Fifth Avenue South Naples

Discover the beauty, culture, and luxury shopping of Fifth Avenue South in Naples. Explore the boutiques, restaurants, and entertainment options. The area is especially beautiful in the evening with the lighted palm trees and ventage cars that often line the streets.

Seeing the Naples Pier at Sunset

Teresa Luber Marco Island, Naples, Things to See and Do in Marco Island , ,
Naples Pier
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Key Takeaways

  • The Naples Pier, located on the Gulf of Mexico, is a popular spot for sightseers and fishermen with amenities like restrooms and a concession stand.
  • Built in 1888, the pier originally served as a dock but transformed into a social hub after its construction.
  • Despite suffering fire damage in 1922 and hurricane damage in subsequent years, the pier remains a historical landmark undergoing renovations.
  • Parking at the pier requires a permit or payment at meters, and it can get crowded, especially during sunset.
  • Fishing from the pier is free, as the City of Naples holds a bulk fishing license for visitors.

The historic Naples Pier is located on the Gulf of Mexico at the West end of 12th Avenue South. It is a favorite location for sightseers and fishermen with plenty of space to cast a line. The Pier features restrooms, showers, a concession stand with covered eating area, and beach supplies. It is one of the most photographed piers in the United States. Sunset pictures of the pier are especially nice!

A Historic Landmark

The Naples Pier was originally built in 1888 as a freight and passenger dock. It was first constructed by newspaper man Walter N. Halderman, founder of Naples. The pier was initially to act as a location for loading and unloading goods and baggage. This helped local commerce. It also served a hotel located across from it at the time. After its construction, the Naples Pier became a popular location for social gatherings like parties and dances.

In 1922 most of the Naples Pier was destroyed by a fire from a discarded cigarette. Rebuilt in 1924, its length is now 1,000 feet. The pier has also undergone several renovations due to hurricane damage. The latest renovations were in 1960 and 2015. NOTE: The Naples Pier is now undergoing a complete renovation due to damage caused by Hurricane Ian in September, 2022.

The Naples Pier remains a monument to the local lifestyle and culture. It is also a major attraction for both locals and tourists alike to visit while in Naples.

Parking at the Pier

Parking for beach access in the City of Naples requires the resident or visitor to have a beach parking permit, feed the parking meters, or pay-by-space. Enforcement occurs year round. Parking in this area can be difficult to find, so get there early. This is especially true if you are going for sunset!

Credit/Debit Card: Visa, MasterCard, American Express or Discover
Cash: Quarters only

Features of the Pier

Fishing from the pier does not require a fishing license. The City of Naples has purchased a bulk fishing license for the Pier. The beach here also features volleyball nets and is one of the best places to catch a spectacular Naples sunset.

The Charm of Fifth Avenue South Naples

Teresa Luber Marco Island, Marco Island Day Trips and Tours, Things to See and Do in Marco Island , , , 0 Comment
Fifth Avenue South
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Fifth Avenue South – Naples

Key Takeaways

  • Fifth Avenue South in Naples offers a European-inspired, walkable district filled with luxury shops and a vibrant nightlife.
  • The Naples Pier is an ideal spot for sunset views and relaxing by the shore after a downtown outing.
  • Kilwin’s Ice Cream on Fifth Avenue is a favorite stop for a sweet treat after shopping and sightseeing.

5th Avenue SouthWhile much of Naples has a sprawling, suburban feel, its historic downtown is a lot different.  Fifth Avenue South is a beautiful, European-flavored and highly walkable district.  It is jam-packed with high-end luxury shops (Naples is one of the wealthiest cities in America) and a thriving bar and restaurant scene. This area is where most of the action takes place.  Third Street South is another lively sector buzzing with nightlife on the weekends. The night hours are especially special and romantic with the lighted palm trees, expensive cars cruising the street, and people watching. You never know who you may spot on Fifth Avenue South!

Naples Pier

Naples Pier at Sunset

After drinks and dinner in downtown, stroll a couple blocks over to the Naples Pier and listen to the waves crash along the shore.  This is also the perfect place to capture that perfect sunset picture even if you are an amateur photographer.  (I captured this pic with my cell phone).  The pier area can be a little crowded for the sunset hour,  so get there early, especially if you need a parking spot. See related article, “See the Naples Pier at Sunset”: https://seamarcondo.com/seeing-the-naples-pier-at-sunset/

There’s Always Kilwin’s Ice Cream!

Kilwin's Ice Cream Naples

I have to admit that my favorite place on Fifth Avenue is the Kilwin’s ice cream shop.  After walking around shopping and sightseeing it is a real treat to visit Kilwin’s.  I also love all the specialty shops that have so many unique items. It’s a great place to get that perfect gift to take to someone back home! I love getting my long sleeve T-Shirts here on Fifth Avenue – nice quality and comfy!

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Visit our website at https://seamarcondo.com  to see our rates and availability. Our website also provides lots of information about things to see and do in Marco Island.
Let us help you make the most of your Marco Island vacation!

Naples: A Perfect Day Trip from Marco Island

Teresa Luber Marco Island Day Trips and Tours, Naples, Things to See and Do in Marco Island , , , , , ,
Naples Fifth Avenue South
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Key Takeaways

  • Start your Day Trip to Naples with breakfast at Doreen’s Cup of Joe, then explore 5th Avenue South for shopping and dining.
  • After lunch, enjoy the beautiful Naples Municipal Beach or visit the Naples Zoo for a unique experience with animals.
  • End your day at Kilwin’s Ice Cream for delicious treats and visit the Naples Pier for stunning sunset views.
  • Enjoy the vibrant evening atmosphere on 5th Avenue South or catch a show at the Naples Performing Arts Theater.
  • Conclude the day by returning to Marco Island, ready to relax and plan your next getaway.

Although I never tire of seeing the beautiful beaches, sometimes a day trip to Naples from Marco Island is just what I need! There is a lot to see and do in the Naples area. Here is a helpful list to help you organize your Naples get-away. (The drive to Naples takes around 30 minutes)

Leaving Marco Island for the Day

Doreen's Cup of Joe Strawberry Pancakes

1. Let’s start with a cup of coffee and breakfast at Doreen’s Cup of Joe before we leave Marco Island for our day trip to Naples. (If coffee is not your way of waking up, there is always the fresh squeezed orange juice). Doreen’s has a wide variety of pancakes, waffles, French Toast, and traditional breakfast plates. This is the perfect place to start your morning.

  5th Avenue South Shopping and Dining

Wind in the Willows Cat

2. Arriving at Naples, I highly suggest going to the 5th Avenue South shopping and dining area first. This street is lined with specialty gift and clothing shops and nice restaurants. Each shop has it’s own “uniqueness” – make sure you go in “Wind in the Willows” which has a “signature” cat that roams the store. Other favorite shops in this area are Chicos, Regatta, and the Blue Mussel.

3. After a few hours shopping, it’s now time for lunch. There are several nice restaurants along 5th Avenue South. The great thing about dining in this area is that the restaurants offer outdoor dining, giving you a great opportunity to people watch. It’s also nice to observe the nice vehicles lining the street – sometimes Bentleys, expensive sports cars, or collectable antique cars. One restaurant I want to try is new to the area – The Pearl Steak and Seafood Restaurant which has Key Lime Pie Cake Doughnuts for desert! I’m thinking yummy!!!

Fifth Avenue South Naples

Beach Time or Zoo Time?

4. After lunch, how about some time on the beach? A short drive to downtown’s Naples Municipal Beach and Pier offers pearlescent sugar sand that runs along the gentle Gulf of Mexico. Activities along the beach range from sunning, walking, fishing, shelling and bird watching. It’s a good idea to bring a shell bag and binoculars. His beach offers a long stretch for walking and relaxing by the sea.

Naples_Zoo

5. If you need a break from the beach, we suggest the Naples Zoo. Naples Zoo is a nationally accredited zoo and yet much more than a walk-through zoo. A paved path winds nearly a mile past rare and beautiful animals residing within a historic tropical garden of tropical plants. In this tropical setting, you can take delight at seeing many of your favorite animals like lions, giraffes, monkeys, pythons, and bears. In addition, you’ll also discover feature exhibits and an array of more rarely seen creatures like the Madagascar or a giant anteater.

 

It’s Ice Cream Time at Kilwin’s

Kilwin's Ice Cream Naples

6. After your day’s adventure at the beach or zoo, how about a visit to Kilwin’s Ice Cream? I have to admit that Kilwin’s is absolutely my favorite place in Naples!!!! In addition to the best ice cream (EVER) their homemade mackinaw style fudge and chocolates are not bad either!

  The Evening Hours in Naples

Naples Pier

7. As the evening arrives and the sunset hour gets close, a visit to the Naples Pier is not to be missed! There is no way I can describe the beauty of a sunset in this special place. Be sure to bring your camera for one of the most memorable photographs you will ever take. As the sun goes down over the Naples Pier you will wonder at the beauty of the moment! Note: The pier is closed for now due to damages by Hurricane Ian; however, the sunsets are still spectacular with the pier in the background. The pier is in the process of being rebuilt.

8. The evening hours are perfect for another stroll along 5th Avenue South. The street is bright with lights from all the beautiful palms. A visit to the Naples Performing Arts Theater with the Naples Players is also a great evening. The theater’s 65th Anniversary Season includes an exciting lineup of shows. including CHICAGO, Irving Berlin’s White Christmas and Guys & Dolls, heartfelt comedies, magical adventures and even a World Premiere Show!

  Returning to Marco Island

9. What an eventful day we’ve had on our day trip to Naples – and now it’s time to return to Marco Island and Sea Mar Condo. If you haven’t made your reservation yet for your Fall and Winter get-away, visit us now to reserve your stay!

Visit our website at https://seamarcondo.com to our rates and availability. Our website also provides more information on Sea Mar Condo and Marco Island. Let us help you make the most of your Marco Island vacation!

Make the Most of Your Marco Island Vacation

Teresa Luber Marco Island, Marco Island Activities and Sports, Things to See and Do in Marco Island , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Home » Fifth Avenue South Naples

Key Takeaways

  • Marco Island offers a variety of activities for all ages, including beach yoga, paddleboarding, and eco-tours.
  • Start your day with coffee and breakfast at local favorites like Doreen’s Cup of Joe or Tigertail Cafe.
  • Explore shopping areas for unique gifts and clothing or enjoy dining with waterfront views at places like Sunset Grille.
  • Visit the Marco Island Historical Museum to learn about the island’s history or take a day trip to Everglades National Park.
  • Check in to Sea Mar Condos for a comfortable stay and make the most of your Marco Island vacation.

Tuck these ideas into your travel bag to make the most of your Marco island Vacation. There are activities on Marco Island for all ages and skill levels. From morning until late evening, you are sure to be in awe of this beautiful island. The beaches and mangrove areas offers lots to explore. Many restaurants offer great seafood and beautiful sunsets. It’s also easy to get exercise with walks along the beaches. Marco Island’s history can be explored at our local museum. Area shopping is fun. Everglades National Park is a short drive away. And Sea Mar Condos are the perfect place to stay while on the island. There is something for everyone!

1. Early Morning Exercise

Whether you take a morning walk or run or do yoga on the beach during sunrise, getting an early morning workout gets you ready for the day. In addition, the island is less crowded in the mornings. It’s peaceful, serene setting calms the mind. A favorite walk if staying on the North side of the beach is to walk Tigertail Beach. If golf is more your early morning routine, the courses in the area are especially nice!

 2. Grab a Morning Coffee and a Yummy Breakfast

Doreen's Cup of Joe Strawberry Pancakes

Visit Doreen’s Cup of Joe for the perfect cup of coffee. You can also choose from their huge breakfast menu. I love the stuffed french toast covered with fruit toppings. Their fresh squeezed orange juice also makes a nice addition to your morning! If you chose to paddleboard or kayak first, Tigertail Cafe also has a nice selection of food items. Another place for a nice breakfast on the island is Red Rooster located on San Marco. And of course, there is always our oversized balcony at Sea Mar Condo for the perfect cup of coffee and breakfast.

  3. Learn to Paddleboard or Kayak

paddleboard

Tigertail Lagoon is the perfect place paddleboard or kayak. The water is very calm and the scenery is spectacular! There are several companies that rent paddleboards or kayaks on the island and deliver to your location. The area around Caxambus Park is also a good place to kayak and do some shelling. In addition, several companies also offer kayak tours of Marco Island and the mangrove areas. These tours are excellent for both beginners and the more experienced. The guided tours are very informative and educational. Paddleboarding or kayaking are great activities for any age.

 4. Head to the Farmers Market

Farmers Market

During the months of mid-November through mid-April, the Marco Island Farmers Market is open each Wednesday at Veteran’s Park. This is a great place to pick up small gifts as well as fresh produce and vegetables. The selection of items is unbelievable! It’s also a great place to pick up a snack or lunch from the many food vendors there. The farmer’s market is a favorite for island visitors and residents.

 5. Go Shopping

Marco Island has several areas that offer unique shopping. The Shops at Old Marco, the Marco Town Center and the Esplanade all specialize in unique gifts and clothing. It is fun to combine an evening dinner and shopping. Fifth Avenue South in nearby Naples is also a fun shopping experience, especially when the night ends with a Kilwin’s ice cream! I also enjoy all the fun gift shops that line the streets.  This area is especially pretty in the evening hours when the area is ablaze with lights from the palm trees.

  6. Take an Eco Tour or Rent a Boat to Explore

Dolphin Explorer

There are many eco tours available on the island that provide opportunities to see dolphin, manatee, and the many bird species that are on Marco and the surrounding area. Many of these tours are also great for children. The Dolphin Explorer focuses on educating guests about our local dolphins. This tour introduces their guests to each dolphin by name. Did you know the Marco Island Dolphins each have a name? You may even get to name a dolphin! If you prefer fishing, there are also many fishing excursions leaving the island each day. Both deep sea fishing and backwater fishing are popular with island visitors. Another option is to rent a boat and explore on your own. Many of the marinas rent pontoon or speed boats and provide easy directions on boating around the area. The Naples area also has some fantastic sightseeing tours that are worth checking out.

If you prefer boating on your own, many of the local marinas rent boats for the half day or day. They also offer navigational maps and tips for safe boating around the island https://seamarcondo.com/marco-island-boating .

 7. Visit the Marco Island Historical Museum

The Key Marco Cat

The Marco Island Historical Museum provides guests an opportunity to learn about early Marco. Learn about the famous for its Key Marco Cat. It is one of the most remarkable and influential discoveries in North American archaeology. The museum explores Southwest Florida’s Calusa Indians. It brings this vanished civilization to life with informative displays. There is even an exciting recreated village scene. The museum also explores the early 1960s development of Marco Island to the present day island of paradise. Visiting the Marco Island Historical Museum is a great rainy day excursion. It is also a great way to spend a few hours away from the beach.

8. Visit the Everglades

Everglades Alligator

Everglades National Park is 15 minutes away by jet ski. Several of the island eco tours will visit the mangrove areas around the park. It is also a short 45 minute drive to Everglades City or Big Cypress Visitors Center. It’s always a fun adventure to take an air boat or swamp buggy tour. A drive around Loop Road in Big Cypress is also the perfect place to see alligators, wading and nesting birds, and beautiful scenery. A ranger station around Big Cypress offers lots of information about the park and it’s inhabitants. Everglades National Park has 3 entrances that are fairly close to Marco Island. There are many places to hike and explore. See our complete article on Everglades National Park in the link below.

  9. Visit a Church

Marco Island Easter Sandcastle

Marco Island has many churches that welcome visitors for Sunday services in casual attire. On Easter Sunday, the island has a sun rise service on the beach.

   10. Dine by the Water

Mangos

Many of the restaurants on the island offer waterfront dining. Some like the Snook Inn also have live music each night. The seafood selections are great. Most restaurants have a wide variety of non-seafood items as well. If you prefer to catch your own meal, many of the restaurants prepare your catch for you at a very reasonable price. Restaurant selection varies from casual low-key dining to casual elegant dining. And if you need a break from seafood…Marco Island has some great burgers as well! Visiting one of the waterfront restaurants is a great way to see the beautiful island sunsets as well. Some of our favorite restaurants on the water are Sunset Grille, Sale e Pepe, Mangos, and Snook Inn.

  11. Check In to Sea Mar Condo

Our property is managed by Blue Water Rentals. BWR provides around the clock service to answer any questions or maintenance concerns should they arise. The owners are Larry and Teresa Luber from Kingsport, TN. We love our guests and want to welcome you to this beautiful island paradise. We look forward to sharing our Marco Island Condo with you for the vacation of your dreams.

At Sea Mar Condos, our guests are our #1 priority. Our condos are 2 bedroom/ 2 bath penthouse condos. They are located on the 19th floors of South Seas Northwest Towers 3 and 4 in Marco Island, FL. Each condo has a king bed, 2 twins, and a queen sleeper sofa. Free wifi and 3 televisions are in each condo. The condos face South overlooking Crescent Beach. The units are fully equipped with beautiful views. A large heated pool, which is comfortable all year round, is located between our 2 condos. We strive to make our condos as comfortable and special for your vacation as they are for us when we use them.

Visit our website at https://seamarcondo.com to our rates and availability. Our website also provides more information on Sea Mar Condos and Marco Island. You will find lots of information on things to see and do on Marco Island. Restaurant suggestions are also on our website.
Let us help you make the most of your Marco Island vacation!

Discover the Best of Marco Island, FL

Teresa Luber Marco Island, Marco Island Activities and Sports, Things to See and Do in Marco Island , , , , , , , , ,
Entering Marco Island by JoeyWaves
Home » Fifth Avenue South Naples

Key Takeaways

  • Marco Island offers a variety of activities including beaches, water sports, golfing, fishing, and cultural attractions.
  • Visitors enjoy crystal blue waters for swimming, jet skiing, and shelling along the beautiful beaches.
  • Dining options feature fresh seafood, Italian cuisine, and waterfront locations with live music.
  • Shopping includes unique gift shops, a local Farmers Market, and upscale shopping nearby in Naples.
  • The Marco Island Historic Museum provides insight into the island’s history and is worth a visit.

It is not hard to “find” things to do in Marco Island, Florida. However, it may be difficult deciding between the many options available. Whether you enjoy beaches https://seamarcondo.com/marco-islands-beaches, water sports, touring, golf, fishing, shopping or cultural attractions you will find many activities here.

This small island is located 17 miles south of Naples. It is a short 45 minute drive from Everglades National Park https://seamarcondo.com/day-trip-to-everglades-national-park. It is also the largest of Florida’s Ten Thousand Islands https://seamarcondo.com/see-10000-islands.

See our related post: Let’s Go Do to Marco Island: https://seamarcondo.com/lets-go-down-to-marco-island

Entering Marco Island by JoeyWaves
SS Jolley Bridge, Entering Marco Island
Photo credit: Joey Waves Photography

Marco Island Beaches and Watersports

The island is small, covering 12 square miles. Although small, it has some of the country’s most beautiful white sandy beaches https://seamarcondo.com/testimonial/beaches-in-marco-island. The Gulf of Mexico waters are crystal blue and the skies are fluffed with white puffy clouds. The clear water is perfect for swimming, jet skiing, paddle boarding, or boating. The shells along the shoreline are colorful, unique. Shelling is a favorite pass time https://seamarcondo.com/shelling-on-marco-island.

Booking a deep sea fishing trip or shoreline fishing is always a favorite among visitors. Many boat charters offer tours to Keewaydin Island, Kice Island, or Cape Romano. Boat tours also are available for dolphin and manatee sightseeing excursions.

For an evening sunset cruise and dining experience, we recommend the Marco Island Princess. The sunsets are spectacular and the food is great!  Try the Key West Express leaving daily for round trips between Marco and Key West.

marco-island-princess

Golf/Sports

Most of the golf courses on the island are private. However, there are many courses located within 15 minutes that welcome visiting guests. Nearby Naples is known as for its many courses as well https://seamarcondo.com/golf-on-the-paradise-coast.

Many of our visitors at Sea Mar Condo also enjoy the tennis and pickleball courts.

See our related post: Marco Island Pickleball https://seamarcondo.com/marco-island-pickleball

Marco Island Golf

Shopping

There are many gift shops and unique clothing shops located on the island.  A local Farmers Market is at Veterans Park each Wednesday during winter season.

Fifth Avenue South in Naples is a short 20 minute drive from Marco . This area offers many upscale clothing and gift shops. The area offers many nice dining selections. Of course, my favorite is Kilwin’s Ice Cream!

Fifth Avenue South

Dining

There are many restaurants serving fresh seafood, prime steaks, delicious Italian, and short order pizzas and burgers. In addition, many of the island’s restaurants offer waterfront dining and live music.

Snook Inn Marco Island

The World Famous Snook Inn located in Olde Marco and offers waterfront dining and live music nightly https://snookinn.com. The Marco Island Brewery is a local favorite for burgers, pizzas, and local craft beers https://seamarcondo.com/where-to-eat-and-drink-on-marco-island-marco-island-brewery. In addition, there are also several gourmet dining options on the island for that special evening out https://seamarcondo.com/gourmet-dining.

Arts

The Marco Island Historic Museum is definitely worth a visit. We definitely suggest seeing the Key Marco Cat. It resides in a “special home” built just for the exhibit. The museum traces the history of the island from the Calusa Indian settlement through the explosive building phase in the early 60s to its modern day tourist destination.

The Key Marco Cat

Plan Your Marco Island Vacation at Sea Mar Condo!

Sand Dollar

It’s time you discover the beauty of Marco!  Visit our website at https://seamarcondo.com.  You can enjoy its unique beauty from our 19th floor Penthouse condo located in South Seas Northwest.  Our website also provides many links to restaurants and tour companies to assist you in planning your vacation at Sea Mar Condo. Owners Larry and Teresa and been around the area for 25 plus years and are very familiar with the island. We are available for questions anytime – just drop us a line on our contact form.