S. 41) a century ago, the 2,305-squaremile county has become an international destination that boasts sun, fun, and culture. Of course, there are 100 more reasons why we love Collier County, but this is a good place to start.

The Greater Naples area should be certified as a gastronomical paradise that is home to well more than 100 fantastic restaurants. Fabrizio and Ingrid Aielli have achieved culinary success with their high-end, yet diverse, restaurants: Barbatella, Dorona, Grappino, and Sea Salt. A lively and dynamic destination, Celebration Park is a food truck revolution; sample a myriad of dishes

in this open-air food park or shop for wine and gourmet take-out at Three60 Market; side-by-side, both are on the water. Campiello, a shining star in the D’Amico Family of Restaurants, can’t be beat for al fresco dining and people watching while savoring gastronomical greatness. From roasted gulf grouper to grilled hogfish, some of Naples’ freshest seafood is served at Hogfish Harry’s. Good things come in threes, like

Barron Gift Collier Sr.

the popular Vincenzo Betulia restaurants, all of which are found on Naples’ famous Fi h Avenue South: Osteria Tulia, Bar Tulia, and The French Brasserie Rustique. Find tinga con pollo tacos (and more) made with local, organic produce at the fast-casual Turco Taco, serving two locations in Naples with a focus on hormone- and antibiotic-

free premium meats. La Playa Beach & Golf Resort is the perfect place to meet for a cocktail with the se ing sun as a backdrop. It’s a culinary celebration at Seed to Table, a 75,000-square-foot farmer’s market-inspired food and drink shopping emporium. For lunch, consider a Cuban sandwich at Rumba Cuban Café, nationally recognized Brooks Burgers - Burgers & Dogs, the flagship Tommy Bahama Restaurant, or Brambles English Tearoom in downtown Naples. The Bay House consistently delivers with a clear passion for great food and delectable cocktails, live music, and a picture-perfect view of the mangroves on the Cocohatchee River. Named among the best seafood restaurants in Naples, Bayside Seafood Grill & Bar offers two prime sunset-viewing destinations overlooking Venetian Bay—the second-floor Grill for fine dining and The Upper Deck on the third level. Ridgway Bar & Grill on Third Street South, one in a group of well-loved and well-established restaurants, is a long-time, dependable favorite.

The Bay House on the Cocohatchee River

the French brasserie rustique

Sea Salt

Celebration Park

Seed to Table

Romp Outdoors

Wade through a tidal lagoon and explore the coastal habitat of Tigertail Beach on Marco Island. When you want to spend a quiet day si ing at the edge of turquoise waters, Via Miramar Beach, just north of Doctor’s Pass, is the place to be. Tucked beyond the view of businesses on Goodle e-Frank Road is the 140acre Gordon River Greenway Park, a pleasantly surprising urban oasis meandering through six native plant communities, mangroves, and along its namesake river. A 2.5-mile path offers overlooks and boardwalks and connects via a pedestrian bridge to the riverfront Baker Park. Both parks are pet friendly. The greenway borders the Conservancy of Southwest Florida, a 20-acre campus which offers a nature center, kayak and canoe rentals, and sightseeing ecotours aboard an electric boat.

Within the 13,000-acre Audubon’s Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, visitors are immersed in North America’s largest old-growth bald cypress forest, home to the largest colony of endangered wood storks in the United States, and,

Baker Park

Audubon’s Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary

if the timing’s right, a super ghost orchid in full bloom. Bike or hike along old logging trails in the Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park. Its 75,000 acres boast the world’s only forest where bald cypress trees grow alongside royal palms, more orchids and bromeliads than anywhere else in North America, the best spot to see Florida panthers, and the 2,500-foot Big Cypress Bend Boardwalk wending through cypress-studded sloughs and wetlands. Make your introduction to Everglades National Park at the Gulf Coast Visitor Center near Everglades City. The western fringes of the one-and-a-half-million-acre “River of Grass” are best experienced by water. Boat tours, kayak and canoe rentals, and guided excursions are provided by Everglades Florida Adventures.

Hidden from view, a wooden boardwalk meanders through 50 acres of restored wetlands at Freedom Park in the center of Naples. Grab a front-row

seat on the always-popular primate expedition cruise at the Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens. East Naples Community Park is a hub for both adult and youth activities, and it’s also home of the U.S. Open Pickleball Championships—a world class event! It’s a 40,000-square-foot concrete jungle at the Edge Johnny Nocera Skate Park with a variety of wood and concrete structures from flow to street style—for beginner to advanced skaters.

A stone’s throw from Fi h Avenue South, Cambier Park boasts a playground, baseball diamond, a bandshell, and tennis courts. Kayaking and paddleboarding options are plentiful in the many channels that wind through the mangrove-fringed and open shorelines along the Gulf of Mexico. Choose from a variety of cruises (from small boats to large catamarans and yachts) to explore the waterways in our backyard: Miss Naples, Naples Princess, Sweet Liberty, and Pure Florida.

Gordon River Greenway Park

Big Cypress

Big Cypress

Sweet Liberty

East Naples Community Park

On the Town

Cigar aficionados love Burn by Rocky Patel, a dark and dreamy cigar lounge that plays great music. With its comfy dockside vibe, believe the locals when they tell you the Island Gypsy Café and Marina Bar is a special place. In fact, they call it “locally world famous.” An upscale (and colorful) oasis on Naples Bay, Bayfront of Naples draws visitors to Tavern on the Bay, Industry Beer & Barbecue, shops, restaurants, and the truly tropical Cabana Bayfront. Come for, one of Naples’ ho est nightclubs. Other places where you can find a wealth of options to fit your taste are Fi h Avenue South, Third Street South, and Mercato, for an entertaining evening of live music, people watching, specialty martinis, and dancing at Blue Martini Lounge or dinner and dancing at Cavo Lounge. The Pub at Mercato is o en buzzing with twenty-somethings who appreciate the atmosphere and pocket-friendly prices. The Hampton Social is light and inviting, and the menu is o en refreshing and new. If

you’re at home at a brewpub for the community and cra beer, there are several in town, including Ankrolab Brewing Company, Bone Hook Brewing Company, and Riptide Brewing Company. For national rock-n-roll and Latinx performance groups, Seminole

Casino Hotel Immokalee draws big names to its stages alongside slot machines. Check local sunset times and plan to enjoy painterly sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico from Naples to Marco Island. Even if you aren’t staying at a local resort, you can enjoy the property’s cuisine, signature cocktails, and waterfront vistas.

Burn by Rocky Patel

Cavo Lounge

The Hampton Social

Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee

Bone Hook Brewing Company

Home of the Baker Museum and the Naples Philharmonic, Artis—Naples is the area’s leading cultural resource with more than 300 productions every year. Cars on Fi h Concours is the largest annual one-day event in Naples featuring more than 650 exotic and classic cars. Explore the area’s rich history at five Collier County Museums: Museum of the Everglades; Naples Depot; Immokalee Pioneer Museum at Rob-

And All That Jazz

erts Ranch; Marco Island Historical Museum; and Collier Museum at Government Center. Community celebrations abound in this town: Celebrate the Fourth of July with a downtown parade and evening fireworks on the beach or a St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Fi h Avenue South or come together for Naples Pride Fest in Cambier Park. Make sure to visit Fi h Avenue South the third Thursday evening of every month for an array of live musical performances up and down the sidewalks during Evenings on Fi h. Gulfshore Playhouse offers world-class productions and educational programs at The Norris Center as it works to build the $60 million Baker Theatre and Education Center downtown with plans to

open in 2024. Country music fans clap knowing Naples plays host to outdoor performances by country legends such as Brad Paisley and Jake Owen at the annual Live Fest presented by the QBE Shootout at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón. The Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples (CMON) provides educational, interactive fun in 30,000 square feet of space. Since 1953, The Naples Players has provided community theater to the greater Naples area, as well as classes for adults and children. It is based at the Sugden Community Theatre in downtown Naples, which is being completely renovated and expanded. Opera is always an option at Opera Naples/Wang Opera Center or Gulfshore Opera. You can find Broadway quality productions in Naples at TheatreZone, in residence at the G&L Theatre on the Community School of Naples campus.

Art in the Alley at Emillions Art

holiday entertainment on fifth avenue south

The Baker Museum

Gulfshore Opera

Cars on fifth concours

Drop In

Ave Maria, a quaint college town built around a spectacular church and bustling town center, is just a lazy a ernoon drive away. Crayton Cove harbors fun restaurants and shops, while sheltering a bevy of moored boats and yachts. Goodland is a quaint fishing village with a relaxed weekend vibe visitors covet. Keewaydin Island, a barrier island with miles of untouched white sand between Naples and Marco Island, is the favored destination of locals who love to boat. A world-class garden paradise spanning 170 acres is found at the Naples Botanical Garden, where you can take your four-legged companion on Sunday and Tuesday mornings. Exercise your creative expression skills at the Naples Art Institute. Stroll through the Naples Art District and discover a vibrant alliance of artists and gal-

leries showcasing their works. Naples Design District is a shopping destination dedicated to innovative design, art, architecture, and dining. Walk the boardwalk through a natural Florida habitat while you search for gopher tortoises at Naples Preserve Hedges Family Eco-Center, located in the bustling urban heart of Naples. Built in 1895, the charming Historic Palm Co age—Naples’ oldest home —serves as the headquarters for the Naples Historical Society, which offers tours of the building and the downtown historic district. Paradise Coast Sports Complex, with its synthetic turf fields, provides the best outdoor workout facility, called The Factory, in Southwest Florida. Step back in time at the Rod & Gun Club in Everglades City; stay over, fish, dine, and watch the sun set. Learn about coastal habitats at Rookery Bay National

Estuarine Research Reserve, a protected site spanning over 110,000 acres of mangrove forest, uplands, and coastline. Reserve a tour to visit Shy Wolf Sanctuary Education & Experience Center where wild animals are humanely rescued and rehabilitated. For lots of wet fun, visit Sun-N-Fun Lagoon waterpark,

Naples Design District

Naples Botanical Garden

Ten Thousand Islands

Naples Trolley Tours

with a lazy river, play area, and diving pools; it is open seasonally. Who else can boast a chain of Ten Thousand Islands—a sprawling chain of mangrove islets and barrier islands boasting some of the region’s best fishing? Reserve a room and ride the water slides at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón for a

family-friendly staycation. Hop aboard a vintage trolley and learn all about the area on Naples Trolley Tours. The biggest names in comedy visit Off the Hook Comedy Club where shows are performed every Thursday through Sunday. For an interesting and academic immersion

in automotive history, make an appointment to visit Revs Institute.

Revs Insitutue

Ave Maria

Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve

Paradise Coast Sports Complex

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DENNIS GOODMAN

Make it a Family Affair

A er hi ing the beach, the family may just be ready for other experiences. The good news: New Naples memories are just around the corner. Depending on your interest, check out “Be Inspired” on page 42 for art and culture destinations and “Where the Wild Things Are” on page 38 for outdoor hikes and nature immersions. (Note: Please contact the venue for the most up-to-date information.)

Baker Park

Since opening in 2019, this park along the Gordon River has become a popular destination for families. It includes a kayak launch, outdoor fitness facility, sunrise terrace, pathways, picnic shelters, and public sculptures. It is the southern connector of the Gordon River Greenway. It is located at 50 Riverside Circle.

Gordon River Greenway

The 140-acre Gordon River Greenway is an ecological corridor in the heart of Naples showcasing Southwest Florida’s natural beauty. It invites all ages with 2.5 miles of trails, piers, bike racks, a kayak launch, restrooms, water fountains, a playground with a treehouse, and picnic pavilions. (gordonrivergreenway.org)

Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples (CMON)

Young visitors can become a weather forecaster, farmer, artist, chef, and much more at the dozens of interactive exhibits at CMON. Check out special events each month. The gi shop has a wide selection of books, puzzles, and games that foster learning. (cmon.org)

HeadPinz naples

Take the family out for a night of pizza and bowling—and 40-plus arcade video games, virtual reality experiences, and laser tag, too. Friday night is Family Night, with special bowling packages for groups of six. (headpinz.com)

Lovers Key State Park Welcome & Discovery Center

This new, two-story education center in Florida’s second most-visited state park (encompassing 1,616 acres and barrier islands) in southern Lee County offers an array of arts and education programs. (friendsofloverskey.org)

Naples Botanical Garden

This world-class garden consists of 170 acres of cultivated greenery and preservation land representing seven natural habitats and ecosystems. Daily interactive programs, activity kits, themed gardens, and outdoor sculpture installations provide unending, enriching children's adventures. There are also guided tours, evening events, and an on-site café to rest and refuel. (naplesgarden.org)

Naples Botanical Garden

WHO HAS MORE FUN IN NAPLES—THE ADULTS OR THE KIDS?

Golisano Children's Museum of Naples

naples zoo

MARY DOMINGUEZ

Revs Institute

Naples Trolley Tours

As it wends through downtown Naples, the family can hop off and on of this vintage trolley, which provides narrated tours highlighting more than 100 points of interest. (naplestrolleytours.com)

Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens

The Naples Zoo is a local landmark that was established as a botanical garden in 1919. Through the century, it has evolved into a lush, 43-acre zoo with a focus on conservation and education. Spend the day feeding giraffes, meeting endangered leopards, embarking on a primate expedition cruise, and attending daily wildlife presentations. (napleszoo.org)

Revs Institute

This world-class, 80,000-square-foot museum features an exquisite collection of more than 100 rare automobiles dating to 1896 that blazed technical and aesthetic pathways. (revsinstitute.org)

Sun-N-Fun Lagoon at North Collier Regional Park

Escape the Florida heat at Collier County’s only water park. With more than one million gallons of water, Sun-N-Fun Lagoon includes five waterslides, a lazy river, four pools, and a splash playground. The waterpark is seasonal, though North Collier is a prime location for families year-round. (napleswaterpark.com)

the Water

OnWHAT BETTER WAY TO EXPERIENCE NAPLES ON THE GULF THAN ON THE WATER?

Wonder Gardens

Established in 1936, the Wonder Gardens is one of the few remaining, quintessential old Florida roadside attractions. It is home to a dazzling array of wildlife, including Florida alligators, flamingos, macaws, pythons, turtles, tortoises, peacocks, and pheasants, as well as a vibrant botanical collection. (wondergardens.org)

Easy Escapes

CAPTAIN MITCH’S AIRBOAT TOURS: Speed through the Big Cypress and Everglades backcountry on an exhilarating airboat ride through private swampland. (captainmitchs.com)

DOLPHIN EXPLORER: Become acquainted with resident bottlenose dolphins on a 47-foot catamaran based on Marco Island which has led studies since 2006. (dolphin-study.com)

EVERGLADES ADVENTURE TOURS: Pole through the Everglades on a wooden skiff—a mode of transportation dating back centuries—with a fourth-generation Gladesman who also operates the wilderness Trail Lakes Campground in Ochopee. (evergladesadventuretours.net)

EVERGLADES OLD TIME CHARTERS: Take a sightseeing tour by pontoon boat through the Ten Thousand Islands and to historic Fakahatchee Island, which was settled in the 1800s—and be ready for wildlife watching galore. (evergladesoldtimecharters.com)

Wonder Gardens

FREEDOM BOAT CLUB: With this membership boat club, leave behind the hassles of boat ownership. Choose a boat that suits your party and cruise from a nearby marina. (freedomboatclub.com)

KEY WEST EXPRESS: Embark on a 3.5-hour ferry ride, complete with a full bar, to Key West. (keywestexpress.net)

MANATEES SIGHTSEEING & WILDLIFE ADVENTURES: Meet gentle manatees, and a variety of other wild-

life, on this 90-minute boat tour through the Faka Union Canal. (see-manatees.com)

NAPLES KAYAK COMPANY: Schedule to have a standup paddleboard, recreational or sea kayak, or surf ski delivered to you, or pick it up from a choice of locations. (napleskayakcompany.com)

NAPLES PRINCESS: Treat yourself to a lunch or sunset buffet as you sail the waters of Naples Bay on the air-conditioned, luxury Naples Princess vessel.

(naplesprincesscruises.com)

PURE FLORIDA: Deep-sea fishing, sunset cruising, jet boating, eco-shelling, and jet skiing are on Pure Florida’s menu for fun and adventure. (purefl.com)

SWEET LIBERTY: Climb aboard the largest and longest-running sailing catamaran in Naples. Choose from shelling, sunset, and sightseeing voyages. (sweetliberty.com)

WOOTEN’S EVERGLADES AIRBOAT TOURS: Tour the Everglades area on an airboat or swamp buggy, get up-close with alligators, and see panther, tigers, lions, and other wildlife. (wootenseverglades.com)

Artis—Uplifting

Naples Princess

Manatee Sightseeing & Wildlife Adventures

Let’s Play!

THE PARADISE COAST SPORTS COMPLEX—ONE OF THE LARGEST IN THE NATION—IS A WORLD-CLASS SPORTS AND CULTURAL VENUE

Sports and recreation are in high demand in Collier County for adults and youth alike, so county officials are working aggressively to create more facilities. One of these gems is the $100 million Paradise Coast Sports Complex—a world-class facility designed to fulfill the needs of local and out-of-town athletes, with plenty of amenities to please the non-sporty types, too.

The 160-acre complex in East Naples will ultimately feature seven volleyball courts and 21 synthetic athletic fields: 10 Olympic fields for soccer, football, and lacrosse; six baseball diamonds; and five softball/youth baseball diamonds. Being built in four phases, new fields and diamonds continue to open. It’s one of the largest sports complexes in the United States.

“It’s The Ritz-Carlton of sports venues. We also focus on guest experiences, kind of like going to Disney,” says Paradise Coast Sports Complex Business Development Manager Jeff Walters. “I have to pry peoples’ jaws off the floors when they

visit for the first time.”

Already in place are the 3,500-seat stadium with private suites and party decks, great lawn, amphitheater with a 32-foot-wide, double-sided digital video board, and The Cove Beer & Wine Bar. Community events,concerts, holiday, food, arts, and beer festivals, and drive-in moviesare already on tap. College football and NFL games are regularly televised during football season on

The Factory fitness pavilion at Paradise Coast Sports Complex

Paradise Coast Sports Complex

Paradise Coast Sports Complex

the jumbotron elevated 30 feet in the air. Food trucks, cornhole, firepits, and a rock wall are some of the other unique amenities that make gatherings at The Cove and amphitheater a family affair.

Local fitness buffs and sports enthusiasts enjoy the five multi-use athletic fields, mile-long lake trail with fitness bump-outs, the membership Factory fitness pavilion, and a volleyball court. The complex was planned to be enjoyed by residents during the week and draw out-of-town sports teams and tournaments on weekends. When it opened in July 2020, the complex debuted by hosting hundreds of middle and high school FBU Top Gun football players competing for regional and national recognition.

Plans are underway for large concerts to be held at the stadium, which has a 10,000-person capacity.

“It’s a gem for Collier County because it provides a place for locals and traveling sports teams to play tournaments, and it will function as a premier event venue for Southwest Florida,” says Walters. “County residents can take advantage of the Factory, great lawn, The Cove, and live entertainment on the weekends. It’s estimated that the park will have a $35 million impact in Collier County on an annual basis—maybe $40 million—so it’s a win-win.”

For more information or to book an event at Paradise Coast Sports Complex: playparadisecoast.com

On the Ball

With 90 golf courses, Collier County has long been known as the “Golf Capital of the World.” It boasts three annual professional golf tournaments and challenging professional holes set against panoramic scenery do ed with wildlife. But it might as well be known as the “Pickleball Capital of the World,” too.

At public facilities and private clubhouses in gated communities, tennis facilities have been speedily renovated to incorporate pickleball play in response to its surge as the fastest-growing sport in the nation. East Naples Community Park—which has hosted the U.S. Open Pickleball Championships annually since its 2016 inception—is the hotspot. In recent years, an ambitious renovation expanded its pickleball courts to 65 and added a 3,500-seat stadium, 1,000 parking spots, and welcome center with locker rooms and a pro shop. The championships typically draw an estimated 24,000 visitors each April.

Find your athletic bliss at Collier County’s 69 neighborhood, community, regional parks (collierparks.com), which offer a wide range of recreational options, wellness programs, summer camps, and family-friendly playgrounds and picnic pavilions. These are some of the main draws:

East Naples Community Park: In addition to pickleball, it offers basketball, tennis, racquetball, softball, and soccer, and a jogging trail

Golden Gate Community Park: Youth softball and baseball, tennis, soccer/football,

basketball, shuffleboard, bocce, fitness and nature trails, swimming pools

North Collier Regional Park: Tournament soccer and softball, lacrosse, basketball, RecPlex Fitness Complex, 2.5-mile walking trail, Sun-N-Fun Lagoon

Sugden Regional Park: Sailing, skiing, and swimming on the 60-acre lake, open play area and playground, amphitheater, pavilions

Veterans Community Park: Softball and youth baseball, bocce, tennis, and racquetball, soccer/football, sand volleyball, covered rink, and Rover Run Dog Park

Vineyards Community Park: Lacrosse, soccer, softball, tennis, basketball, racquetball, walking trail, children’s splash zone

Wheels Skate/BMX Park: An annex of the Golden Gate Community Center, Wheels features a pro shop with skate clinics, band shell, skate park, National Bicycle League-sanctioned BMX track, and a game room (naplesbmx.com)

The Factory fitness pavilion at Paradise Coast Sports Complex

The Cove

Sun-N-Fun Lagoon

Neighborhoods in Naples

Neighborhood Guide

Home Home Sweet

FIND YOUR P CE IN THE SUN

For many visitors to Naples, it’s o en love at first sight. Palm trees, white-sand beaches, the dazzling Gulf of Mexico, and the promise of a tropical lifestyle weave their magic. Family vacations, business conferences, and winter getaways become homebuying missions. For a year-round or seasonal nest, real estate opportunities are seemingly endless: gated communities with amenities rivaling plush resorts; beachfront mansions and co ages; low- and high-rise towers; historic neighborhoods; and even a new city. Whether you are a first-time buyer, relocating from a bustling metropolis, or looking to upgrade because of an expanding family or income, there are a range of home styles to fit your needs and budget. The question is: where? Get to know some of the area’s established communities.

AQUALANE SHORES

A community of 350 single-family homes the majority with water views Aqualane Shores is nestled along Naples Bay with easy access to the Gulf of Mexico. A long-established neighborhood, it has mature landscaping, tree-shaded streets, and proximity to shopping, dining, and entertainment on neighboring Third Street South.

Port Royal

Royal Harbor

AVE MARIA

This new town, established in 2005, sprawls across 5,000 acres centered around Ave Maria University, a Catholic institution founded by Domino’s Pizza tycoon Tom Monaghan. Ave Maria has single-and multifamily homes, a golf course, a downtown area with retail and restaurants, a water park, and recreational fields, with plans for a hospital and additional amenities.

BAREFOOT BEACH

With the 342-acre Barefoot Beach Preserve as its southern-most boundary, Barefoot Beach offers waterfront homes with views of Li le Hickory Bay and the gulf. Many of its low-rise condos, villas, and three- and four-story homes, ranging from Mediterranean to coastal contemporary, are on the shell-crushed beach.

BAYSHORE

Anchored by the Naples Botanical Garden, this 1,800-acre area south of U.S. 41, east of Naples is undergoing a revitalization centered on creating a walkable neighborhood arts district with co ages and condominiums as well as recreational and cultural facilities. Many new businesses are opening and new homes are going up.

COQUINA SANDS

Winding streets lined with mature ficus, banyan, and palm trees tell the story of Coquina Sands as the first community to develop beyond the borders of Old Naples. Encompassing the beachfront Lowdermilk Park, many of Coquina Sands’ original Old Florida-style, single-family homes and condominiums are being transformed, much like its neighbor, the historic Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club.

EAST NAPLES

The eastern corridor along U.S. 41 features a wide range of suburban neighborhoods and master-planned communities including golf-centric TPC Treviso Bay and the sprawling, five-mile Lely Resort.

EVERGLADES CITY

Far flung from any mall or high-rise, Everglades City is a slice of natural Florida brushing up against the Everglades and recognized as the “gateway to the Ten Thousand Islands.” The onesquare-mile incorporated city with a population of 400 is an ideal outpost for those seeking rural, small-town-America charm, game fishing, and water pursuits.

GOLDEN GATE ESTATES

A rural area of about 41,000 rambling acres, Golden Gate Estates’ acre-plus properties provide breathing space between neighboring homes, the opportunity to own horses, and a serene se ing within heavily wooded areas. It’s targeted as a major growth center as the population continues to swell.

The Moorings

Ave Maria

Pelican Bay

Pelican Bay

Bayshore

JOHN EDER

JOHN EDER

IMMOKALEE

Se led in the 1870s by hunters, traders, and ranchers, Immokalee maintains its agrarian roots. Its farms yield the majority of America’s tomato crop and the University of Florida’s Southwest Florida Research and Education Center is located here. The Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee draws national entertainment throughout the year.

Service Trust Results

LAKE PARK

Lake Park is made up of 450 homes, with an average construction date of 1970, on canopied streets with bike pathways. Small enclaves have their own distinct names; Lake Manor, Lake Forrest, and Lake Park unified as a homeowner’s association long ago. Proximity to schools, businesses, and five parks make this a family-friendly neighborhood.

MARCO ISLAND

At 24 square miles, Marco is the largest barrier island of the Everglades’ mangrove-tangled Ten Thousand Islands. With 100 miles of waterways, the island a racts those who want a boat in the backyard and the convenience of shopping, restaurants, and on-island health care. Many of its singlefamily homes and condominiums are located on the gulf, canals, or bays.

Lynn Charlas White Broker Associate

Old Naples

The Moorings JOHN EDER

THE MOORINGS

North of downtown Naples along the gulf, the Moorings is one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods with tree-lined streets, mature landscaping, and mostly single-family homes on large lots. At 1,300 acres, it’s the city of Naples’ largest subdivision and is not gated, yet offers the amenities of a gated community, including a private country club and beach. Homes on Doctor’s Bay enjoy mile-long views to Village Shops on Venetian Bay and gulf access via Doctor’s Pass.

NAPLES PARK

Once a working-class neighborhood, this onesquare-mile community has come into its own as a new wave of buyers discovers its proximity

to the gulf, shopping, dining, and entertainment, including Mercato. Many of Naples Park’s original 1970s-era homes are being torn down to make way for pricier single-family homes.

NAPLES SQUARE/BAYFRONT

Ambitious revitalization has brought an era of change to the area east of Old Naples bounded by U.S. 41 and the Gordon River. Mid-rise condominiums offer on-site amenities and locations easily walkable to Fi h Avenue South, Tin City, and the Naples Design

District. On the east side of Goodle e-Frank Road are riverfront parks and conservation areas, the new single-family Mangrove Bay with boat slips, and the commercial-residential Bayfront.

OLD NAPLES

Naples’ first neighborhood, Old Naples is highly desired for its proximity to downtown, the beach, and the Naples Pier. Its architecturally diverse homes include original 1900s co ages, mid-rise condominiums, and multimilliondollar mansions along the Gulf and Naples Bay.

Marco Island

Neighborhoods in Naples

PARK

SHORE

Featuring wide streets, beachside parks, lush green spaces, and plentiful gulf and bay views, Park Shore is sought out by young families, professionals, and retirees. With the picturesque Village Shops on Venetian Bay as a landmark, there is a range of choices: single-family homes, low- and mid-rise condos, and waterfront highrise towers.

PELICAN BAY

This sprawling community of more than 2,100 acres stretches from the gulf to U.S. 41, offering at least 65 individual neighborhoods, high-rise condominiums, and a wide variety of housing options and prices—from the triple-gated The Strand to smaller villas and condo units. Amenities for residents include a private beach club, 27 holes of golf, fitness, tennis, and on-site

restaurants. Artis—Naples and Waterside Shops are close by.

PINE RIDGE

This rambling neighborhood of new and 1970s-era single-family homes along the east side of U.S. 41 south of Vanderbilt Beach Road encompasses more than what initially meets the eye. Within its boundaries are seven lakes and

Vanderbilt Beach

large estate lots accommodating spacious homes with stables, riding arenas, tennis courts, and guesthouses.

PORT ROYAL

Naples’ most exclusive address is home to a who’s who of business magnates, philanthropists, and jet-se ers. Located at the city’s

southernmost point, Port Royal’s sprawling beachfront and bayside estates are hidden behind towering hedges and lush landscaping. The members-only Port Royal Club offers beach access, tennis, dining, and other amenities.

ROYAL HARBOR

Located on Naples Bay across from Port Royal, Royal Harbor is a boater’s paradise. All of its new and older homes enjoy waterfront lots along canals and the bay with gulf access.

SEAGATE

At the northern border of the City of Naples, abu ing the Pelican Bay neighborhood, Seagate is a quiet community with 90 homes, many of them waterfront with gulf access. Residents enjoy a private, gulf-front beach and clubhouse. It is located off Seagate Drive between Naples Cay and Crayton Road.

VANDERBILT BEACH

South of Barefoot Beach, this neighborhood offers a multitude of new and older single-family homes on canals, bays, and the beach, and a mix of gulf-front, low- to high-rise condos, including the new, luxury Mystique. Vanderbilt Beach is an idyllic spot for boaters and nature lovers.

Pelican Bay

JOHN EDER JOHN EDER

Port Royal

You’ll Love Life in a

BIG KIND OF SMALL TOWN

Looking to live in a community that combines an active lifestyle with the charm and friendliness of a small town? Ave Maria is just the place. A place with fresh air and wide-open spaces, rounds of golf, a Town Center with shopping and dining, pre-K through post-grad schools, and so much more. There’s always something fun happening in town — from live entertainment to signature events. As one of the nation’s top-selling master planned communities, Ave Maria is home to a vibrant mix of active adults, growing families, and young professionals.

CC Homes

CC Homes offers 18 single-family floor plans from 1,200 to more than 4,000 square feet. At Maple Ridge, every home includes stylish and contemporary finishes as standard and countless options for customizations in the Home Design Studio. Tour the Club at Maple Ridge, the exclusive resort-style recreation center for residents. Eight designer-furnished model homes are open daily for you to envision and experience your Ave Maria dream home. From the $400s.

Del Webb Naples

At Del Webb Naples, active adults find the home of their dreams and a lifestyle to match. Homes here range from 1,400 to 3,600 square feet and feature 2 to 5-bedrooms. Come out today and explore the amenities at Del Webb and book a round of golf at Panther Run Golf Club. Model homes open daily. From the $300s.

Pulte Homes

Personalize your dream new home with Pulte Homes at Avalon Park, conveniently located within walking distance to the Town Center. This national homebuilder’s floor plans, ranging from 2 to 7 bedrooms with flexible living spaces, are Life Tested® by actual homeowners, giving you the very best and latest in modern home designs. Brand new model homes are open daily. From the mid $400s.

Lennar Homes

Lennar’s brand-new community, The National Golf & Country Club at Ave Maria, offers resort-style living and its signature residential home designs from terraces to estate homes. All floor plans incorporate Lennar’s signature Everything’s Included® program which provides you a high level of standard features already included with the price of the home. Visit the new model homes and 18-hole championship golf course. From the $200s.

Come Visit Us in Ave Maria

Over 25 Models Open Daily

For more information visit AveMaria.com or call 239.352.3903. Take I-75 exit 111 (Immokalee Rd) east; turn right onto Oil Well Rd; then approximately 10 minutes to the main Ave Maria entrance..

*Prices and availability are subject to change.

Flavors

ASIAN

AZN AZIAN CUIZINE (239) 593-8818

Mercato, 9118 Strada Place, Naples aznrestaurant.com

NAMBA RAMEN & SUSHI

(239) 592-4992

8847 Tamiami Trail N., Naples nambanaples.com

Guide

ZEN ASIAN BBQ (239) 260-7037

10823 Tamiami Trail N., Naples eatatzen.com

BAKERIES AND SWEETS

MENCHIE’S FROZEN YOGURT (239) 572-8936

6355 Naples Blvd., Ste. 4-B, Naples menchies.com

Naples is as widely respected for its gastronomical excellence as it is for its stunning shorelines. Here is a select list of local spots to get you started. For additional recommendations, reviews, and more, visit naplesillustrated. com or the Greater Naples Chamber business directory at napleschamber.org.

TONY’S OFF THIRD (239) 262-7999

1300 Third St. S., Naples tonysoffthird.com

VAMPIRE PENGUIN OF NAPLES (844) 844-SNOW

Galleria Shoppes at Vanderbilt, 2355 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Ste. 142, Naples vampirepenguinswfl.com

CASUAL

BEACH BOX CAFÉ (239) 631-6080

9020 Gulf Shore Drive, Naples

bubbakoos.com

COSMOS RISTORANTE & PIZZERIA

(239) 262-8181

536 Tamiami Trail N., Naples cosmospizzanaples.com

DYLAN’S DRAFT HOUSE

(239) 300-0192

1258 Airport-Pulling Road N., Naples dylansdrafthouse.com

EJ’S BAYFRONT CAFE

(239) 353-4444

469 Bayfront Place, Naples ejsbayfrontcafe.com

NORMAN LOVE CONFECTIONS

(239) 687-7215

3747 Tamiami Trail N., Naples normanloveconfections.com

NOTHING BUNDT CAKES

(239) 294-2484

1410 Pine Ridge Road, Unit 9, Naples nothingbundtcakes.com

BAMBU TROPICAL BAR & GRILLE

(239) 649-5800

Bayfront Inn, 1221 Fifth Ave. S., Naples bayfrontinnnaples.com

BUBBAKOO’S BURRITOS NAPLES

(239) 880-1874

6345 Naples Blvd., Naples

FIRST WATCH

(239) 304-0746

7163 Radio Road, Naples firstwatch.com

JASON’S DELI

(239) 593-9499

2700 lmmokalee Road, Ste. 1, Naples jasonsdeli.com

Eat in Naples

Hyde N Chic

Sails

Yabba Island Grill

MEL’S DINER (239) 643-9898

3650 Tamiami Trail N., Naples 455-4242

12035 Collier Blvd., Naples melsdiners.com

NARRATIVE COFFEE ROASTERS (239) 218-7316

Mercato, 9106 Strada Place, Ste. 4105, Naples narrativecoffeeroasters.com

RIVERWALK AT TIN CITY (239) 263-2734

1200 Fifth Ave. S., Naples riverwalktincity.com

SAM SNEAD’S TAVERN AT LELY RESORT

(239) 793-6623

8004 Lely Resort Blvd., Naples samsneadslely.com

SUNBURST CAFÉ

(239) 263-3123

Pine Ridge Crossing Plaza, 2340 Pine Ridge Road, Naples sunburstnaples.com

TEXAS ROADHOUSE (239) 417-1111

6815 Collier Blvd., Naples texasroadhouse.com

THE COUNTER CUSTOM BURGERS

(239) 566-0644

Mercato, 9110 Strada Place, Ste. 6130, Naples

thecounter.com

THE CRUST (239) 244-8488

8004 Trail Blvd., Naples

The Pavilion, 875 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples thecrustpizza.net

THE HANGOUT BY TWO GUYS (239) 784-4177

2360 Pine Ridge Road, Naples

THE LOCAL (239) 596-3276

5323 Airport-Pulling Road, Naples thelocalnaples.com

THREE60 MARKET AND WINE SHOP (239) 732-7331

2891 Bayview Drive three60market.com

YARD HOUSE (239) 263-3773

4251 Tamiami Trail N., Naples yardhouse.com

CUBAN

FERNANDEZ THE BULL CUBAN CAFE (239) 653-9097

3375 Pine Ridge Road, Naples (239) 254-9855

1201 Piper Blvd., Unit 10, Naples fernandezthebull.com

RUMBA CUBAN CAFÉ (239) 659-2996

1265 Airport-Pulling Road S., Naples rumbacubancafe.com

SANDY’S CUBAN CAFE (239) 331-8204

1383 Airport-Pulling Road, Naples sandyscubancafenaples.com

Bistro 821

Grappino

Zen Asian BBQ

Bleu Provence

LUMINAIRE FOTO

SAMANTHA BLOOM

MICHAEL CARONCHI

Eat in Naples

AMERICAN/ EUROPEAN/ MIDDLE EASTERN

ALEXANDER’S RESTAURANT

(239) 262-4999

4077 Tamiami Trail N., Naples alexandersnaples.com

BHA! BHA!

PERSIAN BISTRO (239) 594-5557

865 Fifth Ave. S., Naples bhabhabistro.com

BLUE MARTINI (239) 591-2583

Mercato, 9114 Strada Place, #12105, Naples naples.bluemartinilounge.com

BRICKTOP’S (239) 596-9112

Waterside Shops, 5555 Tamiami Trail N., Naples bricktops.com/naples

BURNTWOOD TAVERN (239) 631-8964

Mercato, 9110 Strada Place, Ste. 6135, Naples burntwoodtavern.com

COOPER’S HAWK WINERY RESTAURANT (239) 449-1700

11905 Tamiami Trail N., Naples chwinery.com

KC AMERICAN BISTRO (239) 566-2371

885 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples kcamericanbistro.com

KAREEM’S LEBANESE KITCHEN (239) 315-4167

4270 Tamiami Trail E, Naples kareemskitchen.com

LAMORAGA INTERNATIONAL CUISINE & TAPAS (239) 331-3669

3936 Tamiami Trail N., Naples lamoragarestaurant.com

RIDGWAY BAR & GRILL (239) 262-5500

1300 Third St. S., Naples ridgwaybarandgrill.com

THE BEVY (239) 228-4220

360 12th Ave S., Naples naplesbevy.com

THE DOCK AT CRAYTON COVE (239) 263-9940

845 12th Ave. S., Naples dockcraytoncove.com

Bha! Bha! Persian Bistro

Namba

VANESSA ROGERS PHOTOGRAPHY

VANESSA ROGERS PHOTOGRAPHY

THE HAMPTON SOCIAL (239) 202-2038

Mercato, 9114 Strada Place, #12110, Naples thehamptonsocial.com

THE PEWTER MUG NORTH (239) 347-4092

14700 Tamiami Trail N., Ste. 14, Naples pewtermugnorth.com

SEASONS 52 (239) 594-8852

8930 Tamiami Trail N., Naples seasons52.com

TOMMY BAHAMA RESTAURANT (239) 643-6889

1220 Third St. S., Naples tommybahama.com/restaurants

FRENCH

BLEU PROVENCE

(239) 261-8239

1234 Eighth St. S., Naples bleuprovencenaples.com

CHEZ BOËT

(239) 643-6177

755 12th Ave. S., Naples chezboetnaples.com

ESCARGOT 41 (239) 793-5000

4339 Tamiami Trail N., Naples escargot41.com

THE FRENCH BRASSERIE RUSTIQUE (239) 315-4019

365 Fifth Ave. S., Naples thefrenchnaples.com

GREEK

MYKONOS KUZINA

(239) 325-8502

13510 Tamiami Trail N., Naples mykonoskuzina.com

PELAGOS CAFE

(239) 263-2996

4951 Tamiami Trail N., Naples

INDIAN

21 SPICES BY CHEF ASIF (239) 919-8830

4270 Tamiami Trail E., Ste. 21, Naples 21spicesdining.com

PASSAGE TO INDIA (239) 513-0024

975 Imperial Golf Course Blvd., Bonita Springs thetasteofbangladesh.com

ITALIAN

ALDOS ITALIAN TABLE & BAR

(239) 659-2536

4820 Davis Blvd., Naples aldosnaples.com

AMORE

(239) 643-2201

Neapolitan Way, 4681 Ninth St. N., Naples amoreristorante.com

BARBATELLA

(239) 263-1955

1290 Third St. S., Naples barbatellanaples.com

BICE RISTORANTE (239) 262-4044

300 Fifth Ave. S., Naples bice-naples.com

BiCE Ristorante

MICHAE L CARONCHI

Eat in Naples

TRULUCK’S (239) 530-3131

698 Fourth Ave. S., Naples trulucks.com

USS NEMO RESTAURANT (239) 261-6366

3745 Tamiami Trail N., Naples ussnemorestaurant.com

STEAKHOUSES

BRIO ITALIAN GRILLE

(239) 593-5319

Waterside Shops, 5505 Tamiami Trail N., Ste. J1, Naples brioitalian.com

CAMPIELLO

(239) 435-1166

1177 Third St. S., Naples campiellonaples.com

DEROMO’S GOURMET MARKET & RESTAURANT

(239) 325-3583

Promenade at Bonita Bay, 2 6811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs deromos.com

MINO ITALIAN PIZZERIA NAPLES

(239) 302-5990

1100 Sixth Ave. S., Ste. 1, Naples minofl.com

MIRAMARE RISTORANTE

(239) 430-6273

4236 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples miramarenaples.com

OSTERIA TULIA/BAR TULIA

(239) 213-2073 / (239) 228-7606

466 and 462 Fifth Ave. S., Naples osteriatulia.com / bartulia.com

PARMESAN PETE’S ITALIAN KITCHEN

(239) 992-3663

7935 Airport-Pulling Road, Naples parmesanpetes.com

VERGINA

(239) 659-7008

700 Fifth Ave. S., Naples verginarestaurant.com

MEXICAN

FELIPE’S MEXICAN TAQUERIA (239) 302-1444

4255 Tamiami Trail N., Naples felipestaqueria.com

K-RICO MEXICAN GRILL (239) 316-7662

475 Bayfront Place, Naples kricomexicangrill.com

ROCCO’S TACOS & TEQUILA BAR

(239) 500-8226

Mercato, 9123 Strada Place, #7135 A14, Naples roccostacos.com

TACOS & TEQUILA CANTINA

(239) 254-8226

8971 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (239) 732-8226

4834 Davis Blvd., Naples tacosandtequilanaples.com

TURCO TACO (239) 331-4527

410 Ninth St. N., Naples (239) 431-6682

1514 Immokalee Road, #116, Naples theturcotaco.com

SEAFOOD

THE BAY HOUSE (239) 591-3837

799 Walkerbilt Road, Naples bayhousenaples.com

BAYSIDE SEAFOOD GRILL & BAR

(239) 649-5552

4270 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples baysideseafoodgrillandbar.com

THE BOATHOUSE ON NAPLES BAY (239) 643-2235

990 Broad Ave. S., Naples naplesboathouse.com

BONEFISH GRILL

(239) 417-1212

1500 Fifth Ave S., Naples bonefishgrill.com

THE CLAW BAR (239) 231-3912

221 Ninth St. S., Naples theclawbar.com

DEEP LAGOON (239) 880-3337

8777 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (239) 235-7497

760 N. Collier Blvd., Suite 105. Marco Island deeplagoon.com

M WATERFRONT GRILLE (239) 263-4421

4300 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples mwaterfrontgrille.com

REAL SEAFOOD COMPANY OF NAPLES (239) 591-3523

Galleria Shoppes at Vanderbilt, 8960 Fontana Del Sol Way, Naples realseafoodconaples.com

SEA SALT (239) 434-7258

1186 Third St. S., Naples seasaltnaples.com

TWO FILLETS (239) 788-0222

10395 Tamiami Trail N. twofillets.com

ANDRE’S STEAKHOUSE (239) 263-5851

2800 Tamiami Trail N., Naples andressteakhouse.com

DORONA (239) 529-2819

2110 Ninth St. N., Naples doronanaples.com

FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR (239) 598-2424

8985 Tamiami Trail N., Naples flemingssteakhouse.com

OCEAN PRIME (239) 430-0404

699 Fifth Ave. S., Naples ocean-prime.com

SHULA’S STEAK HOUSE (239) 430-4999

5111 Tamiami Trail N., Naples shulasnaples.com

THE CAPITAL GRILLE (239) 254-0640

9005 Mercato Drive, Naples thecapitalgrille.com

THE CONTINENTAL AMERICAN PROVISIONS & CRAFT BAR (239) 659-0007

1205 Third St. S., Naples damicoscontinental.com

THE PEARL STEAK & SEAFOOD RESTAURANT (239) 591-5939

7935 Airport-Pulling Road N., Ste. 20, Naples thepearlnaples.com

Dorona SAMANTHA BLOOM Vergina

Shopping

Paradise

Shopping Guide

Galleria Shoppes at Vanderbilt

A Mediterranean-style setting provides a relaxing ambiance at Galleria Shoppes at Vanderbilt, where visitors discover unique stores like Zazou, Naples Wine Collection, Kathryn’s Collection, and Pop Toy Company, plus upscale consignment shops True Fashionistas and Designer Divas. Grab a bite at Flaco’s or Mystic Lobster Roll Company. If you seek local honey, baked goods, and flowers, the Shoppes host a yearround farmer’s market. (Vanderbilt Beach Road at Airport-Pulling Road, shopvanderbilt.com)

Mercato

Mercato is home to perennial fashion favorites such as Tommy Bahama, Jos. A. Bank, and Nordstrom Rack, and unique finds like Lu Lu Belle of Naples children’s boutique. This lifestyle center also holds Cariloha Bamboo, an ecofriendly home store, Whole Foods, East West Fine Art, Sur La Table, and Zen Aveda Salon. Mercato has a dozen places to eat, drink, or indulge in a treat, as well as the state-of-the art Silverspot Cinema. (U.S. 41 north of Vanderbilt Beach Road, mercatoshops.com)

FROM THE DOCK TO THE DANCE FLOOR, FIND WHAT YOU NEED TO MAKE ANY OCCASION SPARKLE AT NAPLES’ WIDE SELECTION OF SHOPPING DESTINATIONS

Fifth Avenue South SAMANTHA BLOOM

Village Shops on Venetian Bay

Waterside Shops

At the south end of Pelican Bay, Waterside Shops has 60 shops and restaurants—anchored by Saks Fifth Avenue—which draw affluent shoppers to Carolina Herrera, Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., Rolex, L’Occitane, and Johnny Was. Many other popular stores offer something for everyone in the family, including Anthropologie, Apple, Beach House of Naples, Pottery Barn, Lilly Pulitzer, La Maison Yamron, and Tesla. (U.S. 41 at Seagate Drive, watersideshops.com)

Village Shops on Venetian Bay

More than 45 upscale shops and restaurants are set in the old-world ambience of the Village Shops on Venetian Bay, a waterfront shopping destination. Meander through upscale shops A Horse of a Different Color, Wildflower, Teruzzi menswear, Sara Campbell, Wm. Phelps Custom Jewelers, Casanova Venetian Glass & Art, and Sukie’s Wine Shop. You’ll also find big names such as J. McLaughlin, Sperry, and Tommy Bahama. (Gulf Shore Boulevard North at Park Shore, venetianvillage.com)

Coastland Center

Coastland Center, Naples’ only indoor shopping mall, lets you beat the heat or rain while perusing goods at Dillard’s, Macy’s, Aéropostale, Hollister, and Hallmark, or relaxing in an oversized, reclining leather seat at CMX CinéBistro Coastland. (1900 Tamiami Trail N., coastlandcenter.com)

Tin City

Tin City—a kitschy, fun-filled destination for your northern visitors—is a collection of tinroofed old Florida buildings on the Gordon River. A former oyster- and clam-processing plant, it offers more than 40 locally owned shops, restaurants, and water-based adventures and boat rides. (Fifth Avenue South and Twelfth Street South, tincityofnaples.com)

Third Street South

Head to downtown’s Third Street South for fashions from the renowned luxury boutique for men and women, Marissa Collections. From surfer threads to classic looks, there are endless options along the promenade, including Maus & Hoffman, John Craig Clothier, and C. Orrico, a Lilly Pulitzer boutique. This sophisticated destination for art, antiques, home and garden decor, gourmet food and wine, and jewelry boasts award-winning dining at Campiello Ristorante & Bar, Sea Salt, Jane’s Garden Café on 3rd, Ridgway Bar & Grill, and The Continental. (thirdstreetsouth.com)

Waterside Shops

JOHN EDER

WATERSIDE SHOPS

CLIFFORD PICKETT

Galleria Shoppes at Vanderbilt

Mercato

Third Street South

in Naples

home!

Fifth Avenue South

Nearby Fi h Avenue South, Naples’ historic business district, encompasses three dozen restaurants and cafés, as well as a dazzling collection of galleries, jewelry and clothing boutiques, and health, beauty, and wellness offerings. You’ll discover Alice Simone, Arabesque of Naples stationer, Giggle Moon children’s wear, Aldo Castillo Gallery, Kaleidoscope Home, Lovejoy Antiques, Port Royal Jewelers, and Bluemercury. Hungry shoppers don’t need to leave the avenue. Delectable dining choices include Sails, Brambles English Tearoom, The French Brasserie Rustique, Pazzo! Italian Café, BiCE Ristorante, and a whole lot more. (fi havenuesouth.com)

Marco Island

Beach Daisy, on the south end of the island, is a favorite for women’s clothing and accessories, while Island Style Clothing—on the northern tip—is a go-

Shopping

Miromar Outlets

Fifth Avenue South

to for resort wear and shoes. The Esplanade Shoppes on Smokehouse Bay includes mulitfamily residences and a marina, as well as Island Cheese Company, Bu erfly Beach, and a yoga studio. (esplanadeshoppesatmarcoisland.com)

Coconut Point

Coconut Point is a picturesque outdoor mall featuring 110 stores including Dillard’s, Apple, Michael Kors, J. Jill, Sephora, Tervis, and Barnes & Noble, as well as restaurants surrounding several acres of lakes with a boardwalk. You’ll also discover li le gems like Laura Jacob’s Bridal and Naples Soap Company. Before a show at the 16-screen Regal Coconut Point, indulge at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, South Fork Grille, or Tony Sacco’s pizzeria, or Amfora Mediterranean Restaurant. (Estero, Fashion Drive off U.S. 41, simon.com/mall/coconut-point)

Miromar Outlets

Miromar Outlets’ store directory is music to discount shoppers’ ears: Columbia Sportswear, Talbots, Reebok, Vans, Vineyard Vines, Levi’s, Guess, and Saks Fi h Avenue Off 5th. There are more than 140 designer and brand-name outlets for the home and everyone in the family. Sweetslovers also make regular treks to patronize Norman Love Confections and Le Macaron French Pastries. There are 16 rock climbing FunWalls at the award-winning Playland. (Estero, Corkscrew Road, miromaroutlets.com)

Esplanade Shoppes at Marco Island

Coconut Point

Be Our

Guest

Hotel Guide

Naples has accommodations to meet every traveler’s needs. Whether you have your heart set on a beachside bungalow, high-rise suite, all-inclusive resort, or a spot in the middle of all of the action, you will find it here, in price ranges that will fit your budget. Find out more at the Greater Naples Chamber accommodations directory at napleschamber.org.

BAYFRONT INN 5TH AVE.

92 Rooms 1221 Fifth Ave. S., Naples, FL 34102 (239) 649-5800 (800) 382-7941 bayfrontinnnaples.com

BELLASERA RESORT

100 Rooms 221 Ninth St. S., Naples, FL 34102 (844) 652-7290 | bellaseranaples.com

BEST WESTERN INN & SUITES

110 Rooms 2329 Ninth St. N., Naples, FL 34103 (239) 261-1148 | (800) 243-1148 bestwesternnaples.com

COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT-NAPLES

102 Rooms 3250 Tamiami Trail N., Naples, FL 34103 (239) 434-8700 (800) 321-2211 marriott.com

DOUBLETREE SUITES BY HILTON NAPLES

101 Rooms 12200 Tamiami Trail N., Naples, FL 34110 (239) 593-8733 (800) 222-8733 doubletreenaples.com

the Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón

Edgewater Beach Hotel

EDGEWATER BEACH HOTEL

125 Rooms

1901 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples, FL 34102

(239) 403-2000

(866) 624-1695

edgewaternaples.com

FAIRFIELD INN & SUITES BY MARRIOTT

190 Rooms

3808 White Lake Blvd., Naples, FL 34117 (239) 530-3355

marriott.com

GONDOLIER INN

9 Rooms 407 Eighth Ave. S., Naples, FL 34102 (239) 262-4858

gondolierinn.com

GREENLINKS GOLF VILLAS AT LELY RESORT

1 10 Rooms

7995 Mahogany Run Lane, Naples, FL 34113 (239) 732-9920 | (888) 992-2099

greenlinksnaples.com

GULFCOAST INN NAPLES

87 Rooms 2555 Ninth St. N., Naples, FL 34103 (239) 261-6046

gulfcoastinnnaples.com

HAMPTON INN BY HILTONBONITA SPRINGS/ NAPLES NORTH

92 Rooms

27900 Crown Lake Blvd., Bonita Springs, FL 34135 (239) 947-9393

hilton.com/en/hampton

HAMPTON INN BY HILTONNAPLES I-75

91 Rooms

2630 Northbrooke Plaza

Drive, Naples, FL 34119 (239) 596-1299 (800) 426-7866

hilton.com/en/Hampton

HAWTHORN SUITES OF NAPLES

82 Rooms

3557 Pine Ridge Road, Naples, FL 34109 (239) 593-1300

hawthornnaples.com

HILTON NAPLES

199 Rooms

5111 Tamiami Trail N., Naples, FL 34103 (239) 430-4900

hiltonnaples.com

HILTON MARCO ISLAND

BEACH RESORT AND SPA

310 Rooms 560 S. Collier Blvd., Marco Island, FL 34145

(239) 394-5000

hiltonmarcoisland.com

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES NAPLES DOWNTOWN FIFTH AVENUE

124 Rooms

1785 Fifth Ave. S., Naples, FL 34102 (239) 261-3500

ihg.com/holidayinn

HOME 2 SUITES BY HILTON

99 Rooms

3685 Kramer Drive, Naples, FL 3410 (239) 598-2222

hilton.com/en/hotels

HYATT HOUSE NAPLES/FIFTH AVENUE

83 Rooms

1345 Fifth Ave. S., Naples, FL 34102 (239) 775-1000

hyatt.com

Bellasera Resort

LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort

Hyatt House Naples/Fifth Avenue

Naples Grande Beach Resort

RED ROOF INN AND SUITES-NAPLES

157 Rooms

1925 Davis Blvd., Naples, FL 34104

(239) 774-3117

redroof.com

RESIDENCE INN BY MARRIOTT

120 Rooms

4075 Tamiami Trail N., Naples, FL 34103

(239) 659-1300

(888) 236-2427

marriott.com

THE RITZ-CARLTON NAPLES, TIBURÓN

295 Rooms

2600 Tiburon Drive, Naples, FL 34109

(239) 593-2000

(800) 542-8680

ritzcarlton.com

SHANGRI-LA SPRINGS

1 Room, 2 Suites

27750 Old 41 Road., Bonita Springs, FL 34135

(239) 949-0749

shangrilasprings.co m

SPRINGHILL SUITES BY MARRIOTT 102 Suites

3798 White Lake Blvd., Naples, FL 34117

(239) 352-2234

marriott.com

STAYBRIDGE SUITES

NAPLES-GULF COAST

122 Suites

4805 Tamiami Trail N., Naples, FL 34103

The Life You Deserve

(239) 643-8002

(877) 238-8889

ihg.com/staybridge

STAYBRIDGE SUITESNAPLES/MARCO ISLAND

103 Rooms

9401 Triangle Blvd.,

Naples, FL 34113

(239) 774-1200

(877) 238-8889

ihg.com/Staybridge

TOWNEPLACE SUITES BY MARRIOTT NAPLES

131 Suites

5425 Juliet Blvd.,

Naples, FL 34109

(239) 213-3334

marriott.com

VANDERBILT BEACH RESORT 34 Rooms

9225 Gulfshore Drive N., Naples, FL 34108

(239) 597-3144

(800) 243-9076

vanderbiltbeachresort.com

WHITE SANDS RESORT CLUB

Vacation Property Management

260 Third St. S., Naples, FL 34102 6304

(239) 261-4144

vacationnet.com

WOODSPRING SUITES NAPLES 123 Rooms

3786 White Lake Blvd., Naples, FL 34117

(239) 239-351-2299

woodspring.com

When you choose Beach House, you’ll experience home in every sense of the word. Our residents and families love our exceptional Assisted Living and Memory Care, restaurant-style dining, and commitment to health and safety. Home may be a place, but it’s also a feeling, a way of life, and something we take seriously.

Hometown Groceries & Hardware

The longest-running business in Naples, Wynn’s Market, has thrived, grown, and modernized alongside the town.

It began in 1938, when Peter Parley Wynn purchased the Bayview Inn, located in Crayton Cove. Peter and his wife Vida also operated a grocery store and restaurant at the Bayview Inn. They had come to Naples from Lakeland, Florida, where they owned another grocery store that was le under the control of their 22-yearold son, Don. A er serving in World War II, Don relocated to Naples to work with his parents—and the family has been a community fixture ever since.

Don married Annie Merle Echols and they raised five children—who are all still living in Naples. In 1948, the Wynns built Naples’ first modern grocery store, Wynn’s Sunshine Super Market, on Fi h Avenue South. In 1953, the Wynns opened a much larger grocery store east of their first Fi h Avenue supermarket. In 1958, the original building became the birth-

place of another well-known Wynn enterprise: Sunshine Ace Hardware

Future generations built on their grandfather’s success by expanding Wynn’s Market’s gourmet foods line and creating from-scratch bakery and wine and spirits departments

Today, there are 11 Sunshine Ace Hardware stores in Southwest Florida with a handyman service offered at each, a commercial paint store, Wynn’s Market, and Wynn Properties.

Don’s oldest grandson, Michael A. Wynn, is president of Sunshine Ace Hardware. He remembers bagging groceries at the Fi h Avenue South market when he was 15 years old.

“I feel that the business chose me. It’s hard work, with long hours,” he says. “It was in my blood, and I had a strong passion for building on my family’s legacy to serve the Southwest Florida community.”

Wynn, like family members who run other divisions of the Wynn Family of Companies, is civically engaged through his service on many boards, including the Florida Gulf University Board of Trustees, NCH Healthcare System, and the Greater Naples Chamber, where he is past chair, and Leadership Collier Foundation. He also is a graduate of Leadership Collier. In 2019, he was named Naples Daily News’ Outstanding Citizen of the Year.

Wynn says his family’s 10 core values and people-first culture have fueled their business success. He holds true Don’s advice: “If you take care of your people, they will take care of your customers, and the business will take care of itself.” Wynn is also happy to share another insight he’s learned during his career: “Trust takes years to build, seconds to break, and forever to repair.”

The hardware and grocery stores on Ninth Street North—where they are still popular—in 1964

Sunshine Ace Hardware

Wynn’s Market deli

FOR 85 YEARS, FOUR GENERATIONS OF THE WYNN FAMILY HAVE DELIVERED

Don Wynn installs the first refrigerated meat case in Naples in 1950

Peter and Vida Wynn