About Naples, Florida

The scene at Naples is one of sophistication and relaxation. Trendy boutiques, cozy restaurants and an assortment of unique shops line the 5th Avenue corridor. In 1885 Naples was only accessible by water. Development of the area began in that time frame and the Naples Pier is a historic reminder.

Early Naples

Visit the Palm Cottage in Old Naples once the winter home of Louisville Courier Journal editor Henry Watterson. Today the seashell mortar home is the location Pier At The Beach of Naples

of the Collier County Historical Society and a museum. Restoration is currently in progress at this delightful turn-of-the-century home.

Naples began in 1886, when a group of entrepreneurs bought 8,700 acres, mapped out a town and sold off lots. They built a 16-room hotel and one of the first guests to visit was President Grover Cleveland's sister. Soon a row of pretentious houses appeared along the beach and became known as "Millionaires' Row." Today it is known as Olde Naples still maintaining its charm, wealth and air of sophistication. In 1946, Henry B. Watkins High-Rise Building in Naples and his partners purchased the Naples Hotel and the undeveloped surrounding land. Henry B. Watkins designed the environmentally conscious Naples Plan. He blended fine old structures gracefully with modern day elements along 10 miles of pristine beachfront.

Naples, Ready Access to the Everglades

Enter Naples via the Everglades, Golden Gate Parkway or through Rattlesnake Hammock Road. Sail through Gordon Pass into Naples Bay and stop at Tin City at the North end of the Bay. Tin City captures the nautical past and brings it to the present.

Bicycling in Naples is Convenient

Traveling through Naples on bicycles is convenient, easy and economical. Bike routes and maps are available from the Naples Area Chamber of Commerce. Several shops rent bikes. The Good Times Rental rents scooters for a faster pace. The Naples Trolley carries passengers around town making about 25 different stops. The trolley runs Monday - Saturday and fares are reasonable. The Chamber of Commerce sells detailed street maps. Olde Large Home in Naples

Naples retains all the charms of the Victorian era. The beautiful beach stretches along the gulf side and the docks rest on the bay side. Tree lined streets hide the glorious old houses partially from view.

Historic Naples

The Naples Pier was originally built in 1888 and was 600 feet long but was destroyed by hurricanes and fire. The pier was rebuilt by residents and gives a glorious view of Millionaire's Row. The pier is now a state historic site. Palm Cottage was built for Louisville Courier-Journal publisher Walter Haldeman. Hollywood stars attended the many affairs hosted by Mr. Haldeman. The house is one of the few remaining houses built of tabbie mortar. Today Palm Cottage is home to the Naples Historical Society.