If ever a place merited its name, then Florida’s Paradise Coast certainly does. This beautiful area in Southwest Florida contains a multitude of attractions and 30 miles of white sand beaches.
Guide to the Paradise Coast, Florida
Summer calls for days spent outdoors and there’s no better place to experience sunshine, serenity and adventure than the Paradise Coast of Florida. Here, travelers will have a chance to explore charming towns, stroll sugar-sand beaches or one of the many nature trails unique to this coastal paradise.
Whether you’re looking for exciting water activities like paddleboarding or kayaking amongst mangrove forests, opportunities to get up close with local wildlife in a botanical garden or park, fishing off a private charter boat, or simply seeking an escape from your everyday life – shelling along the shores of our secluded barrier islands – there are plenty of options available on the Paradise Coast that guarantee unforgettable memories!
We’ve rounded up some of our favourite things to see and do on the Paradise Coast, to help you to make the most of your time here.
1.Outdoor Activities on the Paradise Coast
Take your pick from a huge range of outdoor activities, including kayaking in Florida, shelling in Marco Island or exploring Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park. You might well see some racoons as we did.
For a less energetic option, who could resist sunbathing on one of the many white sand beaches such as Barefoot Beach. At sunset, a catamaran cruise is the perfect way to enjoy the scenery and potentially spot some dolphins too.
2.Shopping in Naples, Florida
The region is one of the most affluent in the United States and the upmarket shops are a joy to browse. We met the lovely Marilyn at her spacious store, Marilyn’s, on Fifth Avenue.
Her store specializes in European fashion and has extremely luxurious changing rooms. In her shop, there are lots of drawers to open containing jewelry by independent fashion designers.
She showed me how to style up a variety of outfits with hats, designer belts and jewelry. Marilyn really knows how to make women look their best.
On her website there’s lots of useful advice including a hat guide for your face shape. We particularly like her selection of Philip Treacy hats but there are many to choose from.
This is another photogenic store on Third Street South – Island Company specializes in luxury resort wear.
Also on Third Street, admire the pink facade and huge selection of designer clothing at Marissa Collections. The store was launched 38 years ago by Marissa and her husband Burt and today they and their son Jay run it together.
You will find in-store boutiques such as Bruno Cucinelli Michael Kors and Oscar de la Renta. They stock one of our favourite jewelry brands, Alexis Bittar.
Marissa Collections also specialize in personal styling services and there’s a good range of make-up and skincare in store.
3.Restaurants in Naples and the Paradise Coast
Whether you’re a fan of seafood, steak or gluten free dining, there are some fantastic restaurants near Naples Florida. Lovers of Italian cuisine will appreciate Osteria Tulia and D’Amico’s The Continental.
Maya is a good choice for Mexican and Bleu Provence is a lovely French restaurant. For seafront cocktails or dining, check out BALEEN at LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort or the Kane Tiki Bar at the JW Marriott Marco Island.
In the Everglades, make sure to try the sustainable stone crab, which is really fresh and tasty.
Getting Around the Paradise Coast
We chose a hire car from Hertz for ease and speed of collection. You can walk to quite a few of the top attractions.
However, it’s handy to have a car to explore the whole area including the Everglades and Marco Island.
Where to Stay on the Paradise Coast
Two of our favourite hotels are conveniently located in Naples – firstly, Inn on Fifth. It has a fabulous roof top pool in the main hotel and an equally charming rooftop terrace at the luxurious Club Level Suites directly opposite.
Naples Bay Resort is another great option with lots of outdoor space and a Tuscan styled decor. It’s fun to watch the boats pass by whilst enjoying a drink on your terrace!
In Conclusion: Guide to the Paradise Coast, Florida
Finally, you can’t leave without enjoying the sunset at Naples Pier. The Paradise Coast is one of the most beautiful places in Florida.
With its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, it’s no wonder that people come from all over to experience this piece of paradise.
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