Weekend Getaway: 48 Hours in Naples, FL

Perched in the Gulf of Mexico, the city of Naples is known for its world-class beaches, top-notch shopping, and coastal-cool nightlife.
 
There’s no doubt that Naples is famous for high-end retail therapy, but it’s also a great place for an affordable family vacation or couples getaway.
 
Thinking about a trip to Naples this summer? Now is the perfect time to score an affordable hotel rate for the weekend.
 
Here’s how you can enjoy Naples in 48 hours.
 
Arrival: Friday at 8 a.m.
 
Fun fact about Naples: Many of the city’s 30-miles of beaches are public. That means there’s plenty of parking and access. A perfect place to begin your time in Naples is Lowdermilk Beach & Park.
 
The beach and park are one of the city’s premier beaches, featuring public parking, concessions, playgrounds, gazebos for rent, and picnic tables. It’s the perfect place for a family day out at the beach.
 
Want to stay near the beach? The Best Western Naples Inn & Suites is less than a 10-minute drive to Lowdermilk Beach. The Naples, FL hotel offers a complimentary beach shuttle and bike rentals for guests. 
 
After some fun and sun in the Gulf of Mexico, it’s time for a late lunch.
 
Naples has a pretty cool food scene. It landed at #9 on the list of Best Small Town Food Scenes in the U.S., based on votes by readers of USA TODAY'S 10Best travel section.
 
In addition to many restaurants and cafes (more on that later) one of the city’s most popular food destinations right now is the Seed to Table Oakes. The new 75,000 sq. ft. farmer's market-inspired grocery store and eatery is located in North Naples and sells and services fresh produce from its own farms. You can shop there, as well as dine and enjoy a full bar with entertainment. It’s the perfect location for a chill afternoon nosh after a day at the beach.
 
8 p.m. on Friday

After a much-deserved nap, it’s time to hit the town in Naples.
 
Naples nightlife scene consists of bustling family-friendly meccas, craft breweries, and lounges.
 
Check out the Mercato district, known for shopping, the movie theater, and live entertainment. Grab a drink at Blu Martini while listening to the band, then head over to Capital Grille for dinner. Finish up the night with light and fluffy French desserts at Le Macaron. And the great part? All these locations are in the same place.
 
Saturday at 8 a.m.
 
Start your day with some early morning fishing off the iconic Naples Pier. The pier is one of Naples' most popular attractions. Built-in 1888, the historic pier was recently renovated and extends 1,000 feet into the Gulf. Enjoy a variety of activities at the pier including fishing, surfing, and kiting.
 
Up for adventure? Head over Ten Thousand Islands for some excitement. The isolated barrier islands are one of Florida’s top natural attractions. The islands are only accessible by boat. There you can snorkel and swim in the Gulf. Go here to book a trip.
 
After a day of fishing and outdoor adventure, you’re bound to have quite an appetite.
 
Saturday at 6 p.m.
 
Enjoy a low-key dinner at Celebration Park, a unique waterfront bar and food truck park. There you’ll find dozens of food truck options and live entertainment. It’s a great place to grab a no-frills dinner while listening to some live jams.
 
Sunday morning….Your last few hours in Naples….
 
Before heading home, be sure to check out Fifth Avenue Historic District. There you’ll find antique stores, art galleries, and historic homes. It’s the perfect, picturesque place to leave you with a warm feeling about your visit to Naples.