Wander

>>> Naples Botanical Gardens

At Lazy Turtle, we love flora just as much as we love fauna! Immerse yourself in a tropical paradise at the Naples Botanical Garden. Just three miles from downtown, this extraordinary place features many gardens-within-a-garden, including an Asian Garden, a Water Garden, a Brazilian Garden, a Caribbean Garden and (for your littlest turtles) a Children’s Garden. Thanks to our picture-perfect weather, the Naples Botanical Garden is welcome year-round.

{Photo credit: Must Do Visitor Guides}

>>> Naples Zoo

Stroll along nearly a mile of paved paths, and meet everyone from giraffes to lions to a rare giant anteater! The Naples Zoo combines conservation and recreation, against the backdrop of a historic tropical garden. Now through April 21, 2019, see Washed Ashore: Art to Save the Sea, dramatic marine-animal sculptures made entirely of plastic debris collected from the beaches. This exhibit aligns perfectly with the Naples Zoo’s mission to conserve the natural world – and Lazy Turtle’s mission to #SaveOurShells.

{Photo credit: Naples Zoo & Washed Ashore}

Nest

>>> Naples Beach Hotel

Live life in the slow lane when you check into The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club, a getaway featuring a Jack Nicklaus-redesigned championship golf course, a full-service spa, a beachfront pool complex, and a complimentary daily recreational program for kids ages 5 to 12. This gorgeous resort just earned the prestigious AAA Four Diamond Rating for the seventh consecutive year. Grab a drink at the Sunset Beach Bar& Grill and secure your spot for the best spot in watching the sunset. Be sure to stop by the lobby gift shop for a great selection of Lazy Turtle Gear.

{Photo credit: Naples Beach Hotel}

Munch

>>> Hampton Social

The Hampton Social followed a migration path much like ours! First founded in Chicagoland, this stylish restaurant concept serves coastal cuisine in a chic, nautical atmosphere. Brad Parker, Hampton Social’s CEO, has been visiting Naples since he was a kid and chose the area to be the first in his multi-city expansion plan. The nearly 8,500-square-foot restaurant features private and semi-private spaces for special gatherings, and a fabulous menu including East Coast and Southwest Florida seafood dishes, a raw bar, and an expansive wine and cocktail list.   

{Photo credit: Hampton Social}

>>> The French

Transport yourself to a turn-of-the-19th-century Parisian brasserie (but keep the Naples weather!) at The French. Executive chef Vincenzo Betulia treats diners to a thoughtful menu featuring both classics (coq a vin, trout Amandine) and new interpretations (lamb carpaccio, Dijon deviled eggs with charred octopus), and you won’t want to miss the delectable desserts from in-house pastry chef Jessica King. Spend an absolutely enchanted evening – or afternoon – in the expansive outdoor dining area, under the splendid lighted “live” oak tree.

{Photo credit: The French}

Sip

>>> Gumbo Limbo at the Ritz

After a day of playing on the beach, there’s nothing like relaxing with a cold drink in hand – and the gorgeous Naples sunset in full view. Grab a seat at the Ritz-Carlton’s Gumbo Limbo Beach Bar and let paradise unfold around you. If there’s a sweeter way to end the day than with a classic mojito and a looks-like-a-painting sky, we have yet to find it!

{Photo credit: Gumbo Limbo}

>>> The Bevy

We love The Bevy for so many reasons, beginning with its stellar views. Grab a table early and you’ll also get to enjoy The Bevy’s excellent happy hour (3 to 6 p.m. daily – $4 carnitas tacos and $4 drafts, anyone?). The inventive cocktail list includes must-try libations like the Fig Daquiri and the Prickly Pear Margarita, and we especially adore the Italian 75: rosemary and lavender vodka, lemon juice, simple syrup, and prosecco.  

{Photo credit: The Bevy}

>>> Celebration Food Truck Park 

Want to grab a beer and a bite? Locals are absolutely in love with the new foodie destination Celebration Park open 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day. This food truck mecca offers everything from smoked brisket to beignets, from tikka masala to blackened shrimp tacos. With this many options, you’re sure to find something for everyone (even the choosiest little turtle in your family).

{Photo credit: Celebration Park Naples Facebook}

Splash

>>> Pure Florida

No matter your favorite way to see the Bay, Pure Florida has you covered! Father-son captains Lance and Harry Julian offer sightseeing, river and sunset cruises, jet ski and boat rentals, and fishing trips and charters. If you’re feeling adventurous, definitely check out the jet boats, which spin, glide, and jump up to 35 miles per hour through Naples’ waterways. A jet-boat trip is a blast for kids, and family passes are available. (Looking for something more lowkey? Put on your Lazy Turtle rash guard and spend the day on a deck boat or private fishing charter!)

{Photo credit: Pure Florida}

>>> Naples City Pier

Catch Naples’ splendid sunsets from one of our favorite vantage points: the historic Naples Pier. Not only is this the picture-perfect sunset spot, the Pier also offers great views of pelicans, dolphins, stingrays, and many other creatures.

{Photo credit: Naples Gov.}

>>> Lowdermilk Park

Spend the whole day playing at Lowdermilk Park, one of Naples’ premier destinations for beachfront activities. A perfect place to take the kids, Lowdermilk Park features two playgrounds, sand volleyball courts, a concession stand, and picnic tables. Even on the brightest Naples afternoon, Lazy Turtle gear will keep the whole family sun-safe so that you can focus on the fun!  

{Photo credit: Naples Gov.}