Whether you’re on vacation or you call Southwest Florida home, there’s no better way to spend a day in Naples, Florida than to explore all this paradise has to offer. Grab your fam and get ready to discover why Naples was voted the Best Beach Town in 2021 by WalletHub. Here are the top five family-friendly activities in Naples, Florida.
1. Relax and Explore the Beach
It’s no secret that Naples has some of Florida’s most beautiful beaches. With miles of white sand and turquoise water to enjoy, there’s always something to do. Whether you prefer to relax and take things slow or stay busy, the beach is full of opportunities. For a more adventurous day, book a shell tour with SWFL Shell Guide and find unique shells of all sizes. If heights don’t bother you, you may enjoy parasailing for a bird’s eye view of the coastal town. To spot some of the area’s marine wildlife, take a Jet Ski Dolphin Tour with Bonita JetSki & Parasail. Or if you prefer to explore on your own, check out Naples Extreme Family Fun Spot for boat, paddle board, kayak and bike rentals.
2. Make New Friends at the Naples Zoo
Kids love a day at Naples Zoo! The park features wildlife exhibits with birds, mammals and reptiles from all over the world. Black bears, giraffes, zebras, monkeys and tigers are just a few of the animals that call this tropical paradise home. Take a guided tour or venture through the park on your own, and get up close and personal with Suzie the sloth and her many animal friends. While exploring, make sure to catch one of the park’s educational programs where a park attendant will teach you all about the love and care that the park’s animals receive. The Zoo is open daily from 9 A.M. to 4:30 P.M. Guests are encouraged to purchase tickets online for express entry.
3. See What’s Blooming at the Naples Botanical Garden
Naples Botanical Garden boasts 170-acres of tropical plants and cultures. Founded in 1993, this world-class garden is a destination for all ages. As you stroll through the park’s many exhibits, find unique sculptures like Stickwork, created by North Carolina-based sculptor and environmental artist Patrick Dougherty. Enjoy smaller gardens representing different continents and peaceful areas to rest and take in the beauty of exotic plants and water features. While the park does have an on-site restaurant, we recommend grabbing lunch or a snack at Celebration Food Truck Park after your visit. Kids can roam free while you enjoy a cocktail and bites from one of 8+ local food trucks.
4. Stimulate Your Mind at the Children’s Museum of Naples
When you need a break from the sun, the Children’s Museum of Naples is the place to be! Educational activities allow children to learn through play, keeping them entertained for hours. As you journey through the museum (designed to mimic the Everglades), partake in hand-on activities that will stimulate all your senses.
5. Document your Trip with a Family Photoshoot
Time moves fast, especially when you’re on vacation. Be intentional about documenting your trip by planning a golden hour portrait session for your family. Sunsets in Naples are unmatched and cell phone pictures just don’t do them justice! Chasing Creative specializes in emotive family portraits on the beach and makes the experience easy and stress-free. Clients receive assistance with styling and even have access to a collection of items that can be worn for the session (which helps save a little room in your suitcase!). Learn more about portrait sessions with Chasing Creative at chasingcreativemedia.com.
