T R AV E L T H E W O R L D L O O K I N G F O R
PAR ADISE
®
B U T C O M E H O M E TO S O U T H W E S T F L O R I D A
Bring Your Highest Expectations™
CONTENTS Bring Your Highest Expectations™
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Resource Listings 4 Beaches 8 Golfing 10 Shopping 4
12 Dining 16 Boating 19 Fine Arts & Culture 21 Attractions 24 Parks & Recreation 26 Key Areas (Communities) 38 Important Numbers
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40 Education 43 Hospitals 45 Elder Care 46 Hotels 49 Business & Employment 51 Affiliations
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Welcome Chances are you are reading this because you too have become enchanted by the pristine beauty and lifestyle quality of Southwest Florida. Nothing compares to the lush tropical landscapes, white sand beaches, and Gulf breezes that meander through the streets and sidewalks, day after sunny day. It is known as the “Golf Capital of the World”, although that does not provide proper credit to the many other outdoor and recreational activities that are found in the area. Cultural opportunities are numerous, health care is superb, and educational facilities culminate in multiple higher degree institutions, including a highly respected state university. Quite simply, southwest Florida is a great place to live. Soon after you visit, the lifestyle implores you to stay as it has for many who now call Southwest Florida their home.
John R. Wood Starting as an attorney and migrating to real estate, John
Wood has nearly six decades of service to the perfection of the business, betterment of the community, and volunteer leadership to the Realtor organizations, including his position as President of National Association of Realtors, with over one million members. His leadership has taken the company to a position of high respect within Florida and across the United States as an organization that truly exemplifies dedication to excellence. His extensive involvement in local civic and charitable organizations has earned him prestigious honors such as the Junior Achievement Hall of Fame Laureate and a place among Naples’ business elite.
Founder, John R. Wood
John R. Wood Properties As the oldest real estate firm in Southwest Florida, John R. Wood Properties can help you make Southwest Florida your permanent residence or your home away from home. The agents are knowledgeable, experienced, and will guide you through the home search process for a smooth transaction. The professionals at the Wood firm have led to it being the market leader.
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Come bask in all that Southwest Florida has to offer.
Miles and Miles of …
Beaches It is no secret that people flock to Southwest Florida for its inviting year-round temperatures and the pristine beaches that give the area its nickname of Paradise! The soft white sand and clear blue water are what create tropical dreams. From Fort Myers to Marco Island, you’ll find vegetation and wildlife near the water that few places in the United States can offer. On the following pages are a few of our favorite beach getaways.
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CLAM PASS Clam Pass is a 35-acre county park of coastal habitat that provides beach access via a three-quarter of a mile boardwalk, with a tram. If you’re looking to get away from it all, Clam Pass is located at Seagate Drive and Crayton Road. DELNOR-WIGGINS PASS STATE PARK One of the most popular seashore destinations in Naples, this park’s mile-long stretch of white sugar sand has been rated as one of the best beaches in the nation. The beach is popular for sunbathing, swimming, beachcombing, snorkeling, and picnicking. For saltwater or freshwater fishing, boaters can launch their vessels into Water Turkey Bay and travel to the Gulf or up the Cocohatchee River. Kayakers can enjoy paddling through estuaries; scuba divers can explore the hard bottom reef in the Gulf. At the north end of the island, a tower gives visitors a bird’s-eye view of Wiggins Pass and the surrounding coastal habitat. NOTE: To avoid overcrowding during the busy winter season, the park closes its gates when it reaches maximum capacity. Located in North Naples five miles west of I - 75-exit 111. KEEWAYDIN ISLAND This gorgeous island has no vehicle traffic and is only accessible by boat. It is a favorite for boaters and fishermen on the weekends. Drop your anchor and enjoy the fun, and don’t be surprised if you see an iguana on the shore!
Collier County Beaches Naples and Marco Island The beaches of Naples and Marco Island are globally recognized as some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Every year, one or more beaches in Collier County are ranked by Travel Magazine and TripAdvisor.com on several annual top beach destination lists. This is not surprising considering there’s much about the unspoiled coastline to enjoy including soft sand, a fishing pier, and wildlife sightings. From Tigertail Beach to Lowdermilk Park to Delnor Wiggins Pass State Park, Collier County offers incomparable Gulf beaches and related accommodations.
LOWDERMILK PARK Located in Coquina Sands, this lovely public park has plenty of parking, metered or free with county beach sticker. It’s a great place for a family picnic whether on the beach or under a pavilion. You’ll even find a sand volleyball court, bathrooms, and concessions nearby. MARCO ISLAND BEACH The four-mile sun-soaked beach on Marco Island stretches from South Marco Beach to Tigertail Beach. It is one of the most breathtaking beaches in all of Southwest Florida. Warm temperatures make Marco Island an ideal place to spot dolphins, manatees, and an assortment of colorful oceanic wildlife. NAPLES MUNICIPAL BEACH In historical downtown Old Naples, almost every road leads to the beach. This three-mile stretch of tropical white sand beach draws visitors and residents alike. Naples Fishing Pier offers perfect sunset vistas just about every evening. The Pier juts out 1,000 feet into the Gulf, and it is a very popular place for fishermen and onlookers. The Pier is located on the west end of 12th Avenue South, and there you will find a snack bar, bathrooms, and outdoor showers. No fishing license is required when fishing from the Naples Pier. Parking is metered, free with any county beach sticker. TIGERTAIL BEACH Tigertail Beach, located on Hernando Drive in Marco Island, is 31 acres of natural beauty and white sand beach. Tigertail Beach is a sandbar from yesteryear, but today it is called Sand Dollar Island because it is a barrier island that is in the process of forming. Public parking and bathrooms are available. VANDERBILT BEACH Bird watching and shelling are always popular at this five-acre Vanderbilt Beach Park. Besides its wonderful white sand beach, hotels, shopping, and restaurants are close by.
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Lee County Beaches Fort Myers, Bonita Springs and Estero ... span 50 miles from Gasparilla Island State Recreation Area to Bonita Beach Road, and with 18 miles of public parks on the beachfront, there are over 100 beach accesses!
BAREFOOT BEACH STATE PRESERVE On the south end of Little Hickory Island, one will find the natural surroundings of a state preserve. Tours are available as well as guided canoe trips to learn about the various wildlife species in the area. Barefoot Beach is located between Bonita Beach and Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park, and the entrance is at Lely Beach Boulevard. BONITA BEACH PARK Located in the luxurious Bonita area, this five-acre white sand beach park is easily accessible and only 20 feet off Bonita Beach Road and Lely Barefoot Boulevard. Public bathrooms, showers, and concessions are available.
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LOVER’S KEY STATE PARK Lover’s Key State Park is more than 700 acres and can be accessed between Estero and Bonita Beach. Along with its gorgeous beach, this beautiful state park showcases land, marine ecosystems, and wetlands. FORT MYERS BEACH Fort Myers Beach on Estero Island is very popular with the young and old. Right on the beach you will find parasailing, jet-ski, and even paddle boat rentals. The beach is perfect for sun bathing, and many island shops and restaurants are located along the boardwalk. Fishermen and sunset watchers will truly enjoy the Fort Myers Beach Pier, and its famous Times Square with quaint little shops. DOG BEACH Dog Beach in Bonita Springs is one of the only “pets permitted” public beaches. Bonita Beach does not permit pets. Dog Beach is also known as the “Lee County Off-Leash Dog Area.” It is located north of Bonita Beach Road where it curves north and becomes Hickory Boulevard It is physically located just north of the New Pass bridge and just before Carl Johnson boat ramp and Lover’s Key state park. It’s only a few miles south of Fort Myers Beach and provides parking, plastic bags and dog waste disposal stations.
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Sanibel Island & Captiva Island Beaches The island beaches offer more than just a place to soak up the sun. Because of their east-west orientation, the islands are a haven for undisturbed shells and the water’s current is perfect for adventuresome windsurfers. Of course there’s always time for a picnic.
CAPTIVA BEACH Captiva Beach is five miles long and located on the north end of Captiva Island. Besides being popular for shelling, many couples enjoy a romantic evening on the beach watching the fabulous sunsets.
SANIBEL BEACH Sanibel Beach is located on one of the most unique barrier islands in the world. For those who like to go shelling, Sanibel and Captiva beaches are the place to be. Bathrooms are located at most public beach accesses and some have picnic tables. SANIBEL LIGHTHOUSE The historical Sanibel Lighthouse is located on the eastern tip of the island at Causeway Road and Periwinkle Way. Here, one can fish from the Sanibel Pier or take a nature walk on a winding boardwalk through the native wetlands. BOWMAN’S BEACH Bowman’s Beach located off Sanibel-Captiva Road is a more secluded beach, and amenities include an outdoor shower, public bathrooms, picnic tables, and even barbecue grills.
CAUSEWAY BEACHES Here beach-goers can pull vehicles right up to the water’s edge and there is no parking fee. The Causeway Beaches are a chain of islands that go from Summerlin Road to Sanibel Island. These beaches are located on both sides of the road and bathrooms are available. They’re great for picnicking, fishing, and windsurfing. Warning for swimmers; there can be strong currents, so be sure to watch the little ones. TARPON BAY BEACH Located at the south end of Tarpon Bay Road and West Gulf Drive, parking for this beach is easily accessible for recreational vehicles, and it is only a short walk to the white sandy beach. TURNER BEACH Turner Beach is great for shelling and fishing, but its swift currents are not for swimmers. This beach is located on the Sanibel/ Captiva side of Blind Pass Bridge.
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Golfing
Southwest Florida is often referred to as “The Golf Capital of the World.” Next to beach sunsets, there are few places where the natural beauty of Southwest Florida is more prominent than on many of its fine golf courses. Major designers, plus many professional player designers, have left their signatures on area courses, including Pete & P.B. Dye, Robert Trent Jones Sr. & Jr., Robert Van Hagge, Arthur Hills, Tom Fazio, Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Greg Norman, Gary Player, and many more.
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TeeUpFl rida Comprehensive Information About Golfing In Southwest Florida John R. Wood Properties’
TeeUpFlorida.com For more information, please visit
TeeUpFlorida.com Here you will find:
Southwest Florida offers a mix of public and private golf courses for every level of play.
Golf Glossary GOLF MEMBERSHIP Hundreds of golf courses dot the landscape within the greater Naples and Fort Myers areas. The large majority of these are private country clubs, and prices vary for initiation fees and annual dues (see our website, TeeUpFlorida.com for pricing and other information). Initiation fees are typically a one-time fee with dues payable on an annual or quarterly basis. Most clubs offer some type of social membership, which generally entitles the member to full use of the dining, pool, tennis/recreational facilities, and use of the golf course during May through October by paying greens fees. There may also be limited use of the course during the winter months. A full golf membership generally includes all social membership privileges plus use of the golf course on a year-round basis with no greens fees.
BUNDLED GOLF Some residential country club communities feature bundled golf, which means that the home purchaser receives a full golf membership at a yearly fee as part of the purchase price of their home. Purchasers should evaluate the number of members at a potential club, as this will impact lead times in order to obtain tee times. For instance, some of the more prestigious clubs have a very small membership, to the point where tee times are not even required.
The perfect course for you , Membership fees & alternatives , Course yardage, slope & rating , Course architects & descriptions , Information for buying in a golf community & non-golf properties
RECIPROCAL GOLF In the “off season” six months of the year, many of the private clubs participate in reciprocal agreements that allow members to play and dine at a selected list of other private clubs in the area, therefore, allowing their members to experience a magnificent variety of courses in the area. This is an especially appealing benefit for social members, because many stay in the area for all or most of the year. JohnRWood.com 9
Shopping Shopping and vacation time go hand-in-hand. Specialty shops are plentiful in Southwest Florida making discriminating shoppers feel right at home. One can find the latest fashions, exclusive artwork, and just about every golfing item imaginable. Here are just some of our favorite places to shop‌
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Naples 5TH AVENUE SOUTH Downtown Naples 5th Avenue South has the aura of small town friendliness with historical landmarks amid sophisticated boutiques, art galleries, hotels, theaters, neighborhood shops, and colorful buildings. Neapolitans will tell you it’s the most happening place in town. FifthAvenueSouth.com COASTLAND CENTER Coastland Center is an enclosed mall that features JCPenney, Macy’s, Dillard’s, and Sears as its anchor stores. There are also 150 specialty stores, sit-down restaurants, and a food court. CoastlandCenter.com DOCKSIDE BOARDWALK Just one block from Tin City, the Dockside Boardwalk sports clever and unique gift shops that all can enjoy with dining on the water. MERCATO Mercato in North Naples combines the best of city chic residential living with upscale shopping, dining and entertainment including the Silverspot upscale movie theater in one choice location that is literally minutes to the pristine beaches of the Gulf of Mexico. MercatoShops.com THE VILLAGE ON VENETIAN BAY You won’t want to miss visiting the Village on Venetian Bay with its Mediterranean architecture and over 50 waterfront shops and restaurants. Dine on beautiful Venetian Bay and then stroll along and enjoy its exclusive specialty shops. VenetianVillage.com THIRD STREET SOUTH The historical shopping district of Third Street South is the place to see and be seen. Here you will find attractive shopping and dining areas full of chic and original shops, galleries, award-winning restaurants, and outdoor cafés. ThirdStreetSouth.com TIN CITY More than 40 eclectic, local shops offer you merchandise and mementos unlike any other. From swimsuits to scrimshaw, from crafts to crystal, from tee shirts to fine jewelry, and everything in between, Tin City lets you take a bit of Naples home with you.
WATERSIDE SHOPS AT PELICAN BAY Waterside Shops is a collection of the finest luxury brand retailers from around the world and chic dining options creating a memorable shopping experience. Shoppers enjoy Florida’s outdoors browsing at 60 different internationally renowned designer brand stores including Hermes, Cartier, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co. and more. Located within the exclusive community of Pelican Bay, at the corner of U.S. 41 and Pine Ridge Road. WatersideShops.com
Marco Island ESPLANADE SHOPPES Located on Smokehouse Bay, Esplanade Shoppes is an Italian-style center featuring upscale retailers, small specialty stores, and fine waterfront dining. Here you can shop for jewelry, home accessories, clothing, or even real estate. And with a marina nearby, maybe you’ll want to pop into Black Pearl to purchase a yacht. MARCO TOWN CENTER MALL With 40 shops, restaurants, and sidewalk cafés, Marco Town Center Mall is a shopper’s delight. Located on North Collier Boulevard at Bald Eagle Drive, the Mall has that Old Florida feel with its cobblestone paths and tin roofs. Enjoy weekly concerts presented at the Mall’s gazebos.
Fort Myers BELL TOWER SHOPS The Bell Tower Shops in Fort Myers is a 340,000 square-foot, open-air center with an exceptional collection of specialty retailers. Bell Tower Shops offers a wide selection of upscale shopping, and dining, and is home to a 20-screen cinema. This extensively landscaped center is highlighted by its beautiful architecture and is located on the corner of Daniels Parkway and U.S. 41. TheBellTowerShops.com
GULF COAST TOWN CENTER Another large regional outdoor mall, Gulf Coast Town Center, located off Ben Hill Griffin Parkway and Interstate 75 in Estero, features such stores as JCPenney, Super Target, 16-screen Regal Cinemas, Best Buy, Costco, Borders Books, and many others GulfCoastTownCenter.com
Estero MIROMAR OUTLETS Miromar Outlets features more than 120 top designer and great brand name manufacturers’ outlets, including Off 5th Saks Fifth Avenue Outlet, Escada Company Store, Ellen Tracy, Brooks Brothers Factory Store, Cole Haan, St. John, Perry Ellis, Polo Ralph Lauren, Nike Factory Store, Tommy Hilfiger, Adidas, Reebok Outlet Store, Bose Factory Store, Lenox, Coach, Nautica, and more. MiromarOutlets.com COCONUT POINT A large regional outdoor mall located in Estero/Bonita Springs, Coconut Point is part of a 500-acre master-planned community that includes 200-400 residential units, 90,000 square feet of office condominiums, and up to 1.4 million square feet of retail.
Bonita Springs THE PROMENADE AT BONITA BAY Located in front of Bonita Bay on U.S. 41, The Promenade offers a selection of fine shops and boutiques and also jewelry shops, art galleries, and fabulous restaurants. PromenadeShops.com
EDISON MALL The Edison Mall is conveniently located at the intersection of U.S. 41 and Colonial Boulevard in Fort Myers. Here you will find approximately 150 specialty shops including a well-stocked food court.
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Dining Selecting a favorite restaurant or fine dining establishment is difficult due to the abundant selections. In Southwest Florida, whatever your mood, you can count on the best seafood, the best steaks, and even the best hamburgers! Even when dining at what may appear to be a local Mom and Pop hideaway, you may discover that the chef has previously come from a four-star restaurant. This is paradise, so don’t be surprised if you find the best of everything has migrated to this little niche of the world called Southwest Florida. With hundreds of restaurants in the area, we regret that space limits us to listing only a few.
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Naples & Marco Island
CAFE LURCAT (239) 213-3357 494 5th Avenue, S., Naples CafeLurcat.com
KELLY’S FISH HOUSE (239) 774-0494 1302 5th Avenue South, Naples KellysFishHouseDiningRoom.com
CAMPIELLO (239) 435-1166 1177 3rd Street South, Naples Campiello.com
LE LAFAYETTE (239) 403-7861 375 13th Avenue South, Naples LelaFayette.com
CAPERS KITCHEN & BAR (239) 431-7438 2460 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Naples CapersKitchen.com
LOVING HUT VEGAN CUISINE (239) 254-9490 975 Pine Ridge Road, Naples LovingHut.us
AVENUE 5 (239) 403-7170 699 5th Avenue, S., Naples Avenue5Naples.com
CARRABBA’S ITALIAN GRILL (239) 643-7727 4320 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (239) 774-2965 12631 Tamiami Trail E., Naples Carrabbas.com
M WATERFRONT GRILLE (239) 263-4421 4300 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples MWaterFrontGrille.com
AZN RESTAURANT (239) 593-8818 9118 Strada Place, Naples AznRestaurant.com
CHARLIE CHIANG’S (239) 593-6688 12200 Tamiami Trail N., Naples CharlieChiangs.com
BICE RESTAURANT (239) 262-4044 300 5th Avenue South, Naples BiceGroup.com
CHOPS CITY GRILL (239) 262-4677 837 5th Avenue South, Naples ChopsCityGrill.com
BHA! BHA! (239) 594-5557 865 5th Avenue South, Naples BhaBhapersianBistro.com
CJ’S ON THE BAY (239) 389-4511 740 N. Collier Blvd., Marco Island CJsOnTheBay.com
BISTRO 821 (239) 261-5821 821 5th Avenue South, Naples Bistro821.com
DARUMA JAPANESE STEAK HOUSE (239) 591-1200 241 Center Street N., Naples DarumaRestaurant.com
BONEFISH GRILL (239) 417-1212 1500 5th Avenue South, Naples BoneFishGrill.com
ESCARGOT 41 (239) 793-5000 4339 N. Tamiami Trail, Naples Escargot41.com
BRAMBLES TEAROOM (239) 262-7894 340 5th Avenue, S., Naples BramblesTearooms.com
FERNANDEZ THE BULL (239) 254-9855 1201 Piper Blvd., Naples FernandezTheBull.com
BRAVO! CUCINA ITALIANA (239) 514-0042 6145 Strada Place, Naples BravoItalian.com
FIRST WATCH 8 locations in Southwest Florida FirstWatch.com FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR (239) 598-2424 8985 Tamiami Trail N., Naples FlemingsSteakHouse.com
ANDRE’S STEAKHOUSE (239) 263-5851 2800 Tamiami Trail, Naples AndresSteakHouseOfNaples.com AQUA SEAFOOD & STEAK (239) 213-1111 862 5th Avenue, S., Naples AquaFifth.com ARTURO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT (239) 213-1111 862 5th Avenue, S., Naples ArturosMarcoIsland.com
BRICKTOP’S (239) 596-9112 Waterside Shops, Naples BrickTops.com BRIO TUSCAN GRILLE (239) 593-5319 Waterside Shops, Naples BrioItalian.com
MANGROVE CAFE (239) 262-7076 878 5th Avenue South, Naples TheManGroveCafe.com MCCORMICK & SCHMICK’S (239) 591-2299 9114 Strada Place, Naples McCormickAndSchmicks.com MICHELBOB’S RIBS (239) 643-7427 371 Airport-Pulling Rd. N., Naples (239) 394-0302 915 N. Collier Blvd., Marco Island Michelbobs.com NAPLES FLATBREAD & WINE BAR (239) 687-3454 6434 Naples Boulevard, #408, Naples (239) 431-8259 9118 Strada Place, #8170, Naples NaplesFlatBread.com NOODLES ITALIAN CAFÉ & SUSHI BAR (239) 592-0050 1585 Pine Ridge Road, Naples NoodlesCafe.com OLDE MARCO INN (239) 394-3131 100 Palm Street, Marco Island OldeMarcoInn.com
JANE’S CAFE ON THIRD STREET (239) 261-2253 1207 Third Street S., Naples
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OSTERIA TULIA (239) 213-2073 466 5th Avenue, S., Naples TuliaNaples.com OUTBACK STEAKHOUSE (239) 434-7100 4910 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (239) 732-1351 9975 Triangle Boulevard, Naples OutBack.com PAZZO! ITALIAN CAFE (239) 434-8494 853 5th Avenue South, Naples PazzoItalianCafe.com P.F. CHANG’S CHINA BISTRO (239) 596-2174 10840 Tamiami Trail N., Naples PFChangs.com PINCHERS CRAB SHACK (239) 434-6616 1200 5th Avenue South, Naples PinchersCrabShack.com RANDY’S FISHMARKET RESTAURANT (239) 593-5555 10395 Tamiami Trail N., Naples RandysFishMarketRestaurant.com
RITZ-CARLTON GRILL ROOM (239) 598-3300 280 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Naples ROY’S (239) 261-1416 475 Bayfront Place, Naples RoysRestaurant.com SAND BAR (239) 642-3625 826 E Elkcam Cir., Marco Island SEASONS 52 (239) 594-8852 8930 Tamiami Trail North Seasons52.com SHULA’S STEAK HOUSE (239) 430-4999 5111 Tamiami Trail N., Naples DonShula.com SNOOK INN (239) 394-3313 1215 Bald Eagle Drive, Marco Island SnookInn.com STONEY’S STEAKHOUSE (239) 435-9353 403 Bayfront, Naples StoneysSteakHouse.com
REAL SEAFOOD COMPANY (888) 456-3463 8690 Fontana Del Sol Way, Naples RealSeafoodCoNaples.com
SWAN RIVER SEAFOOD (239) 403-7000 3741 Tamiami Trail N., Naples SwanRiverSeafood.com
RIDGEWAY BAR AND GRILL (239) 262-5500 1300 Third Street, S., Naples RidgwayBarAndGrill.com
THE BAYHOUSE RESTAURANT (239) 591-3837 799 Walkerbilt Road, Naples THE BRICK (239) 692-8755 531 Fifth Avenue S., Naples TheBrickCoffeeAndBar.com THE CAPITAL GRILLE (239) 254-0640 9005 Mercato Drive, Naples TheCapitalGrille.com THE COUNTER BURGER (239) 566-0644 9110 Strada Pl. #6130, Naples TheCounterBurger.com THE DOCK AT CRAYTON COVE (239) 263-9940 845 12th Avenue South, Naples DockCraytonCove.com THE PUB (239) 594-2748 9118 Strada Place, Naples ExperienceThePub.com
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T-MICHAELS STEAK & LOBSTER HOUSE (239) 261-0622 4050 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples T-Michaels.com TOMMY BAHAMA’S (239) 643-6889 1220 3rd Street South, Naples TommyBahama.com TRAIL CAFE & GRILL (239) 598-2480 12820 Tamiami Trail N., Naples TrailCafeNaples.com TRULUCK’S SEAFOOD, STEAK AND CRAB HOUSE (239) 530-3131 698 4th Avenue, S., Naples Trulucks.com U.S.S. NEMO (239) 261-6366 3745 Tamiami Trail N., Naples USSNemoRestaurant.com VERGINA (239) 659-7008 700 5th Avenue South, Naples VerginaRestaurant.com WATERMARK GRILLE (239) 596-1400 11280 Tamiami Trail N., Naples WaterMarkGrille.com YABBA ISLAND GRILL (239) 262-5787 711 5th Avenue South, Naples YabbaIslandGrill.com
Fort Myers, Bonita Springs, Estero, Sanibel & Captiva BAHAMA BREEZE (239) 454-9234 14701 Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers BahamaBreeze.com BISTRO 41 (239) 466-4141 Bell Tower Shops, Fort Myers Bistro41.com BLUE POINTE OYSTER BAR & SEAFOOD (239) 433-0634 Bell Tower Shops, Fort Myers BluePointeRestaurant.com JohnRWood.com
BLU SUSHI (239) 334-2583 Gulf Coast Town Center, Fort Myers BluSushi.com
DOC FORD’S, SANIBEL RUM BAR & GRILLE (239) 472-8311 975 Rabbit Rd., Sanibel
BONEFISH GRILL (239) 489-1240 14261 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers (239) 390-9208 26381 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs BoneFishGrill.com
FIRST WATCH 8 locations in Fort Myers, Bonita Springs and Naples FirstWatch.com
BRATTA’S RISTORANTE (239) 433-4449 12984 S. Cleveland Avenue, Fort Myers BrattasRistorante.com BUBBLE ROOM RESTAURANT (239) 472-5558 15001 Captiva Drive, Captiva BubbleRoomRestaurant.com CARRABBA’S ITALIAN GRILL (239) 949-0981 27220 Bay Landing Drive, Bonita Springs Carrabbas.com CHEDDAR’S (239) 561-3618 10040 University Plaza Dr., Fort Myers Cheddars.com CHEESEBURGER IN PARADISE (239) 481-4386 5050 Daniels Parkway, Fort Myers CheeseBurgerInParadise.com CHOPS CITY GRILL (239) 992-4677 Corner of U.S. 41 and Coconut Road, Bonita Springs ChopsCityGrill.com CONNORS STEAK & SEAFOOD (239) 267-2677 10076 Golf Center Dr., Fort Myers ConnorsRestaurant.com COURTSIDE STEAKHOUSE & SPORTS BAR (239) 466-2138 17260 Harbour Pointe Drive, Fort Myers CRU RESTAURANT (239) 466-3663 Bell Tower Shops, Fort Myers DARUMA JAPANESE STEAK HOUSE (239) 344-0037 Bell Tower Shops, Fort Myers DarumaRestaurant.com DOC FORD’S RUM BAR & GRILLE (239) 765-9660 708 Fisherman’s Wharf, Fort Myers Beach DocFordsFortMyersBeach.com
ISLAMORADA FISH COMPANY (239) 461-4900 Gulf Coast Town Center, Fort Myers JOE’S CRAB SHACK (239) 332-1881 2024 W. First Street, Fort Myers JoesCrabShack.com LA CASITA AUTHENTIC MEXICAN RESTAURANT (239) 415-1050 15185 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers MATANZAS ON THE BAY (239) 463-3838 416 Crescent Street, Fort Myers Beach Matanzas.com MILLER’S ALE HOUSE (239) 461-9334 Gulf Coast Town Center, Fort Myers MillersAleHouse.com MIMI’S CAFÉ (239) 561-0073 Bell Tower Drive, Fort Myers MimisCafe.com NAPLES FLATBREAD & WINE BAR (239) 495-3528 Miromar Outlets, Estero NaplesFlatBread.com OUTBACK STEAKHOUSE (239) 948-3575 27230 Bay Landing Drive, Bonita Springs (239) 433-0097 Gulf Coast Town Center, Fort Myers OutBack.com PAGELLI’S ITALIANO (239) 226-4242 Coconut Point, Estero Pagellis.com PARROT KEY CARIBBEAN GRILL & BAR (239) 463-3257 2500 Main Street, Fort Myers Beach MyParrotKey.com P.F. CHANG’S CHINA BISTRO (239) 590-9197 PFChangs.com Gulf Coast Town Center, Fort Myers
PINCHERS CRAB SHACK (239) 415-8973 18100 San Carlos Blvd., Ft Myers Beach (239) 948-1313 28580 Bonita Crossings Blvd., Bonita Springs (239) 463-2909 6890 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach (239) 415-4040 Gulf Coast Town Center, Fort Myers PinchersCrabShack.com PRAWNBROKER RESTAURANT AND FISH MARKET (239) 489-2226 13451 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers PrawnBroker.com RED ROBIN GOURMET BURGERS (239) 454-5532 Gulf Coast Town Center, Fort Myers RedRobin.com ROY’S (239) 498-7697 26831 South Bay Drive, Suite 100, Bonita Springs RoysRestaurant.com RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE (239) 948-8888 Coconut Point, Estero RuthChris.com TED’S MONTANA GRILL (239) 947-9318 Coconut Point, Estero TedsMontanaGrill.com TOKYO BAY JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE (239) 495-5044 24880 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs UNIVERSITY GRILL (239) 437-4377 7790 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers VERANDA (239) 332-2065 2122 Second Street, Fort Myers VerandaRestaurant.com JohnRWood.com 15
Boating Abounds in Southwest Florida …
Boating Whether you own your own yacht or small sailboat, all can enjoy the fabulous sport of boating in Southwest Florida. Multitudes of marinas are available where you can moor your own boat, rent a boat, or access a fishing charter!
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One of our favorite yacht clubs…
Sail Away... TEN THOUSAND ISLANDS While boating along one of the most pristine coastlines in the world, perhaps you will also want to discover what lies within the amazing world of 110,000 acres of undisturbed upland mangrove forest just south of Naples.
ROOKERY BAY NATIONAL ESTUARINE PRESERVE The Rookery Bay Reserve is one of the few remaining mangrove estuaries in the world, and is located at the northern end of the Ten Thousand Islands on the Gulf coast of Florida. Florida State’s Rookery Bay Aquatic Preserve and Cape Romano manages 112,000 acres of state lands and water. Here is where 150 species of birds and many threatened and endangered animals thrive in the estuarine environment and surrounding upland hammocks within the Reserve. The estuaries provide an ideal setting for a variety of recreational activities, including sportfishing, boating, kayaking, hiking, sailing, bird watching and other nature study. The Rookery Bay Educational Center is located on Tower Road off CR 951 (Collier Blvd.) and south of U.S. 41.
Membership at Pelican Isle Yacht Club includes boating privileges.
PELICAN ISLE YACHT CLUB Located in North Naples amongst exquisite condominium luxury buildings, the Pelican Isle Yacht Club is a paradise for boaters and non-boaters alike. Membership to this exclusive club includes privileges to group yachting events as well as the opportunity to partake in planned boating excursions. These destinations may include Key West, South Beach in Miami, Bahamas, Useppa Island, and Captiva Island. Other events may include a boat-owner fleet that travels to the Bahamas or along Florida’s white sand shores. For adventurers wanting to stick closer to home, the Yacht club provides canoes and kayaks for those who want to skim along the water past the beautiful mangroves on the Cocohatchee River which leads out to the Gulf of Mexico. For beach goers, a complimentary shuttle service is provided to the beach. Beach chairs and umbrellas are available, and for those wanting the total beach experience, a picnic basket can be prepared by the Club’s culinary staff. Lunch excursions, sunset cruises, fishing trips, or extended multi-night cruises are also available. Other amenities include a resort pool and exquisite health club.
See wildlife in its natural habitat as you coast through the Ten Thousand Islands.
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Marinas BONITA SPRINGS AREA Back Bay Marina 4751 Bonita Beach Rd. (239) 992-2608 Bonita Bay Marina 27598 Marina Pt. Drive SW (239) 495-3222 BonitaBayMarina.net Fish Trap Marina 4794 Bonita Beach Rd. (239) 992-6055 CAPTIVA ISLAND AREA Jensen’s Twin Palm Marina 15107 Captiva Drive (239) 472-5800 South Seas Island Resort 5400 Plantation Rd. (239) 472-5111 SouthSeas.com
(800) 462-9258 Matanzas.com Moss Marine 450 Harbor Ct. (239) 463-6137 MossMarine.com Mullock Creek Marina 18501 Mullock Creek Ln. (239) 267-3717 Olsen’s Service Marina 1100 Main Street (239) 463-6750 OlsenMarineService.com
951 Bald Eagle Drive (239) 394-2502 RoseMarina.com
Port Sanibel Marina 14341 Port Comfort Rd. (239) 437-1660 AdventuresInParadiseInc.com
The Marina at Factory Bay 1081 Bald Eagle Drive (239) 389-2929 TheMarinaAtFactoryBay.com
Prosperity Point Marina 1016 Tamiami Trail N. (239) 995-2155
Walkers Coon Key Marina 604 E. Palm Ave. (239) 394-2797 WalkersMarine.com
‘Tween Waters Inn Marina 15951 Captiva Rd. (239) 472-5161 Tween-Waters.com/Marina
Salty Sam’s Marina 2500 Main Street (888) 796-6427 SaltySamsMarina.com
FORT MYERS AREA
Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa 17260 Harbour Pointe Drive (239) 466-4000
City of Fort Myers Yacht Basin 1300 Lee Street (239) 321-7080 CityFtMyers.com Deep Lagoon Marina 14030 McGregor Blvd. (239) 454-2628 Fish-Tale Marina 7225 Estero Blvd. (239) 463-3600 TheFishTaleMarina.com Fort Myers Beach Marina 703 Fisherman’s Wharf (239) 463-9552 Getaway Marina 18400 San Carlos Blvd. (239) 466-3600 GetAwayMarina.com Island Bay Marina 290 Pearl Street (239) 463-5522 Landings Marina 5200 S. Landings Drive (239) 481-7181 LandingYGTC.com Marinatown Marina 3446 Marinatown Ln. (239) 997-2767 MarinaTown.net Matanzas Inn Marina 414 Crescent Street 18 RELOCATION GUIDE
Snook Bight Marina 4765 Estero Blvd. (239) 765-4371 SnookBightMarina.com Sweet Water Landings 16991 SR 31 (239) 694-3850 SweetWaterLanding.net MARCO ISLAND AREA Calusa Island Yacht Club & Marina 385 Angler Drive (239) 394-3668 CalusaIslandMarina.com Cedar Bay Marina 705 E. Elkcam Cir. (239) 394-9333 CedarBayYachtClub.com Esplanade Marina 760 N. Collier Blvd. (239) 394-6333 EsplanadeMarina.com Marco Island Yacht Club 1400 N. Collier Blvd. (239) 394-0199 MarcoIslandYachtClub.net Riverside Club & Marina 1085 Bald Eagle Drive (239) 394-2177 Rose Marco River Marina
Naples Boat Club 909 10th Street S. (239) 430-4994 NaplesBoatClub.com Naples City Dock Marker 36, Naples Bay 880 12th Avenue South (239) 213-3070 NaplesCityGov.com
NAPLES AREA
Naples Harbour Yacht Club & Marina 475 North Rd. (239) 213-1441 WetAndDrySlips.com
Bay Marina, Inc. 854 River Point Drive (239) 774-0331
Naples Powerboat Marina 701 11th Street South (239) 261-8878
Brookside Marina 2023 Davis Blvd. (239) 774-3200 BrooksideBoatRentals.com
Naples Sailing and Yacht Club 896 River Point Dr. (239) 774-0424 TheNSYC.com
Cove Yacht Club 900 Broad Ave. S. (239) 262-5994 CoveYachtClub.org
Naples Yacht Club 700 14th Ave. S. (239) 262-6648 NaplesYachtClub.org
Docks on Fifth 1345 5th Ave. S. (239) 348-7100 DocksOnFifth.com
Nautilus Boat Tours 179 Commerce Street (239) 597-4408
Gulf Shores Marina 3470 Bay Shore Drive (239) 774-0222 GulfShoreMarina.com Island Marina 13105 Vanderbilt Drive (239) 591-3902 PortsByBoat.com Isle of Capri Marina 292 Capri Blvd. (239) 389-4626 IsleOfCapriMarina.com Naples Bay Resort & Marina 1500 5th Ave. S. (239) 530-1199 NaplesBayResort.com/Marina Naples Bay Yacht Storage 750 River Point Dr. (239) 793-4447 NBYS.info
Pelican Isle Yacht Club 410 Dockside Drive (239) 566-1606 PelicanIsle.com Port-O-Call Marina 550 Port-O-Call Way (239) 774-0479 Naples-BoatRentals.com Port of the Islands Marina 525 Newport Dr. (239) 642-3133 PortOfTheIslandsMarina.com Tarpon Club Marina 250 Capri Rd. (239) 394-5643 SANIBEL ISLAND AREA Sanibel Marina 634 N. Yachtsman Drive (239) 472-2723 JohnRWood.com
Fine Arts & Culture Over the past decade, the arts have transformed Southwest Florida into one of the state’s most cosmopolitan areas. Audiences delight in our performing arts scene where talented actors, dancers and musicians bring life to Broadway favorites and new plays at Artis–Naples, the Barbara B. Mann Hall, and intimate community playhouses. Fine arts lovers will enjoy a host of exceptional galleries and studios. The galleries are bursting with brilliant renderings of the picturesque local environment, unique wildlife, and breathtaking sunsets. In addition to the natural selections, you’ll find a wide variety of modernism, cubism, impressionism, and abstract arts.
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Arts & Culture ARTIS—NAPLES (239) 597-1900 5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard, Naples ArtisNaples.org Artis—Naples is the premier performing arts hall in Southwest Florida. It is home to the Naples Philharmonic, an 85-piece chamber orchestra; The Naples Philharmonic Chorus, and The Baker Museum. It hosts more than 400 events a year including world-class dance, opera, classical and popular music, and Broadway musicals. BARBARA B. MANN PERFORMING ARTS HALL (239) 481-4849 8099 College Pkwy., Fort Myers BBMannPAH.com The Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall offers Broadway touring theater, dance, and musical performances. It is located on the campus at Edison Community College. It offers entertainment of all kinds, from Broadway plays to comedians and musicians. The Hall is perfect for weddings and receptions! CALUSA NATURE CENTER AND PLANETARIUM (239) 275-3435 3450 Ortiz Avenue, Fort Myers CalusaNature.org Calusa Nature Center and Planetarium offers visitors keen insight on Southwest Florida’s natural history. Daily educational programs allow visitors an up-close and personal view of some of the area’s wildlife. The stars are always in line for an adventure to the only planetarium south of Bradenton and west of Miami. CENTER FOR THE ARTS OF BONITA SPRINGS (239) 495-8989 26100 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs ArtCenterBonita.org The Center for the Arts provides year round programs in many disciplines for all who wish to learn, study or simply appreciate a wide variety of art and cultural events.
EDISON & FORD WINTER ESTATES (239) 334-7419 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers EdisonFordWinterEstates.org
Palm Cottage in Old Naples is a prime example of a 19th-century south Florida home. The historically accurate interior contains the simple furnishings of the period.
In Fort Myers is the winter home of Thomas A. Edison, the inventor of the lightbulb. He called this home the “Seminole Lodge” and he used it as his winter retreat and workshop. This site includes the original rubber laboratory and lush botanical gardens containing over a thousand varieties of plants imported from all over the world. Edison’s close friend, Henry Ford, joined him in Florida, and they soon became next door neighbors. These two winter estates encompass 17 acres of riverfront, and visitors can enjoy touring the homes and grounds.
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA MUSEUM OF HISTORY (239) 321-7430 2031 Jackson Street, Fort Myers SWFLMuseumOfHistory.com
HOLOCAUST MUSEUM OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA (239) 263-9200 4760 Tamiami Trail N., Naples HolocaustMuseumSWFL.org To promote respect and understanding by teaching the history and lessons of the Holocaust through collecting artifacts, providing educational programs and activities to students and presenting general public programs highlighting elements of our collection and stories related to the Holocaust and other genocides. NAPLES PLAYERS AT SUGDEN COMMUNITY THEATRE (239) 263-7990 5th Avenue South, Naples NaplesPlayers.org This long running community theater troupe presents an average of eight productions a year in one of Florida’s finest community theater facilities. PALM COTTAGE (239) 261-8164 137 12th Avenue South, Naples NaplesHistoricalSociety.org
The Southwest Florida Museum is one block north of Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. in historical downtown Fort Myers. Here you will find the history of the Southwest Florida Paleo-Indians, Calusa, Seminoles, Spanish explorers, and early settlers. An authentic replica of a pioneer “cracker” house is on display as well as an extensive artifacts collection. THE BAKER MUSEUM (239) 254-2620 5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard, Naples ArtisNaples.org The visual arts center providing in-depth exhibitions of world-class artwork, includes a three-story, 30,000-square-foot museum with 15 galleries, a glass dome conservatory, entrance gates by renowned metal artist Albert Paley, spectacular chandeliers, and a Persian ceiling by acclaimed glass artist Dale Chihuly. VON LIEBIG ARTS CENTER (239) 262-6517 585 Park Street, Naples NaplesArt.org Located adjacent to Cambier Park in Old Naples, the Center features American art from the 1950s forward with various exhibitions, classes, lectures, and special exhibits. Look for ongoing special events. OTHER FINE ART ATTRACTIONS Alliance for the Arts, Cape Coral Arts Studio, Cultural Park Theatre Co., Inc., Florida Repertory Theatre at the Arcade Theatre, The Schoolhouse Theater, and the Southwest Florida Symphony.
COLLIER COUNTY MUSEUM (239) 252-8476 3301 Tamiami Trail E., Naples CollierMuseums.com Learn about mastodons and fierce saber cats, Calusa and Seminole Indians, and the rugged pioneers who settled one of America’s last frontiers at the Collier County Museum. Visitors will enjoy five acres of native gardens, two early Naples cottages, swamp buggies, and a logging locomotive. 20 RELOCATION GUIDE
World-class music, dance and theater take the stage at Artis—Naples. JohnRWood.com
Attractions Gators and hockey and airboats and golfing—tigers and light bulbs and beaches with sunsets—swimming and sailing and cruising 5th Avenue South—these are a few of our favorite things…
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AT TR ACTIONS
Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens Gulfshore Life magazine named Caribbean Gardens: The Zoo in Naples the “Best Place to Take Kids” in the Best of the Gulfshore Awards. A natural path almost one mile in length winds past rare and beautiful animals residing within a 52-acre jungle of exotic plants first planted in 1919 with a fascinating history. (239) 262-5409
AIRBOATS & ALLIGATORS 6001 Lake Trafford Rd., Immokalee (239) 657-2401 LakeTrafford.com BABCOCK WILDERNESS 8000 SR 31, Punta Gorda (800) 500-5583 BabcockWilderness.com BIG M CASINO CRUISES 450 Harbor Ct., Fort Myers Beach (239) 765-7529 (239) 463-6137 BigMCasino.com BILLIE SWAMP SAFARI EVERGLADES Eco-Tours (800) 949-6101 (Between Naples and Fort Lauderdale) BillieSwamp.com CANOE OUTPOST PEACE RIVER 2816 NW CR 661, Arcadia (800) 268-0083 CanoeOutpost.com CAPTAINS BOB’S EXCELLENT ADVENTURE Fort Myers Beach (239) 437-2095 ExcellentAdventure.org CASTLE GOLF 7400 Gladiolus Drive, Fort Myers (239) 489-1999 Castle-Golf.com GOLF SAFARI 3775 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs (239) 947-1377 GolfSafariMiniGolf.com JUNGLE GOLF 17710 San Carlos Blvd., Fort Myers Beach (239) 466-9797 JungleGolfMiniGolf.com NAPLES ZOO AT CARIBBEAN GARDENS 1590 Goodlette Frank Rd., Naples
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(239) 262-5409 NaplesZoo.com CONSERVANCY OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA Nature Center 1450 Merrihue Drive, Naples (239) 262-0304 Conservancy.org CORAL CAY ADVENTURE GOLF 2205 Tamiami Trail E., Naples (239) 793-4999 CoralCayGolf.com CORKSCREW SWAMP SANCTUARY 375 Sanctuary Rd., Naples (239) 348-9151 Corkscrew.Audubon.org DAY STAR CHARTERS 1484 5th Avenue South, Naples (239) 417-3474 DayStarCharters.com EVERGLADES EXCURSION/ NAPLES TRANSPORTATION & TOURS 1010 6th Avenue South, Naples (239) 262-1914 (800) 592-0848 Everglades-Excursions.com EVERGLADES NATIONAL PARK BOAT TOURS Everglades City (239) 695-2591 NPS.gov EVERGLADES WONDER GARDENS 27180 Old 41 Rd., Bonita Springs (239) 992-2591 EvergladesWonderGardens.com FLORIDA SPORTS PARK 8520 Rattlesnake Rd., Naples (239) 774-2701 SwampBuggy.com GERMAIN ARENA/ FLORIDA EVERBLADES 11000 Everblades Pkwy., Estero (239) 948-7825 Season Tickets (239) 948-7825 GermainArena.com
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LOVERS KEY STATE PARK 8700 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers (239) 463-4588 FloridaStateParks.org/Loverskey MANATEE SIGHTSEEING ADVENTURE Port of the Islands (239) 642-8818 See-Manatees.com MARCO ISLAND SEA EXCURSIONS 705 E. Elkcam Cir., Marco Island (239) 642-6400 SeaExcursions.com NAPLES PRINCESS CRUISES Port-O-Call Marina 550 Port-O-Call Way, Naples (239) 649-2275 NaplesPrincessCruises.com NAPLES BOTANICAL GARDEN 4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples (239) 643-7275 NaplesGarden.org NAPLES/FORT MYERS GREYHOUND TRACK 10601 Bonita Beach Rd., Bonita Springs (239) 992-2411 NaplesFortMyersDogs.com NAPLES TROLLEY TOURS 1010 6th Avenue South, Naples (239) 262-1914 (800) 592-0848 NaplesTrolleyTours.com THE EVERGLADES DAY SAFARI Fort Myers, FL (800) 472-3069 (239) 472-1559 EcoSafari.com PALM COTTAGE 137 12th Avenue South, Naples (239) 261-8164 NaplesHistoricalSociety.org SAILBOATS UNLIMITED Naples City Dock & Marco Island (239) 649-1740 SailBoatsUnlimited.com
SEMINOLE GULF RAILWAY 4110 Centerpoint Drive, Fort Myers (239) 275-6060 SemGulf.com SEMINOLE CASINO 506 S. First Street, Immokalee (800) 218-0007 SeminoleImmokaleeCasino.com SMUGGLERS COVE ADVENTURE GOLF 17450 San Carlos Blvd., Fort Myers Beach (239) 466-5855 SUN-N-FUN LAGOON 15000 Livingston Road, Naples (239) 252-4021 CollierGov.net/Parks SUN HARVEST 14810 Metro Pkwy., Ft Myers (800) 743-1480 Sun-Harvest.com SWEET LIBERTY CATAMARAN SAILING 880 12th Avenue South, Naples (239) 793-3525 SweetLiberty.com TED SMALLWOOD’S STORE MUSEUM 360 Mamie Street, Chokoloskee (239) 695-2989 THE SHELL FACTORY 2787 Tamiami Trail N., North Fort Myers (239) 995-2141, (800) 2825805 ShellFactory.com THOMAS EDISON/HENRY FORD WINTER ESTATES 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers (239) 334-7419 EdisonFordWinterEstates.org WOOTEN’S EVERGLADES AIRBOAT TOURS 32330 Tamiami Trail E., Ochopee (800) 282-2781 WootensAirBoats.com
Florida Everblades Germain Arena 11000 Everblades Pkwy., Estero, FL (239) 948-7825 info@floridaeverblades.com GermainArena.com
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Parks & Recreation Collier and Lee counties, and their citizens, take great pride in parks and recreation. It is probably fair to say that Southwest Florida is second to none with its local, county, state, and federal parks. Great care is taken to properly preserve the land’s natural beauty. The Florida Panther Preserve is one example, located in Big Cypress National Preserve. Southwest Florida is also home to many exotic plants and bird species, a bird watcher’s heaven.
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Parks within Collier County COLLIERGOV.NET
Parks within Lee County LEEPARKS.ORG
Audubon Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary Big Cypress National Preserve Cambier Park Clam Pass County Park Collier-Seminole State Park Conservancy of Southwest Florida Eagle Lakes Community Park East Naples Community Park Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park Fleischmann Park Freedom Park Golden Gate Community Park Immokalee Community Park Lowdermilk Park Max A. Hasse Jr. Community Park North Collier Regional Park Pelican Bay Community Park Rookery Bay National Estuarine Preserve South Immokalee Park Sudgen Regional Park Veterans Community Park Vineyards Community Park
Bonita Beach Park Caloosa Nature Center Caloosahatchee Regional Park Cayo Costa State Park Dog Beach J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge Estero Bay Preserve State Park Gasparilla Island State Park Koreshan State Historic Site Kurt Donaldson Community Park Boston Red Sox/City of Palms Park Lee County Sports Complex Lover’s Key State Park Lynn Hall Memorial Park Matlacha Regional Park Manatee Park Mound House Riverside Park Six Mile Cypress Preserve The Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail Trailhead Park
Also See: FLORIDASTATEPARKS.ORG
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Key areas of
Southwest Florida
AVE MARIA
MARCO ISLAND
NAPLES
BONITA SPRINGS
CAPE CORAL
COLLIER COUNTY AVE MARIA The town of Ave Maria, located west of Naples, was the result of a dream project of Domino’s Pizza founder Tom Monihan. There he created Ave Maria University, and the Barron Collier Companies built the new town around it. Ave Maria also has the area’s only law school, currently located off site, but with plans for moving to the main campus.
man, the owner of the Louisville Courier-Journal, purchased land and founded Naples, and he was the first to protrude a 600-foot fishing pier out into the Gulf of Mexico. Naples was a playground for the rich, the famous, and certainly the intelligent. Over the years, the Naples Beach Hotel hosted various celebrities including Thomas Edison, Harvey Firestone, Greta The charming, semi-circle town center, La Piazza, features Garbo, Hedy Lamarr, and Gary Cooper. Today, Naples is still various businesses to serve the community. The focal point the playground for the rich, the famous, and the intelligent, exis the massive marble sculpture that dominates the front of cept there are more homes, more mansions, and the prices have risen. In 1905, one could purthe Oratory. The area is graduchase a beach lot for $125.00. ally attracting manufacturing Collier County Population Naples is still a bargain, if you and other businesses at nearby like paradise. & Demographics business parks, thus ensuring a steady growth of the still young town. It is a charming and very clean city, filled with energy from the many young families, retirees, and others who are residents.
Estimate based on the 2013 U.S. Census
LEE COUNTY
BONITA SPRINGS Bonita Springs is one of Southwest Florida’s newest and fastest Permanent population/ growing cities. Located beCity of Naples...........................................................24,265 MARCO ISLAND Its name tween Naples and Fort Myers, Permanent population/ comes from Spanish explorer Bonita Springs offers a lifestyle City of Marco Island.................................................17,315 Juan Ponce de Leon who chrisfor just about everyone. From Peak season population/ tened his island finding La award-winning planned golf Collier County........................................................410,297 Isla de San Marco back in the communities to serene water1500s. Centuries passed and front living, Bonita Springs Land area............................................ 2,025.5 square miles Marco Island remained mostly exudes an urban setting with undisturbed even though sevsmall-town charm. Commereral prospectors walked its land cial parks, office space, and and expressed big dreams. It wasn’t until the early 1960s that retail services are keeping pace with residential growth, always developers with visions of a resort island began reshaping the with an eye towards preserving the community’s outstanding land and advertising its potential. Today, Marco is a small quality of life. community that promotes laid-back living alongside elegant CAPE CORAL With the largest population in Lee County and resorts, and its miles of coastline encourages recreation. as Florida’s second largest city in land mass, at 114 square miles, NAPLES Many years ago, around 1870, promoters likened Cape Coral is one of Southwest Florida’s best kept secrets. Cape the seven-mile stretch of sugar sand beach in Naples, Florida Coral was developed around some 400 miles of canals, offering to that of the beautiful Italian peninsula of Naples, Italy. The abundant waterfront living for residents. An active community, area was originally the native home to the Caloosa Indians, and Cape Coral has golf, tennis, fishing, community parks, and even the first white settlers arrived in about 1887. Walter N. Halde- Sun Splash Family Waterpark. 26
Total 2013 estimated population............................358,322
ESTERO
FORT MYERS
FORT MYERS BEACH
ESTERO Thousands of years ago the Estero area was inhabited by ancient tribes of Native American Calusas. Archeologists believe that nearby Mound Key in Estero Bay could have been the tribes’ regional center. Today Estero is a rapidly developing upscale community that encompasses natural beauty, excellent schools, health care facilities, a planned performing art center, museums, art galleries, recreational events, and a multitude of housing opportunities. Estero is located between Fort Myers and Bonita and is conveniently close to Interstate 75.
PINE ISLAND
SANIBEL & CAPTIVA
the restaurant, hotel, and amenities industries on the island. With Gulf of Mexico water temperatures ranging from a balmy 74 degrees in January to 91 degrees in July and August, Fort Myers Beach will always be a choice vacation destination.
PINE ISLAND In the 1880s, the sport of tarpon fishing originated in Pine Island Sound. Pine Island’s fishing heritage has supported generations of its island families. Just west of Cape Coral and relatively undiscovered by the housing industry, one can expect this area to develop more in the near future. On Pine Island, enjoy the local Lee County Population shops or dine at a number of & Demographics local, restaurants that specialize in fresh seafood. Atmosphere is Estimate based on the 2013 U.S. Census casual and low-key. Kayakers can enjoy exploring the Pine Total 2013 Estimated population..........................675,659 Island Sound Aquatic Preserve and Matlacha Pass. Unincorporated.....................................................283,031
FORT MYERS Established in 1886, the City of Fort Myers is the historical and governmental hub of Lee County. Nestled along the scenic shoreline of the Caloosahatchee River, the city has become an interesting blend of young and old. Sporting the youngest population in Lee County with a median Cape Coral............................................................157,699 SANIBEL ISLAND & CAPage of 32, the City of Fort MyFort Myers...............................................................63,668 TIVA ISLAND With over 15 ers is also home to the historic Bonita Springs.........................................................44,880 miles of beaches, Sanibel and winter residences of Henry Captiva islands are recognized Ford and Thomas Edison. ReFort Myers Beach.......................................................6,705 worldwide as a vacation desticent extensive renovation of Sanibel.......................................................................6,197 nation. Outstanding shelling Fort Myers’ historic waterfront Lee county Land area........................... 1,005 square miles and concern to preserve the downtown is now complete, island environment have posiwith new restaurants, nighttioned Sanibel as a jewel on the clubs, condominiums, and artistic venues providing energy and growth. Throughout the Gulf Coast of Southwest Florida. Sanibel is home to pristine year, Southwest Florida residents and visitors enjoy cultural white beaches, balmy Gulf waters, and an unsurpassed lifestyle events overlooking the Caloosahatchee River at Centennial for both visitors and the island’s some 6,300 residents. Art galleries, theaters, upscale resorts, and restaurants dot this island Park and the Yacht Basin. Also in Fort Myers you will find the Barbara B. Mann Per- getaway. For nature lovers the J.N. Ding Darling National forming Arts Hall. The Minnesota Twins do spring training at Wildlife Refuge is a protected estuarial ecosystem, where exthe Lee County Sports Complex and the Boston Red Sox train otic birds, alligators, and a variety of fish can be enjoyed by all. Also visit the shops and restaurants or its array of arts, theater, at JetBlue Park. and music. FORT MYERS BEACH Fort Myers Beach is a seven-milelong island with plenty of sand, surf, and fun. Tourism fuels
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— C ol l ie r C ou nt y C om mu n it ie s — LOCATION CHOICES: City of Naples Naples Metro North (North of Pine Ridge Rd.) Marco Area
Naples Metro South (South of Pine Ridge Rd.)
HOME STYLE: SF - Single Family Home CO - Condominium
PRICE RANGE: $ = dominant price less than $500,000 $$ = dominant price $500,000 - $1,000,000 $$$ = dominant price over $1,000,000
GOLF CLUBS, BUNDLED: Membership included in purchase of home, buyer pays annual dues and/or other fees BOATING: A good portion of properties are boating oriented (have a dock or there is a comunity dock/marina) GATED: May be manned by security guards or unmanned
COMMUNITIES
ANDALUCIA AQUALANE SHORES City of Naples
Naples Metro South
AUDUBON COUNTRY CLUB Naples Metro North
Naples Metro North
AVE MARIA Naples Metro North
BAY COLONY Naples Metro North
BAYFRONT BEAR’S PAW COUNTRY CLUB City of Naples
BENT CREEK PRESERVE
Marco Area
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City of Naples
CAPE MARCO
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TENNIS
SF CO
AUTUMN WOODS
Naples Metro South
BOATING CLUB COMMUNITY HOUSE
SF CO
ARTESIA
BERKSHIRE LAKES
GOLF COURSE
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Naples Metro South
Naples Metro North
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— C ol l ie r C ou nt y C om mu n it ie s — COMMUNITIES
COLLIER’S RESERVE Naples Metro North
DELASOL Naples Metro North
DUNES Naples Metro North
EAGLE CREEK GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Naples Metro South
ESPLANADE Naples Metro North FIDDLER’S CREEK Marco Area
GLEN EAGLE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Naples Metro South
GOLDEN GATE ESTATES Naples Metro North & South
GORDON DRIVE City of Naples
GREY OAKS COUNTRY CLUB & ESTUARY AT GREY OAKS City of Naples and Naples Metro South
GULF SHORE BLVD. CONDOS
HOME STYLE
GOLF COURSE
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CO
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IMPERIAL GOLF ESTATES Naples Metro North
SF CO
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54-holes
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Note: Many condos are gated & have a club room, but not all.
Naples Metro North
PRICE RANGE
TENNIS
City of Naples
HERITAGE BAY
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— C ol l ie r C ou nt y C om mu n it ie s — COMMUNITIES
GOLF COURSE
BOATING CLUB COMMUNITY HOUSE
SF CO
ISLAND WALK Naples Metro North
ISLES OF COLLIER
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SF CO
Naples Metro North
KENSINGTON GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Naples Metro South
SF CO
Marina
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Naples Metro South
LAKEWOOD Naples Metro South
GATED
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LELY RESORT Naples Metro South
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$ $
•
•
•
•
•
•
SF CO
18-holes
SF CO
54-holes
•
SF CO
MADISON PARK Naples Metro South
MANGROVE BAY
•
SF CO
MARBELLA LAKES Naples Metro South
MEDITERRA
SF CO
Naples Metro North
MONTEREY & THE CROSSINGS Naples Metro North
MOORINGS & COQUINA SANDS City of Naples
NAPLES HERITAGE Naples Metro South
NAPLES LAKES COUNTRY CLUB
•
36-holes
SF SF CO
$ $
SF
City of Naples
PRICE RANGE
TENNIS
SF CO
KINGS LAKE
Naples Metro South
HOME STYLE
•
18-holes
•
•
$$$
•
•
•
$
•
•
•
$$$
•
•
•
$$
•
•
$$$
SF CO
18-holes bundeled
•
•
•
$
SF CO
18-holes bundeled
•
•
•
•
$
•
For More information: JohnRWood.com/Neighborhoods
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— C ol l ie r C ou nt y C om mu n it ie s — COMMUNITIES
NAPLES RESERVE NAPLES SQUARE OLDE CYPRESS
SF CO
Naples Metro North
City of Naples
City of Naples
PELICAN BAY Naples Metro Naples
Note: Many condos are gated & have a club room, but not all.
PELICAN ISLE YACHT CLUB Naples Metro North
PELICAN MARSH PINE RIDGE PORT OF THE ISLANDS Naples Metro South
PORT ROYAL City of Naples
QUAIL CREEK COUNTRY CLUB
City of Naples
GATED
•
•
$$
•
$$
•
$$$
•
•
•
•
$$$
• •
27-holes
• •
18-holes
$$$
•
•
=
$$$
•
•
•
$$$
•
•
•
$$$
SF
Naples Metro North
ROYAL HARBOR
•
18-holes
CO SF CO
Naples Metro North
Naples Metro North
SF CO
•
$$$
SF CO
•
SF
•
$
•
•
•
•
•
•
$$$
•
•
•
•
$$$
•
•
•
•
$$
SF CO
36-holes
SF CO
36-holes
SF CO
18-holes
SF
PRICE RANGE
TENNIS
•
SF CO
PARK SHORE
THE QUARRY
•
Lakes
SF CO
OLD NAPLES
Naples Metro North
BOATING CLUB COMMUNITY HOUSE
CO
City of Naples
QUAIL WEST
GOLF COURSE
SF CO
Naples Metro South
Naples Metro North
HOME STYLE
•
$$$
$$$
For More information: JohnRWood.com/Neighborhoods
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— C ol l ie r C ou nt y C om mu n it ie s — COMMUNITIES
SATURNIA LAKES
GOLF COURSE
BOATING CLUB COMMUNITY HOUSE
STONEBRIDGE COUNTRY CLUB Naples Metro North
SF CO SF CO
THE STRAND Naples Metro North
TARPON COVE YACHT AND RACQUET CLUB Naples Metro North
TIBURON GOLF CLUB Naples Metro North
SF CO SF CO SF CO
TALIS PARK Naples Metro North
SF CO
TREVISO BAY Naples Metro South
SF CO
TWIN EAGLES Naples Metro North
VANDERBILT COUNTRY CLUB Naples Metro North
VASARI COUNTRY CLUB Naples Metro North
SF CO SF CO
GATED
•
•
•
$$
•
•
•
$
•
•
•
$
•
•
•
$
•
•
•
•
$$$
•
•
•
•
$$$
•
•
•
•
$$
•
•
•
•
$
•
•
•
•
$
•
•
•
•
$
•
•
•
$
•
•
•
•
$$
•
•
•
•
$
•
•
•
•
$
•
•
•
•
$
• 18-holes bundeled
•
27-holes
•
Offsite
36-holes
18-holes
18-holes bundeled
36-holes bundeled
18-holes bundeled
18-holes bundeled
SF CO
VERONA WALK Naples Metro South
SF CO
THE VINEYARDS Naples Metro North
WILDERNESS COUNTRY CLUB Naples Metro South
WINDSTAR Naples Metro South
WYNDEMERE COUNTRY CLUB
36-holes
CO
18-holes
CO
18-holes
SF CO
PRICE RANGE
TENNIS
SF
Naples Metro North
Naples Metro South
HOME STYLE
27-holes
•
For More information: JohnRWood.com/Neighborhoods
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—— C ol L el eieC r ou C ou ntnt y yC om C om mu mu n itnie it sie— s— LOCATION CHOICES: Bonita Area Ft Myers Area Cape Coral Area Sanibel/Captiva Area Estero Area
HOME STYLE: SF - Single Family Home CO - Condominium
PRICE RANGE: $ = dominant price less than $500,000 $$ = dominant price $500,000 - $1,000,000 $$$ = dominant price over $1,000,000
GOLF CLUBS, BUNDLED: Membership included in purchase of home, buyer pays annual dues and/or other fees BOATING: A good portion of properties are boating oriented (have a dock or there is a comunity dock/marina) GATED: May be manned by security guards or unmanned
COMMUNITIES
HOME STYLE
•
•
•
$$$
•
•
•
$$
CO
•
•
•
$
SF
•
•
•
$
•
•
•
$
•
•
•
$
•
•
•
•
$
•
•
•
•
$
BEACHVIEW COUNTRY CLUB ESTATES
SF
Sanibel/Captiva Area Fort Myers Area
BELLA TERRA Estero Area
BONITA BAY
SF CO
Bonita Area
Bonita Area
BONITA NATIONAL Bonita Area
THE BROOKS Estero Area
COCONUT POINT
•
18-holes
•
90-holes
SF CO
18-holes bundled
SF CO
54-holes some bundled
•
CO
Estero Area
THE COLONY GOLF & BAY CLUB Bonita Area
SF CO
DUNES GOLF & TENNIS CLUB SANIBEL ISLAND
SF
Sanibel/Captiva Area
FIDDLESTICKS COUNTRY CLUB Fort Myers Area
•
SF CO
BONITA ISLES
PRICE RANGE
GATED
SF CO
BELL TOWER PARK
BOATING CLUB COMMUNITY HOUSE
TENNIS
Bonita Area
BAREFOOT BEACH
GOLF COURSE
SF CO
$
•
•
•
•
$$
•
•
•
•
$$
•
•
•
•
$
18-holes
18-holes
36-holes
For More information: JohnRWood.com/Neighborhoods
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— L e e C ou nt y C om mu n it ie s — COMMUNITIES
GATEWAY GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB
HOME STYLE
SF
Fort Myers Area
SF CO
GRANDEZZA Estero Area
GULF HARBOR YACHT & COUNTRY CLUB Fort Myers Area
GULFSIDE PLACE
BOATING CLUB COMMUNITY HOUSE
HERITAGE PALMS GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Fort Myers Area
HIGHLAND WOODS GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Bonita Area
HUNTERS RIDGE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Bonita Area
LEGENDS GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Fort Myers Area
•
$
•
•
•
•
$
•
•
•
$
•
•
•
$$$
•
•
•
$
•
•
•
$
•
•
•
•
$
•
•
•
•
$
18-holes
•
18-holes
•
•
SF CO
18-holes bundeled
• 18-holes
18-holes
SF CO
LEHIGH ACRES Fort Myers Area
LEXINGTON COUNTRY CLUB Fort Myers Area
LITTLE HICKORY SHORES Bonita Area
MEADOWS OF ESTERO Estero Area
MIROMAR LAKES BEACH & GOLF CLUB
SF CO
$
•
•
18-holes bundeled
•
•
•
SF
• 18-holes
•
Lakes
$ $
•
CO SF CO
PRICE RANGE
•
36-holes bundeled
SF CO
GATED
•
SF CO
SF CO
TENNIS
•
18-holes
CO
Sanibel/Captiva Area
Estero Area
SF CO
GOLF COURSE
•
•
•
$
•
$
For More information: JohnRWood.com/Neighborhoods
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— L e e C ou nt y C om mu n it ie s — COMMUNITIES
PALMIRA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Bonita Area
PARKER LAKES Fort Myers Area
PASEO Fort Myers Area
PELICAN LANDING
HOME STYLE
GOLF COURSE
SF CO
•
GATED
•
•
•
$
SF CO
•
•
•
$
SF CO
•
•
•
$
•
•
•
•
$
•
•
•
•
$
•
•
•
$
•
•
•
$$$
•
•
•
$$
•
•
•
$
•
•
•
$
•
•
•
$
•
•
•
•
$$
•
•
•
•
$
•
•
•
•
$
27-holes
36-holes
Fort Myers Area
SF CO
18-holes
PELICAN SOUND GOLF & RIVER CLUB
CO
PELICAN PRESERVE
Estero Area
RENAISSANCE
SF CO
Fort Myers Area
ROOKERY POINTE SPANISH WELLS
SF CO
Bonita Area
VILLAGIO
•
•
18-holes
•
27-holes
CO
Estero Area
WATERSIDE AT BAY BEACH Fort Myers Area
WEST BAY CLUB Estero Area
WILDCAT RUN Estero Area
WORTHINGTON COUNTRY CLUB Bonita Area
• 27-holes bundeled
CO
Estero Area
PRICE RANGE
TENNIS
SF CO
Bonita Area
BOATING CLUB COMMUNITY HOUSE
•
CO SF CO
18-holes
SF CO
18-holes
SF CO
18-holes bundeled
For More information: JohnRWood.com/Neighborhoods
JohnRWood.com 35
John R. Wood Properties & Its Business Partners CHRISTENSEN FINANCIAL • Our highly experienced mortgage bankers specialize in personal attention and less paperwork when it comes to buying a home! Located in Naples and Bonita Springs, Christensen Financial has a variety of loan programs to meet your needs. Loan options range from conventional and jumbo loans to new home construction mortgages. They can assist you in choosing a properly structured loan, for the home you want, with a payment that fits your lifestyle. If you’re not sure what type of financing is right for the home you want, let Christensen Financial help you. For more information, call your John R. Wood Sales Associate or visit swflmtg.com. 2-10 HOME BUYERS WARRANTY • A 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty protects you and your family against financial setbacks due to costly repair or replacement of covered appliances and major systems. The 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty protects the seller during the listing period and the buyer for a full year, beginning the day of closing. With so many unknowns, a 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty gives you peace of mind. For more information, call your John R. Wood sales associate or visit 2-10.com. CONROY, CONROY AND DURANT • If you’re looking for legal representation for your real estate transaction, look no further than Conroy, Conroy and Durant, P.A. As a Naples, Florida law firm specializing in real estate law, their attorneys, paralegals, and staff focus exclusively on real estate transactions and finance, and they offer a level of expertise that broader practices may not offer. Their experience allows them to construct sound, creative, and practical solutions for your real estate transaction. For more information, call your John R. Wood sales associate or visit ccdlegal.com.
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Buying in Southwest Florida GET PRE-APPROVED
MOVING TO THE AREA?
John R. Wood Properties recommends that before you begin house hunting, you should begin the loan pre-approval process. Getting pre-approved requires that a lender verify your financial information. It will give you a number of advantages:
John R. Wood Properties will help you find the right community or neighborhood. There are many great neighborhoods in Southwest Florida. When you are coming from outside the region, finding the right one is a challenge. We can help you understand all the options, from beautiful suburbs and subdivisions to city neighborhoods and specific condominiums. Our staff of real estate professionals can provide you with insights into local schools, transportation, amenities, and more.
• First - When you do find a property, sellers will take your offer more serously because you have a lender that is committed to backing your offer. • Second - It does give the assurance that you’re looking at homes that you can confidently afford to finance. • Third - You will have a significant edge over other buyers who aren’t pre-approved. In situations where there are multiple offers on a property, this can be the difference between having your offer accepted and losing that property to another buyer.
TITLE INSURANCE Title insurance policies protect against losses that occur after closing on a property. Title insurance covers unseen problems during the title search such as examiner oversights and errors in public records. To simplify your buying process, John R. Wood Properties has formed a relationship with Conroy, Conroy and Durant. Attorneys who specialize in real estate, and who provide title insurance for your protection. A John R. Wood real estate professional can help you acquire the keys to your new home.
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Important Numbers We know your life is busy and we are here to make it easier for you. This is a quick reference guide for those important phone numbers that can help answer the questions: Who picks up my garbage? How do I get a Florida driver’s license? And, one of the most important, “Who can get me connected to the Internet?”
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NAPLES & MARCO ISLAND
VEHICLE REGISTRATION (239) 252-8177
BEACH PARKING STICKERS (239) 252-4000
VOTER REGISTRATION (239) 252-8450
BOAT REGISTRATION (239) 252-8176
WATER City (Naples): (239) 213-4745 County: (239) 252-6245
BUS TRANSPORTATION Collier Area Transit (CAT): (239) 252-7777 CABLE TELEVISION Comcast Cable: (239) 793-3577 DECLARATION OF DOMICILE (239) 252-2646 DRIVER’S LICENSE (239) 434-4600 ELECTRIC Florida Power and Light: (239) 262-1322, (800) 468-8243 Lights Out: (800) 468-8243 FISHING/HUNTING LICENSE (239) 252-8176 GARBAGE COLLECTION Collier County Solid Waste Department: (239) 252-2380 GOVERNMENT CENTER (239) 252-8999 OCCUPATIONAL LICENSE (239) 252-2477 PASSPORTS (239) 252-7241 POST OFFICE (239) 435-2146, (800) 275-8777 Marco Island: (239) 394-5437 SOCIAL SECURITY (800) 772-1213 TAX COLLECTOR (239) 252-8171 TELEPHONE CENTURY LINK: (239) 596-6220,
WATER/SEWER City (Naples): (239) 213-1800 Marco Island: (239) 394-3168 Collier County: (239) 252-6245 CITY OFFICES City of Naples: (239) 213-1015
FORT MYERS, BONITA SPRINGS, ESTERO, SANIBEL & CAPTIVA BUS TRANSPORTATION LEETRAN (239) 533-8726 CABLE TELEVISION Comcast Cable: (239) 432-9277 DECLARATION OF DOMICILE (239) 533-5000 DRIVER’S LICENSE (239) 533-6000
GARBAGE COLLECTION Unincorporated Lee County, Bonita Springs & Fort Myers Beach Onyx Waste Services (Area 1, 4): (239) 334-1224 Florida Recycling, Inc. (Area 2, 3, 5): (239) 332-8500 CAPE CORAL WASTE MANAGEMENT (239) 334-4115 CAPTIVA RECYCLING Florida Recycling, Inc.: (239) 332-8500 FORT MYERS SANITATION (239) 321-8050 SANIBEL RECYCLING Florida Recycling, Inc.: (239) 332-8500 GOVERNMENT CENTER (239) 533-2111 OCCUPATIONAL LICENSE (239) 533-6000 PASSPORTS (239) 533-5000 POST OFFICE (800) 275-8777 SOCIAL SECURITY (888) 318-9114 TAX COLLECTOR (239) 533-6000
VEHICLE REGISTRATION (239) 533-6000 VOTER REGISTRATION (239) 533-8683 WATER - SANIBEL ISLAND WATER ASSOCIATION (239) 472-1502 WATER - TOWN OF FORT MYERS BEACH (239) 463-9914 WATER - PINE ISLAND Greater Pine Island Water Assoc.: (239) 283-1071 Gateway Services District: (239) 561-1313 WATER/SEWER SANIBEL Sanibel Sewer: (239) 472-1008 LEE COUNTY UTILITIES: (239) 936-0247 CITY OFFICES City of Bonita Springs: (239) 949-6262 City of Cape Coral: (239) 574-0401 City of Sanibel: (239) 472-4135 City of Fort Myers: (239) 321-7000
TELEPHONE Century Link: (800) 366-8201
ELECTRIC FLORIDA POWER AND LIGHT (239) 334-7754, (800) 468-8243 LEE COUNTY ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC. (239) 656-2972, (800) 599-2356 FISHING/HUNTING LICENSE (888) HUNT-FLORIDA: (486-8356) (888) FISH-FLORIDA: (347-4356)
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Education Area schools are among the best in the state when it comes to providing individual assistance to students. School curriculums offer a broad variety of subjects in an attempt to mold a well-rounded student. Literally thousands of students attend class at more than 100 elementary, middle, and high schools around the area. Florida Gulf Coast University, Florida Southwestern State College, Hodges University, Southwest Florida College, Rasmussen College, and Ave Maria University are the area’s premier higher learning facilities. Each year, the universities provide a variety of challenging courses and varied majors.
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COLLIER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS Naples, Marco Island
CollierSchools.com Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Administrative Center 5775 Osceola Trail, Naples, FL 34109 Phone (239) 377-0001 Fax (239) 377-0181 webmaster@collierschools.com
LEE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS Fort Myers, Bonita Springs, Estero, Sanibel Island, Captiva Island
LeeSchools.net Lee County Public Education Center 2855 Colonial Boulevard, Fort Myers, FL 33966 Phone: 239-334-1102 Fax: 239-337-8300
PRIVATE SCHOOLS IN COLLIER AND LEE COUNTIES FloridaSmart.com PrivateSchoolReview.com Upon moving to Florida, students should be registered for school. Parents can call (239) 334-1102 to find out which school their children will be attending. Students in kindergarten and first grade must provide birth certificates. Proof of residency must be provided (i.e., Declaration of Domicile, proof that a home has been purchased, or living quarters have been leased), social security numbers, a Certificate of Immunization, and proof of a physical examination within the previous year. Students do not need transcripts. The school will send for them.
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Colleges and Universities AVE MARIA UNIVERSITY 877-283-8648 • AveMaria.edu Ave Maria University is a vibrant university located in beautiful southwest Florida. It is an academic institution that pledges faithfulness to the teachings of the Church and is committed to offering one of the finest classical liberal arts curricula available, as well as opportunities for specialized study in all of the sciences, social sciences, and humanities. The university’s superb faculty, challenging curriculum, professional staff, and a student community where it is easy to form lasting friendships, provide graduates with a training that empowers them to step out into the working world as future leaders and wealth-creators, with a solid understanding of contemporary challenges, and a strong confidence in their own intellectual training and foundation.
FLORIDA SOUTHWESTERN STATE COLLEGE 239-489-9300 • FSW.edu Formerly Edison State College, Florida Southwestern State College offers Associate in Arts, Associate in Science, and Baccalaureate degrees, as well as various certificate programs. The Lee County Campus has twenty-four permanent structures including the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall. The Collier County Campus opened in March of 1992. This beautiful campus is located on a 80-acre site near State Road 951 and Rattlesnake Hammock Road, in east Naples. The Charlotte County Campus opened in 1997. Located on a wooded site on Airport Road in Punta Gorda, the campus is an excellent addition to the Charlotte area. Edison also provides services to students in Hendry and Glades counties. Florida Southwestern State College is governed by its District Board of Trustees composed of nine representatives from Charlotte, Collier, Hendry, Glades and Lee Counties.
FLORIDA GULF COAST UNIVERSITY 800-590-3428 • FGCU.edu Florida Gulf Coast University, with its innovative programs, technology friendly campus, and outstanding faculty, is one of the most exciting educational environments in America. FGCU, a member of the State University System of Florida, is a comprehensive university created to address the educational needs of the rapidly growing Southwest Florida population. Classrooms showcase state-of-the-art multimedia instructional systems that feature Internet access, document cameras, and audio/video presentations.
HODGES UNIVERSITY 239-513-1122 • Hodges.edu With Campuses in Naples and Fort Myers, Hodges University offers Associate in Science, Bachelor of Science, and master-level degree programs in career-related disciplines. In addition to granting degrees, the college offers continuing education programs which include instruction in English as a second or foreign language and lifelong learning classes for senior citizens. Specifically designed programs and special courses are also available to businesses and professional firms seeking instruction or personalized seminars. They have a Program Participation Agreement with the U.S. Department of Education for eligible students to receive Pell Grants and other federal aid (e.g. Direct Loans).
RASMUSSEN COLLEGE 239-477-2100 • Rasmussen.edu The Fort Myers, FL college campus is located in Lee County south of Port Charlotte and just north of Naples and Colonial Boulevard off I-75. With a solid reputation as a popular tourist attraction, the area’s employment opportunities continue to rise, giving campus graduates more options for starting their careers. Offering both on campus and online Bachelor’s and Associate’s degrees, the Fort Myers campus provides students with in-demand degree options in areas such as; medical, business, design and information systems.
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA COLLEGE 877-820-7306 • SWFC.edu Southwest Florida College is an accredited private institution of higher learning that is listening to employers and providing its students with lifetime career placement assistance in today’s most demanding career fields. The college is centrally located in Bonita Springs, Fort Myers, Tampa, Port Charlotte, and includes the Institute of Interior Design located within the Miromar Design Center in Estero. Career training is offered in fields such as Health Care, Business, Design, Education, Information Technology and Legal Studies. 42 RELOCATION GUIDE
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Hospitals Southwest Florida has some of the finest health care facilities in the nation. Facilities are numerous and their locations are scattered throughout both counties. You will not have to travel far if an emergency should arise. For routine, preventative, major or minor illnesses, Southwest Florida medical centers and doctor’s offices are plentiful.
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Hospitals NAPLES NAPLES COMMUNITY HOSPITAL HEALTHCARE SYSTEM 239-436-5430 NCHMD.org
endoscopy, and radiology areas. The stateof–the-art facility is equipped with highly advanced technology with all the patients’ needs in mind.
(NCH to the locals) boasts some of the region’s most outstanding health care facilities. More than 500 physicians serve two hospitals and 26 satellite branches. NCH is recognized as a leader in a comprehensive, integrated range of services.
LEE MEMORIAL HEALTH SYSTEM CAPE CORAL 239-424 2000 LeeMemorial.org
NCH NAPLES CAMPUS 239-436-5000 NCHMD.org NCH Naples Campus has more than 500 physicians, 4,000 highly trained employees, and 1,900 volunteers who comprise the outstanding medical team at this 390-bed hospital. Specialties include cardiology, oncology, inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation, psychiatry, pediatric emergency medicine, surgery, diagnostics, and more. PHYSICIANS REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER 239-348-4000 PhysiciansRegional.com Physicians Regional Medical Center is an advanced medical center with access to the latest health-oriented technology. It provides general medical and surgical care for inpatient, outpatient, and emergency room patients.
Cape Coral Hospital combines the latest in medical technology with caring and respect for its patients. It has been recognized as one of the 100 top hospitals in the U.S. and one of the top 100 hospitals in orthopedics. It has served Lee County for over 20 years and offers 281 beds, all private. GOLISANO CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA 239-433-7799 LeeMemorial.org/Facilities/tcHospital.asp Constructed in 1992 as a part of HealthPark Medical Center, the Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida utilizes an interdisciplinary/integrated team approach in offering family-centered care from birth through age 18. LEE MEMORIAL HEALTH SYSTEMS 800-936-5321 LeeMemorial.org HealthPark Care Center is a 112-bed facility
offering all the services of a skilled nursing home. It focuses on the rehabilitation of its patients enabling them to either return home or progress to a retirement community. It offers the most current and comprehensive geriatric treatment. LEE MEMORIAL HEALTH SYSTEMS HEALTHPARK MEDICAL CENTER 239-343-5000 LeeMemorial.org The largest hospital expansion to date in Lee County has been completed at HealthPark Medical Center (HPMC). The expanded, state-of-the-art hospital incorporates advanced technology, especially in children’s care and cardiac care. HealthPark Medical Center has been recognized as one of the 100 Top Hospitals for Cardiology and Intensive Care. LEE MEMORIAL HEALTH SYSTEMS THE REHABILITATION HOSPITAL 239-336-6900 LeeMemorial.org The Rehabilitation Hospital is located at Lee Memorial Hospital and offers a 60-bed inpatient medical rehabilitation setting. It specializes in comprehensive, cost effective and outcome oriented services that enable patients to live at their highest level of independence within the community.
NAPLES HEART INSTITUTE 239-436-5000 NCHMD.org The NCH Naples Campus is home to one of the most successful cardiac programs in the nation. Its mortality rate is less than half of the national average, and it is consistently rated as a five-star program by independent rating agencies.
FORT MYERS & BONITA SPRINGS BONITA COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER 239-949-1050 BonitaHealthCenter.com The Bonita Community Health Center was established by a partnership between health care professionals of NCH Healthcare System and Lee Memorial Health System. The center offers a walk-in clinic, day surgery, 44 RELOCATION GUIDE
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Elder Care While younger, middle-aged, and retirees are flocking to Southwest Florida to make their home in paradise, the need is also recognized for those who are older or may need elder care. There are many elder care facilities available, and if there is a need for more, Southwest Florida is no stranger in responding to any development need. JohnRWood.com/Elder_Care or FloridaSmart.com/health
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Hotels Many major hotels are represented in Southwest Florida. The following are some of our favorites…
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Hotels EDGEWATER BEACH HOTEL, NAPLES 239-403-2000 EdgewaterNaples.com
INN ON FIFTH, NAPLES 888-403-8778, 239-403-8777 InnOnFifth.com
This hotel is a popular all-suite hotel directly on the beach. It has an excellent location near Lowdermilk Park in the heart of Naples.
In the heart of boutiques, antique shops, and restaurants on fabulous 5th Avenue South, steps away from Cambier Park and the von Liebig Arts Center, and adjacent to the Sugden Community Theatre, home of the Naples Players. Large, elegantly decorated rooms offer sliding French doors to balcony or terrace, three phones with guest voice mail. Hotel amenities include full-service spa/salon, heated pool, and fitness center, plus restaurant, Avenue 5.
HAMPTON INN & SUITES, FORT MYERS BEACH 239-437-8888 HamptonInn.com/FtMyers The Hampton Inn & Suites offers 42 suites that sleep up to six people per room. An exercise gym, heated outdoor pool, safe deposit box, and express checkout are just some of the accommodations for visitors. It is conveniently located only four miles to Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel-Captiva Islands. BELLASERA RESORT, NAPLES 888-627-1595 BellaseraNaples.com Tropical elegance, color, and Naples history are evident at the Bellasera. The resort’s Old World charm makes it an ideal place to hold business meetings. Gourmet catering, championship golf, and culinary art events make the hotel one of the most vibrant and exclusive meeting places in the city. THE BEL-MAR, NAPLES 239-403-4747, 800-403-7430 TheBel-Mar.com Just two short blocks to Naples’ beautiful, sandy beach and picturesque 5th Avenue South, the Bel-Mar offers great location, accommodations, quaintness, value, and Old Naples charm. Guests will enjoy tropical breezes, shelling, fishing, beautiful sunsets, and the relaxing pool at the Bel-Mar. INN OF NAPLES 800-895-8858 InnOfNaples.com This is a classic Mediterranean style inn with a stunning lobby, deluxe and luxury hotel rooms, and spacious one-and two-bedroom suites. The Inn offers large desks, phones with fax modems, in-room coffee, copier services, voice mail, alarm clock, private balcony, and remote control television with free HBO, and more, including a heated pool, spa, workout room, restaurant and lobby bar, and complimentary continental breakfast.
HILTON GARDEN INN, FORT MYERS 239-790-3500, 877-782-9444 HiltonGardenInn.Hilton.com/FtMyers Located just nine miles from Southwest Florida International Airport, the Hilton Garden Inn Fort Myers Hotel features deluxe accommodations and a relaxed atmosphere. Amenities include complimentary high speed internet access, in-room hospitality center with kitchenette, and a large work desk with desk level outlets.
LEMON TREE INN, NAPLES 239-262-1414, 888-800-LEMON LemonTreeInn.com Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway for two, or affordable vacation accommodations for a family of four, the Lemon Tree Inn should be your first stop in Naples. Guests can unwind with a swim in the sparkling pool, relax in the secluded garden courtyard, and enjoy complimentary continental breakfast poolside, all in the center of this tropical paradise. Designed with the architectural influence of Old Florida and set against a backdrop of beautifully landscaped tropical foliage, the Lemon Tree Inn is truly “a touch of Key West in the heart of Old Naples.” Walking distance to 5th Avenue South.
HILTON MARCO ISLAND BEACH RESORT 239-394-5000 HiltonMarcoIsland.com The Hilton is located just minutes from the Florida Everglades National Park, Caribbean Gardens, historical downtown Naples and many of the finest golf courses in Southwest Florida. The Hilton offers guests an array of dining, recreation, and entertainment choices that are great for the entire family. INN AT PELICAN BAY, NAPLES 800-597-8770 InnAtPelicanBay.com Guest privileges at a semi-private championship golf course nearby and conveniently located near the Ritz-Carlton and Vanderbilt Beach. Spacious rooms, large TV, in-room movies and games, large desks, two phones with modem hookup, and guest voice mail. The Inn also includes exercise center, heated pool, and spa. JohnRWood.com 47
Hotels MARCO ISLAND MARRIOTT RESORT, GOLF CLUB AND SPA 239-394-2511, 800-438-4373 MarcoIslandMarriott.com Hotel located directly on the Gulf of Mexico along 3.5 miles of pristine white sand beach. The award-winning resort offers more than 700 rooms and suites, four restaurants, a full-service spa, and an 18-hole championship golf course. The Marco Island Marriott Resort is the perfect location for golfers, families, or for those who want to relax at the spa or lounge on the beach. NAPLES BEACH HOTEL AND GOLF CLUB 800-455-1546, 239-261-2222 NaplesBeachHotel.com It is the only facility in the heart of Naples that has on-site beach, tennis, and golf. This long time popular hotel is located in the heart of Naples at 851 Gulf Shore Blvd. North. Located on 125 acres of beach paradise, it has 319 rooms and suites, plus 6 HarTru tennis courts, four restaurants, cocktail lounges, and a world- class spa. Don’t miss the Summer Jazz on the Gulf series! NAPLES GRANDE 888-722-1267, 239-594-6739 NaplesGrande.com The resort is on the edge of the Gulf of Mexico. All 395 rooms and 29 suites offer breathtaking views of the Gulf with custom furnishings. Guests have access to off-site golf (Naples Grande), and on-site 15 HarTru tennis courts, three pools, exercise room, and spa.
TRIANON, OLD NAPLES 239-435-9600, 877-482-5228 Trianon.com The Trianon in Old Naples is a three-star hotel featuring 55 spacious guestrooms and three large one-bedroom suites, a pool, and off-street parking. Guests are within a short walk of the 5th Avenue South shopping district. THE RITZ-CARLTON NAPLES 239-598-3300 RitzCarlton.com/Naples “The Ritz” sits on 20 beachfront acres at the north end of Pelican Bay. It has 463 guest rooms and suites, each with views of the Gulf 48 RELOCATION GUIDE
of Mexico, most with private balconies. All rooms have separate dressing areas, two telephones, fax and computer hook up. There are eight restaurants and lounges within the hotel for every culinary taste, plus a fully staffed fitness center, spa, pool, and upscale shops, as well as a 51,000-plus-square-foot, tri-level spa. The Ritz-Carlton Naples has consistently been voted as one of the top hotels in the U.S. THE RITZ-CARLTON GOLF RESORT, NAPLES 239-593-2000 RitzCarlton.com/Naples Named the top golf resort in Florida by Golf Digest magazine in October 2009, this RitzCarlton property features superb accommodations, dining excellence, a full spectrum of amenities, and two championship golf courses. SANIBEL HARBOUR RESORT AND SPA, FORT MYERS 239-466-4000, 800-767-7777 Sanibel-Resort.com The resort’s lavish guestrooms and suites offer a warm and inviting décor inspired by the natural beauty of the seaside setting. Atop the majestic hotel you’ll find a group of elite suites fit for a royal family. Inside the complex there are two sparkling pools and an inviting spa, all within short distance to five restaurants and lounges.
PARK SHORE RESORT, NAPLES 800-548-2077, 239-263-2222 ParkShoreFl.com One and two-bedroom suites, full kitchens, living and dining rooms, and screened balconies. Amenities include restaurant, pool and spa with nearby golf courses, free beach shuttle, volleyball, shuffleboard, laundry facilities, and only five minutes to world-class shopping and dining. STAYBRIDGE SUITES BY HOLIDAY INN, NAPLES 800-225-1237 StayBridge.com An extended stay hotel, featuring studio, one and two bedroom/two bath suites with fully equipped kitchens, TV and VCR, dedicated living and office areas. Free local and toll-free calls, direct phone number with two lines and voice mail, and high-speed internet access in every suite. Complimentary breakfast buffets and evening beer and wine sundowners. Available 24 hours a day: convenience store, fitness center, business center, and free guest laundry room. This hotel is only one mile to the beach and pet friendly.
TRIANON, BONITA SPRINGS 239-948-4400, 800-859-3939 Trianon.com Trianon hotel in Bonita Springs features 100 spacious guestrooms (410 square feet each), a heated pool, conference room, lobby lounge, and ample parking. The hotel is located on the lakefront entrance to the upscale Bonita Bay community in Bonita Springs, immediately north of Naples, and it’s just minutes to the beach. PINK SHELL BEACH RESORT AND SPA, FORT MYERS 239-463-6181, -888-222-7465 pinkshell.com The Pink Shell is perfect for families and couples seeking a playful, fun atmosphere. The resort boasts a view of the Gulf that is second to none. JohnRWood.com
Business and Employment Southwest Florida has grown significantly over the past few decades. The Bureau of Economic & Business Research estimates that Southwest Florida will reach more than 2.3 million residents by 2030, a steady but controlled growth rate. Southwest Florida promises to be a hotspot, based in part on the quality of life and place. The Southwest Florida region will continue to attract people from all walks of life: students are drawn to the regions thriving colleges and universities, families are seeking new opportunities for their futures, and active adults who want to spend the best years of their lives in a beautiful place.
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Southwest Florida Workforce Resources AGENCY
SPECIALTY
LOCATION CONTACT
WEBSITE
Coastal Staffing
Full Service
Naples
239-417-2301
CoastalStaffingService.com
Corporate Dimensions
Professional Recruiting
Naples
239-430-1900
CorporateDimensionsInc.com
Kelly Services
Full Service
Ft Myers
239-936-0086
KellyServices.com
Labor Finders
Full Service
Naples
239-793-5500
LaborFinders.com
ManCan
Full Service
Naples
239-434-5226
ManCan.com
Office Team
Full Service
Ft Myers
239-985-2240
OfficeTeam.com
Protemp Office Services
Office and Clerical
Cape Coral
239-542-2133
ProTempOffice.com
Remedy-Intelligent Staffing
Clerical and Light Industrial
Ft Myers
239-278-1515
RemedyStaff.com
For decades, Lee and Collier Counties have been among the country’s fastest growing areas. Its increasing population, coupled with its ideal quality-of-life-setting, equates to great opportunities for business. Today, as part of Southwest Florida’s initiatives, Lee and Collier Counties are embracing the opportunity to support growth throughout the region.
FOR ENTREPRENEURS
FOR BUSINESSES
and growing businesses, Southwest Florida offers access to capital from private, federal and other sources along with strategic business support from the numerous entrepreneurship centers within this region and around the state
in certain targeted industries, the state of Florida offers additional incentives, including limited corporate taxes and no personal income tax. • NO state personal income tax • NO state-level property tax • NO corporate income tax on limited partnerships • NO corporate income tax on subchapter S-corporations NO corporate franchise tax on capital stock • NO property tax on goods-in-transit for up to 180 days • NO sales and use tax on goods manufactured or produced in Florida for export outside the state • NO sales tax on purchases of raw materials incorporated in final product for resale, including non-reusable containers or packaging
MAJOR INDUSTRIES INCLUDE: •
Financial Services & Technologies
• Agriculture
•
Information Technologies
• Life Sciences
• Medical Services
• Manufacturing
• Renewable Energy
• Real Estate
• Warehousing & Distribution
• Tourism
Source: Southwest Florida Economic Development Council (www.swfleda.com) 50 RELOCATION GUIDE
JohnRWood.com
Affiliations MEMBER • Luxury Portfolio International™ is the luxury face of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World®, which is the largest global network of the world’s most powerful independent luxury brokerages. As a member of this elite community, John R. Wood Properties has access to a worldwide network that markets over 25,000 of the world’s most remarkable homes annually. The Luxury Portfolio International™ brand, in conjunction with John R. Wood Properties, is recognized throughout the world as the luxury standard of excellence. MEMBER • The Wood firm is a member of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World™, the largest relocation system in the world, with well over 50% of the world’s largest real estate companies as members. More referral business is exchanged among these brokers than any franchise brokerage in the United States. Being in popular locations such as Naples and Fort Myers, referrals from this and other sources come to John R. Wood Properties on a daily basis. LEADING ESTATES • John R. Wood Properties is the exclusive Naples representative for Leading Estates, an international organization of Brokers who specialize in luxury real estate. The Leading Estates affiliation provides an incredible marketing tool for luxury properties throughout the United States and foreign countries. REALTY ALLIANCE • The Wood firm is further distinguished by its membership in the prestigious Realty Alliance. This membership is by invitation only, and John R. Wood Properties is the only Broker in Southwest Florida to hold membership in this organization. The Realty Alliance is comprised of approximately 65 of the nation’s largest and most prominent companies. WHO’S WHO IN LUXURY REAL ESTATE • Who’s Who in Luxury Real Estate is an international network of the finest residential luxury real estate brokerages. John R. Wood Properties will link your home to a network of upscale firms with worldwide access to luxury buyers.
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