Naples, Florida

Naples is an urbane enclave at the heart of a subtropical water wonderland. Miles of bays and canals reflect the Italian namesake. To the east, Big Cypress Swamp extends to the vast unique maze of waterways that is Everglades National Park. Nearby to the south is the first of ten thousand islands. The western border of town is miles of white sandy beaches along the Gulf of Mexico. Naples was settled as a fishing village. By the 1880s, transformation into a resort community had begun as warm winters and the exotic locale began to attract visitors.

Today, coconut palms and tropical foliage provide a luxuriant frame to beaches, parks and upscale neighborhoods. Downtown, flowers line streets full of tony boutiques and sophisticated restaurants. Along the many surrounding waterfronts, beaches, all kinds of aquatic sports, and golf (more than fifty courses) are highlights among pleasurable pursuits. Several luxury resort hotels offer a wealth of contemporary cosmopolitan facilities in choice sites by fine-sand beaches bordering the Gulf.

For more information, check with the local Chamber of Commerce.