Beyond the Beach: The Best Things to Do in Southwest Florida

Aerial view of a Naples golf resort community with a lagoon-style pool

The beaches alone could fill a week — but Southwest Florida rewards guests who venture a little further. Whether you’re here with family, a partner, or on a solo escape, these experiences go beyond the sand and into what makes this corner of Florida genuinely special.

Everglades National Park

One of America’s most extraordinary natural spaces sits less than two hours from Naples. Airboat tours give you the adrenaline version; canoeing and walking trails offer something quieter and more immersive. The wildlife — alligators, manatees, roseate spoonbills — is unlike anything you’ll see elsewhere.

Kayaking the Mangroves

The mangrove tunnels around Naples and Marco Island are world-class paddling territory. Several outfitters offer guided tours that take you through sheltered waterways teeming with birds and marine life. No experience necessary — guided tours cater to all levels.

Lely Resort Golf

For golfers, Southwest Florida is a dream destination. Lely Resort — home to several of our properties — features three championship courses, including the beloved Flamingo Island Course designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. Guests staying at our Lely properties have easy access.

The Naples Botanical Garden

A surprisingly world-class attraction, the Naples Botanical Garden covers 170 acres with gardens representing tropical regions across the globe. It’s beautifully maintained and a genuine highlight, especially for photographers or anyone looking for a few quiet hours away from the coast.

Dolphin and Shelling Cruises

Marco Island and the Ten Thousand Islands area offer some of the best shelling in the country. Half-day boat tours combine dolphin watching with stops at secluded sandbars where you can collect shells in near-privacy. Book ahead — popular tours fill up fast in season.

Tin City and Fifth Avenue Shopping

Naples’ downtown shopping scene is a step above the typical tourist strip. Fifth Avenue South has boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants in a walkable, genuinely attractive setting. Tin City, right on the water, offers a more casual mix of shops and waterfront dining.

Plan your Southwest Florida adventure from the right home base. Browse our 179 properties and find the one that puts you closest to what you want to do.