Things You Might Not Know About Naples, FL

Naples, Florida, often conjures images of white sand beaches, sparkling turquoise waters, and breezy afternoons spent beneath the palms. While it’s widely known as a luxurious retreat on the Gulf, there’s so much more to Naples than its postcard-worthy coastline. This vibrant city is a place of surprising depth, filled with unique experiences, unexpected history, and details that set it apart from other Florida destinations. Whether you’re thinking about relocating, investing in a property, or just curious about what makes life in Naples so captivating, uncovering these lesser-known facets might just inspire your next move.

Yes, you read that right — Naples is one of the most consistent places in Florida to spot dolphins in the wild. Because of the warm, shallow waters of the Gulf and the intricate network of estuaries around the Ten Thousand Islands, dolphins thrive here year-round. It’s not unusual to catch them gliding alongside your kayak or playing in the wake of a passing boat. Sunset cruises and wildlife tours are available, but even a simple walk along the beach or pier can turn into a thrilling encounter with these intelligent marine mammals.

Today’s Naples may be defined by upscale shopping and elegant golf courses, but its roots tell a very different story. Before the developers arrived in the 20th century, Naples was a quiet, swampy outpost known for fishing, hunting, and thick mangroves. Settlers were drawn here not for its glamor but for the abundant natural resources. Some of that character still lingers if you look beyond the city center — in Everglades tours, historic fishing villages like Goodland, and the preserved simplicity of the Gulf Coast’s backwaters.

For a city of its size, Naples boasts an impressive art scene that could easily hold its own in a much larger metropolitan area. The city is home to the Baker Museum, which features rotating exhibitions from world-renowned artists, as well as the Naples Art District — a collection of working artist studios that are open to the public. On top of that, you’ll find dozens of local galleries and outdoor art festivals throughout the year. Whether you’re into contemporary installations, sculpture, or oil painting, you’ll likely find something that piques your interest in Naples’ creative corridors.

You might assume that a city on the water would revolve around seafood, and while Naples certainly delivers exceptional grouper and snapper, the local culinary scene stretches far wider. From authentic Italian trattorias and high-end steakhouses to vegan cafés and Latin-inspired bistros, there’s an astounding breadth of dining options to explore. Some of the most highly sought-after restaurants are tucked away in unexpected plazas or hidden behind understated exteriors. Chefs here take pride in sourcing local ingredients, crafting seasonal menus, and offering a dining experience that’s just as memorable as the food itself.

It’s not all retirement and relaxation; Naples has quietly cultivated a growing community of entrepreneurs, investors, and remote professionals. With Florida’s favorable tax structure, many business owners and digital nomads have chosen to put down roots here. Co-working spaces, tech meetups, and small business incubators are becoming increasingly visible around town. This fresh energy adds a dynamic layer to Naples, attracting younger professionals who bring new ideas, fresh ventures, and even startup capital to the area.

While Naples is undoubtedly renowned for its golf courses, many don’t realize just how vast and impressive the offerings are. The city has over 90 golf courses within a 30-mile radius — some of which have hosted PGA and LPGA events. These aren’t just courses with pretty views, either. Many are designed by legends like Jack Nicklaus, Greg Norman, and Arthur Hills, offering strategic layouts that challenge seasoned players while still remaining enjoyable for beginners. If golf is part of your lifestyle, Naples offers a year-round paradise.

Naples’ beaches are gorgeous, but don’t let the shoreline steal all the attention. Inland, you’ll find lush nature preserves, walking trails, and freshwater lakes that offer peace and seclusion. Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, for example, is a breathtaking boardwalk experience through a rare old-growth cypress forest. Bird watchers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts alike flock here for glimpses of wood storks, alligators, and even the elusive panther. If you're looking for serenity without the saltwater, these inland escapes offer just as much wonder.

Naples, Florida, is a place that effortlessly blends natural splendor, elegant amenities, and a deep sense of local pride. But as you've seen, there's much more beneath the surface than meets the eye. Naples offers a multifaceted lifestyle that continues to evolve.

Whether you're considering a move, a vacation home, or simply want to understand this gem of the Gulf Coast a little better, knowing these lesser-known details will help you appreciate all that Naples has to offer — and maybe even fall in love with it all over again. Reach out to Reneé Poppie for expert guidance if you’re ready to find a beautiful home in Naples to call your own.