Naples FL for solo travelers: A single traveler’s guide to sun and sand

Hey, solo travelers with adventurous souls! If the travel bug has bitten you and you’re looking for a solo expedition to a new location, consider booking flights to Naples Florida.

Solo travel can be an unforgettable experience, and Naples, with its friendly locals, pristine white sandy beaches, and a plethora of outdoor activities, is the perfect destination to explore at your own pace.

So join us, as we dive into the city of Naples and see what experiences are waiting for you in this coastal paradise.

Getting to Naples Florida

First things first, let’s dive into how to get to Naples Florida. Depending on which destination you are coming from, let’s explore a few options that will better suit your needs.

Traveling by air

The closest airport in Naples Florida is Naples Municipal Airport, but it’s mainly for private airplanes.

For everyday commercial flights, it will be more convenient to fly into Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers.

This is the primary entry point to Naples for most travelers, located just 40 minutes away from Naples downtown. So consider booking a flight to Naples through RWS airport.

Traveling by car

If you’re planning a road trip to Naples Florida, Naples is easily accessible via Interstate 75 and US Highway 41. Both of these major highways run through Florida connecting to many various cities in surrounding Naples.

Traveling by public transportation

If you prefer to travel by public transportation such as a bus, consider booking a trip with Greyhound. They offer ride services to Naples making it convenient if you want to just sit back, relax, and enjoy the Florida scene without having to drive.

Book a trip to Naples

Embrace Naples beaches

Ease into comfort and relaxation

Sunshine is a companion who’s always there in Naples, and the beaches in Naples are nothing short of amazing.

Each Naples beach has its unique charm, so whether you’re looking for a quiet beach to relax at, to read a book, or more of a bustling beach with volleyball and exciting water sports, Naples beaches have you covered.

Naples is home to a wide array of beaches to suit every personality and needs. As a solo traveler, you have the liberty to pick and choose depending on your mood for the day.

Be ready to lounge on the soft sand of Naples beaches with a good book or join a friendly group for beach activities. Don’t forget to grab your sunshades and beach chair!

Barefoot Beach Preserve

As a solo traveler to Naples, you will appreciate the tranquility offered by the Barefoot Beach Preserve.

Barefoot Beach is a stunning, peaceful beach where nature fully thrives, perfect for reflection and relaxation.

Known for its untarnished natural beauty, Barefoot Beach Preserve is an unspoiled haven where you can enjoy bird watching, shell collecting, or simply basking under the sun with your thoughts. And the watercolor is too good to pass up, so dive right in!

Naples Pier Beach

If you’re looking for more excitement and social vibes, Naples Pier Beach is your go-to.

With the landmark Naples Pier as its highlight, the Naples beach is bustling with locals and travelers alike, making it the ideal spot for people-watching and casual beach interactions.

The iconic Naples Pier is also a fantastic spot for sunset views, and maybe even making new friends!

Staying at a hotel in Naples

Choosing the right Naples hotel

Naples has a wide spectrum of accommodation options for any type of traveler. From luxury Naples resorts and quaint boutique Naples hotels to more budget-friendly Naples hotels, there’s something for every traveler and every budget.

So book a Naples hotel that’s not only comfortable but also aligns with your itinerary and preferred activities you plan on doing.

Booking Naples hotel tips

It’s best to book Naples hotels in advance, especially during peak tourist season. Many Naples Florida hotels offer discounts for early bookings or even discounts for extended stays, so keep an eye out for deals and packages.

Naples hotels amenities

For solo travelers, basic amenities like free WiFi, complimentary breakfast, and access to a hotel gym or pool can enhance your stay.

A hotel in Naples Florida with an on-site restaurant or café also provides convenience for times you’d prefer to dine in in dine in the the comfort of your Naples hotel room.

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Immerse in Naples art & culture

Artis-Naples

Dive into the fantastic Naples’ vibrant cultural scene at Artis-Naples. Whether you prefer visual or performing arts, there’s always something enticing happening here.

Engage in some of the gallery tours, attend symphony performances, or simply appreciate the striking architecture that can be found around Naples. Naples is a treasure trove of arts and culture for everyone to enjoy.

Third Street South

Stroll through the historic area of Third Street South Naples. As a solo wanderer, as yourself, immerse yourself in the beauty of Naples Third Street South.

Each corner on Naples Third Street South tells a story of Naples’ rich history, with its stunning blend of heritage architecture, visually pleasing art galleries, and an atmosphere that’s both historic and cosmopolitan.

And how about having the beach just a few steps over from Naples Third Street South? You can make a whole day out of it while checking out Naples Third Street South.

Getting around Naples

Naples rental cars

Renting a car in Naples will probably provide you the most flexibility to explore all of Naples and its surrounding areas.

There are numerous Naples car rental companies available at the airport and within the city of Naples. So, at your own pace while exploring Naples, consider booking a Naples car rental for the duration of your stay.

Naples public transportation

Collier Area Transit (CAT) provides bus services all throughout the Naples area, making it an affordable way to navigate the city.

If your Naples vacation budget is tight, consider navigating Naples with its public transportation.

Naples bicycling

Naples is a bike-friendly city with lots of dedicated bike paths and trails. Consider renting a bike at a Naples bike rental place for a day or two, to explore the local area and enjoy the fantastic weather.

Naples ridesharing

Companies like Uber and Lyft operate fully in Naples, offering convenient and efficient transportation options for solo travelers who prefer not to drive.

Ridesharing in Naples will be your best option if you plan on checking out the Naples nightlife.

Explore the outdoors

Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary

For solo travelers looking to connect with nature, the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary offers an amazing nature escape.

The boardwalk trail through the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is a unique experience, allowing you to observe Florida’s wildlife up close. Take a walk amongst ancient cypresses and witness Florida’s wildlife in their natural habitat.

Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary offers tranquility and a break from the bustling city of Naples while providing a great experience of conservation and biodiversity.

Naples kayaking and paddleboarding

If adventure is calling your name, answer with a day on Naples’ crystalline waters. Naples has some of the best kayaking and paddleboarding spots in Florida.

Consider renting a kayak in Naples or renting a paddleboard in Naples and see what all the fuss is about.

Guided Naples kayak tours allow you to enjoy the kayaking adventure without wondering where to kayak. Or if you don’t need a partner, grab a Naples kayak rental and get lost in the endless lush mangroves.

Savor the flavors of Naples

Culinary Adventure

When visiting Naples, eating is not just a necessity but a delightful experience. From upscale 5th Avenue South restaurants to quirky cafes that can be found throughout the city, Naples serves up some of the best-tasting flavors.

As a solo traveler, you can savor a culinary adventure, tasting everything from fresh local seafood, authentic Italian dishes, Italian gelatos, and casual bites from beachside shacks. Each meal in Naples is a delight waiting to be discovered.

5th Avenue South restaurants

The restaurants that can be found along Fifth Avenue South Naples are welcoming to solo diners, offering a wide array of culinary goodness.

With many 5th Avenue South restaurants offering bar seating and outdoor patios, it’s comfortable for solo travelers to enjoy a meal without feeling out of place.

So take a stroll, and find some of the best 5th Avenue South restaurants to try while in Naples.

Shop til you drop

Waterside Shops shopping

Waterside Shops Naples is an open-air mall with over 60 shops where you can find luxury and style.

Enjoy shopping at Waterside Shops or just casually window shopping in a beautifully designed space surrounded by water features and tropical lush landscaping. Waterside Shops are just one of Naples many shopping malls.

5th Avenue South shopping

Besides dining at 5th Avenue South restaurants, Fifth Avenue South is also a shopping paradise for locals and tourists.

5th Avenue South has an eclectic mix of small boutiques, art galleries, and other stores, offering everything from high-end fashion to quirky souvenirs.

Nightlife in Naples

Naples nightlife

While Naples isn’t known for its nightlife like the likes of Miami, it does offer a sophisticated evening scene. From elegant wine bars to casual pubs with live music, Naples provides various options for a solo traveler to unwind and enjoy the night.

So after spending a long beach day at Naples best beaches, or shopping at Naples finest shopping malls, relax and enjoy the beautiful evening weather with Naples nightlife.

Tips for solo travelers in Naples

Accommodation Options

From lavish Naples hotel resorts to cozy bed and breakfasts, Naples offers a vast range of accommodations.

For solo travelers, staying in Naples Florida hotels or smaller boutique Naples hotels can provide opportunities to meet like-minded individuals while offering a comfortable and safe spot to rest.

Public transportation

While public transport is available in Naples, renting a Naples bike or using ride-share apps might provide more flexibility and convenience for solo travelers.

Social opportunities

Don’t shy away from engaging with locals and fellow solo travelers. Naples has a large friendly community, and you might just make some friends along the way, and make the best memories.

Safety first

Naples Florida is known for being a safe city for types of travelers. However, like in any destination, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially when exploring late at night.

Start your morning right at Naples coffee shops

Coffee shops in Naples Florida

Whether you are solo traveling through Naples for pleasure or for work, you will find many great Naples coffee shops. With your cup of freshly brewed coffee in hand, you’re ready to start your solo adventure in Naples!

Each coffee shop in Naples Florida provides not just a caffeine fix but also a unique atmosphere to soak in, and perhaps you might even make new friends along the way.

Fifth Avenue Coffee Company

Located on the iconic 5th Avenue South, this Naples coffee shop is not only about great-tasting coffee but also about the vibrant energy of downtown Naples.

Fifth Avenue Coffee Company is the perfect spot to start your day with a robust coffee and some people-watching.

Bad Ass Coffee

With a name that’s hard to forget, Bad Ass Coffee offers a vast array of great coffee selections and a laid-back beachy atmosphere.

Whether you need a place to plan your beach day in Naples or just relax with a book, this Naples coffee shop welcomes all solo travelers.

The Brick Coffee & Bar

If you appreciate a minimalistic Naples coffee shop, The Brick Coffee & Bar is a great choice. The Brick Coffee & Bar offers a mix of coffee, cocktails, and small bites, and is an ideal location to mingle with locals and fellow travelers alike.

Narrative Coffee

Narrative Coffee is a Naples FL coffee shop with a purpose. Not only does Narrative Coffee serve fantastic coffee but also roasts some of the best-tasting beans around town.

It’s a warm, welcoming coffee shop in Naples Florida where great tasting coffee and a great atmosphere merge.

Final thoughts on Naples Florida for solo travelers guide

Taking on a solo trip to Naples Florida, promises an exciting adventure filled with sun, sand, culture, and tasty cuisine experiences.

Traveling to Naples Florida is an adventure of a lifetime, providing a balance of pure relaxation, nature exploration, and excitement. Each day you spend in Naples offers something new and exciting for the solo traveler ready to explore more.

Whether you are an art enthusiast, a beach lover, or a foodie, Naples welcomes you with open arms! Safe travels to Naples and enjoy every moment in this coastal paradise!

Best shopping in Naples Florida

Best coffee shops in Naples

Naples Florida travel guide

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Naples known for?

Naples Florida is known for its pristine beaches, outdoor activities, and luxury shopping. It’s the perfect destination for those seeking a beach vacation while experiencing the luxury of Naples.

Is Naples expensive to vacation in?

Naples is known for being a luxury centered city and vacationing in Naples can come at a cost. But you can find deals on Naples hotels and accommodations in advance that will not break the bank. If you plan on vacationing in Naples on a tight budget, consider booking your trip to Naples in the off-season.

When is the peak season in Naples Florida?

Winter months (December-February) is the most popular time for tourists to visit Naples Florida. So consider booking your accommodations, special events, and booking flights to Naples Florida well in advance.