Romance on the Paradise Coast
During one of the most romantic times of the year, we invite you and your special someone to spend time in Paradise - or, more precisely, Florida’s Paradise Coast. Comprised of Naples, Marco Island, and the Everglades, this area contains some of the state’s most gorgeous scenery - and great opportunities to get lost together in it. Escape to a quiet beach, explore millions of acres of raw Florida vegetation, live luxuriously in the shopping district, and heat things up back at your resort.
Beach Escapes
Soft white sand, azure blue waters, warm sun - do you need any more reasons to spend your days on a Paradise Coast beach?
The beaches of the Paradise Coast have certainly lent to the area’s name, with paradisal scenery and conditions, including powder white sand that gives way to gentle Gulf waves. Many of the public beaches and parks welcome you to explore natural sand dunes, to search for shells and watch for birds, and maybe even have a little make-out session!
Refresh with an early morning walk hand-in-hand on Clam Pass Beach Park's three-quarter-mile boardwalk. You'll take a path through sea oats and along shallow tidal bays dotting the beach. For an even more private walk, visit Barefoot Beach Preserve County Park just to the north of Delnor-Wiggins is known for its thriving flora and fauna – you might spot gopher tortoises, shorebirds and soaring bald eagles.
On the remote islands close to both Naples and Marco Island, there are countless beautiful shells to be found. A private shelling tour can take you to some of the island beaches you would never be able to find by yourself for a shelling experience that the two of you won't forget! Dolphins are a common sighting on a private boat charter by Day Star Charters, a local family owned and operated business of 22 years. This charter offers you and your boo a private trip out to the islands. On the way down, you will pass by many of the famous multi-million dollar homes of Port Royal. In addition to the rare birds seen here, keep your eyes peeled for dolphin!
daystarcharters.com
Explore the beaches and islands for yourselves with a watersport rental, or see everything from a bird’s point of view with a parasailing trip, thanks to outfitters like Marco Island Ski & Watersports. Experience an unforgettable journey from Marco beach into the The Thousand Islands with professional guides. See mangrove forests and amazing wildlife which may include dolphin, manatee and exotic birds. Feel the sun on your shoulders and the wind in your hair.
marcoislandwatersports.com
Exciting Exploration
From paddles to shopping bags to steering a boat’s wheel, your arms are going to get a little workout; we recommend still freeing up a hand now and then to hold that of your beloved’s.
When you take matters (and paddles) into your hands with a kayak or paddleboard rental, the opportunities for adventure are endless. The Naples Kayak Company is conveniently located in the Venetian Village, right on the bay, and provides eco tours, lessons, and more to help you explore the Paradise Coast via its waters. You can also schedule a pickup and drop off for any of their rentals, which means you can paddle your way wherever you please with ease! They also have larger kayaks that fit several paddlers at once - perfect for a family trip.
napleskayakcompany.com
Explore the waters aboard an elegant yacht, the Naples Princess, and enjoy dining and dancing under the stars. This 105' air-conditioned luxury yacht cruises by magnificent sights like spectacular homes, natural beauty, wildlife, and more around the waters of Naples Bay and Port Royal. Enjoy the beverage of your choice from either of their full-service bars, or join them for a dinner, hors d'oeuvres or lunch cruise for chef-prepared meals right on the boat!
naplesprincesscruises.com
For a more hands-on adventure that will hopefully impress your crush, consider becoming your own captain with a craft rental. Park Shore Marina has your boat, be it a pontoon, power boat, kayak, or even a paddleboard. The marina is conveniently located on the north side of The Village on Venetian Bay, the marina ships store is also stocked with everything you might need for your day on the water: frozen and live bait, tackle, beer, soda, ice and sundries.
naplesflboatrentals.com
On land, there is much to explore, thanks to Naples’ beautiful downtown that is chock full of restaurants, shops, and hotels. Shoppers from all over come to Naples to peruse the retail delights of 5th Avenue South, which combines popular shops and eateries with the charming historic architecture of the city’s downtown that was established in the glamorous 1920s. Find golf and resort wear, designer labels, high-end jewelry and specialty gifts, home furnishing, decor, and pet supplies. In fact, you should certainly bring your (leashed) furry friend with you, because this whole area is pet-friendly!
fifthavenuesouth.com
Another shopping area that plays to a luxe lifestyle is The Village Shops on Venetian Bay, with over 45 shops on the waterfront that are designed to resemble the classic Mediterranean architecture of Venice, Italy. Even if you aren’t there to buy anything, it’s a very romantic place to take a stroll (hand-in-hand).
venetianvillage.com
Naples nightlife is one of the greatest adventures that the two of you can have. You can also try your hand at the Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee. Open 24/7, this is one of seven casinos owned and operated by the Seminole Tribe of Florida. They offer a large variety of Vegas-style table games, as well as the newest slots and wide-area progressive slot machines.
seminoleimmokaleecasino.com
Naturally Romantic
Enter the Garden of Eden together; got lost in a tangled swamp searching for the Ghost Orchid; explore one of the world’s largest natural parks.
When you imagine the Garden of Eden, it probably does not look much different than the Naples Botanical Garden. A place of bliss, delight, and romance, the Garden connects people and plants through display, education, conservation and science. It is also one of the most beautiful places on Earth, spanning an astonishing 170 acres and offering collections and habitats representative of the flora and cultures between the 26th latitudes featuring plants from around the world. See Brazilian, Caribbean, Florida, Asian, Water, and Children’s Gardens plus beautifully restored natural habitats, a birding tower, an Orchid Garden, a Butterfly House, and a fantastic new welcome center. Visit the Fogg Café to enjoy chef-prepared dishes and a seasonal menu, and share a romantic afternoon together.
naplesgarden.org
Get lost in the tangled nature of the Audubon's Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary. Managed by the National Audubon Society, this 13,000-acre remnant wilderness area contains the country's largest remaining stand of virgin bald cypress. A boardwalk winds its way through pinelands, wet prairies, hammocks and cypress ponds. One of the top birding sites in the U.S. View wildlife, the sanctuary holds a collection of rare plants including the Ghost Orchid - which is as hauntingly beautiful as it sounds.
corkscrew.audubon.org
There is perhaps no greater chance to hideaway and enjoy some solitary romantic time together than when taking on the Everglades National Park. Imagine taking on over a million acres of thrilling natural Florida plants and animals. Outfitters in Everglades City can prepare you for a kayak journey in Everglades National Park or Ten Thousand Islands Wildlife Refuge. For landlubbers, rent bikes and binoculars from the Ivey House Inn, where Everglades Rentals & Eco Adventures directs you to the best routes through the quaint Old Florida town of Everglades City. Chart birds of every color and note with surprise the size of the alligators.
iveyhouse.com
Hot Nights at the Hotel
From golf resorts to beach resorts to…well, you get the idea - there are plenty of fantastic resorts at which to spend your days and nights.
Nestled between the Gulf of Mexico and their own championship golf course, The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club is at the heart of your golf vacation experience. In fact, they’re the only beachfront hotel on the Paradise Coast with an onsite golf course. The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club’s championship golf course has been dramatically renovated by globally acclaimed course designer Jack Nicklaus, and its par-71 routing plan consists of five tees, ranging from 4,800 yards to over 6,900 yards. In addition, there is a 300-yard practice and teaching range. After a day on the course, relax in your suite, where Florida charm and the works of renowned local artists enrich the casual comfort of the comfortable furniture. One bedroom suites are spacious and comfortable with a separate living room, dining area and kitchenette. Further relaxation can be found at their world-class spa, and we certainly recommend taking advantage of their spa packages. Of course, if you’re a couple that golfs together, check out their Tee for Two package.
naplesbeachhotel.com
With Fifth Avenue South and the majority of downtown Naples offering great shopping and dining, you will be happy to know the Inn on Fifth is located directly on Fifth Avenue. Its recent multi-million dollar renovation has birthed a completely new look, as well as 32 brand new Club Level suites added to the building across the street, offering luxurious standards in services, facilities and amenities. The new building offers two presidential suites, an Executive Boardroom, fabulous private rooftop sunbathing deck with hot tub, and four daily offerings of food and beverage included in the rate. The sleek, chic new look of the hotel is enhanced with top of the line bedding, robes, toiletries and linens. The premier location of this hotel coupled with the new renovation and expansion makes this the number one hotel of choice for anyone wanting to spend time downtown.
innonfifth.com
Naples Grande Beach Resort effortlessly combines opulence and relaxation to give you and your loved one a romantic experience of a lifetime; especially when you book one of their romance packages. Lounge together by the pools (yes, there are many of them) or perhaps in a resort cabana on the beach. Maybe the two of you would like some quiet time in your luxurious guest room suite, watching the sun set on the water or the stars twinkling at night. Dine at one of their onsite restaurants to experience fresh Florida seafood with a sophisticated twist, or casual poolside dining at its finest. As for romance packages, you have your choice of special Valentine’s Dinner, couples’ massage, and more!
naplesgrande.com
In the heart of Naples’ historic district, “Old Naples,” you’ll find a beautiful historic hotel: The Escalante. Tucked away in the historic neighborhood amidst towering oaks and palms, The Escalante is a romantic hideaway at the far end of the street Fifth Ave South, just steps from the Gulf of Mexico. A sophisticated small inn, they provide expert service to make you feel like a real VIP. Lounge in the pool-centered courtyard surrounded by a natural privacy fence of thick tropical foliage, enjoy their gardens, or relax on your own private verandah. Their restaurant, Veranda E, is the only fine dining restaurant in Naples with its own on-premises sustainable organic garden and offering breakfast, lunch and dinner.
hotelescalante.com
