The 7 Best Day Trips From Naples Florida with Hidden Gems Included
Welcome to my unofficial guide to the 7 Best Day Trips From Naples Florida!
No matter how much you love Naples Florida sometimes you need some fresh air so after spending the last few weeks in Naples we decided to look around and check the very best day trips around.
Look:
Finding the perfect day trip comes down to two things, your willingness to drive and what you want to do. As soon as you know these it will be easy to pick one from the list below.
You see I’m a self-proclaimed professional wanderer of the USA. I met my girlfriend on one of my trips and ever since then we have been wandering together. Plus we have been blogging about our experiences to help others find the best of the best.
I’m ranking the top day trips around Naples on distance, fun factor, things to do and of course food options.
So no matter which one you choose after scrolling you will have a great action-packed day trip.
Let me see them already!
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#1 Fort Myers
Fort Myers is a great place to visit if you’re looking for some sunny weather and a chance to relax.
There are plenty of things to do in the area, whether you’re looking for a day trip or something to do for a longer vacation.
If you love shopping then I have a treat for you, there are a variety of boutique shops and outlets.
Maybe you consider yourself a history buff the you will enjoy visiting the 82nd Airborne monument or the Edison & Ford Winter Estates.
Now maybe you’re looking to spend some time outdoors, Lakes Regional Park is a great place to go for a walk or a bike ride, and there’s also a nature center where you can learn about the local flora and fauna.
For a longer trip, consider visiting the museums or taking a day trip to the beach. I wouldn’t leave without visiting the beach and that comes next.
Here’s why you should visit Fort Myers:
- 1. The weather is usually sunny and perfect for a day trip.
- 2. There are plenty of things to do, whether you’re looking for a day trip or something to do for a longer vacation.
- 3. If you love shopping, there are a variety of boutique shops and outlets.
#2 Fort Myers Beach
Since I’ve already mentioned the beach this can be an entire day’s worth of fun. Maybe it would be a great idea to do it on a different day so you can enjoy it to the fullest.
In other words there’s no shortage of things to do on Fort Myers Beach. For a day trip, you can pack a picnic lunch and drive along the shore.
Stop at one of the many city parks for a game of frisbee or volleyball, then head to the beach for a swim and a chance to catch the sunset.
If you’re looking for something more active, consider renting a paddleboard or taking a parasailing lesson.
And we all get hungry, no worries, there are plenty of great restaurants to enjoy, whether you’re in the mood for seafood or something more traditional.
Once you’re ready to head back home, take a leisurely drive along the shore – it’s the perfect way to end a perfect day.
Here’s why you should visit Fort Myers Beach:
- 1. The beaches are beautiful and perfect for a day trip.
- 2. There are plenty of things to do, whether you’re looking for a day trip or something to do for a longer vacation.
- 3. The restaurants are great and offer a variety of food choices.
#3 Keewaydin Island
Just a short boat ride from Naples, Keewaydin Island is the perfect day-trip destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
I’ve loved the almost private beach. You see Keewaydin Island can only be accessed by boats so you won’t have to worry about things getting too crowded. Keewaydin is ideal for anyone looking to relax in the sun with a good book.
If you love sunbathing then you can enjoy it in some peace and quiet away from the noisy crowd. The water is clean and the sand is just perfect.
For the more adventurous, Keewaydin also offers excellent shelling and bird watching opportunities. And best of all, Keewaydin is a dog-friendly beach, so you can bring your furry friend along for fun!
Here’s why you should visit Keewaydin Island:
- 1. Keewaydin is a perfect day-trip destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
- 2. The beaches are beautiful and there’s plenty of sun and not much of a crowd
- 3. Keewaydin also offers excellent shelling and bird-watching opportunities.
#4 Venice Florida
Venice, Florida is just perfect for a day trip.
Whether you’re looking for a short action-packed trip or a longer vacation you’ll find plenty to keep you busy.
For example, the Venetian Waterway Trail is a great way to explore the city. The trail runs through some of Venice’s most scenic areas, and it’s perfect for walking, biking, or even rollerblading (this was my favorite).
Another popular spot is Centennial Park, which offers beautiful views of the Gulf of Mexico. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even rent a kayak or paddleboard and head out on the water.
And of course, no trip to Venice would be complete without spending some time at the beach. Casperson Beach is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and even fishing.
As you can see Venice caters to those who want some action in their life and there’s plenty to choose from. Whenever we want something different from Naples we hit up Venice for a new adventure.
Here’s why you should visit Venice Florida:
- 1. Venice is a great place for those looking for some excitement and adventure in their life.
- 2. There’s plenty to do, whether you’re looking for a short trip or something to keep you busy during a long vacation.
- 3. Venice is also perfect for those who love the beach and spending time in the sun.
#5 Marco Island
Depending on your preference you can drive to Marco Island or take a boat to it. This can be an adventure by itself.
Anyways Marco Island is a beautiful day trip destination for beachgoers and those looking for an upscale dining experience.
The island has many restaurants to choose from, as well as several beaches to relax on. For those looking for a more active day, there are also several golf courses and tennis courts available.
Since Marco Island is a bit off the beaten path there won’t be as many people on the beaches than in Naples. So for those who want something less crowded it’s a great place to sunbathe.
Did you know there are regular boat shuttles between Naples and Marco Island.
Here’s why you should visit Marco Island:
- 1. Marco Island is a great place for those looking for some peace and quiet.
- 2. The beaches are beautiful and there’s plenty of sun and not much of a crowd.
- 3. It’s also perfect for those who love the beach and spending time in the sun.
#6 Everglades
The Everglades are not for the faint of heart because there are a lot of alligators and snakes.
It’s one of the most unique ecosystems in the world and can be found in Southern Florida. A day trip to the Everglades is a great way to get outdoors and explore all that this area has to offer. Here are some of the best things I recommend doing when visiting.
One of the best ways to explore the Everglades is by taking the Everglades eco-tour. This will allow you to see the area up close while learning about the plants and animals that make this ecosystem so special. The tours typically last around two hours and include a stop at the Smallest Post Office in the US.
If you’re looking for a more active day, there are plenty of outdoor hikes to enjoy. There are trails of varying difficulty levels, so there’s something for everyone. Be sure to bring bug spray, as the mosquitoes can be quite pesky.
And of course, no trip to the Everglades would be complete without taking a scenic airboat ride.
Here’s why you should visit the Everglades
- A trip to the Everglades is a great way for you and your family to get outdoors
- Hiking through this unique ecosystem will allow you to explore all it has to offer
- Everglades Tours is a perfect way for those looking for an educational experience
#7 Visiting Key West
Key West is a popular tourist destination for a reason – there’s something for everyone!
We spent a day exploring some of the best that this island has to offer, and here are my top four recommendations.
First, take a trolley tour to get your bearings and learn about the history of this unique place.
Then, head to the Shipwreck Treasures Museum to see artifacts from some of the hundreds of shipwrecks that have occurred nearby.
Next, walk (or drive) down to the Southernmost Point in the continental United States – it’s only 90 miles from Cuba!
And last but not least, don’t forget to enjoy a refreshment at one of the many bars or restaurants in Key West – it’s definitely worth it after a long day of exploring.
You have two options to get to Key West. You can choose to drive which will mean 6 hours of road time and kinda defeats the purpose of a day trip. Or you can take a jet-powered catamaran that will get you there in 3 hours. We took the shorter one and had a blast.
Here’s why you should visit Key West:
- 1. There’s something for everyone in Key West – whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just relaxing on the beach, you’ll find something to enjoy.
- 2. The Shipwreck Treasures Museum is a must-see if you’re interested in the area’s history.
- 3. The Southernmost Point is a great place to snap a photo and soak up the island atmosphere.
Unique Things To Do In Naples Florida:
- Naples Segway tour
- Kayaking through the mangrove tunnels
- Dolphin watching
- Deep-Sea Fishing Adventure along the Naples Coast
- Exploring nearby Marco Island
- Watch Alligators in the Everglades
- Enjoy Rookery Bay Reserve
Best Day Trips From Fort Myers:
- Enjoy Everglades National Park
- Have fun in Naples
- Drive to Bonita Springs
- Sail to Marco Island
- Can’t miss out on Miami
- Cruise around 10,000 Islands
- Visit Sanibel Island
Tips for Weekend Trips From Naples Florida:
- Sail to Marco Island
- Visit Key West
- Eat at Bonita Springs
- Enjoy Cayo Costa State Park
- Hit up the Florida Panther Refuge
- Go to Venice Beach
- Visit Pine Island
If you have just One Day In Naples, Florida this is what you must see and experience:
- Hit the beaches in Naples
- Enjoy the Sunset from Naples Pier
- Walk on the famous 5th street south
- Check out Tin City
- Visit Naples Zoo
- Visit Naples Botanical Gardens
- Enjoy great food at the local restaurants
Here are a few ideas for Day Trips From Marco Island:
- Everglades Excursions in Naples
- Beach Horses – Horseback Riding in Bradenton
- Captiva Cruises
- Checking out Matlacha
- Pure Florida Fishing in Naples
To check out my detailed list read my original blog post here.
Day Trips In Southwest Florida
- Kayak Rookery Bay
- Enjoy Matlacha Florida
- Have fun on the Everglades AirBoat Tour
- See the sunset at Naples Pier
- Watch the Naples Swamp Buggy Races
- Kayaking in Manatee Park in Fort Myers
- Try Camping in the Everglades
- Enjoy a Private Helicopter Tour
- Eat at the Everglades Seafood Festival
- Hit up Key West
For the full list and extended review visit my original post here.
Hidden Gems In Naples Florida that you have to see:
- Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens
- Naples Botanical Garden
- Revs Institute
- Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary
- Bird Gardens of Naples
- Collier Museum at Government Center
Here are the Best Islands Near Naples Florida:
- Marco Island
- Sanibel Island
- Estero Island
- Keewaydin Island
- Ten Thousand Island
- Captiva Island
- North Captiva Island
Conclusions on Best Day Trips From Naples Florida
We have reached the end of the road but the trip isn’t over yet. Besides road trips we have written a ton about Naples and the surrounding areas so maybe you can find other useful articles.
As promised I’ve done my best to bring you the best option for day trips. I’ve picked everything so anybody who’s reading this blog finds something useful. By now you have probably picked an idea already. Don’t forget to take pictures.
Maybe you can help me out? If you liked this article and you learned some valuable things please share it because it helps us a lot. Thank You!
Frequently Asked Questions:
How long is the boat ride from Naples to Key West?
Between 3 and 3.5 hours depending on what boat you are using. There are 110 miles between Naples and Key West and there’s a regular high-speed cameraman servicing this route. If you take a private boat you can stop and enjoy some fishing.
What islands are off the coast of Naples Florida?
The Islands off the coast of Naples Florida:
- Marco Island
- Ten Thousand Islands
- Cape Romano
- Sanibel Island
- Captiva Island
- North Captiva Island
- Estero Island
- Keewaydin Island
What other cities are near Naples Florida?
The Closest cities near Naples Florida are:
- Naples
- Marco Island
- Everglades City
- Immokalee
- Ave Maria
- Fort Myers
- Venice
- Orlando
Is Naples Fl worth visiting?
Yes Naples Florida is worth visiting because you will be able to enjoy snow-white sand on the clean beaches, crystal clear water plus there are many great restaurants to choose from if you get hungry. We shouldn’t forget all the great shopping places either.