Modern Eyes Places to See: Naples, FL

This time of year, the pull of warm sunshine and sandy shores is hard to resist. For us, that allure came with an added bonus: a visit to family in Naples, Florida, a coastal destination where natural beauty and a vibrant cultural scene coexist with effortless ease.
 
To See
 
We started at the historic Naples Pier, an essential stop for a morning walk or an afternoon of fishing. Sunglasses at the ready, we headed for the unspoiled beaches at Delnor-Wiggins Pass to claim an early spot for sandcastles and splashing in the surf.
 
During the midday heat, we headed indoors to The Baker Museum to enjoy their large collection of modern art and to The Revs Institute to appreciate a different kind of artistry with 120+ historically-significant automobiles showcasing innovation and motorsports.
 
Next, we strolled through historic Third Street South with its colorful cottages and inviting fountains. While some of Naples’ most striking architecture sits hidden behind gates in the Port Royal neighborhood, a cruise aboard the Naples Princess offered us unobstructed views of these grand estates from the water.
 
To Do
 
Palm-lined Fifth Avenue South kept us busy with upscale boutiques, restaurants, and an impressive number of galleries. For those inspired to create, Naples Art Institute offers classes and workshops for all ages, as well as hosting several major art fairs annually.
 
Changing gears, the Naples Train Museum was a family-friendly spot with model train exhibits and rides (open Friday and Saturday). At Tin City we discovered plenty of quirky shops, casual eateries, and water-based activities.
 
Visitors in early February can enjoy the Naples Winter Wine Festival, showcasing top chefs and luxury experiences, and car enthusiasts won’t want to miss Cars on 5th, when more than 650 exotic vehicles line downtown.
 
To Savor
 
Naples’ dining scene is delicious and inventive. We loved The Café for its Scandinavian-inspired, allergy-friendly brunch. Patio dining is everywhere, but we gravitated toward La Pescheria for the fresh, sustainably sourced seafood and coastal Italian flair.
 
Among many fine dining options, Del Mar stands out for its two-story tiled patio and delicious Mediterranean cuisine. For a Floridian take on steakhouse classics, try London Club’s elegant settings and live jazz. Grab a nightcap at The Vine Room, a speakeasy-style lounge that pairs inventive cocktails with engaging tastings led by renowned mixologists.
 
Our last night, we grabbed a gluten-free treat at Gelato&Co. and joined the nightly migration (locals and tourists) down to the beach to watch the sun melt into the Gulf.
 
Last Looks
 
From peaceful beach mornings to art-filled afternoons to lively evenings of music and great cuisine, the warmth of Naples lingers long after the trip ends. It’s the kind of place that invites you to savor the moment and enjoy your time (with family) in the sun.