Gulfshore Life June 2021

I N TO T H E BLU E THE SUMMER ISSUE

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Features AQUATIC- INSPIRE D STYLE

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Features REVISITING THE GA S PA R I L L A I N N & CLUB

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CONTENTS Departments

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IN EVERY ISSUE

INSIDER

28 Editor ’s Note

36 A rtist P rof ile: Naples’ Tovari Designs

30 From the CA B 32 Gulfshore T reasures 224 Parting Shot

42 Wine Watch: A Singular P inot at Harold ’s 50 Personalities: Musicians A nna Wilson and Mont y Powell

58 Ret rospective: Naples P ier 62 Guest List: People & Places

IN THIS ISSUE 99 Summer Guide

INSIDER Artist Prof ile

36

Ceramicist Tracy Gurdian uses vintage European textiles and a Japanese firing technique for her nature-

Erik Kellar

inspired wares.

16

GULFSHORE LIFE

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CONTENTS

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HOME

Depart ments

162 St ylish Living: Bonita Springs Superpenthouse 172 Alf resco: A Park Shore Oasis 174 Fa vorite T hings: Noir Decor

176 Realt y Check: Dream Homes H E A LTHY LI F E 190 Fit ness: Smart At-Home Gear 194 House Call: Health Ne ws and Events

TASTE 196 Chef ’s Table: Hog f ish Harr y’s 20 0 Dining Guide: 150+ Essential Restaurants ARTS + LEISURE 217 Agenda: Can’t-Miss Events for June

H OM E

162

Contemporary and traditional blend in this Beasley & Henley-designed superpenthouse in Bonita Springs.

Volume 51/Number 6, Gulfshore Life (ISSN 0745-0079) is published monthly, 12 times a year, by Gulfshore Life Media, LLC., 26101 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, FL, 34134. Subscription price is $19.95 per year.

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St ylish Living

commitment.

“FINEMARK HAS STRONG CORE VALUES AND A COMMITMENT TO PROVIDING THE FINEST SERVICE TO THEIR CLIENTS.” Mary and Norman Love Founders & Owners Norman Love Confections

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COMMUNITY ADVISORY BOARD

Scott Burgess President and CEO David Lawrence Center 2018 Man of the Year

Mary Susan Clinton Trustee, Naples Children & Education Foundation Founder, Gallien Global Vision Inc. 2002 Woman of the Year

Denise Cobb Chair, Community Advisory Board Trustee, Naples Children & Education Foundation 2000 Woman of the Year

Shirlene Elkins Real Estate Professional, John R. Wood Properties Trustee, Naples Children & Education Foundation 2003 Woman of the Year

Ellin Goetz President, Goetz+Stropes Landscape Architects 2000 Woman of the Year

Mark Loren Head Jewelry Designer/Owner, Mark Loren Designs 2016 Man of the Year

Gail Markham Founding Partner, Markham Norton Mosteller Wright & Company 2011 Woman of the Year

Elliott H. Singer Managing Director and Founder, Fairview Advisors Trustee, Naples Children & Education Foundation Memberat-Large

Adria Starkey President, Collier, Finemark National Bank & Trust, Trustee, Naples Children & Education Foundation 2000 Woman of the Year

Shelly Stayer President/Co-Owner, Johnsonville Foods 2013 Woman of the Year

Sandra Stilwell Youngquist Owner and CEO, Stilwell Enterprises 2006 Woman of the Year

24

GULFSHORE LIFE

Brian Tietz (8); Courtesy Shirlene Elkins, Ellin Goetz, Mark Loren, Shelly Stayer/Roland Scarpa

Ingrid Aielli Co-Owner, Aielli Group 2016 Woman of the Year

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M A K I N G

G U L F S H O R E

L I F E

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ON THE COVER Photographed aboard a 2020 Riva 48 Dolceriva at Allied Marine in Naples, by Brian Tietz.

On the cover, the model wears Ralph Lauren Collection’s Darby Silk Crepe Halter Blouse and Saunders Silk Art Deco Palazzo Pants from Saks Fifth Avenue at Waterside Shops (saksfifthavenue.com), with 14-karat Gold Hook Earrings with Large A+ Freshwater Baroque Pearls from Pierre & Harry on Third Street South (pierreandharry.com).

Model Laura Z, Elite Miami Stylist Elyse Ranart Photo Assistant Landon Flett

I N TO T H E BLU E THE SUMMER ISSUE

26

GULFSHORE LIFE

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Passion. Vision. Trust.

OLDE NAPLES • GINSBERGEYE.COM • 239.325.2015

FROM THE EDITOR

PU R E F L O R I DA

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“Florida as it was meant to be.”

ate Florida’s unique allure, with

fer Williams’ favorite waterside

That’s the tagline of the Gasparilla

its Southern-meets-Caribbean

restaurants that welcome you

Inn & Club in Boca Grande, and a

hospitality and reverence for the

straight off the boat in a swimsuit.

glimpse behind the scenes of the

ocean. This summer, as life slows

(Speaking of boats, if you’re plan-

storied resort reveals the senti-

down in our region and the roads

ning for some summer cruising,

ment rings true.

and spaces clear again, I want to

check out Michael Korb’s recom-

spend more time appreciating

mendations for runaround boats

that side of Florida.

on p. 120—you may just want to

renovating its beach club, we felt it was the perfect opportunity

Though our cities have grown

to revisit the property and dig

past their fishing village-status, it’s

deeper. Writer Anne Reed set

still not hard to find in this area. I

In many ways, Southwest Flor-

off for the island-town of Boca

recognize it often while driving

ida is Florida as it should be. And

Grande in search of the soul of the

around downtown Naples eyeing

if you need a reminder of that, just

place. What makes a resort like the

the beach cottages between Gulf

book yourself a week at the Gas-

Gasparilla Inn endure? Its beau-

Shore Boulevard and Third Street

parilla Inn this summer.

tiful setting and casual, distinctly

South; crossing the bridges over

Floridian elegance certainly help.

to Sanibel and Goodland, where

But it’s the people and memories

expansive views of still waters are

collected throughout more than

punctuated by mangrove patches;

a century that create the sense

and dining on fish we just caught

of place. This is reflected in the

at the Island Gypsy Cafe.

sailors’ valentines shell craft love

In our Summer Guide, which

letters that fill the resort, the bar

starts on p. 99, we asked in-the-

where locals and guests mingle,

know locals to share the places

and the stories of the decades-long

they frequent in the off-season.

employees.

Their responses reveal more of

Visiting a place like this makes

Florida’s character—from Mila

it easy to recognize and appreci-

Bridger’s propensity for visiting

spend the next few months living in one of them.)

Stephanie Granada Editor-in-Chief

Anna Gunselman

When we heard the resort was

Everglades City and following dirt roads in search of orange groves to boutique owner Jenni-

28

GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com

WHERE

Beautiful Homes

BEGIN

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FROM THE COMMUNITY ADVISORY BOARD

OU R H I D D E N S E A S ON

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Seeing the first car carriers head-

this time of year. And, scientifically

welcome; and there are no weekly

ing north causes us mostly year-

speaking, onshore winds are mod-

fundraisers—just fun-raising.

round residents to be almost giddy

erated by the sea, so our beaches

We’ve all settled into a different

with excitement. We know sum-

are cooler in summer and warmer

pace of life. After the COVID-

mer is about to arrive and with it a

in winter. Perfect, yes?

19 standstill, we welcomed the

new way of life begins—at least for

Plus, you can count on those

influx of visitors this past year—it’s

the next several months. There is

predictable afternoon storms to

great for our local businesses and

so much to love about summer in

cool things off. The rain never lasts

nonprofits. But now, as summer

Southwest Florida.

too long, and those puffy clouds

brings back its laid-back pace, let’s

First and foremost, the traffic is

make for spectacular sunsets.

appreciate the underrated beauty

a breeze. Suddenly, U.S. 41 moves

Really, nature in Southwest Flor-

that is a quieter, slower Southwest

along, and a day trip to Sanibel

ida is at its most extraordinary and

Florida summer. Just please, don’t

and Captiva islands seems like a

most alive in summer.

tell the rest of them what they

completely sound idea.

Even if you don’t live with a view

Restaurants that are booked

of the water, you have your pick of

all season are accessible without

beachfront hotels, with staycation-

a reservation, and there is no

friendly rates. In season, a room at

shortage of specials, including

The Ritz-Carlton, Naples will cost

those wonderful buy one, get one

you about $1,600 a night; now, that

free deals. This year, it’ll be even

drops to around $600. South Seas

more satisfying to visit our favorite

Resort goes from $800 a night to

restaurants and show support for

as low as $269.

the chefs and restaurateurs that make this region great.

Then, there are the things many people take for granted in season: Favorite items are avail-

the crowds during the off-season,

able at the grocery store; doctor

too. Sure, it’s hot now and will only

appointments can be conveniently

get hotter; but it’s hot everywhere

scheduled; hair salon walk-ins are

GULFSHORE LIFE

Denise Cobb

Gulfshore Life Community Advisory Board Chair

g ulf shorelife.com

Brian Tietz

Our beaches get a break from

30

missed.

EST IN CLASS UROLOGY

• Same day appointments for acute or urgent problems • On staff at all area hospitals including Landmark Hospital • Both men and women treated • Confidential second opinions welcome • Medicare and most insurances accepted

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N A P L E S • E A S T N A P L E S • B O N I TA S P R I N G S • M A R C O I S L A N D

GU LFS HORE

TRE ASU RES

Some of the best summer views are caught from beneath an umbrella sitting poolside or beachside someplace special like the Gasparilla Inn Brian Tietz

& Club in Boca Grande. Read about the historic resort and its beach club renovation on p. 84.

33

"He has underestimated you for the last time."

Divorce and Family Law

2 3 9 3 3 4 7 6 9 6 wilbursmith.law

2 2 0 0 B ro a d w a y, F o r t M y e r s , F L 3 3 9 0 1

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Personalities: Musicians Anna Wilson and Mont y Powell Brian Tietz

p_ 50

36

A rtist P rof ile: Naples’ Tovari Designs

42

Wine Watch: A Singular P inot at Harold ’s

58

Ret rospective: Naples P ier

62

Guest List: People & Places

ARTIST PROFILE

SHAPING HER DESTIN Y

INSIDER

Tracy Gurdian, the ceramicist behind Tovari Designs, has learned some of life’s most important lessons from clay.

By Alyssa Morlacci Photography by Erik Kellar

Tracy Gurdian sunk her fingers into

eled to Tokyo in 2019 to learn kint-

joy. Attending dance performances,

clay for the first time 25 years ago.

sugi, a sacred technique for repairing

tears would roll down her cheeks in a

That day she didn’t plan on becom-

broken pottery. The lacquer used

dark theater as the curtains came up.

ing a ceramicist with pieces sold in

throughout the process gave Gurdian

Although she was teaching dance at a

luxury stores like Bergdorf Good-

a painful rash (something she says is

local studio, she grew spiteful toward

man and Kravet. At the time, she just

surprisingly common for those who

the art form, but without it, she also

needed a hobby to pull her out of a

use the technique). Still, she commit-

felt she lost her identity.

deep depression.

ted to using the method.

A friend suggested Gurdian try

Drawing much of her inspiration

This dedication to her art can be

pottery, and when she came across

from the architecture of seashells

attributed to the intensive training

a class, she reluctantly signed up. As

discovered during daily morning

she endured as a contemporary dance

Gurdian rode to the studio, she recalls

jogs on the beach, Gurdian’s artwork

student at the University of South

thinking, “This is the dumbest thing

elicits a sense of movement through

Florida in the early ’90s. During her

ever.” But when she sat down in front

the use of curves, textured patterns

senior year, Gurdian suffered a back

of the clay, rolled it out and began

and asymmetry. Using the Japanese

injury, which ended her career as a

forming it with her hands, she saw

firing process called raku, the artist

performer before it even started.

the parallels with dance. “It was like

creates vases, trays and decorative

After graduation, she moved back

choreographing—you could manipu-

pieces, which have intrigued local

home to Naples, and soon after, the

late the clay and make it do whatever

design shops and major retailers.

symptoms of depression started to

you wanted it to do,” she says.

Mastery and preserving tradition

manifest. She began to withdraw

One session turned into 10 years of

are important to Gurdian, who trav-

from the things that used to bring her

classes, and in 2006, local art galler-

36

GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com

INSIDER

37

nature and the coast as inspiration.

Tracy Gurdian uses the Japanese firing process known as raku to create functional and decorative pieces with

INSIDER

ies started showing her work. “I was

didn’t see the ceramics as a fit for the

happy doing the gallery route, until I

shop, a young Ari presented his vision.

started to travel to Europe,” she says.

“As we’re getting ready to leave, he

On a trip in 2013, Gurdian was

said to her, ‘But this goes with that

searching for the lace she uses to

painting.’ It was this melted glass

imprint her clay while it’s wet, which

piece with all these colors,” Gurdian

creates the signature, textured

says. “She looked at the painting, and

aesthetic on her ceramics. Cantù,

she looked at my piece, and she goes,

Italy, and Bruges, France, are some

‘You’re right,’ and she took it.’” The

of her favorite places to find intricate

next day Liegeois called to let Gurdian

fabrics—the lace at times even contains

know the piece had already sold.

a pattern that symbolizes the town.

The designer encouraged Gurdian

During this particular visit, Gurdian

to reach out to Bergdorf Goodman.

noticed stores selling handmade

After emailing the company every

decorative pieces and restaurants, like

week for a year, Gurdian finally heard

Mirazur in France, serving meals on

back in 2015. She flew to New York to

locally crafted wares.

meet with the buyer and launched her

When she returned home, she

first collection with the department

launched Tovari Designs, named after

store. From there, she was scouted by

her two children, Tova and Ari, with a

Kravet, a global furnishings company,

plan to commercialize her art in the

to create a curated collection. Around

United States. The first piece she sold

the same time, she also built a rela-

commercially was on display at local

tionship with San Francisco-based

interior designer Judith Liegeois’

high-end retailer Gump’s, where her

showroom 10 years ago. Liegeois is

pieces are still carried today.

someone Gurdian had long admired,

Gurdian likens the raku firing tech-

and she was nervous to present her

nique, which she performs with her

pieces to the lauded designer. Fortu-

partner of 11 years, John Schrock, to

nately, she had a secret weapon by her

a pas de deux (a duet between danc-

side: her son. Though at first Liegeois

ers). The intricacies and timing of

38

GULFSHORE LIFE

Many of her designs are inspired by seashells she finds on morning jogs on the beach. She applies lace, sourced from Europe, on the wet clay to create textured patterns.

ARTIST PROFILE

g ulf shorelife.com

their movements are imperative for neither of them to be burned by open flames and for the pieces to come out intact.

At her home of nearly 20 years in Naples’ Seagate community, Gurdian forms her clay by hand, bisque fires it in a kiln and applies a glaze. She places the bisqueware in the raku kiln outside on her driveway and lets it heat to 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit. Schrock then cranks the kiln open while Gurdian grabs the bisqueware, now glowing orange, from inside the kiln using tongs. She’s wearing protective gloves up to her elbows as she places the molten piece in a tin garbage can.

Paper at the bottom of the can catches fire and Schrock places a lid over the open flames, creating a reduction chamber that starts the oxidation process. Meanwhile, Gurdian has already grabbed another bisqueware from the kiln, repeating the process

INSIDER

39

INSIDER ARTIST PROFILE

multiple times until the kiln has been emptied. Finally, Gurdian removes the lids on each of the cans and sprays the ceramics with water.

Only about half the pieces survive this process because of how quickly the ceramics are removed from the heat. The oxidation causes the colors of the glaze to change in an unpredictable way, making it almost impossible to replicate a piece. “Part of the thrill is going through all of the elements—fire, water, air—and letting go of attachments,” she says. “You can spend months making the piece just to have it crumble and crack in the end. I learned through raku that I was really OK with letting go of things, which was a huge issue I had in my personal life.”

Raku requires Gurdian to practice patience, accept any outcome and dis-

Gurdian’s ceramics were originally shown in local galleries and were later picked up by national retailers like Bergdorf Goodman.

regard perfectionism. Over the years, it has helped her to heal. “Everything I’ve learned in my life is from clay,” she says.

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GULFSHORE LIFE

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W I N E WATC H

WILL A METTE VALLEY’S NEW DARLING

INSIDER

An ageworthy and expressive pinot noir from a youthful region takes the limelight.

enjoys, and he’d be hard-pressed to

with duck-and-foie duo, fondant

give you an answer—even though

potatoes and pinot syrup.

he passed the Advanced Level exam

The Oregon pinot may be closing

through the Court of Master Somme-

in on two decades, but it’s actually

liers (the certification before Master

the latest release for that particular

Sommelier). “Food and wine have

bottling. Citation’s owner, Howard

always been [more] about moments,

Rossbach, equates it to a Grand Cru

starting from when I was a kid in my

Burgundy, the most expressive and

grandmother’s kitchen,” he says.

refined wine from the winery. In fact,

Memories created during a meal

he doesn’t make this high-end pinot

are what he wants diners to come

every year, only in vintages when

away with at his restaurant, with each

harvest is perfect and fruit is pristine.

element—from the wine to rotating

Early in his career, Rossbach bought

menu to the service­—integrating into

private wine collections, which gave

an unforgettable experience.

him great exposure to some of the

What better night to create joie

most revered wines in the world. At

de vivre than New Year’s Eve 2021?

the same time, his growing interest

To usher in a more hopeful year, he

in wines from the Pacific Northwest

poured the 2005 Citation Oregon

dovetailed with his access to cellars

Pinot Noir. “At 16 years, it was spec-

filled with European gems. Through

42

GULFSHORE LIFE

Erik Kellar

the elegant wine, which was matched

vintages when fruit is pristine.

tacular and built for food,” he says of

in Fort Myers, what kind of wines he

the artistry behind this high-end pinot that is only produced in

Ask Harold Balink, owner of Harold’s

Harold Balink, owner of Harold’s in Fort Myers, appreciates

By Shana Clarke

g ulf shorelife.com

INSIDER

43

INSIDER

tasting notes and wine critics, he soon

The Oregon pinot noir incor-

realized that the Burgundies, espe-

porates fruit from throughout the

cially, were similar in structure and

state. After aging for 18 months in a

style in their youth to the new Oregon

combination of new and used French

wines he was tasting.

oak barrels, Rossbach selects the

His experience with fine wine cre-

best barrels to blend together. From

ated a segue to a career in sales and

there, the wine is aged in the bottle for

marketing and through his work with

another 10 years before it’s released.

brands such as Ken Wright Cellars,

Rossbach notes that the wine devel-

Erath and Hogue, Rossbach was on

ops new layers of complexity and aro-

the pulse of the fine wine movement

matics—“that mushroom and forest

happening in the Pacific Northwest.

floor elements that great pinot noir

With exposure to great vineyards

can acquire.” There’s still an element

throughout Oregon, he then started

of rich, dark fruit, but the savory notes

what he terms “a virtual winery,”

show themselves front and center.

called Firesteed. Contracting with

Although the aromatics indicate a

growers, the Firesteed brand blos-

mature wine, structurally it still has

somed into a thriving business. About

a long time to go, Rossbach says.

four years ago, Rossbach was ready to

Proximity to the ocean plays a

get back to the roots of why he got into

major role in the cool climate. Ore-

the industry and refocused on build-

gon also is known for its volcanic and

ing a fine wine brand. He divested

marine sedimentary soils in many of

from Firesteed, but retained owner-

its wine growing regions, another gift

ship of Citation, his high-end label.

from the ocean deposited millions

44

GULFSHORE LIFE

Courtesy Citation Wine/Alan Abramowitz, Courtesy Citation Wine/Abe Blair

W I N E WATC H

g ulf shorelife.com

of years ago. The results are wines with great acidity and a savory, mineral quality.

When he divested from Firesteed, Rossbach also took one more important facet of the business with him: Erratic Oaks Vineyard, an old grass seed farm he purchased in 2006 that now serves as Citation’s estate vineyard. Located across the road from Freedom Hill Vineyard, the home of several vineyard-designate wines, it had been on the market for several years before Rossbach took ownership. “Nobody had really done the diligence on it,” he says. And after purchasing the site, it was appraised for three times what he paid.

Today, the area encompassing Erratic Oaks and Freedom Hill is moments away from being approved as a new sub-American Viticultural Area (AVA) of Willamette Valley called Mount Pisgah, Polk County—a classification that acknowledges the special qualities of the area.

Because the proposed Mount Pisgah, Polk County AVA is mostly located on a mountain, it is several degrees cooler than other neighboring AVAs. The vineyard, however, also benefits from its location in the southeast quadrant of the The pinot is made from grapes from throughout Oregon. For 18 months

AVA—just off the mountain, where it’s

the fruit is aged in French oak barrels, then blended and aged in the

warmer­—and thus enjoys an earlier rip-

bottle for another 10 years.

ening. Plus, most crop dangers (rain, mildew, bird predation) come toward the end of the growing season. One of the most distinguishing features of Mount Pisgah,

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INSIDER W I N E WATC H

which will be the southernmost AVA in Willamette Valley, is its unique volcanic soils. Once the AVA is approved, the designation will not only distinguish the wines from their neighbors, it will continue to evolve the Willamette Valley story, further showcasing the diversity of the region. Although the AVA was created in 1983, it wasn’t until 2004 that the first sub-AVA, Yamhill-Carlton, was established, so the region is rapidly evolving, changing and celebrating its diversity.

Citation’s estate vineyard is in a region of the Willamette Valley

place here in North America that could produce

that will soon be approved as a new sub-American Viticultural

classic ageworthy, European varietals,” Rossbach

Area, known as Mount Pisgah, Polk County.

says. With bottlings like the 2005 Citation Oregon Pinot Noir, and upcoming releases from the soon-

Courtesy Citation Wine

“I had always felt that the Northwest was the

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INSIDER W I N E WATC H

Balink says the Citation pinot noir, with its age and complexity, is “built for food.”

to-be-official AVA, Rossbach’s investments into Oregon—and Citation—are proving fruitful.

For Balink, this is just one of the exciting bottles he gets to showcase on Harold’s everevolving wine list. The interplay of his food— which is rooted in traditional technique but Erik Kellar

forward-thinking in its execution—paired with a wine like Citation, guarantees a dynamic, thought-provoking and ultimately delicious dining experience.

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INSIDER

PERSONALITIES

TROUBADOUR TRUTHS Songwriters Anna Wilson and Monty Powell create a new life and hit songs together at their creative oasis on the Isles of Capri.

By Garret K. Woodward Photography by Brian Tietz

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GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com

™

375 Fifth Ave. South, Naples, FL 34102 | (239) 206-4460 | www.marilynhellman.com

permanent display at the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville).

Throughout their extensive careers, Wilson and Powell also—either together or individually—have crafted hit numbers Recently relocated to Southwest Florida, the musical couple

for the likes of Rascal Flatts, Brooks &

write hit songs for their own group, Troubadour 77, as well as

Dunn, Tim McGraw, Diamond Rio, Billy

for country stars like Rascal Flatts and Brooks & Dunn.

Ray Cyrus and countless others, with millions of records sold as a result of the fruits of their labor.

The two are diligent in their work, but their rhythms have softened since moving to Naples. “We’re pretty loose with our

After living and working in Nashville,

new melodic works for megastar

schedules when it comes to songwriting,

Tennessee, for the better part of a

performers and labels.

not adhering to a 9-to-5 sort of approach

quarter-century, acclaimed song-

Powell points to a centerpiece in

like we used to in Nashville,” Powell

writers/musicians and husband-wife

the room: a 1955 D-18 Martin acous-

says. “When we collaborate, usually

Anna Wilson and Monty Powell

tic guitar—one of 55 ever made. “It’s

one of us has an idea—either lyrically

decided to leave Music City a couple

featured on virtually every recording

or melodically—that tends to get the

years ago for the shores of Southwest

that we do there,” he says. For record-

ball rolling.” Once the creative flame is

Florida. “There’s an inspiration that

ing, the couple rely on Cubase, a digi-

sparked, Wilson and Powell hunker down

we derive from sitting around the

tal audio workstation. Elsewhere, the

in the studio and get right to work, chasing

pool and private dock,” Wilson says.

space is tidily outfitted with Yamaha

this bright moment of inventiveness

“Being able to look out at the boat

Steinberg products, a brand Powell

seemingly to the ends of the earth.

on the lift in the canal, see manatees

says he’s been loyal to for years.

Powell tends to focus on the technical

and wading birds around—it’s really

Aside from the gear, there’s also a

side, handling the programming and

a great place to relax and get inspired

plaque on the wall certifying sales of

engineering, while Wilson, “always has

for an idea for a song.”

more than 5 million records for Lady

the computer out and is constantly editing

Located on the Isles of Capri (bet-

A’s (formerly known as Lady Ante-

the lyrics,” Powell says. He plays guitar,

ween Naples and Marco Island), the

bellum) 2010 album Need You Now,

and she plays the keyboard. “We have both

duo resides in a small bungalow, a

on which both Wilson and Powell

instruments going at the same time—col-

property as cozy as it is functional

contributed a song. In another part

laborating and shooting ideas back and

to the artists’ needs. There, they

of the house, there’s a replica of a

forth until we get a finished product.”

like to find a comfortable nook and

handwritten lyric for Keith Urban’s

While immersed in the songwriting

dive deep into the waters of their

No. 1 country smash “Days Go By,”

process, the two bring to the table decades

own imaginations. The home has a

which he and Powell co-wrote (the

of finely honed talents. “We’re firm beli-

recording studio, where they write

original handwritten lyrics are on

evers that songwriting is more about the

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GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com

INSIDER PERSONALITIES

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53

INSIDER PERSONALITIES

Wilson and Powell first visited Southwest Florida in 2008 to perform at the Naples Winter Wine Festival.

tools and craft of knowing how to do it

saltwater fly-fisherman, so having access

heroes are The Eagles, Joni Mitchell,

than it is about some ‘lightning in a bottle’

to the Everglades and the Ten Thousand

Jackson Browne and Carole King, who all

moment of inspirational poetry,” Powell

Islands is so great for him,” Wilson says.

got their start at the Troubadour,” Wilson

says. “It’s about a strong work ethic and

Aside from exploring Naples and

says, referencing the storied West Holly-

actually understanding the components of

greater Southwest Florida in their free

a song arrangement—this is what makes a

time, they also roam the picturesque

Early showcases by Wilson and Pow-

hit song, a compelling lyric, a memorable

landscape onstage and behind the micro-

ell at the famed Naples Winter Wine

melody.”

phone in their performance group, which

Festival, going back to the 2008 event,

wood nightclub.

Once a particular song takes shape

they formed in 2016. Titled Troubadour

planted the seed in the couple’s heart to

and is sent off to their fellow musicians

77 (or T77), the stage duo is an ode to the

pull up stakes in Nashville and head for

and industry colleagues to perhaps

iconic songs, artists and venues from that

Southwest Florida. From performing at

find its place on an album and in your

magical—almost cosmic—crossroads of

the event numerous times to now call-

stereo, Wilson and Powell take off

music and performance in the Laurel

ing Naples home, their journey remains

their songwriting hats. “Monty is a big

Canyon scene of 1970s Los Angeles. “Our

bountiful and ever-evolving, personally

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GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com

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INSIDER PERSONALITIES

The musicians plan to open their Isles of Capri home—outfitted with a

and professionally. “If you can listen

their home as an escape for other

recording studio—to other musicians

as much as you want to put forth

artists, too. Beyond remote collab-

as a creative retreat.

your idea or agenda, you’ll get a

oration (via Zoom and FaceTime)

better song,” Wilson says. “Working

from the on-site studio, they also

with your significant other creates

aim to host musicians, offering their

this incredible comfort zone where

welcoming abode as a writing retreat

you can say what you feel and see if

to get away from it all. “You can come

it works.” In life and work, the cou-

here and you can go fish or sit on the

ple strikes a chord. “For us, I can’t

beach during the day, only to come

imagine having a significant other

back to the house and write songs

that didn’t also do what I do,” Powell

in a relaxing environment,” Wilson

says. “I couldn’t imagine having this

says. “And it’s those experiences that

partnership any other way.”

feed their souls, as well. Here you can

With roots now firmly planted in Naples, Wilson and Powell look at

56

GULFSHORE LIFE

open your mind and your spirit to be more creative.”

g ulf shorelife.com

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RETROSPECTIVE

THE NAPLES PIER INSIDER

From its debut in 1888 through its many restorations, the 12th Avenue South wharf marks the passage of time.

From morning coffee meetups to

T-shaped wooden pier welcomed

he was told were held at the end of

evening attempts to capture the

passengers and freights brought

the pier in the 1920s. Guests from

elusive green flash at sunset, the

to Naples by boat and was the only

the hotel would trek down to the

Naples Pier is a gathering place

way in and out of town until the

end of 12th Avenue South in their

for tourists, fishermen, sunbathers

arrival of the first passenger trains

evening finery and tiptoe over the

and residents. For more than 130

in the 1920s and the completion of

day’s fishing remnants to reach

years, the landmark has served as

Tamiami Trail in 1928.

the Victrola record player and the

a symbol of Naples in advertisements, postcards and paintings.

By 1910, freight lifts were added

dance floor. “They put signs up that

to the pier, along with a bathhouse

said, ‘Please don’t throw your fish on the dance floor,’” he says.

Walking the pier is a favorite

and changing room. The new

evening activity for artist Paul

additions joined the post office,

It was the rise of bathing cul-

Arsenault and his wife, Eileen.

which was located at the end of

ture and road trip vacations that

“It’s a special part of our quality

the pier until it was destroyed by

brought more tourists and resi-

of life in Old Naples,” he says.

fire in 1922. This resulted in the

dents to the area in the early 1950s.

Arsenault has painted the pier

second repair for the pier; the

Around this time, another natural

for decades, in part as a way to

first was in 1910 after extensive

disaster was looming; and when

give people a sense of geography.

hurricane damage. It was com-

Hurricane Donna hit in 1960, the

“You want to know where you are

pletely rebuilt after hurricanes in

pier was destroyed by the 135 mile-

on the beach, and just the silhou-

1926 and 1944—the latter marked

per-hour winds and almost 10 feet

ette of the pier locks you right in

the pier’s shift from function to

of storm surge. City council’s deci-

place,” he says.

recreation. “It’s always been a

sion to drop the pier’s insurance

The pier debuted in 1888, pro-

gathering place here, and a life-

policy before the storm left the

viding access the next year to the

line,” John Telischak, education

rebuilding project in dire need

newly opened Naples Hotel, where

manager for the Naples Historical

of money.

the first guest was Rose Elizabeth

Society, says.

Lester Norris, a cartoonist-

Cleveland, sister of President

One of Telischak’s favorite pieces

turned-retired CEO of the Texas

Grover Cleveland. The 600-foot,

of pier history is the sunset dances

Oil Company (Texaco), pledged

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GULFSHORE LIFE

Courtesy Paul Arsenault/Arsenault Studio & Banyan Arts Gallery

By Anne Reed

g ulf shorelife.com

When it opened, the Naples Pier provided the only way in and out of town. It has long served as inspiration for artists, including Paul Arsenault, whose Naples Pier and Beach painting is seen above.

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When Hurricane Donna hit in 1960,

$70,000 to rebuild; by the end

weddings, memorials, baptisms,

the Naples Pier was destroyed. With

of the project, the donation was

Easter sunrise services and

a significant donation from local

significantly higher. Norris and

Fourth of July fireworks. “It

philanthropists Lester and Dellora

his wife, Dellora, were well-known

has a charming, Old Florida feel

Norris (top right), it was rebuilt to

philanthropists, having previously

to it,” Arsenault says. “It’s our

withstand hurricanes.

donated toward the development

Eiffel Tower.”

of Lowdermilk Park, and insisted

Arsenault and Telischak see

that, in exchange for their donation,

a similar future for the pier as

Naples City Council drop its plans

a strong piece of local identity.

for a proposed utility tax. The result

“When people come here, they go

was a rebuilt pier, featuring a new

to 3rd Street and 5th Avenue, and

design to better withstand storms.

go to the pier at sunset to watch

It also gave the structure its current

the sun go down, or go fishing or

recognizable silhouette.

swim,” Telischak says. “My hope is

Through the years, the Naples Pier has been the site of beach

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GULFSHORE LIFE

that it will be the same 100 years from now.”

g ulf shorelife.com

Courtesy Naples Historical Society

RETROSPECTIVE

INSIDER GUEST LIST

ZOO GALA KICKOFF Hosted at and in support of Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens Ph ot ograp hy by L a ure n M a ri e

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g ulf shorelife.com

1 Terry Edwards, Ann Scott 2 Sheliah Wall, Anita Lovse, Beverly Fanning, Jennifer McCurry 3 Denny and Tanya Glass, Jon Hamill 4 Judy and David Jones, Leslie Derrick 5 Wilfredo Emanuel, Gary Harlan 6 Jeanne Guglielmi 7 Teri Kuhn, Linda Malone, Kathy Woods, Joanne Brown

1

8 Guests gather for kickoff announcements

3

2

9 Bruehler, the giraffe

4 7

10

5 6

9 8

1 0 Kathy and Dan Mezzalingua, Jack Mulvena

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NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM, THE BRITISH INVASION Hosted at and in support of Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples P ho t o g ra p hy by Re a ga n R ul e

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GULFSHORE LIFE

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INSIDER GUEST LIST

1 Jodie Montgomery, Jennifer Ferris

5 Shannon Diener

2 Jennifer Urness, Karol Smith, Lyn Buck

6 Patrick and Danielle Bishop

3 Lilit and Arsen Ustayev

7 Gabriel Butu

4 D aryl and Nina Berg, Dorothea and

3

Erick Sönne, Meghan and Jamie

1

Houde, Breanden Beneschott and Dani

7

2

4

5 6

Glickson

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GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com

INSIDER GUEST LIST

1 Mark Chandley, Adam Gerry 2 Brent and Jana Seaman 3 Sonya Sawyer, Giselle Calleja, Edee DeLuca 1

4 Volunteer celebrates a winning bid

2

3

7

5 Corey Lazar, Lindsey Sablan 6 Bridgett Chandley, Ryann Cindrich, Ashley Gerry, Laina Kennedy, Patty Campbell

6

5

4

7 Tom Kennedy, Jay Campbell

INSIDER

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R END

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Available at Marilyn’s.

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2.

This season’s strapless maxi dress is perfect solo, as a cover-up by the pool or with your favorite jean jacket for an evening out. The supercomfortable cotton-knit has an adjustable drawstring waist.

Available at Jennifer’s.

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(239) 481-8582, jennifersfortmyers.com

3.

This easy, breezy wrap dress has a high-low hem and ruffle sleeves in the best fabric for the season—cotton-gauze.

Available at Jennifer’s.

13251 McGregor Blvd., Ste. 111-1, Fort Myers.

(239) 481-8582, jennifersfortmyers.com 4.

Longing for the sea and white sandy beaches?

Larimar, a rare stone from the Dominican Republic, looks like the white sand and blue water of the Caribbean, making this sterling silver and Larimar choker perfect for your summer wardrobe. The Larimar cuff bracelet, ring and earrings complete the look. Available at Silver Eagle Gallery.

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TRENDS

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Features

“O ver the years that I have worked with the Gasparilla Inn, I’ve always held onto one thought that per vades ever y decision I make—that is, ‘Don’t mess it up.’” — Mim i Maddock McMa k in, inter ior desig ner for the Gaspa r illa Inn & Club’s recent renovation

p_ 84

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Aquat ic-Inspired St yle

84

Revisit ing the Gasparilla Inn & Club

THE

LIFE AQUATIC

S u m m e r b e c k o n s u s t o t h e wa t e r w i t h s t y l e s t h a t b l e n d c o a s t a l t ex t u r e s a n d f o r m s , d e e p b l u e s h a d e s a n d s t o n e s t h a t s h i m m e r l i k e t h e G u l f.

By Car la Delgado Grippa P h o t o g r a p h y by C r a i g H i l d e b r a n d

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GULFSHORE LIFE

Lace and rocks bring elegance to a comfortable sandal, while moonstone, blue chalcedony, topaz and aquamarine stones create a perfect ombré palette in this signed necklace. From left: Dolce & Gabbana Acqua Jewel Bianca Flat Sandal, Marissa Collections on Third Street South, Naples. Seaman Schepps Athena Necklace, Yamron Jewelers at Waterside Shops, Naples. Previous page: Tiny rare paraiba tourmaline and opal stones float within a white sapphire kaleidoscope case, with diamonds framing the look. Moritz Glik Paraiba Evil Eye Shaker Ring (from the Apollo Collection), Marissa Collections.

75

Just like coastal blue waters inspire serenity, pretty little things in the same bright shades of turquoise bring a dose of happy to your style. From left: Brackish Jordan Goose Feather Earrings, N Color Salon at Sandalwood Square, Naples. Seaman Schepps Turquoise Boat Link Bracelet, Yamron Jewelers at Waterside Shops, Naples.

76

GULFSHORE LIFE

77

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GULFSHORE LIFE

Taking notes from effervescent waters, these bubbly accessories channel the incoming tide. From left: Cult Gaia Eos Bubble Acrylic Box Clutch, Saks Fifth Avenue at Waterside Shops, Naples. Syna Bauble Bangles, Shannon Green Collection in the Naples Design District.

79

With a shell-like iridescence and the shimmer of a sun-soaked beach, these earrings take aesthetic cues from the sea. To make summer days stretch on forever, consider a watch with a 40 mm hand-finished, stainless steel case and a sapphire face that nods to the ocean’s abyss. From left: Suzy Landa Opal & Diamond Earrings, Shannon Green Collection in the Naples Design District. Laurent Ferrier Micro Rotor Ice Blue, Exquisite Timepieces at The Village Shops on Venetian Bay, Naples.

80

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81

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GULFSHORE LIFE

The Heart of the Ocean takes a more wearable form with this Saboo necklace. For a lighter daytime look, Vhernier’s wind- and wave-inspired rose gold and turquoise bracelet delights. From left: Saboo Fine Jewels Blue Sapphire and Diamond Multi Color Necklace, Marissa Collections on Third Street South, Naples. Vhernier Vento Bracelet, Yamron Jewelers at Waterside Shops, Naples.

83

THE JEWEL OF

BOCA GR ANDE T h r o u g h i t s 1 1 0 y e a r s , s e v e r a l ow n e r s a n d s t o r i e d

c hapters, the Gasparilla Inn & Club still shines bright with its Old Florida c harm.

By Anne Reed

“They’re exquisite, aren’t they?”

Though the look and feel of the

says a guest sitting several couches

Gasparilla Inn has evolved, it still

away, her laptop open as she takes

retains its Old Florida charm and

advantage of the morning hush to

its purpose of providing an exclu-

catch up on work in the living room

sive and peaceful getaway.

of the Gasparilla Inn & Club. I’m

With the original inn building

examining an intricate arrange-

designated as a Historic Hotel of

ment of shells that hang in a frame

America and part of the National

on the mantel in my small section

Trust for Historic Preservation,

of the room. The pieces, small shell

embracing the integrity and nos-

craft love letters that seafarers

talgia of the resort’s history has

would make for sweethearts back

been part of the legacy carried on

home, appear throughout the his-

from generation to generation.

toric resort, inviting guests to slow

Toeing the line between preser-

down, sit, examine, contemplate

vation and modernization, the

and relax.

inn’s stewards have struck a fine

The inn is filled with sentimen-

balance. “The attention to detail

tal touches like these, which were

and design is something that has

collected by Sarah Farish, who

always been part of the Gasparilla

now owns the resort with her hus-

Inn and that legacy continues

band. They’re part of what makes

through this project,” says the

the resort, which spreads through

resort’s president and general

the small town of Boca Grande

manager, Jon Reecher, referenc-

like an elegant octopus, feel like

ing the newly renovated beach

you’re visiting a fourth-genera-

club. Built in 1986, the beach club

tion family home.

Dating back to 1911, the resort has changed vastly from its humble beginnings as the two-story, 20-room Hotel Boca Grande. Now with two dozen cottages, a marina, golf course, tennis club, bakery, motel, numerous restaurants, and a newly renovated beach club,

Entrenched in the fabric of Boca Grande, the Gasparilla Inn recently

its metaphorical tentacles have

renovated its beach club and added nine beachfront cottages.

shaped the island-town of Boca Grande over the last 110 years.

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GULFSHORE LIFE

was in need of a structural and style update that would maintain its historic elegance, while also meeting the changing needs of resort guests. Palm Beach-based Kemble Interiors was tasked with the recent renovation, along with designing the resort’s nine new beach cottages. I was eager to see if the same flamingo pinks and citrusy yellows, along with whimsical touches like fireplaces filled with seashells, would be echoed in the new spaces.

But first, breakfast in the

Brian Tietz (3)

main dining room, which was part of an earlier renovation in the 2000s that was also led by Kemble Interiors. The design firm’s playful attention to detail comes through in touches like schools of fish embellishing the backs of the wooden banquettes and palm-frond patterned cushions. Potted orchids hang along the white wood columns above our heads, as Diane Randazzo,

87

an employee with the resort for 31 years, leads me to a table.

She is a wealth of information, knowing everything from which guest expects The New York Times waiting at his table each morning to the best spot to view the ever-elusive green flash, a burst of light that guests hope to catch as the sun dips below the horizon. She’s seen it, just once, at the beach club during an aweinspiring sunset, and her face lights up as she recounts the tale.

After breakfast, I wander outside and past groundskeepers manicuring the croquet lawn behind the main building before walking the two blocks to the beach club. A fitness center, tennis courts and the Inn Adventures, where guests can rent bikes

Frank created for textile giant

or arrange tours, are spaced con-

Schumacher. Farish worked with

veniently behind nine new luxury,

designers Mimi Maddock McMa-

family-style beach cottages. The

kin, Cece Bowman and Mackenzie

two-, three- or four-bedroom

Hodgson, of Kemble Interiors,

Gulf-front cottages feature a

on the project. “It’s the whimsy

full kitchen and a golf cart for

that Mimi is known for,” Anglin

families to use during their stay.

says. Palm Beach-based Chris-

Kemble Interiors worked during

ta’s South Seashells was com-

the resort’s off-season to decorate

missioned to create functional

the new spaces to reflect the inn’s

works of art for the renovation,

original style.

including seashell-encrusted

As we walk through the new

patio pots and the showstop-

event rooms at the beach club,

ping shell-covered fireplace in a

Corey Anglin, public relations

banquet room that provides the

and special events manager,

perfect backdrop for celebrations.

points out a wicker grasshopper

The design team paired these

table and a rattan chair with cush-

organic materials, like wicker

ions covered in the classic citrus

and rattan, with tropical motifs to

garden motif that designer Josef

embrace the inn’s roots; and then

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GULFSHORE LIFE

Palm Beach-based Kemble Interiors outfitted

Brian Tietz (2); Courtesy Kemble Interiors/Carmel Brantley (2)

the beach club and cottage interiors, paying homage to the resort’s Old Florida aesthetics.

Details such as shell craft love letters—or sailors’ valentines—are found throughout the property, inviting guests to linger and relax.

89

Brian Tietz (4)

Resort traditions and its longstanding staff—such as general manager and president Jon Reecher (center) and bartender Orvine Sinclair—make the hotel feel like a family home.

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GULFSHORE LIFE

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Gasparilla Inn’s tagline, “Florida as it was meant to be,” is reflected throughout with subtle and not-sosubtle details, such as carved beachy motifs on the beach club’s gable.

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GULFSHORE LIFE

Brian Tietz

layered in personal touches like

Since the resort’s early begin-

quirky artwork and tchotchkes

nings, families have flocked to the

to make it feel homey. The result

warm Gulf waters and soft sand

was a refresh that highlighted the

beaches of the seven-mile long

resort’s nostalgic charm.

and quarter-mile wide Gasparilla

For the families that visit

Island to escape winter weather.

year after year and generation

The Rockefellers are said to be

after generation, maintaining

among the early visitors. Another

that sense of sentimentality was

one of America’s wealthiest fam-

essential. “Over the years that I

ilies, the DuPonts, developed a

have worked with the Gasparilla

tradition of visiting each year,

Inn, I’ve always held onto one

which led heir Bayard Sharp, Far-

thought that pervades every

ish’s father, to purchase the resort

decision I make—that is, ‘Don’t

with a group of investors in 1961.

mess it up.’ It is a place that is so

A bit of internet sleuthing

appropriate to its setting and so

shows that President George

loved by generations,” designer

W. Bush, his parents and family

Maddock says. “The narrative of

vacationed at the inn before and

the Gasparilla Inn that we hope

during his presidency. Katharine

to tell is one of being invited to a

Hepburn rented a house on the

well-appointed house, except you

beach in the 1980s; and there are

have room service and someone

stories of residents spotting Har-

to make your bed every day and

rison Ford on the bike paths. The

never have to feel like you are

resort’s respect toward privacy

overstaying your welcome.”

is mirrored in the community,

The beach club renovation

making the island even more

added two family pools, outdoor

attractive to famous, and not-so-

dining, an extended beach area,

famous, families searching for a

fitness facility with exercise pool,

quiet place to make memories.

yoga studio and pickleball courts

“We are a very rich part in the

in an effort to provide more ame-

social fabric of people’s lives,”

nities and activities for families.

Nate McKelvy, the beach club

“It expands our possibilities as a

manager, says. As Anglin and I sit

true family resort,” Reecher says.

with him in the cool shade near

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Famed design firm Kemble Interiors played with soft coastal colors and patterns, and materials like wicker and rattan to retain the historic charm, but with a fresh look.

the beach club’s bar, the staff pre-

We perch on the edge of vintage

pares for the afternoon over the

wood and wicker couches topped

low hum of machines churning

with chintz cushions and look

frozen old fashioneds. Towels are

over an antique ledger that Mala-

rolled and waiting at the end of

sics has opened atop a table lined

lounge chairs as the first group of

with imitation tarpon scales. She

guests arrives, parents and grand-

flips through the pages, recount-

parents setting up for the day as

ing stories of the Pelican Club,

their kids splash into the pool.

which started as a fishing club

As more guests and members

in 1917 when it recorded prize

arrive, I realize I’ve lost track of

catches for its club members.

time, something McKelvy warned

They originally removed a scale

would happen as I adjust to what

from each catch and recorded

locals call “island time.”

the details before releasing the

“It’s a great place to forget your

tarpon back into the water, but

schedule,” McKelvy says. “People

discontinued the practice once

are here to engage and spend time

they realized it was detrimental

with each other.” That is mirrored

to the fish. The club branched out

in the design, with conversation

to include a shelling competition

areas set up throughout the

that continues today; its trophy

resort, including the backgammon tables, another tradition that dates back to the beginning of the inn. I start to count the tables, while also keeping an eye out for sailors’ valentines. I head back toward the main building and spy three of the shell craft love letters on the lobby’s fireplace on my way to meet the inn’s operations assistant and historian, Tina Malasics, in the living room.

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GULFSHORE LIFE

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Courtesy Kemble Interiors/Carmel Brantley (3)

The Gasparilla Inn preserves its legacy through time-honored traditions and spaces, like afternoon tea service in season and its Pelican Club room, which looks much the same as when it operated as a fishing club in the 1900s.

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GULFSHORE LIFE

displayed in the main hallway

the Gasparilla Inn after its first

atop a glass case that showcases

expansion and remodel in 1913.

ocean treasures lovingly collected

Brian Tietz (3)

by guests and staff.

Traditions like tea in season months, turndown service and

Malasics’ stories are part of

dressing up for dinner in the main

what makes me feel, once again,

dining room, are an important

like I’m visiting someone’s home.

part of the resort’s culture. “I

One of her favorites involves Col-

want to continue those tradi-

lier County’s founder and famed

tions,” Reecher says. “I think it

Florida developer Barron Collier,

is rare and speaks volumes as to

who purchased the inn and its

who we are.” It’s that desire that

buildings in 1930 for $150,000.

also brings families back year

“He didn’t like the layout and

after year, making the beach

wanted to start building cottages,”

club updates and addition of the

she says. One of the spots where

beachfront cottages important

Collier planned to place a cottage

as a way to ensure the resort con-

was on the inn’s tennis courts and,

tinues to be part of its guests’ lives

instead of removing the original

for generations to come.

courts, he built Cottage 52 on top

Earlier in the day, Reecher

of them to save time and money.

mentioned that the inn’s tagline

Collier also moved the entrance

was, “Florida as it was meant to

of the inn to the west side, adding

be.” As I head back to the beach

the first- and second-floor veran-

club in hopes of seeing the green

das and 10 columns that updated

flash Randazzo had mentioned, I

the original Queen Anne style to

see guests gathering on the beach

create the elegant neoclassical

in anticipation of the sunset and

facade that greets guests today.

further understand what she

Malasics joined the resort 36

means. That’s the magic of the

years ago and remembers one

Gasparilla Inn & Club—being

female staff member who used

cared for and feeling as if you are

to walk around each day at 4 p.m.

staying in a grand historic home

with a silver teapot, serving after-

with a host family, breezing

noon tea to the guests—a ritual

through a day with no schedule,

that started with the wealthy New

chasing winter sunshine and

England families who first visited

perfect sunsets.

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SUMMER GUIDE

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BEACH VIBES Lovers Key State Park stretches across four small islands, with beaches, bays and wooded trails. Now, the park—one of Florida’s most visited—is raising its cool factor by adding a sleek visitor/learning center that has a community room with lecture and event space (with local art throughout), a gift shop and outdoor classrooms. After 10 years of planning and fundraising by Friends of Lovers Key (FOLK) and the state, the first phase of the $4.7 million, 3,500-square-foot Welcome & Discovery Center debuted in May. The first major project of its kind to be built in the Florida park system in two decades, the center is designed to reward curiosity and educate on the surrounding ecosystem, with its stylized mangrove-like columns supporting the elevated building; 100-gallon outdoor touch tank coming in the fall; and hands-on exhibits that replicate beach and coastal dune habitats inside. At the fish shack-style information desk, you can pick up maps to the 10 miles of hiking and paddle trails, or sign up for a ranger-led tour of the park; and a 5-minute tram ride to the beach is a short walk away. —Chelle Koster Walton

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GULFSHORE LIFE I SUMMER GUIDE

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SILKY SMOOTH Launched by Naples’ Allison Pezzuti, silks line Pelerine recently debuted with a range of casually elegant capes, perfect for the Florida heat. Working with Fort Myers-based artists and designers Rasit and Ilkay Turk to bring her patterns to life, Pezzuti designs the versatile capes to be worn layered with jeans and a top, or alone as a dress when belted with a reversible sash. With their vibrant designs, it’s no wonder that the pieces were a hit during Pereline’s first trunk show at Marissa Collections in February. “Before I moved south, black was my uniform. And now that I’ve been here for 12 years, I barely even own black clothes anymore. I gravitate toward color, and I see women gravitating toward color,” Pezzuti says of her penchant for technicolor designs, inspired by art and her travels. Every piece tells a story, and the Turks digitize Pelerine’s patterns, which are then printed using an eco-friendly process and handsewn. “After being quarantined and at home wearing athletic wear for a year, I think people are ready to wear something that excites them,” she says. The capes have roomy pockets and stay-in-place wide sleeves, so you can raise a glass or auction paddle with ease. —Jaynie Bartley

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SUMMER GUIDE NEW + NOTEWORTHY

HIGH ABOVE From the 12th-floor perch of the rooftop Beacon Social Drinkery, which opened last fall at the Luminary Hotel & Co., you can catch a breeze while taking in the 360-degree views of downtown and the Caloosahatchee River. Besides its youthful, lounge-like gathering areas indoors and out, Beacon’s Asian- and Latin American-inspired menu, craft cocktails, local beers, wine and bubbly bring in the ready-to-party and wanna-kick-back crowds.

For rainy days, there are plenty of culinary diversions within the hotel, which was designed to honor Fort Myers icons, like Thomas Edison—the hotel’s star inspiration. Choose between three other on-trend spots, including Ella Mae’s Diner, a Southern-inspired restaurant that pays homage to legendary entrepreneur and philanthropist Dr. Ella Piper, near the ground-floor lobby; and The Oxbow Bar & Grill, which reigns over the hotel’s pier with a stunning seafood menu to match the water views (its moniker is a reference to the former bends and curves of the river pre-straightening). Food lovers also

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GULFSHORE LIFE I SUMMER GUIDE

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appreciate the on-site culinary theater called The Workshop, which hosts cooking demonstrations. —C.K.W.

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GULFSHORE LIFE I SUMMER GUIDE

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LIKE A LOCAL

INSIDER ESCAPES Plugged-in residents share some of their favorite spots for the off-season.

By Jaynie Bartley and Tess Lopez Photography by Brian Tietz

MIL A BRIDGER PHOTO GRAPHER AND ARTIST LIVING IN MARCO ISLAND

Catch Live Music:

while taking in the landscape—it’s so

“The Old Marco Pub always has awe-

flat that you can see the entire sun

civilizations. You can stay there for

some events—not just once a week

going down and the water reflects

hours soaking it all in. ”

like others might. This is where locals

everything.”

back to pre-Columbian indigenous

Brush Up on Local Lore:

come to truly listen. I love to go see the band Tripleshot and musician

Cool Off:

“I just finished Female Pioneers of

Sarah Hadeka, who sometimes sings

“The Marco Island Historical Mu-

Fort Myers: Women Who Made a

there. The pub starts music at 8 p.m.,

seum has been steadily adding new

Difference in the City’s Development,

after dinner. And they have a great

exhibits over the past years. They

which is all about women who helped

bartender, Darko, who makes an

have digital displays with movies

shape the city, like Barbara B. Mann.

awesome espresso martini.”

playing and rooms dedicated to

Tom Hall, who is a huge art advocate

periods of the island’s history,

and runs the website ArtSWFL.com,

Stage a Photo Op:

like one on the Mackle brothers

is the author. I love him; he also

“In Everglades City, my husband,

who developed Marco in the ’60s.

penned a two-volume series on fires

Ryan Darling, and I like to find a little

I don’t think many people know

that influenced the town.”

place to park our Jeep off U.S. 41 and

about Marco’s history—it’s really

wait for the sunset to take images.

interesting. Some of the artifacts,

Sneak a Staycation:

After 5 o’clock, I love to just sit there,

like the Key Marco Cat statuette on

“We just discovered Pine Island. The

open the trunk and eat some snacks,

loan from The Smithsonian, date

whole island is basically nurseries

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GULFSHORE LIFE I SUMMER GUIDE

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and farms. It seems like there are millions and millions of pineapples, all sorts of veggies and fruits, and palm trees everywhere. We stayed at the 1920s-style Tarpon Lodge, which is right across the street from the historic shell mounds at the Calusa Heritage Trail and within walking distance of a marina, where you can rent a boat to go fishing for the day.

You feel like you’re somewhere else.

And, it’s not crowded like a resort.”

Find a Hidden Gem: “Signs tacked to trees out in Naples’ Rural Estates lead to Rinny Ryan’s The Pot Shop. Rinny is super cool.

She has a shed with a bunch of pottery and she calls herself a ‘pot dealer.’

Next to the shop, she has her studio, where you can see her working while you look around. And if you buy a pot or two, she’ll usually throw in some star fruits from her garden.”

Shop Local: “We just discovered South Naples Citrus Grove off Collier Boulevard, just past Verona Walk. You turn onto Sabal Palm Road and it becomes a dirt road; and if you take it, you’ll find the oranges. They also have really good Master creative Mila Bridger has an eye for cultural and scenic sights. Here,

tomatoes, preserves, honey, eggs and

she is seen photographed at The Oyster Society in Marco Island.

herbs. We go there once a week and get a giant bag of oranges to squeeze for fresh juice.”

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Jennifer Williams, photographed at her Fort Myers boutique, favors waterfront haunts and stylish stops for her summer adventures.

SUMMER GUIDE

LIKE A LOCAL

JENNIFER WILLIAMS OW N E R O F JE N N I F E R’ S B OU T I QUE I N FO RT MY E R S

Dine in Style:

Cruise Around:

Catch Live Music:

“Gramma Dot’s Restaurant on Sanibel

“Sanibel has great bike paths that

“Gather, in Cape Coral, is a great

is on the water, which is an absolute

are wide and set back from traffic,

venue to sit outside and listen to

must for me, since I spend so much

so you feel safe. I usually bike down

music. We recently saw Kyle Anne,

time inside at the boutique when I’m

Periwinkle or on Sanibel Captiva

a singer-songwriter with a melodic

working. They’re very casual and we

Road, outside of J.N. “Ding” Darling

voice that’s soothing and perfect for

can go by boat, in a bathing suit with a

National Wildlife Refuge, and then

happy hour.”

cover-up. The menu has pretty much

stop by Sundial Beach Resort & Spa

everything—if I’m trying to be good,

and have a drink by their pool bar.”

I can pick from any of the salads and add fresh fish on top.”

Impress Out-of-Town Guests: “For me, the farmers’ market-

Touristy, but Worth It:

inspired grocery store, Seed to Table,

“Upper Captiva used to be very

is like Disney World. I love to cook; I

Soak Up Nature:

low-key; and now there are all of

love to eat; I love to shop—and they

“Nothing beats boating in the Gulf,

these huge, beautiful homes lining

have all of that. I absolutely love

cruising with all the dolphin and fish.

the roads. We still love to road trip

their housemade pasta; they have so

We go up to Cabbage Key quite a bit.

there—we go for lunch at Mainstay

many great, different varieties. The

The dock is huge, so it can accommo-

and Barnacles Bar, then walk around

guacamole is great, too.”

date a lot of boats when it’s busy. There

the island and check out the Salty

are turtles roaming around and a little

Approach airstrip.”

Shop Local:

lookout area to take in the views.”

“Quintessence Marine Jewelry is run Sneak a Staycation:

by Aarav Chavda, Kahan Chavda and

Cool Off:

“We typically make the trip to down-

Roland Salatino, who are harvesting

“Naturally, I love to shop, and Lulu’s

town Sarasota on our boat and stay

lion fish from the Gulf to make jew-

Gift Emporium is one of my favorite

at the Hyatt Regency Sarasota. They

elry. The fish’s spotted fins are used as

places to get lost. I’ve known the fam-

have a small marina with plenty of

statement pendants on chain or pearl

ily for years. I think I actually sold

slips. Once we’re there, everything is

necklaces. Clients love that the pieces

the owner, Laura Jane McGee, her

within walking distance. Downtown is

are made from ocean materials, but

cotillion dress. They have all sorts of

very pedestrian-friendly, and there’s

don’t look totally beachy. Plus, it’s

candles and baby goods. It’s a great

so much to do. You can grab break-

helping the environment.”

place to find a gift when you’re not

fast at the train-themed Station 400

sure what to get someone.”

or stop for a healthy lunch at Green Zebra Cafe before seeing a show at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall.”

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A M ANDA BE IG HT S S E N I O R D I R E C T O R O F L E A D E R S H I P P R O G R A M S F O R T H E G R E AT E R NA P L E S C H A M B E R O F C O M M E RC E

Dine in Style:

out. The cocktail is actively bubbling

the city happenings makes it such a

“Summer is a great time to sneak into

when they serve it to you; it’s like a

nice and convenient retreat.”

favorite restaurants that are packed

science experiment!”

Impress Out-of-Town Guests:

in season, like Gumbo Limbo at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, and The Turtle

Take a Stroll:

“The Naples Botanical Garden is

Club, where you can literally put your

“I love walking down Central Avenue

truly world-class. There are beau-

feet in the sand while you dine. On an

to Baker Park. I’ll stop at the organic

tiful tropical plants, flowers and art

ideal evening, I’d have dinner at The

acai smoothie shop The Bowl first and

installations year-round. My favorite

Turtle Club, then go next door to sit in

order their AB&J bowl and kombucha

spot is the tile mosaic wall right next

one of the chairs around the fire pits

on tap, before heading to Baker Park.

to the lily pads, because it overlooks a

on the beach at LaPlaya Beach & Golf

The park just opened a couple years

beautiful view of the garden. When I

Resort.”

ago, and it’s so open and spacious. The

have visitors, I’ll usually take them to

Gordon River runs along it, and you

the garden in the morning, then grab

Toast the Season:

can follow the paths and boardwalks

lunch from one of the food trucks at

“Ocean Prime in downtown Naples

connecting the park to the Gordon

Celebration Park, a mile down the

has large windows where you can

River Greenway nature preserve.

road. It’s definitely a crowd-pleaser.

feel the fresh air blowing through. I

I love to go during the morning or

The entire Bayshore Arts District is

love the Bubbles & Berries cocktail

sunset, since it’s a bit cooler out and

such a vibrant, up-and-coming area

there—a Belvedere Citrus Vodka,

you can watch the colors in the sky

that I feel most out-of-towners are

Grand Marnier and fresh berries

change. That’s usually when I walk

unfamiliar with. You can enjoy the

blend with dry ice smoke that billows

my dogs. The fact that it’s so close to

murals along the street and taste a

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GULFSHORE LIFE I SUMMER GUIDE

g ulf shorelife.com

SUMMER GUIDE LIKE A LOCAL

flight sampler from Ankrolab Brewing Co.—a new brewery with beer and ciders.

I always run into locals and other young professionals there.”

Sneak a Staycation: “Hotel Escalante is almost hidden, as it sits on a brick road surrounded by lush plants and beautiful architecture off Fifth Avenue South. The property feels like a secret garden right in the middle of downtown. It’s very small, with just a few rooms, so it’s quiet and private. My husband and I enjoy eating at the on-site restaurant, Veranda E. The seating is all poolside and they have cafe lights strung overhead. We like using the hotel’s golf cart service when we stay there, because Through her job with the Naples chamber, Amanda Beights,

you can take it right down the road to

photographed at Hotel Escalante, has the insider scoop on the

the beach. It’s also nice to be able to walk

best of the city.

from the hotel to the restaurants and boutiques on Fifth Avenue.”

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The patriarch of Naples’ culinary community, Tony Ridgway knows his way around the local food scene. He is photographed at his restaurant Ridgway Bar & Grill.

LIKE A LOCAL

SUMMER GUIDE

116

GULFSHORE LIFE I SUMMER GUIDE

g ulf shorelife.com

T O N Y R I D G W AY C H E F - O W N E R O F R I D G WA Y B A R & G R I L L , B A Y S I D E S E A F O O D G R I L L & BA R A N D C O - OW N E R O F TO N Y ’ S O F F T H I R D

Have a Date Night:

an elegant and unmatched dining

rants we like to support. Among them

“Dinner at The Grill at The Ritz-Carl-

experience, and somehow still wind

KC American Bistro, FUSE Global

ton, Naples, delivers fine dining with

up back in my own bed.”

Cuisine and FUSE BBQ, along with

exceptional service. I always wear

Alexander’s and Ziggy D’Amico’s. I go

a jacket and dress nicely; and this

Shop Local:

because I like the owners, the chefs

is coming from a man who lives in

“David and Jenny Burd, of Friendly

and their food. I’m a big believer in

shorts and polo shirts. The staff

Burds, were among the original ven-

supporting friends and peers; plus,

knows who we are and takes extra

dors at the Third Street South Farm-

the food at each of these restaurants

care to meet our needs. It’s a slower

ers’ Market more than 25 years ago.

meets my criteria for excellence. My

pace, and the menu is straightfor-

They make the best honey, and always

wife, Wynne, and I also regularly

ward and well-prepared. They have a

have a selection of fruits, like citrus

indulge in breakfast at Skillets. Their

superb wine list and the sommeliers

and mangoes.”

pancakes are the best in Naples, and

and service staff make all the differ-

the Nueske’s bacon is terrific. The

ence. You feel transported there. I

Dine in Style:

owner used to be a baker at our com-

always feel as if I have left Naples for

“There are a handful of local restau-

missary decades ago.”

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THE VILLAGE SHOPS ON VENETIAN BAY

SUMMER GUIDE

LIKE A LOCAL

4320 Gulfshore Blvd. N., Suite #210 Naples, FL 34103

(239) 403-0220

www.whispersofnaples.com

Impress Out-of-Town Guests: “I recommend anyone visiting Naples to travel to Third Street South. It’s historic and welcoming

with a weekly Saturday farmers’ market and incredible local shops and dining. I started frequenting around 1960 when my Aunt Rosemary opened the interior design firm R&R Robinson there, and then opened my first restaurant on Third Street in 1971.”

Toast the Season:

“I’m only an occasional drinker.

My preferred cocktail is a special mojito we serve at Ridgway Bar & Grill with Appleton Estate

­ ­

Reserve and brown sugar cubes.

­ ­

The bar staff created it for me

­ ­

years ago. I love the rich taste of

­ ­ ­ ­ ­

of the mint is more prevalent than

the Appleton Reserve. The aroma

the taste and I like that, too.”

11 8

GULFSHORE LIFE I SUMMER GUIDE

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BOATING

GULF GLIDERS These three slick vessels are ideal for navigating the shallow waters of Southwest Florida.

By Michael Korb

PA R D O 4 3 C L E A N E U R O P E A N L I N E S W I T H U LT I M AT E

If you want to feel like George

sunset cruise, or running up to

Clooney gliding across Lake

Captiva for a night away, this boat

Como on a summer evening, you

is the perfect entertaining vessel

might want to look into the sexy

for extreme comfort and style.”

walkaround Pardo 43. Built by

The 43 is the ultimate sun-

the Italian yacht maker Pardo, the

set runner, with a remarkable

brand is now available in our area

amount of deck space, lounging

through Germain Yachts.

and seating areas. The rear sun

Though the yacht maker offers

lounge area can be adjusted in

other models ranging from 38 to

multiple configurations, and has

60 feet in length, the 43-footer

the added benefit of having stor-

(and, in many respects, the 38) can

age beneath to keep from clutter-

handle our local shallow waters.

ing the deck. After all, this boat is

“What do residents—including

all about its minimalist design.

myself—really do when boating in

The built-in midship table can be

Naples? We cruise, we entertain,

easily extended from its normal

we enjoy paradise comfortably

arrangement to double in size to

with our friends and family,”

accommodate eight to 10 guests.

Zach Germain says. “This is why

“And the walkaround design is

I felt so strongly about bringing

one of the main advantages of the

this brand to Southwest Florida.

deck,” Germain says. “It guaran-

Whether it’s a ride to Marco for

tees extra space and facilitates

lunch, buzzing by the pier on a

safe access to the bow sundeck.”

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GULFSHORE LIFE I SUMMER GUIDE

Courtesy Pardo Yachts

C O M F O R T F O R E N T E R TA I N I N G

g ulf shorelife.com

SUMMER GUIDE

Available locally through Germain Yachts, this elegant Italian vessel is perfect for cruising, entertaining and overnight adventures.

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SUMMER GUIDE BOATING

Up top, there’s plenty of room to soak up the sun on the deck; and an extendable midship table can seat up to 10. Below, Italian oak warms up the modern cabin, which houses two sleeping areas and a spacious bath.

12 2

GULFSHORE LIFE I SUMMER GUIDE

g ulf shorelife.com

The boat’s beautiful lines

something you don’t always see

drop off the further back you go,

on boats of this size. Up top, the

allowing clear shots all around, so

helm resides under a T-top roof

there are no blind spots. Coupled

manufactured by Lamborghini

with the Inboard Performance

for Pardo. Behind that, but ahead

System joystick and bow thruster,

of the dining area, is a wet bar

docking is a breeze.

and entertaining area with an

Courtesy Pardo Yachts (3)

Below deck is a plush, Italiandesigned interior, perfect to

electric grill, ice maker, fridge and storage.

escape the sun or for overnights.

Aft, a hydraulic platform can

Awash in Italian oak, it features

be lowered into the water for

two areas for sleeping, including

wet lounging. Of course, the first

an “almost king ” mattress up

thing most people will notice is

front in the main cabin, and two

its striking good looks. It looks

smaller berths in an expanded

like a million dollars, which isn’t

nook beneath the helm. Hidden

far off from its price, starting at

windows keep the space from

$900,00. The Pardo 38, which is

feeling cramped. A comfortable

similarly designed, is available in

bathroom is especially nice

an outboard configuration rea-

thanks to a large separate shower,

sonably equipped for $700,000.

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SUMMER GUIDE BOATING

N O R - T E C H 4 6 0 F LY E R S PA C I O U S I N T E R I O R S W I T H SPEED-RACER ABILITIES

If you want to get where you’re going

with the push of a button, convert-

fast—whether it be a favorite fishing

ing the 46-foot boat from a speed-

spot or a waterside restaurant—

ster to a hardtop center console. It’s

consider the latest model from one of

a floating transformer. The vessel

Southwest Florida’s top boat builders.

also features a hidden table that

Cape Coral-based Nor-Tech Boats

rises from the floor between two

recently debuted its 460 Flyer—a

bench seats, which also converts

European-style, high-performance

into a sun bed.

The helm seats three and features

From its expansive lounging areas

a carbon fiber dash housing massive

to its spacious cabin, the 460 Flyer

Garmin screens. And there’s a wet

is a versatile performer with a sleek

bar and sound system to keep the

silhouette. Its long, low lines make

party going. Below, the cabin fea-

this luxury day yacht the ideal poker

tures sleeping berths and a settee,

run vessel.

along with an equipped galley and

Quad Mercury Racing 450 horsepower racing engines get you where

bathroom with a standup shower, making it an easy overnighter.

you need to go in a hurry, with a top

Of course, Nor-Tech is fully capa-

speed in the low 80s. Or, you can

ble of modifying the boat as a cus-

upgrade to five motors.

tomer sees fit. But why mess with

But perhaps the best feature is the hidden retractable top that raises

12 4

Courtesy Nor-Tech Boats (2)

boat designed to tame the waves.

perfection? The customized boat is priced around $1.5 million.

GULFSHORE LIFE I SUMMER GUIDE

g ulf shorelife.com

Made in Cape Coral, Nor-Tech’s 460 Flyer is trailerable without an escort vehicle. On the water, the 46-foot boat can cruise at top speeds in the 80s.

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HUCKINS HYBRID SP ORTSMAN 38 CLASSIC STYLING WITH S TAT E - O F - T H E - A R T T E C H

Blending heritage and innovation, this hybrid yacht is well suited for the Gulf. “In general, our hull design is shallower, so we know what we’re dealing with over there. The helm is set up so it is very easy to read the water,” Huckins’ owner Cindy Purcell says.

Life’s Short, Eat Dessert First!

Follow Us: mmscafe royalscoopberkshire royalscoopberkshire mmscafe

Royal Scoop at Berkshire Commons

M & M’s Cafe at Tin City

(239) 231-4544 www.royalscoop.com

(239) 261-5317 www.cafemnm.com

7335 Radio Rd., Suite 104, Naples, FL 34104

1200 5th Ave S., Suite 122, Naples, FL 34102

SUMMER GUIDE

Courtesy Huckins Yacht Corporation

BOATING

If you appreciate the lines of vintage

The boat is outfitted with a pro-

there’s a docking joystick at the helm,

watercraft, but bemoan the ancient

pulsion option of dual Cummins

Bluetooth control and a pop-up TV,

mechanics, look to one of Florida’s

diesel engines and dual electric

among other comforts.

oldest boatbuilders and its new

motors. In battery mode, it’s capable

Outside, the vessel includes

Hybrid Sportsman 38.

of low-speed, silent cruising for up to

power sunroof panels, a telescoping

The maker, Jacksonville’s Huckins

2.5 hours. For the new design, Purcell

power sunshade and underwater

Yacht Corporation, draws inspiration

raised the interior height to a gen-

LED transom lights. The fiberglass

from its classic 1936 Sportsman, using

erous 6 feet 6 inches, so things feel

composite core hull is strong and

virtually the same quick-planing

spacious at the helm and below deck.

light, and the side panels are coated

Quadraconic hull design it made

It’s a great weekender (or Great

in eight layers of clear coat, making it

famous, and incorporating the latest

Looper) with a fully-equipped mod-

in materials and technology. “It’s not

ern galley, dining table and a settee

The Sportsman 38 can be ordered

the same boat, but it has the same

that electronically converts to a queen

with various engine options, includ-

DNA,” says Cindy Purcell, current

bed. A climate-controlled bridge seats

ing outboards. It starts at $1.17 mil-

owner of the company her grandfather

six and features a well-appointed

lion, while the base outboard starts

founded 93 years ago.

bar. And, for the captain and “crew,”

at $925,000.

virtually maintenance-free.

NEW LOCATION

975 Imperial Golf Course Blvd., Suite 108 Naples, FL 34110

For new hours, visiting procedures and to pre-purchase timed-entry tickets, please visit our website at HMCEC.org or call 239-263-9200.

2021 Finalist "Best Museum Collier County"

BEACHES

SANDY SHORES, BARRIER ISL ANDS AND PRIVATE COVES The Gulf of Mexico’s breathtaking sunsets, endless stretches of sand, crystalline water and magnificent wildlife can easily leave even the most seasoned beachgoer spellbound. Here’s where to go to have fun in the sun in Port Charlotte, Fort Myers Beach, Naples, Marco Island and all points in between. Call or check the organizations’ websites for the latest information. All phone numbers are area code (239) unless specified.

Lush trails lead from six parking lots to the pristine Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park in Naples.

CHARLOTTE COUNTY

COLLIER COUNTY

Port Charlotte/Punta Gorda

Marco Island

Port Charlotte Beach Park,

South Marco Beach Access,

4500 Harbor Blvd., Port Char-

870 County Road 951, 252-

lotte, (941) 949-4615. Amenities

4000. A beach with parking

include a boardwalk with fishing

available a short walk across the

pier, boat ramp, canoe/kayak

boulevard on Swallow Avenue.

launch, horseshoe pits, bocce,

Includes restroom facilities.

basketball, tennis and sand

cityofmarcoisland.com

volleyball courts, playground area, sheltered picnic tables,

Tigertail Beach, 480 Hernando

restrooms, heated swimming

Drive, 252-4000. This county

pool and a recreation center.

park has restrooms, boardwalks,

charlottecountyfl.gov

a picnic area, playground, butterfly garden and concession

Englewood Beach at Chadwick

stand offering beach rentals and

Park, 2100 North Beach Road,

food. collierparks.com

Englewood, (941) 681-3742. This beach features a 900-foot board-

Naples

Kelly Jones

walk with three covered lookouts, restrooms, showers, water

Clam Pass Park, 465 Seagate

stations, volleyball and bas-

Drive, 252-4000. Trams at this

ketball courts, horseshoe pits,

county park transport visitors

playground area, food vendors

over a boardwalk to a beach with

and sheltered picnic tables with

a picnic area and concession

grills. charlottecountyfl.gov

stand. Chairs, cabanas, kayaks and restroom facilities are available. collierparks.com

S U M M E R

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SUMMER GUIDE BEACHES

Delnor-Wiggins Pass State

Naples, 213-7120. The iconic

parking available. Snacks and

(941) 964-0375. The beaches

Park, 11135 Gulf Shore

Naples pier has restrooms,

watersports rentals available

here are great for swimming,

Drive, 597-6196. Located

a snack bar and lots of at-

through The Ritz-Carlton,

snorkeling, fishing, shelling

at the intersection of 111th

mosphere. Dolphins are seen

Naples and Vanderbilt Inn

and picnicking. The park also

Avenue North and Gulf

frequently. It’s also great for

resorts. Metered parking or

features the Boca Grande

Shore Drive, this beach’s

fishing and sunset-watching.

parking garage available.

Lighthouse, built in 1890.

facilities include picnic areas,

Metered parking is located

collierparks.com

floridastateparks.org

restrooms with wheelchair

nearby, with additional

access and outdoor showers.

parking and access points

Via Miramar Beach,

Bonita Springs

Park rangers conduct nature

along Gulf Shore Boulevard.

2699 Gulf Shore Blvd. N.,

programs and a boat ramp

naplesgov.com

213-1820. The beach has

Barefoot Beach Preserve,

is available with a $5 fee.

public access on Gulf Shore

505 Barefoot Beach Blvd.,

North Gulf Shore Beach

Boulevard North, just south

252-4000. Look for the

Access, 4989-4999 Gulf

of Harbour Drive, with ample

signs at the intersection of

Lowdermilk Park, 1301 Gulf

Shore Blvd. N. 252-4000.

parking and an outdoor

Barefoot Beach Boulevard

Shore Blvd. N., 213-7120.

Known locally as Seagate

shower. A short walk south

and Bonita Beach Road.

The park offers 1,000 feet of

Beach, this area offers a

takes you to the jetty at

Enter past the security booth

beachfront, outdoor show-

beautiful walk between two

Doctors Pass, which provides

and continue 2 miles. This

ers, gazebos, picnic tables, a

upscale condominiums. Park-

Gulf access from Naples Bay.

342-acre preserve contains

playground, volleyball court,

ing is available on Seagate

parkme.com

a coastal hammock and a

concession stand and duck

Drive. collierparks.com

floridastateparks.org

1-mile nature trail. Facilities LEE COUNTY

pond. Wheelchair-accessible restrooms are available.

Vanderbilt Beach Park,

naplesgov.com

100 Vanderbilt Beach Road,

include changing rooms, showers, restrooms and a

Boca Grande

252-4000. This is a tree- and

snack bar. The preserve also offers nature interpretation

Naples Pier, at the end of

residence-lined county

Gasparilla Island State

12th Avenue South in Old

beach. Wheelchair-accessible

Park, 880 Belcher Road,

stations. collierparks.com

Captiva Island is known for its shell-

Getty

and bird-stocked beaches.

13 0

GULFSHORE LIFE I SUMMER GUIDE

g ulf shorelife.com

Comprised of four barrier islands, Lovers Key State Park, in Fort Myers Beach, recently debuted a state-of-the-art Welcome & Discovery Center.

Bonita Beach Park, 27954

for fishing. Restrooms, picnic

Hickory Blvd., 949-4615.

tables and shelters available.

Facilities here include picnic

leegov.com

Fort Myers Beach

432-2154. On San Carlos Bay, the beach overlooks Fort

Bowditch Point Regional

Myers Beach and Sanibel

Park, 50 Estero Blvd., 432-

Island. Here, there are 718

2154. Take Matanzas Pass

acres of nature preserves,

Bridge to the beach; turn

making it a popular location

Yacht Club Community

right at foot of bridge and

with fishermen and paddlers.

Bonita Beach Dog Park,

Park, 5819 Driftwood

follow Estero Boulevard to

Restrooms available; limited

8800 Estero Blvd., 707-1874.

Parkway, 574-0806. Located

the end. You’ll find 17 acres

parking. leegov.com

A beach where dogs may run

on the Caloosahatchee

of recreational area and

free. No facilities; parking is

River, the area features picnic

nature preserve. Includes

Crescent Beach Family

free. leegov.com

tables, restrooms, outdoor

restrooms, picnic tables, con-

Park, 1100 Estero Blvd.,

tables, grills, a playground, a sand volleyball court and

Cape Coral

restrooms. leegov.com

showers, tennis courts, a

cessions, grills, hiking paths

229-1610. Park offers four

Little Hickory Island Beach

free boat ramp, barbecue

and wheelchair-accessible

access points to the beach,

Park, 26082 Hickory Blvd.,

area, public pool and large

beach access. leegov.com

sand volleyball courts and

949-4615. Located between

beach pavilion available for

Bonita Beach and Lovers

rent. Marine biology classes

Bunche Beach Preserve,

Key, this is a popular beach

offered. leegov.com

18201 John Morris Road,

a landscaped picnic area.

S U M M E R

leegov.com

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SUMMER GUIDE BEACHES

Fort Myers Beach, just east

of Jim and Ellie Newton,

of Lynn Hall Memorial Park,

who were friends with

950 Estero Blvd., 432-2154.

Edison, Ford and Lindbergh.

This beach features plenty of

Metered parking, outdoor

bars and cafés. Rent Wa-

showers and the historic

veRunners, parasail, jet-boat

home is available for rental.

and more. Park at Lynn Hall

fortmyersbeachfl.gov

Memorial Park, in a private lot or at meters under the

Sanibel/Captiva Islands

bridge; or ride the trolley.

Alison Hagerup Beach Park,

fortmyersbeachfl.gov

14790 Captiva Drive, Captiva, Lovers Key State Park,

472-2472. The northern-most

ing plus restrooms, changing

beaches and more than

8700 Estero Blvd., 463-4588.

public-access beach on Cap-

rooms, showers, drinking

2,500 acres of pine forest

Florida’s most-visited park

tiva Island, Alison Hagerup is

fountains, picnic tables, grills

and mangrove swamp.

is comprised of four barrier

popular as a romantic spot to

and parking for recreational

floridastateparks.org

islands between Fort Myers

catch beautiful sunsets. And

vehicles. leegov.com

Beach and Bonita Beach,

right next-door is the equally

with beaches, nature trails

captivating Captiva Beach.

Causeway Islands, 19931

Beach, 2001 Algiers Lane,

and concessions. Plus a new

Picnic areas and restrooms.

Sanibel Causeway, Sanibel,

Sanibel, 472-6397. Named

Welcome & Discovery Center

leegov.com

600-4886. Visitors pay a

after a steamboat once

toll to Sanibel and Captiva

pulled ashore and turned

tal exhibits. floridastateparks.

Blind Pass Beach, 6491-

islands. Beaches are located

into a house, these beaches

org

6499 Sanibel Captiva Road,

on both sides of the road

offer shaded picnic areas,

Sanibel. This expansive

with picnic tables and re-

boardwalks and restrooms.

Lynn Hall Memorial Park,

beach is a great place for

strooms on the second island

Pet-friendly. mysanibel.com

950 Estero Blvd., 229-1610.

fishing and shelling. Don’t

and offer excellent shelling

This beach is located in the

be surprised if you find a

and fishing. Leashed pets

Lighthouse Beach Park,

heart of the city of Fort My-

horseshoe crab or two, as

welcome. leegov.com

110 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel,

ers Beach. Amenities include

well. Signs warn against

restrooms, a playground,

swimming. sanibel-captiva.

Cayo Costa State Park, 4

working lighthouse at the

fishing pier, picnic shelters,

org

nautical miles west of Pine

eastern tip of Sanibel, you’ll

Island, (941) 964-0375. Just

find a fishing pier, restrooms,

grills, shops and restaurants

472-6397. At this historic,

at Times Square pedestrian

Bowman's Beach, 1700

north of Captiva and just

hiking paths and parking

mall. 432-2154. leegov.com

Bowmans Beach Road, Sani-

south of Boca Grande is an

for recreational vehicles.

bel, 472-6397. This popular

untouched island paradise

fortmyers-sanibel.com

Newton Beach Park, 4650

Sanibel beach is noted for its

that is accessible only by

Estero Blvd., 765-0865. The

wildlife, shelling and seclu-

boat or helicopter. It offers

Silver Key Preserve, off of

former beachfront home

sion. It offers plentiful park-

9 miles of beautiful, pristine

Clam Bayou Lane, Sanibel.

13 2

GULFSHORE LIFE I SUMMER GUIDE

g ulf shorelife.com

Getty

with interactive environmen-

Gulfside City Park/Algiers

This beautiful 64-acre pre-

Turner Beach, 17200

serve is wonderful spot for

Captiva Drive, Captiva,

bird-watching and shelling.

472-6397. The beach is at

Note: There are no facilities,

the north end of Blind Pass,

trash bins or parking lots on

which separates Sanibel

the preserve.

and Captiva islands. Popular with families and fishermen,

Tarpon Bay Beach, 111

although signs in some areas

Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel,

caution against swimming

472-6397. Pets on leashes

because of swift currents.

On Sanibel Island, Bowman’s Beach is popular but feels

allowed. Beach offers

Restrooms and outdoor

secluded with its location set back 10 minutes from the

restrooms and parking

showers available on the

parking lot, through a wooded trail.

for recreational vehicles.

Captiva side. leegov.com

fortmyers-sanibel.com.

STAY & PLAY CLOSE TO HOME

FLORIDA RESIDENTS SAVE UP TO 20%

BREAKFAST FOR 2 PLUS COMPLIMENTARY SELF PARKING 475 SEAGATE DR NAPLES, FL 34103

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NAPLESGRANDE.COM/OFFERS

SPORTS + RECREATION

GOLF, TENNIS AND WATER FUN In Southwest Florida, we look for every opportunity to get outside and play. From golfing to tennis to fishing, around here you can’t miss. Call or check the organizations’ websites for the latest information. All phone numbers are area code (239) unless specified.

13 4

GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com

Heritage Landing Blvd, Punta

Harold Avenue Regional

Kayak and canoe rentals,

Gorda, (941) 347-2222. An

Park Recreation Center,

plus tours of the Everglades,

18-hole course remastered

23400 Harold Ave., Port

including a package with

by Gordon Lewis with a pro

Charlotte, (941) 627-1074.

the Ivey House Everglades

BOAT CHARTERS,

shop and practice facilities.

Tennis, pickleball, baseball,

Adventures Hotel. everglade-

WATERSPORTS AND

heritagelandinggc.com

softball, basketball and vol-

sadventures.com

CHARLOTTE COUNTY Port Charlotte/Punta Gorda

MARINAS

leyball. Plus picnic and grill King's Gate Golf Club,

Everglades City Fishing

areas. charlottecountyfl.gov

Fantasea Scuba, 3781

24000 Rampart Blvd. Port

Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte,

Charlotte, (941) 627-6200.

Pickleplex of Punta Gorda,

N., 695-2029. The guide,

941-627-3888. Offers dive

The gated, 55+ community

26300 Airport Road, Punta

Florida native Capt. Becky

courses; equipment rentals

hosts an 18-hole executive

Gorda, (941) 451-9923. Locat-

Campbell, has more than 50

and service; plus charters

course and nature preserves.

ed at Florida SouthWestern

years of experience. ever-

and trips. fantaseascuba.com

kingsgatehomes.com.

State College with 16 regu-

gladesfishingcharters.com

Holidaze Boat Rentals, 1200

Riverwood Golf Club,

W. Retta Esplanade, Punta

4100 Riverwood Drive, Port

Gorda, (941) 505-8888. Rent

Charlotte, (941) 764-6661. A

South County Regional

241-1482. Explore Ten Thou-

boats from 17 to 25 feet,

Gene Bates-designed, par-72

Park Recreation Center, 670

sand Islands and Everglades

center consoles, pontoons,

championship course with

Cooper St., Punta Gorda,

National Park. evergladeso-

deckboats, kayaks and SUPs.

a heavily wooded front nine

(941) 505-8686. Amenities

ldtimecharters.com

holidazeboatrental.com

and wetlands in the back.

include lit areas for bas-

riverwoodgc.com

ketball, baseball, softball,

Tightline Fishin’ Charters,

soccer, tennis and pickleball.

various locations, 227-3144.

charlottecountyfl.gov

Eighth-generation Chokolos-

Charters, 406 Storter Ave.

lation courts with bleachers.

Punta Gorda Fly Fishing Charters, Punta Gorda, (941)

Twin Isles Country Club,

628-7895. Capt. Michael

301 Madrid Blvd., Punta

Manis fly fishes through

Gorda, (941) 637-1232. A

the mangroves and grass

Certified Audubon Cooper-

flats of Pine Island Sound,

ative Sanctuary with a 6,722-

Boca Grande and between

yard, par-72, 18-hole golf

Matlacha and Punta Gorda. puntagordaflycharters.com

Everglades Old Time

pickleplex.org

Charters, 404 Storter Ave. N,

kee native Capt. Scout Morris COLLIER COUNTY

takes you in his 22-foot Sea Chaser. tightlinefishinchar-

Everglades City

ters.com

course, plus Har-Tru clay and

BOAT CHARTERS,

Marco Island

DecoTurf all-weather tennis

WATERSPORTS AND

courts. twinislescc.org

MARINAS

BOAT CHARTERS,

Smoke and Roses Private Sailing Charters, 140 Leland

WATERSPORTS AND TENNIS AND PICKLEBALL

MARINAS

366-7673. Charter this

Gilchrist Park, 400 W. Retta

locations, (561) 795-3437.

Breakwater Adventures,

47-foot sailing catamaran.

Esplanade, Punta Gorda,

Everglades City native takes

909 Collier Court, Marco Is-

smokeandroses.com

(941) 575-3324. This park

you out on a 22-foot Path-

land, (305) 902-4772. Private

along Charlotte Harbor has

finder. everglade-angler.com

boat tours, plus wakeboard-

GOLF

Getty

Capt. Mike Merritt's Native Guide Service, various

St. SE, Port Charlotte, (605)

tennis, pickleball and bas-

ing, tubing and shelling.

ketball courts; a playground;

Everglades Adventures

Heritage Landing Golf

fishing pier; and picnic

Kayak & Eco Tours, 605

& Country Club, 14701

shelters. ci.punta-gorda.fl.us

Buckner Ave. N, 294-3393.

S U M M E R

breakwateradventures.com

G U I D E

2 0 2 1

13 5

SUMMER GUIDE SPORTS + RECREATION

Key West Express, 951

ese Lane, 389-6611. Find

Bayfront Marina, Good-

Bald Eagle Drive, 463-5733.

an 18-hole championship

lette-Frank Road and U.S. 41,

Running to and from Key

course. marriott.com

434-2300. Offers short-term

West, this air-conditioned

or long-term dockage, with

boat—complete with a full

Marco Golf & Garden, 971

33 slips for crafts up to 40

bar—departs from Fort My-

Winterberry Drive, 970-0561.

feet in length, plus showers,

ers Beach and Marco Island.

A challenging, tropical 18-

restaurants and shops.

keywestexpress.net

hole miniature golf course

bayfrontmarina.com

more geared toward adults.

Marco Island Princess, 951

marcogolfandgarden.com

Bald Eagle Drive, 642-5415.

Cool Beans Cruises, 377 Capri Blvd., 777-0020. Private

Offers sunset, nature and

The Rookery at Marco, 3433

catamaran charter cruises.

Boating in the Gulf is a sum-

history cruises. themarcois-

Club Center Blvd., 642-2796.

coolbeanscruises.com

mer staple, and you can find a

landprincess.com

This 18-hole, 7,180-yard,

charter for every waterway.

par-72 course is at the JW

Corey Billie’s Airboat Rides,

Marco Island Watersports,

Marriott Marco Island Beach

20610 Tamiami Trail E.,

400 S. Collier Blvd., 600 S.

Resort. marriott.com

389-7433. A native Seminole

Collier Blvd., 560 S. Collier Blvd., 642-2359. Sunset, and

TENNIS

eco-tours, plus parasailing

guide tours you through a

or helm one by yourself.

200-acre private piece of the

sailnaples.com

'Glades. cbairboatrides.com

and WaveRunners. marcois-

City of Marco Island Rac-

landwatersports.com

quet Center, 1275 San Mar-

Grand Slam Light Tackle

Eco-Tourism Adventure, 525

co Road, 394-5454. Offers

Sportfishing, Port O Call

Newport Drive, 642-8818.

The Marina at Factory

lighted hard-surface courts

Marina, 571-2878. Capt. Will

Manatee sightings guaran-

Bay, 1081 Bald Eagle Drive,

and Har-Tru clay courts, plus

Geraghty offers backcountry

teed on this waveless ride

389-2929. Find 72 large boat

indoor racquetball courts.

and offshore fishing charters.

aboard a covered boat.

slips for short- or long-term,

cityofmarcoisland.com

naplessportfishing.com

see-manatees.com

Naples

Hamilton Harbor Yacht

Mangrove Outfitters Fly

Club, 7065 Hamilton Ave.,

Shop, 4111 Tamiami Trail

BOAT CHARTERS,

775-0506. Near Rookery Bay,

E., 793-3370. Backcountry

Scuba Marco, 1141 Bald

WATERSPORTS AND

this boathouse can hold 325

fishing guides who operate

Eagle Drive, 389-7889. A

MARINAS

boats up to 55 feet long.

out of a full-service fly shop.

It’s Clean & Resilient Marina

mangroveoutfitters.com

Manatee Sightseeing

and a clubhouse with Wi-Fi, laundry, showers and ice. themarinaatfactorybay.com

full-service dive shop offering certifications, trips and

All Water Excursions,

equipment. scubamarco.com

594-0213. Includes sunset

and a bait shop. hamiltonhar-

Ms. B. Haven Fishing &

charters, eco-tours, fishing

boryachtclub.com

Eco Charters, 550 Port O

GOLF

excursions, luxury charters,

Hammock Bay Golf &

Call Way, 825-4292. Inshore

party boats and water activi-

Island Sailing Naples, 800

fishing, offshore fishing and

ties. allwaterexcursions.com

12th Ave. S., 398-1483. Here,

eco-tours. fishinnaples.com

Country Club, 1370 Borgh-

13 6

Program-approved with fuel

GULFSHORE LIFE I SUMMER GUIDE

you can charter a sailboat

g ulf shorelife.com

Naples Bay Resort &

Pure Florida, 1200 Fifth Ave.

Marina, 1500 Fifth Ave. S.,

S., 263-4949. Sightseeing and

530-5134. This marina has 97

sunset cruises aboard the

Bear’s Paw Country Club,

slips, a fuel dock, overnight

Double Sunshine; deep-sea,

2500 Golden Gate Parkway,

boat dockage, captain’s

coastal or calm bay fishing;

263-3007. An award-winning

Grey Oaks Country Club,

lounge and kayak, and pad-

jet boat thrill rides; eco-tours;

18-hole Jack Nicklaus Sig-

2400 Grey Oaks Drive, 262-

dleboard and bike rentals.

and Jet Ski and boat rentals.

nature championship course

5550. Three championship

naplesbayresort.com

purefl.com

with a clubhouse and fitness

courses, a 30,000-square-

center. bearspawcc.org

foot wellness center, and

GOLF

18-hole, 5,600-yard, par-70 course. gleneaglecountryclub.com

Naples City Dock, 880 12th

Rising Tide Explorers,

Ave. S., 213-3070. The docks

1295 Capri Blvd., 734-3231.

Bonita Bay Club Naples,

can accommodate 30- to

Biologist-guided kayak and

3700 Wildwood Blvd., 353-

60-foot vessels with deep

SUP tours through mangrove

5100. Two Tom Fazio-de-

Hole-In-The-Wall Golf

water. Fuel dock, restrooms,

tunnels and estuaries, plus

signed Audubon Internation-

Club, 3600 Goodlette-Frank

bait and ice; close to restau-

rentals and boat tours. rising-

al Signature golf courses.

Road, 261-6481. Private golf

rants, ships’ store and trolley

tidefl.com

bonitabayclub.net

course set among nearly 50

tennis, pickleball and bocce. greyoakscc.com

service. naplesgov.com

acres of wetland preserves.

Scuba Outfitters Of

The Club At Mediterra,

Naples Nantucket Yacht

Naples, 950 Third Ave. N.,

15755 Corso Mediterra

Group, 1001 10th Ave. S.,

280-5500. This five-Star

Circle, 254-3000. Audubon

LaPlaya Golf Course, 333

331-6868. Private charters

PADI TecRec Dive Center

International Silver Signature

Palm River Blvd., 254-5001.

on yachts like the 95-foot

offers education, equipment,

Sanctuary-certified golf club,

An 18-hole, par-72, 6,902-

Sunseeker. naplesnantucket-

and an indoor heated pool.

with Tom Fazio-designed

yard course at LaPlaya Beach

yachtcharters.com

scubaoutfittersnaples.com

courses, plus courts for

& Golf Resort. laplayaresort.

tennis, bocce and pickleball.

com

Naples Princess, 550 Port O

Scubadventures, 971

Call Way, 649-2275. See Port

Creech Road, 434-7477. Dive

Royal or watch the sunset

shop with scuba training and

Cypress Woods Golf &

Country Club, 8004 Lely

aboard a 105-foot yacht.

equipment rentals. scubad-

Country Club, 3525 North-

Resort Blvd., 793-2600. Club

naplesprincesscruises.com

ventureslc.com

brooke Drive, 592-7860. Par-

offers three championship

72, Gordon Lewis-designed,

courses. lelyresortgolfand-

Nauti Exposures, 313-1024.

South Bay Marina, 179

18-hole course and pro shop.

countryclub.com

A Mobile kayak rental com-

South Bay Drive, Suite 4, 597-

cypresswoodsgolf.com

pany that also offers tours.

2063. This marina has fuel,

nautiexposures.com

bait, tackle, concessions,

Eagle Creek Golf &

7335 Premier Drive, 659-

boat rentals and charters.

Country Club, 11 Cypress

3700. Private instruction from

southbaymarinafl.com

View Drive, 739-0500. Private

South Florida PGA Teacher

golf community set on 300

of the Year Mark Durland,

Port of Naples Marina, 550 Port O Call Way, 774-0479.

Getty

holeinthewallgolf.org

mediterraliving.com Lely Resort Golf and

Naples Grande Golf Club,

In addition to a tackle shop,

Sweet Liberty, City Dock,

acres with an award-winning

plus a lauded course and

food and space for events,

880 12th Ave. S., 793-3525.

course. eaglecreekgcc.com

tennis courts. naplesgrande-

the marina offers boat rentals

Beachcombing, dolphin

and cruise charters. portof-

tours, cocktail cruises and

Glen Eagle Golf And

naplesmarina.com

eco-tours on a 53-foot cata-

Country Club, 1403 Glen

Naples Lakes Country Club,

maran. sweetliberty.com

Eagle Blvd., 354-3167. An

4784 Naples Lakes Blvd., 919-

golf.com

S U M M E R

G U I D E

2 0 2 1

13 7

SUMMER GUIDE SPORTS + RECREATION

1150. Club offers an Arnold

38 tennis courts and a club.

slips, dry boat storage, fue-

Florida Excursions, 28651

Palmer Signature Course with

sanchez-casal.com

ling and mechanical services.

Diesel Drive N., Unit 6,

bonitabaymarina.net

592-1200. Offers narrated

six sets of tees ranging from 4,516 yards to 6,708 yards.

Arthur L. Allen Tennis

napleslakesfl.com

Center, 735 Eighth Ave. S.,

Big Hickory Seafood Grille

estuary, plus kayak and ca-

213-3060. Twelve lighted Hy-

and Marina, 26107 Hickory

noe rentals and scuba trips.

Pelican Marsh Golf Club,

dro-grid Har-Tru courts with

Blvd., 992-0991. Pontoon

cruisefishdive.com

1810 Persimmon Drive, 597-

leagues, clinics and lessons.

boats, kayaks, bait, supplies,

3000. This is a challenging,

naplesgov.com

fuel and slips are all available.

Paddle Naples Tours &

Landing for the Great Calusa

Rentals, Estero Boulevard,

award-winning golf course

boat cruises in a mangrove

that’s also an Audubon

Mary C. Watkins Tennis

Blueway canoe and kayak

301-8888. Launch from Big

Certified Sanctuary. pelican-

Center, 825 Golf Drive S.,

paddling trail. bighickory.net

Hickory Island in Estero

marshgc.com

435-4351. Six Har-Tru clay

Tiburón Golf Club, 2620

Bay for guided kayak, SUP

courts and pro shop. naples-

Bonita Jet Ski & Parasail,

and fishing tours, as well as

beachhotel.com

27908 Hickory Blvd., 825-

rentals. paddlenaples.com

Tiburón Drive, 593-2200. Two

7559. Find Jet Skis, chairs,

18-hole courses. Home to

Pelican Bay Community

cabanas, umbrellas, pad-

Sweetwater Adventures,

the QBE Shootout. tiburong-

Park, 764 Vanderbilt Beach

dleboards/boats, kayaks,

27598 Marina Pointe Drive,

cnaples.com

Road, 598-3025. Lit clay

sailboats and parasailing.

405-7155. Sightseeing and

tennis courts and racquetball

bonitajetski.com

fishing, plus kids’ camps.

Vanderbilt Country Club,

courts. collierparks.com

sweetwateradventures.com CGT Kayaks, 27313 Old 41

8250 Danbury Blvd., 3482662. This par-72, 18-hole

Vineyards Community Park,

Road, 221-8218. Specializes

championship golf course

6231 Arbor Blvd., 252-4105.

in Estero River paddling.

was designed by Kipp

Comfort-cushioned tennis

Kayak and SUP rentals, plus

Bonita Bay Club, 26660

Schulties. vanderbiltcountry-

courts and racquetball

guided tours, instruction,

Country Club Drive, 495-

club.com

courts. collierparks.com

and sales. cgtkayaks.com

0200. Multiple 18-hole,

Wilderness Country Club,

LEE COUNTY

Ebb-N-Flow SUP Tours and

Cooperative Sanctuary

Rentals, 4279 Bonita Beach

courses designed by Arthur

Road SW, 221-7853. SUP,

Hills and Tom Fazio, along

GOLF

par-72 Certified Audubon 101 Clubhouse Drive, 2616060. Arthur Hills-designed,

Bonita Springs

18-hole course, as well as a

kayak and bike rentals, plus

with Har-Tru tennis courts,

clubhouse and tennis facili-

BOAT CHARTERS,

tours of Turkey Bay. ebbn-

gel-surface pickleball courts

ties. wildernesscc.com

WATERSPORTS AND

flowsuptoursandrentals.com

and a championship croquet

MARINAS

court. bonitabayclub.net Fish Trap Marina Inc., 4794

TENNIS AND PICKLEBALL Bonita Bay Marina, 27598

Bonita Beach Road, 992-

Bonita Fairways, 26740

Academia Sanchez-Casal

Marina Pointe Dr SW.,

6055. Offers bait, tackle, rod

Samoset Way, 947-9100. An

Florida, 2035 Sanchez-Casal

495-3222. Located on the Im-

and reel repairs, along with

18-hole, par-61 executive

Way, 263-1818. This interna-

perial River, with a waterfront

backwater charter fishing.

course designed by Gordon

tional tennis academy houses

restaurant open in season,

fortmyers-sanibel.com

Lewis. bonitafairways.com

13 8

GULFSHORE LIFE I SUMMER GUIDE

g ulf shorelife.com

Robert Trent Jones and Lee Trevino are two of the names associated with Lely Resort Golf & Country Club’s courses, including two with

Courtesy Lely Resort Golf & Country Club

public access.

The Colony Golf & Country

Shadow Wood Country

992-0024. Full-service beach

Club, 4101 Pelican Colony

Club, 22801 Oakwilde Blvd,

club with two Har-Tru tennis

Blvd., 390-4700. An 18-hole,

992-6000. Private club with

courts. theclubatbarefoot-

BOAT CHARTERS,

par-72 championship course

three championship courses,

beach.com

WATERSPORTS AND

designed by former U.S.

Har-Tru tennis courts, bocce

Open champion Jerry Pate.

ball courts and club houses.

Peak Performance

thecolonygolfcc.com

shadowwoodcc.com

Pickleball Academy, 27200

Florida Sailing and Cruising

Kent Road, 221-7560.

School, 5991 Silver King

Cape Coral/Pine Island

MARINAS

Hunters Ridge Golf and

Spanish Wells Golf and

Pickleball lessons, clinics, drill

Blvd., Suite 108, Cape Coral,

Country Club, 12500 Hunt-

Country Club, 9801 Treasure

and play sessions, leagues,

257-2788. An American Sail-

ers Ridge Blvd., 992-4900.

Cay Lane, 992-5100. Club

tournament tune-up clinics

ing Association certification

This private club has an 18-

features 27-holes of cham-

and day camps at the Bonita

facility with courses in power-

hole, championship course.

pionship golf with courses

Springs YMCA. swflymca.org

boat and sailing instruction.

huntersridge-ca.com

designed by Gordon Lewis

flsailandcruiseschool.com

and Bruce Howard. Also

Pelican Landing Tennis

Raptor Bay Golf Club,

offers Har-Tru tennis courts,

Center, 24501 Walden

Gulf Coast Kayak, 4120 Pine

23001 Coconut Point Resort

bocce courts, clubhouse

Center Drive, 947-5977. Fea-

Island Road, Matlacha, 283-

Drive, 390-4600. Ranked in

and a fitness center. spanish-

tures 12 renovated Har-Tru

1125. Kayak and SUP rentals,

the top 10 by Sports Illus-

wellscountryclub.com

courts. pelicanlanding.com

tours and fishing excursions

trated, it's also certified by the Audubon International.

in the Matlacha Pass Aquatic TENNIS AND PICKLEBALL

Preserve. gulfcoastkayak.com

raptorbaygolfclub.com The Club At Barefoot Beach, 105 Shell Drive,

S U M M E R

G U I D E

2 0 2 1

13 9

SUMMER GUIDE SPORTS + RECREATION

GOLF

paddleboard the Estero Riv-

Stoneybrook Golf And

nine indoor pickleball courts.

er. esteroriveroutfitters.com

Country Club, 21251 Stoney-

leegov.com

Alden Pines Country Club,

brook Golf Blvd., 948-3933.

GOLF

14261 Clubhouse Drive, Bokeelia, 283-2179. The only

An 18-hole, par-72 course

Fort Myers

is 7,353 yards long. stoney-

golf course on Pine Island,

Breckenridge Golf & Tennis

with a par-71 course with 18

Club, 20091 Wimbleton

holes. aldenpinesgolf.com

Court, 992-5959. An 18-hole,

Villages at Country Creek,

par-3 golf course, lighted

21180 Country Creek Drive,

Coral Oaks Golf Course,

Har-Tru tennis and pickleball

947-2050. A 3,871-yard, par-

Ace Performer,16842

1800 NW 28th Ave., Cape

courts. breckenridgehome-

61, 18-hole course designed

McGregor Blvd, 565-4860.

Coral, 573-3100. Public

owners.com

by Gordon Lewis. villagesat-

Offers lessons, rentals and

countrycreek.org

sales for kayaking, paddle-

course with one of the larg-

brookgolfestero.com

BOAT CHARTERS, WATERSPORTS AND MARINAS

est practice facilities in the

The Club at Grandézza,

area. capecoral.net/coraloak

11481 Grande Oaks Blvd.,

West Bay Club, 4606

windsurfing and winging. Ask

948-3569. Defined by undu-

West Bay Blvd., 444-2310.

about the wearable, swimma-

lating greens, rolling fairways

An 18-hole Pete and P.B.

ble mermaid tails. Services

and sharp elevation changes.

Dye-designed golf course.

Fort Myers, Sanibel, Cape

grandezzacc.com

Also features a tennis center.

Coral, Bonita Springs and

westbayclub.com

Naples. aceperformer.com

TENNIS AND PICKLEBALL Camelot Park, 1718 SW 52 Terrace, Cape Coral,

boarding, kiteboarding,

573-3128. This 6.4-acre park

Miromar Lakes Beach &

offers tennis and pickleball

Golf Club, 18520 Miromar

Wildcat Run Golf and

Adventures In Paradise,

courts, horseshoe pits, a

Lakes Blvd. W., 482-7644. An

Country Club, 20300 Coun-

14341 Port Comfort Road,

playground and picnic shel-

18-hole, 7,100-yard, par-72

try Club Drive, 947-6066. An

472-8443. Eco-tours, dolphin

ters. capecoral.net

Arthur Hills Signature course.

18-hole, par-72 Arnold Palm-

watching, sunset cruises and

miromarlakes.com

er Signature designed golf

fishing, plus trolley access.

course, with Har-Tru tennis

adventureinparadiseinc.com

Joe Stonis Park, 3444 Ceitus Parkway, Cape Coral,

Old Corkscrew Golf Club,

573-3128. A 7-acre park with

17320 Corkscrew Road, 949-

tennis/pickleball and shuffle-

4700. A Jack Nicklaus Sig-

board courts. capecoral.net

nature golf course certified

Estero

courts. wildcatruncc.com Calusa Fishing Adventures, TENNIS AND PICKLEBALL

17543 Taylor Drive, (941) 6773474. Capt. Mark Yimin leads

as an Audubon International

The Club At Rapallo, 8551

custom inshore and night

Silver Signature member.

Via Rapallo Drive, 949-3347.

fishing. calusafishing.com

oldcorkscrew.com

Located at Coconut Point,

BOAT CHARTERS,

the club offers a tennis

Capt. Paul Hobby Fishing

WATERSPORTS AND

Pelican Sound Golf & River

center, gym and kayaking

Charters, 13371 Electron

MARINAS

Club, 4569 Pelican Sound

club. clubatrapallo.com

Drive., 850-2088. Specializes

Blvd., 948-4331. Three nine-

in light-tackle and fly-fish-

Estero River Outfitters,

hole private courses ranging

Estero Park And Recreation

ing for snook, redfish and

20991 S. Tamiami Trail,

from 4,600 to 7,100 yards.

Center, 9200 Corkscrew

tarpon. fishinghobby.com

992-4050. Canoe, kayak or

pelicansoundgrc.com

Palms Blvd., 533-1470. Find

14 0

GULFSHORE LIFE I SUMMER GUIDE

g ulf shorelife.com

Gulf Harbour Yacht &

service, sales and rentals.

Del Tura Golf & Country

The Hideaway Country

Country Club, 14500 Vista

scubavicedivers.com

Club, 18621 Tamiami Trail N.,

Club, 5670 Trailwinds Drive,

River Drive, 433-5111. One of

731-7814. Offers a 27-hole,

275-6232. Club features an

Fort Myers’ most prestigious

Skyhigh JetPacks And

presidential course, restau-

18-hole, par-67, presiden-

communities has an 18-hole

Flyboards, 17590 East St.,

rant and pro-shop. deltur-

tial-length course. Open

championship golf course,

699-2487. Hover above the

agolfclub.com

to the public in summer.

tennis courts and a deep-wa-

water with a flying hover-

ter marina. gulfharbour.com

board or water-powered jet

Forest Golf & Country

pack. skyhighjetpacks.com

Club, 6100 Club Blvd. SW,

The Landings Yacht, Golf

482-8378. Features two tree-

& Tennis Club, 4425 S.

lined courses punctuated

Landings Drive, Suite 100,

by lakes and streams—with

482-3211. Located on 250

Kayak Excursions, 17950 John Morris Road, 297-7011.

GOLF

Kayak and SUP company with

thehideawaygolf.com

paddle rentals and sales,

The Club At Renaissance,

a clubhouse renovation in

acres of riverfront with an 18

tours, lessons and fishing.

12801 Renaissance Way, 561-

2019 for its 40th anniversary.

hole, 3,078-yard golf course,

kayak-excursions.com

4170. A private club with an

theforestcc.com

lighted Har-Tru tennis courts,

18-hole golf course designed

plus a full-service marina.

J.C. Cruises, 1300 Hendry

by Arthur Hills, championship

Fort Myers Country Club,

St., 334-7474. Sightseeing

red clay tennis courts, pick-

3591 McGregor Blvd.,

tours aboard a triple-deck

leball and bocce ball courts.

321-7488. Club hosts the

Lexington Country Club,

paddle wheeler on the Ca-

theclubatrenaissance.com

Yuengling Open, a pro-am

16257 Willowcrest Way,

golf tournament that began

437-3380. Designed by Kipp

in 1963. cityftmyers.com

Schulties with water hazards,

loosahatchee River. jccruises. com

Colonial Country Club, 9181

landingsygtc.com

Independence Way, 768-

large greens and enhanced

The Marina at Edison Ford,

2825. An 18-hole, 7,385-yard,

Golfview Golf And Racquet

landscaping. lexingtoncoun-

2360 West 1st St., 245-

par-72 championship course.

Club, 14849 Hole-in-One

tryclub.com

7049. Offers 45 public slips,

colonialgolfclub.com

Circle, 489-2264. Golfers can drive across the 4.5-acre

Pelican Preserve Golf Club,

hook-up, showers, restrooms

Crown Colony Golf &

lake on four holes, or stay

9802 Pelican Preserve Blvd.,

and a Pinchers restaurant.

Country Club, 8851 Crown

inland with shorter tee shots.

985-1707. Here you’ll find 27

marinaedisonford.com

Colony Blvd., 590-9044. An

golfview.club

holes of championship golf

pump-out services, electrical

18-hole, Certified Audubon

by renowned course archi-

Offshore Sailing School,

Cooperative Sanctuary.

Heritage Palms Golf &

tect Chip Powell. pelicanpre-

16731 McGregor Blvd., Suite

crowncolonygcc.com

Country Club, 10420 Wash-

servelifestyles.com

110, 454-1700. Beginner to

ingtonia Palm Way, 278-9090.

advanced cruising, coastal

Cypress Lake Golf Club,

Two 18-hole championship

Sabal Springs Golf &

navigation, liveaboard cruis-

6767 Winkler Road, 481-1333.

courses. hpgcc.com

Racquet Club, 3410

ing, offshore sailing, perfor-

A member-owned club with

mance sailing and racing.

one of the area’s oldest pri-

Herons Glen Golf and

A semi-private, 18-hole,

offshoresailing.com

vate golf courses, designed

Country Club, 2250 Herons

3,279-yard, par-60 course.

in 1959 by Dick Wilson and

Glen Blvd., 731-4520. Club

sabalspringsgolf.com

Scubavice Dive Center,

renovated in 2001.

has an 18-hole, par-72, 6,468-

12600 McGregor Blvd., 481-

cypresslakegc.com

yard semi-private course.

San Carlos Golf Club,

hggcc.com

7420 Constitution Circle,

4733. Specializes in scuba

Clubview Drive, 731-0101.

instruction, snorkel lessons,

267-3131. This is an 18-hole,

S U M M E R

G U I D E

2 0 2 1

14 1

The Naples Princess boat charter recently added a 48-foot catamaran—the Miss Naples—to its fleet for intimate cruises, shelling adventures, sunset sails and events.

semi-private course, plus an

7116. Offers 10 lighted tennis

courts, plus a dog park,

Gulf Star Marina, 708

aqua driving range, pitching

courts at the Sam Fleishman

playground and pavilion.

Fishermans Wharf, 463-9552.

and chipping area, practice

Regional Sports Complex.

leegov.com

Opened in 2020 and said to

bunker and a putting green.

cityftmyers.com

be the first smart marina in Fort Myers Beach

sancarlosgolfclub.com Park Meadows Tennis Club,

the U.S., the facility offers high-tech, automated dry

Shell Point Golf Club, 17500

1895 Park Meadows Drive,

BOAT CHARTERS,

storage for boats up to 40

On Par Blvd., 433-9790. Gor-

468-6292. Club features 10

WATERSPORTS AND

feet, concierge service,

don Lewis-designed 18-hole

clay courts. scatennis.com

MARINAS

fuel, a restaurant and retail.

course. shellpointgolf.com

gulfstarmarina.com Rutenberg Community

Captain Tony’s Fishing

Terraverde Country Club,

Park, 6500 South Pointe

Adventures, 18800 San Car-

Fish Tale Marina, 7225

17000 Terraverde Circle, 433-

Blvd., 349-0397. Eight tennis

los Blvd., 415-0515. Offers

Estero Blvd., 463-3600. A

7733. Club has a nine-hole,

courts sit on a 40-acre park,

night, full-day and half-day

marina with dry or wet stor-

1,260-yard course. terraver-

plus baseball and football.

charters. capttonys.com

age, ship’s store, rentals and

decountryclub.net

leegov.com

charters. thefishtalemarina.

Estero Island Parasail,

TENNIS AND PICKLEBALL

com

Wa-Ke Hatchee Park

multiple locations, 994-1399.

Recreation Center, 16760

Flights for first-timers and for

Fun Rentals, 1901 Estero

Fort Myers Racquet Club,

Bass Road, 432-2154. Center

thrillseekers. esteroisland-

Blvd., 463-8844. Choose

1700 Matthew Drive, 980-

offers tennis and pickleball

parasail.com

from Harley-Davidson

14 2

GULFSHORE LIFE I SUMMER GUIDE

g ulf shorelife.com

SUMMER GUIDE SPORTS + RECREATION

GOLF

motorcycles, WaveRunners,

store, service, storage and

5800. A water taxi service

bicycles and scooters. fun-

repair. saltysamsmarina.com

to outer islands, plus boat

rentalsfmb.com

Snook Bight Yacht Club &

rentals and charters.

Captiva Course, South Seas

Marina, 4765 Estero Blvd.,

gocaptiva.com

Island Resort, 5400 Planta-

Get Hooked Charter

765-4371. Find wet and dry

The Marina At ’Tween

tion Road, Captiva, 579-1480.

Fishing, 7225 Estero Blvd.,

storage, rental boats, repairs

Waters, 15951 Captiva Drive,

A Gulfside, nine-hole, 1,394-

691-1464. Capt. Matt

and maintenance, laundry,

Captiva, 472-5161. Offers

yard, par-27 course designed

DeAngelis offers inshore

restaurant, members’ bene-

dockage, charter boats and

by Chip Powell. Also offers

saltwater fishing. gethooked-

fits and live bait. snookbight-

kayaking excursions, plus

tennis with a pro shop.

charter.net

marina.com

canoe, kayak and bicycle

southseas.com

rentals. tween-waters.com Mid-Island Water Sports, multiple locations, 765-0965.

Royal Shell Port Sanibel

Club, 949 Sand Castle

Operating out of the Sand-

BOAT CHARTERS,

Marina, 14341 Port Comfort

Road, Sanibel, 472-2535. An

piper Gulf and Wyndham

WATERSPORTS AND

Road, Sanibel, 437-1660.

18-hole, par-70, 5,606-yard

resorts; offers JetSki and

MARINAS

Offers 95 stationary docks,

course, with Har-Tru tennis

dry-storage, ship store,

courts and tennis academy. dunesgolfsanibel.com

SUP rentals, parasailing and WaveRunner dolphin tours.

Captiva Cruises, 11401

boardwalk, canoe and kayak

midislandwatersports.com

Andy Rosse Lane or 5400

tours. There's also showers,

South Seas Plantation Road,

laundry and a restaurant.

Sanibel Island Golf Club,

Ranalli Parasail, 3040 Estero

Captiva. 472-5300. Offers

portsanibelmarina.com

1100 Par View Drive, Sanibel,

Blvd., 565-5700. Parasailing,

daily trips to Cabbage Key,

WaveRunner dolphin tours,

Useppa Island, Boca Grande

Sanibel Harbour Resort

semi-private course—plus

and cabana and umbrella

and Cayo Costa, plus wildlife

And Spa, 17260 Harbour

13 Har-Tru courts, a tennis

rentals. ranalliparasail.com

and sunset cruises and sailing

Pointe Drive, Sanibel, 466-

academy, clinics, pro shop

charters. captivacruises.com

4000. Features 13 boat slips,

and weekly tournaments.

WaveRunner, canoe and kay-

sanibelislandgc.com

Rebel Water Sports, 1010

Courtesy Naples Princess; Getty

The Dunes Golf & Tennis

Sanibel/Captiva Islands

472-2626. An 18-hole, par-70,

Estero Blvd., 677-6782

Endless Summer Charters,

ak rentals, dolphin adventure

Dolphin tours, WaveRunner

14341 Port Comfort Road,

eco-tours and dinner cruises

rentals, and rides aboard a

Sanibel, 691-1966. Back-bay/

on the Sanibel Harbour Prin-

banana boat. rebelwater-

inshore and offshore char-

cess. sanibelmarriott.com

sports.com

ters, eco-tours, sight-seeing tours and sunset cruises.

Yolo Watersports, 11534

Salty Sam’s Marina, 2500

sanibelislandfishingcharters.

Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva,

Main St., 463-7333. Offers

com

472-9656. Tubing, WaveR-

waterfront dining, fishing

unners and parasailing. Plus

and sailing charters, daily

Jensen’s Twin Palm

rentals for sailboats, SUPs,

Key West Express ferry, boat

Cottages & Marina, 15107

surfboards and beach equip-

rentals, fuel, dockage, ship’s

Captiva Drive, Captiva, 472-

ment. yolowatersports.com

S U M M E R

G U I D E

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14 3

ATTRACTIONS

MUSEUMS, PARKS AND CULTURAL HUBS As a vacation destination, there is no shortage of activities throughout the region to make any getaway—or just any day fascinating cultural centers. Call or check the organizations’ websites for the latest information. All phone numbers are area code (239) unless specified.

14 4

GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com

Courtesy BIG ARTS

out and about—fun and memorable. Here’s a curated list of the area’s top attractions, from educational historic sites to

CHARLOTTE COUNTY Port Charlotte/Punta Gorda

also is stationed here, with

Register of Historic Places

Jungle Erv’s Airboat Tours,

artifacts, veteran-led tours

and converted into a muse-

804 Collier Ave., (877) 695-

and educational activities.

um. smallwoodstore.com

2820. The service offers

militaryheritagemuseum.org Ac Freeman House, 311

guided tours of marine and Everglades City

estuarine environments.

West Retta Esplanade, Punta

Peace River Botanical &

Gorda, (941) 639-2222. This

Sculpture Gardens, 5827

Captain Mitch’s Airboat

Victorian-style home, with a

Riverside Drive, Punta

Tours, 3100 Tamiami Trail

Museum Of The

historic museum, was built

Gorda, (941) 621-8299. These

E., 695-3377. Run by an

Everglades, 105 W.

in the early 20th century,

waterfront gardens showcase

Everglades’ guide whose

Broadway Ave., 252-5026.

restored in 2006 and listed

sculptures and botanicals.

great-grandfather built

The free-admission museum

on the National Register of

peacerivergardens.org

one of the first commercial

tells the story of 2,000

airboats, Captain Mitch’s fo-

years of human habitation

Peace River Wildlife Center,

cuses on private grasslands

in the western Everglades.

3400 Ponce de Leon Park-

tours. captainmitchs.com

evergladesmuseum.org

Historic Landmarks. ci.punta-gorda.fl.us

jungleervairboatworld.com

Babcock Ranch Eco-Tours,

way, Punta Gorda, (941) 637-

8502 FL-31, Punta Gorda,

3830. A wildlife education

“The Original” Everglades

Speedy’s Airboat Tours,

(800) 500-5583. View wildlife

and rehabilitation center for

City Airboat Tours,

621 Begonia Street, 695-

on a 90-minute buggy tour

small animals and birds, such

907 Dupont Street, 695-

4448. These airboat tours

around Babcock Ranch,

as bald eagles, hawks, owls

2400. Capt. Josh Minton

seat no more than six people

which is set within a more-

and ospreys. prwildlife.org

is a fourth-generation

at a time and have access

Everglades guide, so you’re

to a 1,000-acre private

bound to get your money’s

stretch of the Everglades.

worth on these swamp

speedysairboattours.com

than-14,000-acre “working” ranch. Reservations required.

COLLIER COUNTY

babcockranchecotours.com Alva Cape Haze Pioneer Trail,

tours. evergladescityWings Aero Tours, 650 E.C.

airboattours.com

1688 Gasparilla Road, Port

Hickey Creek Mitigation

Charlotte, (941) 627-1628.

Park, 17980 Palm Beach

Everglades Day Safari,

in a bush plane over the Ev-

This trail spans nearly 8 miles

Blvd., 229-0522. More than

472-1559. An intense, all-day

erglades, the Keys or the Ten

across a former rail line.

800 acres of wildlife preserve

excursion from the backwa-

Thousand Islands. Seasonally

charlottecountyfl.gov

with 5 miles of trails, fishing

ters of the Ten Thousand

November through May.

docks and picnic areas.

Islands to the swamps of the

wingsaerotours.com

leegov.com

Everglades. Pickup locations

Fishermen’s Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, (941) 639-8721. The

Airpark Road, 695-3296. Fly

Immokalee

throughout Southwest Chokoloskee

Florida. ecosafari.com Immokalee Pioneer

shopping, entertainment, and resort complex

Historic Smallwood Store:

Everglades Florida

Museum at Roberts Ranch,

overlooking Charlotte

Ole Indian Trading Post

Adventures, 815 Oyster

1215 Roberts Ave. W., 252-

Harbor, includes a full-service

And Museum, 360 Mamie

Bar Lane, S.R. 29, (855)

2611. A 15-acre living history

marina, more than 30 shops

St., 695-2989. Established

793-5542. Family fun with

museum tells the story of

and restaurants, and dozens

in 1906, this once-isolated

kayaking and boat tours.

cattle ranching in the area.

of waterside suites. The

Everglades’ trading post has

evergladesfloridaadventures.

colliermuseums.com

Military Heritage Museum

been placed on the National

com

S U M M E R

G U I D E

2 0 2 1

14 5

SUMMER GUIDE ATTRACTIONS

Lake Trafford Marina and

manatees and wading birds.

connect to the Gordon River

CREW (Corkscrew Regional

Airboats & Alligators,

Kids love the options for

Greenway. A tall viewing

Ecosystem Watershed),

6001 Lake Trafford Road,

wakeboarding, tubing and

hill looks out to the Naples

1295 Shady Hollow Blvd.,

657-2214. Airboat rides

shelling on secluded islands

Airport. naplesgov.com

locations in Immokalee at

and boat tours through

accessible only by boat.

the Corkscrew watershed.

breakwateradventures.com

Collier Museum At

C.R. 850, 657-2253. Encom-

Government Center, 3331

passes 60,000 acres, with

Florida Adventures and

Tamiami Trail E., 252-8476.

nearly 30 miles of trails.

Seminole Casino Hotel

Rentals, 909 Collier Court,

This 5-acre property high-

Primitive campsites available.

Immokalee, 506 S. 1st St.,

348-5551. Enjoy the Marco

lights the county’s history,

crewtrust.org

658-1313. Find gaming

waters through dolphin tours

archaeology and develop-

machines, live-action poker

by boat or Jet Ski. floridaad-

ment. colliermuseums.com

and table games. semin-

venturesandrentals.com

The Edge Johnny Nocera Skate Park, 1600 Fleis-

Collier-Seminole State

chmann Blvd., 213-3020. This

Marco Island Historical

Park, 20200 E. Tamiami Trail,

40,000-square-foot skating

Museum, 180 S. Heathwood

394-3397. Park offers canoe

and biking facility is located

Drive, 252-1440. Museum

rentals, boat ramp, electric

in Fleischmann Park for

Breakwater Adventures,

offers permanent exhibits,

and water hookup for camp-

beginner to advanced levels.

909 Collier Court, (305)

such as a life-size diorama

sites. floridastateparks.org

naplesgov.com

902-4772. Private boat

of a Calusa Indian village,

tours through the Ten

as well as traveling exhibits.

Conservancy Of Southwest

Everglades Day Safari,

Thousand Islands get you

themihs.info

Florida, 1495 Smith Preserve

472-1559. You can book an

Way, 262-0304. While this

exploration of the Everglades

environmental organization,

by airboat, mangrove cruise,

which educates on local

wildlife drive and nature

The Baker Museum, 5833

wildlife and habitats, remains

walk. All tours are private.

Pelican Bay Blvd., 597-1900.

closed to the public, the

ecosafari.com

The 30,000-square-foot

group is running two-hour,

museum at Artis—Naples

private eco-cruises of Rook-

Everglades Excursions,

features 15 galleries, with a

ery Bay. conservancy.org

1010 6th Ave. S., Naples,

oleimmokaleecasino.com Marco Island

up-close with dolphins, Naples

stunning permanent collec-

Have an up-close encounter at Manatee Park in Fort Myers.

262-7300. Tours depart from

tion and traveling exhibitions

Corkscrew Swamp

Naples or Marco Island for

from artists such as Dale

Sanctuary and Blair

narrated full- or half-day trips

Chihuly and René Magritte.

Audubon Center, 375 Sanc-

aboard an air-conditioned

artisnaples.org

tuary Road W., 348-9151. A

safari wagon. everglades-

boardwalk meanders through

excursions.com

Baker Park, 50 Riverside

an ancient cypress forest.

Circle, 213-7120. Greenspace

Tours available, online reser-

Everglades National Park,

stretches across 15 acres with

vations required. No walk-ins.

Gulf Coast Visitor Center

a large lawn, playground,

corkscrew.audubon.org

at 815 Oyster Bar Lane,

dog park and trails that

14 6

GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com

Getty

airboatsandalligators.com

4600 C.R. 850 and 3980

Everglades City, (305) 242-

science and more. Closed

train station, the museum

playground and a preserve

7700. Explore the Everglades

Wednesdays. cmon.org

lets visitors travel back to

area. collierparks.com

by canoe/kayak or walking

when the town relied on rail.

trails, or stay overnight at

Gordon River Greenway

a campsite. Other features

Park, 1596 Golden Gate

include tram tours, boating

Parkway, 252-4000. A paved

Naples Preserve, 1690

Blvd. N., Naples. 252-4386. A

and fishing. nps.gov/ever

nature trail and boardwalk

Tamiami Trail N., 261-4290.

recreation and entertainment

with water access along

Get an up-close look at

complex with profession-

Fakahatchee Strand

the Gordon River, with two

Florida ecology with this .4-

al-level synthetic turf fields

Preserve State Park, at

access points: by the Naples

mile self-guided tour of the

for soccer, lacrosse and

Janes Memorial Scenic

Zoo and from the south

preserve. Only the elevated

football events. A public

Drive and S.R. 29, just west

side Golden Gate Parkway.

boardwalk is open at this

gym area and restaurant is

of Copeland, 695-4593. A

gordonrivergreenway.org

time. naplesgov.com

located next to the fields.

Paradise Coast Sports

colliermuseums.com

Complex, 3940 City Gate

swamp about 20 miles long

sportsforceparksnaples.com

and 5 miles wide is home

Historic Palm Cottage, 137

Naples Trolley Tours, 1010

to the world’s only bald

12th Ave. S., 261-8164. Built

Sixth Ave. S., No.2, (800)

Rising Tide Explorers, 1295

cypress-royal palm forest.

in 1895. The oldest home in

592-0848 or 262-7300. This

Capri Blvd., 734-3231. Local

floridastateparks.org

Naples has been restored

narrated trolley tour covers

biologists guide these kayak

to its original condition.

100-plus points of interest.

tours of the Rookery Bay na-

napleshistoricalsociety.org

naplestrolleytours.com

ture preserve around Naples

Fred W. Coyle Freedom Park, 1515 Golden Gate

and Marco Island. You can

Parkway, 252-4062. A 50-

Holocaust Museum & Co-

Naples Zoo At Caribbean

also opt for the guided boat

acre park with a 5-acre lake,

hen Education Center, 975

Gardens, 1590 Good-

tour or rent a kayak on your

3,500 feet of boardwalk,

Imperial Golf Course Blvd.,

lette-Frank Road, 262-5409.

own. risingtidefl.com

walking trails and a visitors’

Suite 108, 263-9200. The

Daily activities include Meet

center. collierparks.com

center promotes respect and

the Keeper, giraffe feedings,

Rookery Bay Research

understanding by teaching

primate expedition cruises

Preserve, 300 Tower Road,

Golden Gate Aquatic

the history and lessons of the

and other presentations.

530-5972. Preserve offers

Facility, 3300 Santa Barbara

Holocaust period through

napleszoo.com

recreational opportunities

Blvd., 252-6128. Aquatic

the stories of survivors and

facility with heated pool,

liberators. hmcec.org

children’s activity pool, open

such as camping, shelling N’gala, 2755 Inez Road,

and birdwatching.

353-3572. This exotic wildlife

rookerybay.org

and closed slides, and diving

Naples Botanical Garden,

preserve is a venue for wed-

boards. Closed Sundays.

4820 Bayshore Drive, 643-

dings, corporate events and

Salt Island Seaplanes,

collierparks.com

7275. The area features 170

private social functions. Why

Naples Airport/Naples

acres of preserves, gardens,

not have Walter, the white

Aviation Private Terminal 160

Golisano Children’s Mu-

lakes and trails, along with

rhinoceros, be a witness at

Aviation Way N., 263-7258

seum Of Naples (C’mon),

exhibition space, a cafe and

your nuptials? ngala.net

or Page Field Fort Myers

15080 Livingston Road, 514-

a gift shop. Purchase tickets

0084. An environment that

in advance. naplesgarden.org

fosters play-filled learning

5200 Captain Channing Page North Collier Regional

Drive. Book a seaplane for a

Park, 15000 Livingston Road,

flight to spots like the Keys,

through exhibits teaching

Naples Depot Museum,

252-4000. The park features

Captiva Island, Cape Roma-

children about the Ever-

1051 Fifth Ave. S., 252-8419.

a Calusa fossil dig play area

no, Miami and other locales.

glades, far-flung destinations,

Set in Naples’ first passenger

for children, an interactive

saltislandseaplanes.com

S U M M E R

G U I D E

2 0 2 1

14 7

SUMMER GUIDE ATTRACTIONS

Shy Wolf Sanctuary

Trail E., 695-2000. Just 50

Skunk Ape Research

Education & Experience

miles east of Naples, the

Headquarters, 40904

Center, (855) 749-9653. This

729,000-acre preserve

Tamiami Trail E, 695-2275.

17-acre private facility is

includes cypress swamp,

Why does everyone say that

home to wolves, a cougar,

mangroves, sawgrass prairies

Florida’s version of Bigfoot is

Gasparilla Island State

a North American bobcat,

and freshwater rivers. nps.

so elusive? His headquarters

Park, 880 Belcher Road, (941)

fox species, prairie dogs and

gov/bicy

is right here. A must-see

964-0375. Swim, snorkel, fish

Florida gopher tortoises. The

LEE COUNTY Boca Grande

stop on your way to the

and picnic on these beaches.

center offers both education-

Clyde Butcher Big Cypress

Everglades—a gift shop

The park also features the

al programs and therapeutic

Gallery, 52388 Tamiami Trail

and roadside attraction.

Boca Grande Lighthouse,

animal encounters. shywolf-

E., 695-2428. More than a

skunkape.info

built in 1890. Closed in Au-

sanctuary.org

collection of the photogra-

gust. floridastateparks.org

pher’s black-and-white Ev-

Wooten's Everglades Air-

Wild Florida Ecotours,

erglades photos, the gallery

boat Tours, 32330 Tamiami

25000 Tamiami Trail E., 218-

also offers swamp eco-tours

Trail E., (800) 695-2781. Take

5852. Book an eco-nature

and photo safaris, as well

an airboat or swamp-buggy

The Wonder Gardens,

tour of the Ten Thousand

as cottage and bungalow

tour through the Everglades

27180 Old 41 Road, 992-

Islands and the Everglades or

rentals. clydebutcher.com

and Big Cypress National

2591. A historic botanical

Preserve. Features alligator

garden and home to rescued

for the angler, a light tackle,

Bonita Springs

inshore and offshore fishing

Ochopee Post Office,

shows and an animal sanctu-

birds and reptiles—plus

trip. wildfloridaecotours.com

38000 Tamiami Trail E., (800)

ary. wootenseverglades.com

lorikeet encounters and

Ochopee

695-2099. Learn what it’s like

yoga with peacocks.

to deliver mail on a 170-mile

wondergardens.org

route in the swamp at the Big Cypress National

coutry’s smallest post office.

Farmer Mike’s U-Pick,

Preserve, 33100 Tamiami

visitflorida.com

26031 Morton Ave., 4984576. This 100-acre sustainable family farm offers a wide variety of fresh fruits, vegetables and flowers, as well as field trips for students.

Riverside Park, 10450 Reynolds St., 992-2556. This greenspace in the heart of downtown is home to the historic Liles Hotel, artist cottages, a butterfly garden and a bandshell—plus events. bonitaspringsparks.org

14 8

g ulf shorelife.com

Courtesy Naples Botanical Garden; Visit Florida

farmermikesupick.com

At Big Cypress National Preserve, you can kayak through the mangroves.

Opposite: Naples Botanical Garden has 170 acres of flora, along with art.

features an aerial ropes

Hertz Arena Public Skate,

obstacle course, 600-foot

11000 Everblades Parkway,

Cape Coral Museum Of

zip line, 19-hole miniature

948-7825, ext. 1306. Hertz

Butterfly Estates, 1815

History, 544 Cultural Park

golf course, arcade, go-kart

Arena offers daily public

Fowler Street, 690-2359.

Blvd., 772-7037. Dedicated

tracks and an escape room.

skating sessions for all ages.

Tours and classes teach

to historic preservation, the

gatormikes.com

Call the day of the public

on the life cycle and

skate to pay and to reserve a

importance of butterflies.

spot. hertzarena.com

butterflyestates.com

Cape Coral

museum offers exhibits and

Fort Myers

special programs throughout

Sun Splash Family

the year. Currently, it’s only

Waterpark, 400 Santa

offering guided tours as a

Barbara Blvd., 574-0558. The

Koreshan State Historic

Calusa Nature Center And

COVID-19 protocol. capecor-

14-acre water park features

Site, 3800 Corkscrew Road,

Planetarium, 3450 Ortiz

alhistoricalmuseum.org

high-speed slides, a river ride

992-0311. The historic site

Ave., 275-3435. Includes a

and a 457-foot Electric Slide.

has campgrounds, picnic

butterfly aviary, nature trails,

sunsplashwaterpark.com

areas, a playground, boat

a natural history museum,

landing and nature trails.

Audubon aviary and plan-

floridastateparks.org

etarium—plus, monthly

Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve, 2500 SE 24th St., north of Midpoint Memorial

Estero

Bridge, 549-4606. The pre-

evening hikes and late-night

serve includes 365 acres of

Estero Community Park,

Mound Key Archaeological

mangroves and 6,600 feet of

9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd.,

State Park, 3800 Corkscrew

trails. Kayak rentals available

533-1470. This 55-acre site

Road, 992-0311. There are

Edison & Ford Winter

seasonally. capecoral.net

features an amphitheater,

no facilities at the park at the

Estates, 2350 McGregor

lighted playground, dog

mouth of the Estero River;

Blvd., 334-7419. Tour the

Gator Mike’s Family Fun

park, golf course, pavilions,

visitors access through either

historic homes of Thomas

Park, 35 NE Pine Island

and two transplanted historic

Koreshan or Lovers Key State

Edison and Henry Ford,

Road, 574-4386. The park

structures. leeparks.org

Park. floridastateparks.org

which have a laboratory,

S U M M E R

movies. calusanature.org

G U I D E

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SUMMER GUIDE ATTRACTIONS

Baker Park stretches across 15 acres in Naples, with a playground, dog park, 34-foot viewing hill and nature trails.

gardens and a museum.

from Pine Island Sound up

a major and minor league

tures picnic areas, fishing on

edisonfordwinterestates.org

to the Caloosahatchee River.

facility with games, tours and

the Orange River and native

leegov.com

events. leeparks.org, mlb.

plant habitats. leegov.com

Fort Myers Skatium, 2250

com/redsox

Broadway, 321-7509. Rink

Hammond Stadium, 14100

provides in-line and ice

Six Mile Cypress Parkway,

Lakes Regional Park, 7330

Liberty Square, 464-5754.

skating, with skate rentals

533-7695, 768-4210. This sta-

Gladiolus Drive, 533-7578.

Tour and learn about this

included. fmskatium.org

dium hosts Minnesota Twins

The park offers a water

garden and nursery that

spring training games, plus

playground, nature trails,

has 75 different varieties of

Gaea Guides—Guided

the minor league Fort Myers

mini-train rides, bike and

vegetables, herbs, spices,

Kayak Nature Tours,

Mighty Mussels. leeparks.org

boat rentals, picnic sites, con-

nut trees and edible flowers,

cession and Wi-Fi. Pavilion

as well as a butterfly garden,

rentals available. leegov.com

and beehives. Open by

Master Naturalists lead kayak

Imag History & Science

clinics, as well as bird, man-

Center, 2000 Cranford Ave.,

atee, full moon, sunset and

243-0043. Hands-on exhibits

Lee Civic Center, 11831

bat kayak tours throughout

on weather, water, animals

Bayshore Road, 543-8368.

Popstroke, 5531 Six Mile

Southwest Florida. gaeagu-

and more. theimag.org

The center hosts concerts,

Commercial Court, 323-

ides.com

appointment only.

trade shows, expos, rodeos,

4653. Tiger Woods-designed

Jetblue Park, 11500 Fenway

company picnics, fairs and

mini golf complex with a

Great Calusa Blueway, 3410

South Drive, 226-4700. This

more. leeciviccenter.com

36-hole putting facility

Palm Beach Blvd. #3736, 707-

spring training ballpark and

7981. The 190-mile trail goes

player development complex

Manatee Park, 10901 S.R.

through the coastal waters

for the Boston Red Sox is

80, 690-5030. This park fea-

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GULFSHORE LIFE

connected to a full-service restaurant. popstroke.com

g ulf shorelife.com

Brian Tietz

694-5513. Certified Florida

Miss Potter’s Place, 3747

“When your journey from a dream to a great story includes us, you travel better.”

—Our promise to you!

36 NINTH STREET SOUTH SUITE 3 NAPLES, FL 34102 239.263.4433 MADTRAVEL.COM

Lee McCarthy President

T H E W E AT H E R A U T H O R I T Y

T H E W E AT H E R AU T H O R I T Y

Every day is a field trip!

Matt Devitt Chief Meteorologist

WHEN ACCURACY MATT ERS.

(239) 472-8585 | sanibelseaschool.org Follow @sanibelseaschool on Facebook and Instagram!

SUMMER GUIDE ATTRACTIONS

Seminole Gulf Railway, 2805

Spinz Skating Rink & Event

Randell Research Center,

cordgrass marshes and West

Colonial Blvd., 275-8487. Ex-

Space, 2095 Andrea Lane,

13810 Waterfront Drive,

Indian hardwood hammocks.

pect murder-mystery dinner

482-7789. This renovated

Pineland, 283-2062. Tour

Education center. Bicycles,

train and holiday-themed

roller rink includes a snack

the internationally significant

canoes and kayaks for rent.

excursions. Reservations

bar, game area and novelty

Pineland archaeological site

Tours available. fws.gov

required. semgulf.com

center. spinzskates.com

and learn about Calusa cul-

Shell Factory And Nature

Fort Myers Beach

ture and their environment.

Sanibel Historical Museum

floridamuseum.ufl.edu

& Village, 950 Dunlop

Park, 16554 N. Cleveland

Road, 472-4648. Tour

Ave., 995-2141. A park with

Estero Island Historic

shell-themed shopping, din-

Cottage And Nature

ing, nature park and botani-

Center, 161 Bay Road, 463-

Bailey-Matthews Shell

date back to the late 1800s.

cal garden. shellfactory.com

0435. The center celebrates

Museum, 3075 Sanibel-Cap-

sanibelmuseum.org

Fort Myers Beach history.

tiva Road, 395-2233. The

Sidney & Berne Davis

esteroislandhistoricsociety.

museum offers exhibits

Sanibel Lighthouse, 112 Per-

Art Center, 2301 First St.,

org

displaying shells from South-

iwinkle Way, 472-3700. The

west Florida and around the

lighthouse on the eastern tip

world. shellmuseum.org

of Sanibel was first lit in 1884.

333-1933. The art center, in

Sanibel Island

eight restored buildings, including buildings that

a historic building, features

Matanzas Pass Preserve,

art exhibits and holds events,

199 Bay Road, 229-1610. The

such as concerts, galas and

preserve is a nearly 60-acre

BIG ARTS, 900 Dunlop

access and a fishing pier.

art experiences for children

sanctuary for native plants

Road, 395-0900. Community

sanibellighthouse.com

and adults. sbdac.com

and animals. leegov.com

arts center set among the breathtaking scenery of

Sanibel-Captiva

Six Mile Cypress Slough

Ostego Bay Foundation

Sanibel that hosts perfor-

Conservation Foundation

Preserve, 7751 Penzance

Marine Science Center, 718

mances, fine art shows, films

Nature Center, 3333 Sani-

Blvd., on the Six Mile Cypress

Fisherman’s Wharf, 765-8101.

and educational programs.

bel-Captiva Road, 472-2329.

Parkway (1.5 miles north of

This science center provides

bigarts.org

There are miles of trails (with

Daniels Parkway), 533-7557.

by-donation visits with touch

Preserve features boardwalk,

tanks and interactive exhib-

Cabbage Key, at channel

its, touch tank, nature shop

picnic areas and interpretive

its. ostegobay.org

marker 60 on the Intracoastal

and bookstore. The nature

Waterway, 283-2278. A tiny

center is currently closed

island built on a Calusa Indi-

but trails remain open. Now

an shell mound, accessible

partnered with the Sanibel

center. sloughpreserve.org Pine Island Sky Zone, 14181 S. Tamiami

The park features beach

an observation tower), exhib-

Trail, Suite 140, 313-5448.

Museum Of The Islands,

by boat. Restaurant, bar and

Sea School, which offers pro-

You’ll find epic ways to play,

5728 Sesame Drive, 283-

inn. cabbagekey.com

grams for kids and families,

gather and compete, includ-

1525. Features island culture,

ing trampoline activities,

past and present, through

J.N. “Ding” Darling

around the area’s waters and

a zip line, warrior course,

artifacts and artwork.

National Wildlife Refuge,

guided beach walks.

bouldering wall and aerial

museumoftheislands.com

1 Wildlife Drive, 472-1100.

sccf.org

silks. skyzone.com/fortmyers

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GULFSHORE LIFE

including SUP excursions

You’ll find a mangrove forest,

g ulf shorelife.com

W

H

E

N

T R U S T I S

M Chris Cifatte

U

A

S Lois Thome

T Matt Devitt

SUMMER AGENDA

WHAT TO DO JUNE-AUGUST For those of us who stick around for the summer, there is plenty of art, music and other community events to keep us entertained. Just take your pick! As conditions are still changing due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we recommend you contact the organizations for the latest information.

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GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com

A curated look at Clyde Butcher’s Everglades photography is on display at the Naples Botanical Garden.

JUNE

to capture his stirring black-

formed materials like paper,

and-white images.

cardboard and plastics into

Through June 15

naplesgarden.org

masterpieces. sbdac.com

America’s Everglades:

June 4-24

June 5

Butcher at Naples

Recaptured Juried Art

The Gasparilla Island Kids

Botanical Garden

Show at the Sidney & Berne

Classic Tarpon Tournament

Renowned landscape pho-

Davis Art Center

in Boca Grande

tographer Clyde Butcher has

Bringing awareness to the

During this fishing tourna-

captured Southwest Flori-

3.5 million tons of garbage

ment that’s for kids ages 15

da’s most remote stretches

the world generates in a

and younger, teams of up to

throughout his long career,

single day, the center is

four anglers and one adult

and you can view a curated

hosting a juried art show with

captain embark on a com-

selection of his work while

works made of trash that

petition to catch the largest

it’s on display at the Garden’s

would have otherwise ended

silver king. Boats check in at

Kapnick Hall. The exhibit

up in landfills, giving that

either Pink Elephant docks

traces Butcher’s love affair

waste a new identity. During

or Whidden’s Marina, and an

with the Everglades and the

this recycled exhibition, you

awards ceremony with drinks

three decades he’s spent

can witness the creativity

and entertainment follows

trekking through the swamps

of artists who have trans-

that evening at the Boca

Courtesy Clyde Butcher; Woody Walters (Butcher portrait)

Through the Lens of Clyde

S U M M E R

G U I D E

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SUMMER GUIDE SUMMER AGENDA

Grande Community Center.

While these three artists have

hits, like “Mountain Music,”

from Southwest Florida

bocagrandecharities.org

their own signature styles,

“Song of the South” and

and Nashville singers-

the pieces, curated from

“Love in the First Degree.”

songwriters, including

among their recent works,

hertzarena.com

Sheena Brook, Kayley Hill,

June 6-20

Will Jones, Brian Sutherland

come together cohesively in If Birds Could Talk Exhibit

this exhibition.

at East West Fine Art

eastwestfineart.com

June 18-20

and Tick Savage. tweenwaters.com

Captivaville Songwriters

Drawing inspiration from birds—large and small, rare

June 11

Weekend at ’Tween Wa-

June 23-25

ters Island Resort & Spa

and common—artists Oleg Kalaytanov, Irina Alexandrina

Alabama: 50th Anniversary

Soak in the sun and sounds

The Wedding Singer at

and Una Noa have all inde-

Tour at Hertz Arena

during this third-annual

Sugden Community

pendently and coinciden-

After postponing its anniver-

pool party on Captiva

Theatre

tally captured the feathered

sary tour stop in Estero two

Island. During the three-

With performances post-

creatures on canvas using

years in a row, country group

day weekend, catch a

poned from last season

bright paint colors and brush

Alabama takes the stage with

live music lineup that

due to COVID-19, this show

strokes that elicit movement.

performances of greatest

includes performances

by The Naples Players is well overdue. The musical, inspired by an Adam Sandler movie in which he played the New Jersey performer named Robbie Hart, made its Broadway debut in 2006. This rendition of The and choreographed by Dawn Lebrecht Fornara and performed by local actors. naplesplayers.org JULY July 1 through Aug. 14 Grease at Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre In the mood for a feelgood and familiar musical?

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GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com

Courtesy Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre; Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center

Wedding Singer is directed

Artist Cath Branwood presents the solo exhibit Me, You and Them at the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center in Fort Myers.

Opposite: Grease brings summer lovin’ to the Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre.

Then the classic 1950s love

July 1 through Sept. 30

story between greaser

Provincetown summers of

performing electronic dance

the 1950s, including works

music on three stages, and

Danny Zuko and new girl

Summer in Provincetown

from artists Herman Maril,

view art installations during

Sandy Dumbrowski is just

at Harmon-Meek Gallery

Byron Browne and Balcomb

the three-day event. Musical

the show you need. The

Famously known as an art

Greene. harmonmeek.com

acts include Rusko, Netsky

performance is directed

colony, Provincetown has

and choreographed by

attracted creators through-

Broadway Palm’s resident

out the past century.

artist Amy Marie McCleary,

Naples’ Harmon-Meek

Asteria Arts & Music

whose credits include Guys

Gallery has represented

Festival in Punta Gorda

and Dolls, the national tour

a handful of artists who

Dance the weekend away

and Delta Heavy and MegJuly 2-4

alodon. asteriamusicfestival. com July 2-29

of The Wedding Singer and

frequented the Massachu-

during the fourth annual

Three M’s Synergy and Me,

Footloose. broadwaypalm.

setts destination in search

festival, set on 800 acres

You and Them Exhibits at

com

of inspiration. The show

to the east of Punta Gorda.

the Sidney & Berne Davis

pays homage to the Amer-

Attendees can camp on the

Art Center

ican modernism pieces

premises, enjoy a lineup of

Marvin Rouse, Marcus Zotter,

that emerged during the

local and international talent

Matt “Mully” Mulhern—three

S U M M E R

G U I D E

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SUMMER GUIDE SUMMER AGENDA

highly regarded local artists

vibrant portraits of people

loved artists who consider

school graduate with the

who often paint and create

who’ve inspired the artist,

the garden to be their muse.

funds to attend Florida

together during live art

like Frida Kahlo and Maya

naplesgarden.org

State University. Teams can

events—come together for

Angelou. sbdac.com

compete to catch the largest July 4

this show, blending various July 2 through Sept. 6

styles, mediums and materials. Meanwhile, Naples

snook, redfish or trout, and then attend the Seminole

Independence Day 5K at

Splash Party at ‘Tween Waters. fish-florida.com

artist Cath Branwood’s hosts

Artists in Bloom at Naples

Hertz Arena

her Me, You and Them solo

Botanical Garden

Start your Fourth of July

show, on the third floor, with

Hosted in partnership with

celebration off on the right

a mix of work she did during

the United Arts Council of

foot with a morning 5K run

lockdown that captures feel-

Collier County, the curation

or walk that kicks off at Hertz

ings of loneliness, and new

includes works from locally

Arena. Participants in the

AUGUST Aug. 7

professionally chip-timed

Remembering John Denver,

race receive a dry-fit shirt;

a Tribute Starring Ted Vigil

and those who complete

at the Centers for the Arts

the 5K are awarded with a

Bonita Springs Center for

colorful medal, in addition

Performing Arts

to taking home a photo

Recall songs like “Sweet

and video of themselves as

Surrender,” “Sunshine on My

they cross the finish line.

Shoulders” and “Take Me

runeliteevents.com

Home, Country Roads” during a dedicated performance

July 17

by Ted Vigil—a nationally

Sean Shearman Memorial

and tribute artist who has

Garnet & Gold Fishing

been performing Denver’s

Tournament at ‘Tween

music for more than 10 years.

Waters Island Resort & Spa

Sell-out audiences for his

Captiva’s best anglers

shows are often shocked by

won’t want to miss this

how much Vigil sounds and

fishing event hosted by the

looks like Denver.

Southwest Florida Seminole

artcenterbonita.org

Club and benefitting the Sean Shearman Scholarship, which provides a Lee or Charlotte county high

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GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com

Courtesy Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs; Harmon-Meek Gallery

touring singer, songwriter

Aug. 6-26 ENCOUNTER: Nine Contemporary Cuban Artists at the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center Appreciate the works of Miami residents Aimeé Pérez, Lía Galletti, Alberto J. Carol, Ismael Gómez Peralta, Reynier Llanes, Asbel Dumpierre, Armando Pérez Alemán, Pedro Ávila Gendis and Víctor Gómez—all of whom are known for producing culturally rich bodies of work. sbdac.com Aug. 9 through Oct. 5 Palettes: Warm, Cool, Complementary Colors at Marco Island Center for the Arts Using various mediums, including painting, drawing, pottery, sculpture, textiles, photography and multimedia, artists submit artworks that fit a central theme: cool and warm palettes. Winners of the

The Summer in Provincetown exhibit at Harmon-Meek Gallery honors artists associated

juried show will be awarded

with the historic Cape Cod art colony (such as Herman Maril, whose Siblings II is pictured).

for their ability to incorporate

Opposite: A John Denver tribute artist takes the stage in Bonita Springs in August.

various colors in order to create a visceral reaction. marcoislandart.org

S U M M E R

G U I D E

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CARRIE BRIGHAM DESIGN

W W W.CA R R I E B R I GHA M DE S I G N .COM

NO _ 5 0 8

0 6 _ 2 0 21

HOME

Courtesy Natuzzi

p _ 1 74

162

St ylish Living: Bonita Springs Superpenthouse

172

Alf resco: Park Shore Oasis

174

Fa vorite T hings: Noir Decor

176

Realt y Check: Dream Homes

B U I L D I N G A R C H I T E C T : Curts Gaines Hall Jones Architects, Inc. I N T E R I O R A R C H I T E C T : Beasley & Henley Interior Design B U I L D E R : Suffolk Construction I N T E R I O R D E S I G N E R : Beasley & Henley Interior Design P H O T O G R A P H Y : Stephen Allen Photography

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GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com

STYLISH LIVING

THE HIGH LIFE

HOME

Designer Troy Beasley brings the best of classic and contemporary design to a D.C. couple’s Bonita Springs penthouse.

By Michael Korb

When Marillyn and James Hew-

to build their new life in Florida with

son decided to leave the bustle of

a “clean sheet approach.” That’s when

Washington, D.C. for a more relaxed

the Hewsons remembered a condo

lifestyle in Florida, they weren’t

they had seen 15 years earlier created

convinced a condo was for them.

by interior designer Troy Beasley, of

They enjoyed the space and privacy

Beasley & Henley Interior Design. The

afforded by a single-family home.

aesthetic perfectly summed up the

But when they came across the

couple’s approach to design. “We’re

yet-to-be-built Altaira high-rise

into transitional, and, at the same

at The Colony Golf & Bay Club in

time, elegant,” James says. “We like

Bonita Springs, they jumped on the

to have dinners and entertain, so we

opportunity to purchase two pent-

wanted some formality.”

house units and created a sprawling

Other than pointing out their love

6,800-square-foot superpenthouse.

for the other condo, the Hewson’s

This space affords them the size

gave Beasley free rein. The designer

and feel of a large home, but with

worked within the couple’s parame-

an unmatched line of sight from its

ters, creating a home that seamlessly

21st-floor perch.

blends the best of classic and contem-

Instead of filling the vast space

porary design.

with the furnishings, accessories and

Exiting the private elevator, you

antiques accumulated from their

find yourself in a formal foyer embel-

decades together, the couple decided

lished with an oval ceiling detail that is

HOME

16 3

HOME STYLISH LIVING

mirrored on the floor in black, white and gray porcelain tiles, creating a shield pattern. A niche in the classic wood-clad walls features contemporary artwork, hung on a 3D panel made from glass-reinforced gypsum, along with a buffet featuring a starburst design. The light fixtures, such as a chandelier with Lucite arms and steel cables, are equally striking.

An oversized glass entry door leads into the main hallway, which features dark wood flooring with a simple stainless-steel border, giving it a contemporary edge. The passageway is embellished with wooden grillwork in a shield pattern, a recurring motif throughout the penthouse. The corridor opens to the main living space, including a grand salon with dramatic floor-to-ceiling views of the Gulf of Mexico.

A neutral palette and textures throughout the four-bedroom (plus

Off the kitchen, the butler’s pantry features Venetian plaster walls and

study and den), seven-bath penthouse

dark cabinetry. A shield pattern embellishing the barrel-shaped ceiling is a

allow the views to take center stage.

reoccurring motif throughout the penthouse.

Tufted fabric club chairs in the salon might be the best seat in the house, spaced closely against the glass, while

16 4

GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com

OUR DESIGN STUDIO NOW OPEN FOR APPOINTMENTS

We respect your home

AS IF IT WERE OUR OWN!

• • • • •

Custom new cabinets and refacing Countertops and backsplash Storage Solutions Flooring, appliances, lighting, plumbing fixtures Move walls, islands, and additions.

SUMMER SPECIAL

$1500 credit off a full kitchen and Master Bathroom Remodel.

Contact us for full details.

We are residential contractors offering full-service remodeling with professional kitchen and bathroom designers

BONITA SPRINGS 25987 S Tamiami Trail #97 Bonita Springs, Fl 34134 Open Monday - Friday 10 am - 5 pm P 239-985-5530 BonitaSprings.KitchenSolvers.com

CRC1331863

HOME STYLISH LIVING

Interior designer Troy Beasley designed the Hewson’s 6,800-square-foot penthouse at Altaira at The Colony as a perfect place to entertain.

a trio of airy cocktail tables add lightness. Capping off the salon, two chaise lounges flank the fireplace opposite another large seating area, all beneath an organically shaped rock crystal chandelier.

Nearby, the expansive kitchen, with two waterfall islands, stands as a white oasis that strikes a balance with the impressive butler’s pantry, which has a barrel ceiling, dark wood cabinetry and Venetian plaster.

The pantry opens to the unit’s elegant dining room, which also looks out to the Gulf of Mexico from several

16 6

GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com

SOLD

9400 Gulf Shore Dr APT 3, Naples, FL 34108

SOLD

Pelican Isles 455 Dockside #701, Naples, FL 34110

SOLD

SOLD

255 Park Shore Dr. #322 and #334

117 Channel Dr, Naples, FL 34108 SOLD

Mediterra 16898 Caminetto Ct, Naples, FL 34110

NEW CONSTRUCTION

Call ME for more Information

SOLD

9415 Gulf Shore Dr #402, Naples, FL 34108 NEW CONSTRUCTION

592 and 596 111th Ave N, Naples, FL, 34108

If you are considering selling your residence, buying a new residence, new construction, renovations or tear-downs please call Gabriele. Gabriele is the exclusive Realtor for her husband’s company Sunshine Home Builders LLC. Please give me a call at 239-269-5667 or email Gabriele.Gardiner@Raveis.com to discuss further.

CHAIRMAN’S CLUB 2020

TOP 14%

COMPANYWIDE

SOLD

GABRIELEGARDINER GARDINER GABRIELE Certified International Property Specialist Certified International Property Specialist Luxury Real Estate Professional

- 239.269.5667 | Office - 239.231.3380 Cell Cell - Cell 239.269.5667 | Gabriele.Gardiner@raveis.com - 239.269.5667 | Office - 239.231.3380

Office - 239.231.3380 Gabriele.Gardiner@raveis.com | Gabriele.Gardiner@raveis.com 720 5th Avenue South | Suite 201 | Naples | FL 34102

GabrieleGardiner.raveis.com GabrieleGardiner.raveis.com

720 5th Avenue South | Suite 201 | Naples | FL 34102 720 5th Avenue South | Suite 201 | Naples | FL 34102

HOME STYLISH LIVING

Beasley kept the kitchen light and bright with white shaker-style cabinets and gray backsplash and countertops. Below: The entryway stuns with its elegance.

16 8

GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com

Choose wisely when selecting a real estate professional to help you navigate the shifting market.

Contact me today for a private consultation

239.571.5474 Kimberly.Wagner@PremierSIR.com KimberlyWagner.PremierSothebysRealty.com Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission.

Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Warm neutrals are paired with tranquil blues in a guest room.

Below: In the his-and-her bathrooms, hers has an elevated tub looking over the Gulf.

HOME STYLISH LIVING

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GULFSHORE LIFE

vantage points, with all that beauty

ment, LLC). James wisely chose to

reflected, thanks to a wall of mirrors.

incorporate his study into the home’s

His-and-her bathrooms off the pri-

game room, which includes a billiards

mary bedroom might be the secret to

table, wet bar and home theater. It

a successful marriage. Her washroom

also has its own bathroom with a

features a raised stand-alone tub with

floating marble vanity and striking

views that go on for miles. Of course,

chevron-tiled floor.

the Hewson’s bedroom is no less

But perhaps the Hewsons’ favorite

impressive, with a groin vault ceiling

part of the home is a hallway that

detail and abundant use of warm

connects the Gulf-view side with

textures and tones. Not surprisingly,

the inland side of the penthouse.

it also features broad seascape views.

Beasley framed more than 20 family

Both Hewsons have their own

photographs to create a mini gallery

offices in the condo (important hubs,

of treasured moments. It’s the design-

as Marillyn is the former chairman,

er’s attention to detail that has clients

president and CEO of Lockheed

like the Hewsons recalling his work

Martin Corporation and James is the

from 15 years ago, and that ensures it

president of Crimson Pelican Invest-

will be perfect for another 15.

g ulf shorelife.com

“My legal background and work ethic enable me to provide the exceptional service you deserve.”

CATHERINE MCAVOY R E A L E S TAT E P R O F E S S I O N A L 2 3 9. 3 7 0 . 2 5 3 9 C AT H E R I N E . M C AVOY@ P R E M I E R S I R .C O M C AT H E R I N E M C AVOY. P R E M I E R S O T H E BY S R E A LT Y.C O M

Cathy is a 25-year resident of Naples specializing in luxury residential sales in Old Naples, Aqualane Shores, Park Shore, Moorings and Pelican Bay. Cathy grew up in Buffalo, New York, and graduated from Williams College in Williamstown, Massachusetts, with a Bachelor of Arts in psychology. She earned her law degree from the University of Buffalo and worked as an attorney at the New York Supreme Court, Appellate Division, in Rochester, New York, until 1995 when she relocated to Naples with her family.

Cathy raised her three children in Naples and worked in real estate law as well as for Collier County Public Schools as a GED instructor, substitute teacher and volunteer. Her husband, Brian, is a Trusts and Estates attorney in Naples and their children all attended the University of Florida. Meredith is an attorney in Orlando, Max is a craft brewer in Broomfield, Colorado, and Jack is a civil engineer in Breckenridge, Colorado.

Cathy is a member of the Florida and New York Bar Associations, and earned her broker’s license and her GRI designation.

ALFRESCO

L ANAI LIVING

HOME

Herscoe Hajjar Architects transform a midcentury ranch home’s backyard in Park Shore into a verdant oasis.

When the homeowners of this Park

carried from the interior out onto the

Shore midcentury ranch approached

lanai, blending the two spaces. Expan-

Rob Herscoe, of Herscoe Hajjar Archi-

sive glass sliders further enhance

tects, they were adamant about keep-

the uninterrupted flow between the

ing the home’s size and structure, but

indoor and outdoor realms. For a

requested updating its’60s character

beachy illusion by the pool, the team

and taking better advantage of the

carved out an L-shaped sunning area

property’s greenspace.

with sand-colored porcelain.

Herscoe’s team revamped the

The homeowner was mindful when

home inside and out, raising ceilings,

decorating the outdoor space, select-

knocking down walls and reimagining

ing durable, sustainably sourced ipe

the backyard to take it from a dated

wood furnishings for the dining and

screened-in lanai to a sophisticated

lounging areas. Centered around a

open space to relax with friends and

gas-powered fireplace, two Ballard

family. “Everything was about making

Designs Sunday Porch Swings are

the space a better version of what it

adorned with faux fur and velvet pil-

was,” Herscoe says.

lows. The lanai is designed for enter-

By tearing down the pool screen, the

taining with a wet bar near the fire.

team unveiled a wall of greenery con-

And to keep the party flowing inside

sisting of Alexander palms and dwarf

and out, a window in the kitchen

umbrella trees, accented with pops of

opens up to a patio bar set for four.

ruby-red cordyline that can be seen

“We took a humble little ranch and

from a window that spans the kitchen

transformed it into a space for a more

counter. Wood-grained porcelain

sophisticated, up-to-date lifestyle,”

tiles in warm, light brown shades are

Herscoe says.

17 2

GULFSHORE LIFE

Courtesy Herscoe Hajjar Architects/Venjhamin Reyes

By Jaynie Bartley

g ulf shorelife.com

Copper and mossy green accents are a nod to the earth tones found throughout the home; the colors are a natural complement to the lanai’s lush backdrop.

HOME

17 3

F AV O R I T E T H I N G S

NOIR DECOR Moody and mysterious elements add a dose of drama to sun-soaked homes.

By Michael Korb

To Infinity and Beyond

Prickly Vessel

Curve Appeal

Thanks to Infinito by

Dark and spiky, this 11-inch-tall

Famed interior designer Bunny

Marcantonio, we can now

black ceramic vase has just

Williams has been around long

rest comfortably (relatively

enough edge to make your

enough to know how to set just

speaking) on a sofa designed

neighbors think you’re hiding

the right mood, no matter the

for the long haul. It’s

something, and just enough

place. And this walnut burl and

three-dimensional art that

swagger to make them worried.

distressed gold leaf Charles Mirror (36 inches wide by 46.5

encourages mingling between seated parties. $20,050; natuzzi.com

$275;

inches high) mixes shapes and

republicofdecor.com

tones with the right amount of self-reflection. See what you want to see. $1,998; summerfieldsnaples.com

174

GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com

HOME

Watch the Throne

On the Prowl

Gilded Edge

A one-of-a-kind design by

A stalking black panther make all

Exceptional églomisé panels

artist Melissa Del Pinto, this

who enter feel frisky. Fortunately,

individually hand-painted in

functional-art chair features

this geometric resin wild cat

flowing abstract expressionist

silk flowers, toy figurines and

works beautifully indoors or

patterns are reminiscent

found treasures from shorelines

out, and features the flat-panel

of Italian book paper and

that frame her hand-painted

design favored by stealth aircraft,

highlight the Lexington

bird in flight on the back.

meaning that it will remain off the

Artistica Verbatim console’s

Sitting down in this makes you

radar until it’s too late. And that’s

long linear lines. Brushed brass

stand out.

reason enough to buy one.

accents enhance the flat-cut oak done in a rich brown wire-

$6,500;

brushed and cerused finish.

$1,650; kbpatiofurniture.com

judithliegeoisdesigns.com $9,979; baers.com

HOME

17 5

HOME

REALTY CHECK

DREA M HOMES An art-centric, light-filled home in Boca Grande; a Mediterranean revival in Naples; and a dreamy powder room with star power.

By Tess Lopez

Checkered black-and-gray pavers cre-

Walking through the front door affords

wood treads and a combination of glass

ate a sophisticated first impression for

a panoramic view of the great room.

and acrylic balustrades, beckons guests

the smoky blue, Key West-style home

Six skylights embedded in the 25-foot

up to the second floor.

at 16120 Sunset Pines Circle in Boca

cathedral ceiling and floor-to-ceiling

Traditionally, the upstairs of a home

Grande. An imperial staircase leads to

windows illuminate the contemporary,

is reserved for additional bedrooms off a

the front doors, appropriately building

open-concept space. “The glass is a big

shared hallway. In this home, the stairs

momentum and blending into the con-

draw, both in the front and in that living

lead to an atrium, with a large opening in

temporary interior.

area,” Stewart says.

the middle that looks onto the great room

The original owner, a contractor, built

To balance the natural colors filtering

below. A bridge runs along the walls, cre-

the home in 2005 for his family. “They

in, the owners opted for polished black

ating a gallery-like space that the owners

built the house of their dreams,” Carol

granite flooring and stark white walls.

outfitted with artwork they collected

Stewart, the listing agent with Michael

Just off to the right, a custom spiral stair-

over the years. To emphasize the focus

Saunders & Company, says.

case with stainless steel handrails, oak

on the art, they installed track lighting

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GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com

Courtesy Michael Saunders/The Hover Bureau

GOLD STANDARD

SOLD - 162 S Beach Dr, Marco Island, Fl 34145 | HIGHEST PRICED HOME SO FAR IN 2021 ON MARCO ISLAND! | $6,000,000!

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REDUCED - 355 Gumbo Limbo Ln, Marco Island, FL 34145 | MAJESTIC HIDEAWAY BEACH HOME | $2,350,000

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Thinking of Selling? If you want SOLD on your Property call me for a free market analysis.

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Cathy Rogers Luxury Home Marketing Specialist I AM PROUD TO ANNOUNCE that I have been ranked on the 2020 America’s Best Real Estate Professionals list by REAL Trends. This honor means I am part of an elite group of sales associates across the country recognized for my knowledge, expertise and commitment to extraordinary service.

It would be my pleasure to assist you with any of your real estate needs, so please call me today.

Cathy.rogers@premiersir.com | MarcoAreaExpert.com | 239.821.7926

HOME REALTY CHECK

that snakes overhead and spotlights each piece of work.

The loft is a welcoming transition into the two bedrooms with en suite baths, including the master, on the second level. The primary bedroom is fitted with bamboo flooring, a walk-in closet and a gas fireplace. The attached bathroom features a peaked ceiling with skylights, similar to the great room. The spacious and spa-like bath has a glass walk-in shower in the center. “You can make a full circle around it,” Stewart says. The glass panel on the rear is etched so it offers a full view of the pool, with full coverage from the outside looking in. On either side of the shower, his-and-her vanities in a black finish offer plenty of drawers for storage.

Each counter is topped with vessel sinks and slim, silver Hansgrohe faucets for a hint of glamour.

Two more bedrooms with en suite baths accommodate guests on the first floor. And a hexagonal turret that juts out over the backyard is the perfect space for favorite features. With a tray ceiling and

With four bedrooms and four-and-a-half baths, this

windows on all sides, she says, “it’s just a

6,765-square-foot home in Boca Grande embraces a

bright, perfect-sized space for a breakfast

contemporary Key West aesthetic.

Courtesy Michael Saunders/ The Hover Bureau (2)

a breakfast room. It’s also one of Stewart’s

table with four chairs.”

The home is on the market for $3.6 million as of May.

17 8

GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com

THE MOORINGS  LA PERLE priced from $2,810,000

PORT ROYAL

PORT ROYAL

4305 CUTLASS LANE $19,950,000

696 SPYGLASS LANE $14,450,000

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1230 GULF SHORE BLVD S. $9,495,000

THE REGENT, #17N $9,000,000

PORT ROYAL

941 GALLEON DRIVE $13,900,000

PORT ROYAL

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COQUINA SANDS ROYAL HARBOR 251 YUCCA ROAD $5,999,000

2181 TARPON ROAD $5,000,000

® Representing the Finest Properties in Naples and Boca Grande, Florida 1144 Third Street South  691 Fifth Avenue South  707 12th Avenue South  Naples, Florida 34102 2425 Tamiami Trail North, Suite 102, Naples Florida 34103  239.434.2558 VISIT US AT:

www.gcipnaples.com  www.portroyalwaterfronthomes.com

HOME REALTY CHECK

Modern design elements, like a rippled-tile fireplace, create dramatic vignettes in this updated Mediterranean home.

BJ Barone, the founder and owner of 41

contemporary update to the interior;

and dark striped zebrawood—introduce

West, takes pride in his company’s com-

and since exterior changes were off limits

a refined and contemporary palette

mitment to directing remodels from start

per their wishes, Barone’s team needed to

of neutrals. “They wanted something

to finish. He says it’s key to his business.

develop a modern vision that would work

unique and different,” Barone says. He

“As a builder, we only take on jobs where

with the home’s original architectural

implemented the same wood for a second

we are the captain of the design team. If

elements, like the arched windows.

kitchen island, on the stair treads and as

we’re going to be the ones that make it, we

After gutting the main living area, they

need to be involved in the process from

added a crescent-shaped island and bar

the beginning,” Barone says.

counter at the edge of the kitchen. The

The design team offset the warmth of

It was all hands on deck for the remodel

gentle curve of the island is a nod to the

the zebrawood kitchen islands with crisp

of a 1990s Mediterranean-style Park

arched windows and front door, while the

white acrylic cabinets and a natural stone

Shore home. The owners requested a

island’s materials—quartz countertops

countertop and backsplash.

18 0

GULFSHORE LIFE

the material for a new set of front doors, creating continuity.

g ulf shorelife.com

Courtesy 41 West/Naples Kenny Photography

RENOVATION SPOTLIGHT

MATHERS & WELLS

Award Winning Top Producers Proudly Serving Southwest Florida

Trust, integrity and knowledge are critical elements when engaging a licensed real estate professional to represent you. We thank our many clients, both Buyers and Sellers, for recognizing the dedication, service and results we provide. Call us today with your questions about the current market and a complimentary property valuation.

ASHLEY WELLS, REALTOR® BER Gold Sales Excellence Award 2020

239.405.4503 | Ashley.Wells@RoyalShellSales.com

SUE ELLEN MATHERS, REALTOR®, MBA, ABR, CNE, SRES Five Star Professional Award 2014-2020 BER Platinum Sales Excellence Award 2013-2020 239.877.2726 | SueEllen@RoyalShellSales.com

HOME

Polished Crema Marfil tile flows

center and a floating vanity in front,

from the kitchen into the great room,

the entire section of the room appears

where a white tiled media wall embel-

to descend from the clouds.

lished with a rippled waterfall design

This ethereal quality extends

frames the electric fireplace. The wall

through the rest of the home with

juts out from a dark gray recess; and

unfussy updates that won’t compete

a panel allows for easy access to the

with the homeowners’ evolving

media center’s equipment.

tastes. Even with the more classic

Courtesy 41 West/Naples Kenny Photography

REALTY CHECK

The warm, neutral color scheme

Mediterranean-style architecture,

found throughout the home is juxta-

Barone says the team succeeded at

In the kitchen, a dark striped zebrawood

posed by dramatic vignettes, such as a

making the space feel fresh for today’s

island is topped with white quartz

backlit, blue agate wall in the powder

standards—and for later. “It won’t age

countertops.

room. With a solitary mirror in the

at all,” he says.

For your premier landscape services.

3889 Sanibel Captiva Road (239) 768.5655 www.rswalsh.com

“It’s All About our ClIents!”

For more than forty years the Whitcomb name has been associated with the flourishing Southwest Florida real estate community. Their innate knowledge of the area and their love of Naples affords their clients a true insider’s perspective when it comes to selecting, selling, or building a home.

s tAn W hItComb

Scott and Stan Whitcomb are more like real estate consultants and advisors than they are salespeople.

They first like to sit down with their clients to find out what is really important to them, and truly understand what their core needs are before they even show them a home. Their determination to offer value for their clients has led them to earn one of the most loyal client base; clients that keep coming back again and again, and referring their friends and family for all real estate needs.

If you’re looking for an elevated buying, selling, or home building experience, there’s no question you should be calling The Whitcomb Group at Premiere Plus Realty Company! Here’s how you can reach them:

s tAn W hItComb - 239-564-5252 S tan @t he W hitcomb G roup . com

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HOME REALTY CHECK

MUST HAVE A ...

STELLAR POWDER R OOM

the mirror, and a refined custom

tapped Laura Parsons, the founder and

floating vanity is constructed from

principal designer of Pure Design, to

glossed Macassar ebony wood. In

outfit their powder room. While devel-

lieu of embellishing the cabinetry

oping the design, Parsons wanted to

with knobs, the designer used subtle

create contrast using both the colors

touch latches and placed a single dia-

and the materials.

mond-shaped hardware component

Courtesy Pure Design of Naples/Daniel Newcomb

Midcentury modern sconces flank

A pair of Port Royal homeowners

On the wall, the designer installed

in the center of the vanity. The brass

a backlit Brazilian blue calcite that

piece complements the marble and

enhances the stone’s nuanced colors

mother-of-pearl chevron-patterned

and casts a celestial glow throughout

flooring. This assembly of rich natu-

Backlit Brazilian blue calcite casts an

the space. “It’s a powerful stone when

ral materials elevates the space from

ethereal glow in a Port Royal powder room.

it comes to soothing and relaxing the

a simple powder room to what Parsons

body,” Parsons says.

delightedly calls “a jewelry box.”

Interior Design Services Consignments Furniture • Decor • Fine Art New Accessories & Gifts

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upforgrabsnaples.com

778 Tamiami Trail North Naples, Florida 34102 (239) 434-5900 Mon-Fri 9:30-5:30 Sat 9-5

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18 6

GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com

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NO _ 5 0 8

0 6 _ 2 0 21

TH E L AT E S T I N W E LL N E S S

Courtesy Mirror

p _ 19 0

190

Fit ness: Smart At-Home Gear

194

House Call: Health Ne ws and Events

FITNESS

UPON REFLECTION

HEALTHY LIFE

Futuristic, interactive equipment sets a new pace for athome workouts.

By Drew Limsky

The pandemic supercharged the smart

and 30-day trial periods are typical

home gym movement, as consumers

before the membership clock starts

flocked to screen-based equipment.

running. Here are three fitness mirrors

While Peloton’s subscription-based,

to get hooked on.

buzz for years, the next era of smart

Mirror

fitness lies in high-tech trainers that

The first virtual training product to

take the form of vertical screens or

make it onto most people’s radar, in

mirrors. These take up minimal space

many ways, still sets the standard

against the wall, and display dozens of

for convenience and interactivity,

on-demand workout classes. In most

offering workouts from kettlebell

cases, a personal trainer is ready to

and kickboxing to yoga and barre.

help on the other side of the line. What

Unlike other fitness mirrors with

these studio-like workouts deliver—

touchscreen capabilities, with this

apart from sleek aesthetics—is a fee-

one—which starts at around $1,500—

ling of community and connection,

you do everything through the app.

even if you’re not side by side. The

Classes are led by certified trainers

privacy, convenience and exclusivity

from around the country; you can add

are addictive, too, which means the

up to six household members; and it

appeal is likely to outlast the pandemic.

doesn’t hurt that the unobtrusive

White-glove installation is standard

Mirror looks like a piece of modern

19 0

GULFSHORE LIFE

Courtesy Mirror; iFit

virtual spin sessions have been getting

g ulf shorelife.com

art. The advanced two-way camera technology allows instructors to provide feedback and motivation during live classes, as well as personal training; it also powers social features like the community camera, which allows you to see other members during a workout. There’s real-time personalization with algorithms delivering in-workout adjustments, so a user with a knee injury can be shown a substitute exercise when a class hits a jump squat, for instance.

The brand’s profile rose last summer when the yoga apparel company Lululemon acquired it for $500 million. And now, unlike most products in its class, Mirror is available in a local brick-and-mortar location, at Lululemon at Waterside Shops in Naples, so you can pop in to ask questions.

NordicTrack Vault Dating back to 1975, NordicTrack is the legacy—some would say granddaddy— home fitness equipment brand. It Mirror, available at Naples’ Lululemon, offers workouts from barre to

started with treadmills, ellipticals and

kickboxing on its reflective screen. Top right: NordicTrack Vault hides

ski machines, but now offers a state-of-

sleek equipment behind a full-length, rotating touchscreen display.

the-art fitness experience. You’ll shell

H E A LT H Y L I F E

19 1

HEALTHY LIFE FITNESS

Tempo Studio brings cutting-edge technology paired with traditional workout gear, plus virtual personal trainers.

out about $2,000 for the Vault, but it can

And, the iFit workouts offer everything from

motion-capturing AI system that creates

accommodate up to five user profiles and

weight training to mindfulness exercises.

a 3D model of your body as you work

features an all-in-one carbon steel unit with Tempo Studio

feedback and continued guidance over

mirror, so you can always keep your form

The most premium of the three starts at

time. The equipment itself takes on the

in check. The device works just fine on its

$2,500 and features a virtual trainer that

form of a 6-foot-tall, sandwich-board-like

own through manual mode. But to unlock

emphasizes personalized feedback from

cabinet with a touchscreen display; and

its full potential you’ll need a membership

artificial intelligence and live instructors.

it offers a range of a la carte accessories,

to iFit, the interactive online platform

A 42-inch touchscreen displays the trainer

including Olympic plates, barbells, yoga

that delivers custom workouts, classes and

leading your workout, personalized stats

mats and heart rate monitors. Choose

personal trainers. The Vault marries the best

throughout each class, a leaderboard to

from hundreds of live and prerecorded

of new-age technology (the HD touchscreen

boost motivation and other movement-

classes in categories such as cardio,

and branded iFit training sessions) and

inducing perks. Tempo prides itself on

strength training, stretching and recovery.

old-school training tools (discreet storage

being immersive rather than invisible (a

Guidance on weight and reps are part

for a collection of premium dumbbells,

shot at its Mirror competitor). Unlike

of the experience, and users praise the

kettlebells and other fitness accessories).

fitness mirrors, the device features a

charismatic coaches.

19 2

GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com

Courtesy Tempo Studio

out, enabling the most precise, accurate

a full-length, stand-up, 360-degree rotating

HEALTHY LIFE

5 WAY S T O S TAY FIT IN JUNE

6 Join Goodwill Ambassadors Travel for a day of exploration on Sanibel Island. The morning kicks off with a bike ride from the Chamber of Commerce to Tarpon Bay Explorers

19 4

GULFSHORE LIFE

for a midday kayaking excursion.

After breaks for snacks and shelling, the biking continues through scenic J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge and ends with a beach sunset.

Free. carliridiontravel.eventbrite.com 12 Wellness hits the water with Saba Movement Center’s paddleboard yoga. Bring a board and life vest to Lovers Key State Park for a morning that will test your balance and core strength just offshore. $15. sabamovementcenter.com 22 If you prefer fitness at a faster pace,

then an Outdoor Sound Off Zumba class will keep you on your toes.

Sharpen your physique with choreographed moves in varying intervals of speed during this hour-long class at Vineyards Community Park. $10. eventbrite.com 29 The team at Eight-Foot Brewing gladly points out the perks of downing a cold one after a run: beer contains ethanol, which lowers bad cholesterol. Join their Eight-Foot Run Club for a 1.5- or 3-mile run before rewarding yourself with a pint—and 10 percent off your tab. Free. eightfootbrewing.com

g ulf shorelife.com

Getty

2 Florida Yoga Academy is focused on more than helping you develop strength and flexibility. Founder Inga Balciuniene is a certified yoga therapist offering holistic treatment for pain, neurological issues and illness through breathing techniques and positions designed to relieve individual ailments. $20. floridayogacademy.com

NO _ 5 0 8

TASTE OF THE GULF

At Sails Restaurant in Naples, it ’s white tablecloth ser vice with f irst-rate menus.

Brian Tietz

p_ 200

196

Chef ’s Table: Hog f ish Harr y’s

20 0

150 -Plus Essential Restaurants

0 6 _ 2 0 21

CHEF'S TABLE

HOM AGE TO HOGFISH

For Hogfish Harry’s culinary director, Everett Fromm, the restaurant’s namesake fish serves as a canvas for masterpiece dishes.

By Chelle Koster Walton Photography by Brian Tietz

Everett Fromm so admires the

citrus beurre blanc. Hogfish, often

unsung hogfish that he and his

known as hog snapper because

partners changed the name of the

their textures are similar, is a mem-

former Island Gypsy at Naples’

ber of the wrasse family, which is

Park Shore Resort to Hogfish Har-

seen more often in aquariums than

ry’s when the restaurant reopened

kitchens. Despite its less-than-glam

after renovations and rebranding

name, the hogfish’s popularity has

in October. “I love hogfish due

climbed in the past decade or so

to their beauty and mild flavor,”

from a relative unknown to a fish

Fromm, the restaurant’s culinary

cherished for its delicate flavor. The

director, says. “It can be prepared

Florida Keys helped popularize the

a lot of different ways.”

fish, which prefers a reef habitat and

The chef got creative while

is usually spear-caught. Restaurants

designing a fresh yet light dish to

can easily source it from Mexico’s

enhance the star of the plate, his

Yucatán Peninsula, Fromm says.

beloved hogfish. Looking for a din-

The chef consistently features

ner special both rustic and refined,

the hogfish as a special, but also

he conjured up a pan-roasted hog-

offers it crispy and fried in a

fish with melted leeks, jumbo lump

sandwich for lunch and dinner or

crab, blistered tomatoes and charred

grilled with pineapple and gin-

19 6

GULFSHORE LIFE

TASTE OF THE GULF

g ulf shorelife.com

At Hogfish Harry’s, the hogfish is naturally the star of the show. Chef Everett Fromm says the fish’s mild flavor makes it a versatile ingredient.

ger reduction on the dinner menu.

acidity to the dish, not overpowering

Fromm pairs his pan-roasted hogfish

Another multilayered, popular special

the light flavor of the hogfish,” he says.

with sautéed vegetables and jumbo lump

features grilled hogfish with stone crab

“The sauce is very light to complement

crab meat, and drizzles it with charred

and English peas, Lil’ Moo cheese (a

the fish and bring out the natural

citrus beurre blanc to enhance the natural

spreadable cow’s milk cheese) risotto,

sweetness of the fillets.” When buying

sweetness of the fish.

Meyer lemon beurre blanc and Thai

hogfish, the chef advises that it should

basil oil. For a pan-roasted hogfish rec-

smell fresh, sweet and like the sea.

ipe, he precisely selected side dishes

Fillets should be firm to the touch, not

to complement the fish. “They are

mushy or waterlogged. When prepar-

all mild-flavored vegetables; and the

ing, use subtle seasonings to allow its

blistered tomatoes add texture and

flavor to shine.

19 8

GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com

TASTE OF THE GULF CHEF'S TABLE

H O GFISH H A R RY’S PA N - ROA S TED H O GFISH Serves 2 Prep time: 18 to 22 minutes Fo r t h e h o g f i s h: 2 filets, 4-6 ounces each Sea salt, to taste White pepper, to taste ½ tablespoon unsalted butter Fo r t h e l e e k s , blistered tomatoes a n d j u m b o l u m p c r a b: 1 tablespoon grapeseed oil 1/4 cup whole grape tomatoes 1/4 cup Brussels sprouts, stems trimmed and halved lengthwise 1/2 cup leeks, white and light green parts, sliced in rounds 1/2 shallot, minced ½ tablespoon unsalted butter 1/4 cup pinot grigio 1/4 cup jumbo lump crab meat 1/2 tablespoon fresh oregano Salt and pepper, to taste Fo r t h e c h a r r e d c i t r u s beurre blanc: 2 lemons, halved 1 orange, halved 1 cup pinot grigio 1 shallot, halved and thinly sliced 1 bay leaf 2 sprigs fresh thyme 1/4 cup heavy cream

2 sticks unsalted butter, cubed Salt, to taste White pepper, to taste Pr e p a r e t h e h o g f i s h: 1. Season the fish fillets with the sea salt and white pepper, and melt the butter in a nonstick pan.

2. Place the hogfish in the pan over medium heat, and cook for three minutes on each side until the fillets are translucent.

3. Using a fish spatula, place the cooked fillets on a paper towel-lined plate to rest.

Pr e p a r e l e e k s , t o m a t o e s a n d c r a b: 1. Heat a saute pan. Add the grapeseed oil, then tomatoes, and cook on high heat for 4 to 6 minutes until a dark roasted color occurs.

2. Add the Brussels sprouts flat side down and heat 3 minutes until they are caramelized.

3. Add the leeks, shallot, butter and wine. Cook down for 30 seconds on high heat, allowing the pan sauce to coat the vegetables.

4. Fold in the jumbo lump crab meat. Finish by seasoning with oregano, salt and pepper.

TA S T E O F T H E G U L F

Pr e p a r e t h e c h a r r e d citrus beurre blanc: 1. Chargrill lemons and orange at medium-high heat, cut side down, without squeezing or applying any pressure, for about 2 minutes.

2. Juice the citrus using a hand-juicer and set aside.

3. In a small saucepan, combine the wine, sliced shallot, bay leaf, thyme and juice of chargrilled citrus.

Reduce to 1 tablespoon of liquid over medium heat.

4. Add the heavy cream and reduce on medium heat, until thickened, about 5 minutes.

5. Fold the butter into the pan on low heat, one cube at a time.

6. Season with salt and pepper and strain through a fine mesh strainer (chinois) and set to the side.

Pl a t e: Place the vegetable and crab mixture in the center of the plate and top with the hogfish.

Drizzle the beurre blanc on the fish and around the plate.

Garnish it with fried leeks or fresh garden herbs such as chervil, thyme, oregano and flat-leaf parsley.

19 9

TA S T E O F T H E G U L F

DINING GUIDE The Dining Guide is crafted each month based on editorial discretion, as well as inclusion of restaurants that advertise regularly (denoted by an asterisk). All phone numbers are area code (239) unless specified. Please email diningout@gulfshorelife.com to report changes in a restaurant’s location, prices or menu. As conditions are constantly changing during the COVID-19 pandemic, we recommend you contact the restaurants for the latest information.

DINING GUIDE KEY:

b

Brunch

o

Outside Dining

p

Pet-Friendly

v

Valet

w

Water Views

You can’t go wrong with any of the Aielli Group’s Italian-inflected, Naples restaurants,

200

GULFSHORE LIFE

Tina Sargeant

including Grappino (above), Sea Salt, Barbatella and Dorona.

g ulf shorelife.com

H ETNI TCI C I IN ND D IIAANN C UCI S A U T AHU ET N U I INSE I N E

BEST RATED INDIAN RESTAURANT IN NAPLES

THE

BEST

OF THE GULFSHORE 2021

SCAN QR CODE TO SEE OUR MENU

975 Pine Ridge Road, Naples, Florida 34108 | Phone: (239) 591-5156 email: info@leindya.com | www.leindya.com

Jane’s Cafe on 3rd 1209 Third St. S., 261-2253. janesgardencafe.com. Folks come for the lobster Benedict and stuffed French toast, but they stay to sit around the lovely koi fountain on the sunny patio. $$ CASUAL

bopv

Sails Restaurant, in Naples, serves one of the best brunches in town in a chic

ov

The Oyster Society 599 S. Collier Blvd., 394-3474. theoystersociety.com. With a plethora of bivalves to choose from (more than eight daily), plus a raw bar, sushi and fresh catches, this chic Art Deco-style eatery won’t disappoint. $$$$ SEAFOOD

o

Sale e Pepe 480 S. Collier Blvd., 3931600. sale-e-pepe.com. A long-standing gem with an oceanfront patio in the Marco

202

Beach Ocean Resort, it’s known for its authentic Italian dishes with a haute twist and a formidable wine cellar. $$$$ ITALIAN

bovw NAPLES

THIRD STREET SOUTH Barbatella 1290 Third St. S., 263-1955. barbatellanaples.com.

Casual Italian cuisine from the people behind Sea Salt.

Meet up at the trendy wine bar or on the relaxed patio. $$$ ITALIAN

op

The Bevy 360 12th Ave. S., 228-4220. naplesbevy.com. Enjoy premium craft cocktails and varied influences at this Third Street locale. The open-air setup with a retractable roof

GULFSHORE LIFE

is nothing short of impressive, too. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN

op

Campiello/The Club Room 1177 Third St. S., 435-1166. campiellonaples.com. A favorite for its contemporary Italian cuisine and courtyard.

Last year, The Club Room, a restaurant within, launched with an its own menu, drinks and live music most nights. $$$$ ITALIAN

opv

D’Amico’s The Continental 1205 Third St. S., 659-0007. damicoscontinental.com.

Experience top-quality cuts of steak from around the globe that are enhanced by stylish modern decor, private cabanas and a “cocktail lab.” $$$$ STEAK

opv

Sea Salt 1186 Third St. S., 434-7258. seasaltnaples.com. A local favorite for sophisticated seafood and its accompaniments. Monthly wine dinners and other events are not to be missed. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN

opv

FIFTH AVENUE SOUTH Bha! Bha! Persian Bistro 865 Fifth Ave. S., 594-5557. bhabhabistro.com. Find exquisite Persian cuisine in this recently refreshed jewel box of a dining room. Choose from a variety of authentic fare, plus unique twists to vegetables, lamb, chicken, beef and more. $$$$ MIDDLE EASTERN

o

Bistro 821 821 Fifth Ave. S., 261-5821. bistro821.com. Kitchen open for the eyes of the customers and a menu filled with originality. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN

op

g ulf shorelife.com

Vanessa Rogers

Ario 400 S. Collier Blvd., 394-2511. jwmarriottmarcoisland.com.

This contemporary fine dining restaurant at the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort has exciting culinary offerings, including an impressive bar program. $$$$ STEAK

MODERN AMERICAN

op

setting on Fifth Avenue South.

MARCO ISL AND

Ridgway Bar & Grill 1300 Third St. S., 262-5500. ridgwaybarandgrill.com. A quintessential Old Naples restaurant with creative American fare. $$$

TASTE OF THE GULF

DINING GUIDE Chops City Grill 837 Fifth Ave. S., 262-4677. chopscitygrill.com. Fine steaks are served at this elegant, baroque-inspired steakhouse that was renovated in 2019. $$$$ STEAK

opv

The French Brasserie Rustique 365 Fifth Ave. S., 315-4019. thefrenchnaples.com. From celebrated local chef Vincenzo Betulia, expect exquisite escargot and steak tartare in a buzzworthy atmosphere. $$$ FRENCH

opv

Hobnob Kitchen & Bar 720 Fifth Ave. S., Unit 101, 580-0070. hobnobnaples. com. Updated takes on American cuisine in a cool, contem-

porary dining room. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN

Ocean Prime 699 Fifth Ave. S., 430-0404. ocean-prime.com. National restaurateur Cameron Mitchell presents an upscale, fromscratch kitchen mixing surf and turf, an elegant dining room and highly attentive service. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN

v

Osteria Tulia/Bar Tulia 466 Fifth Ave. S., 213-2073. osteriatulia.com. Expect Sicilian-inspired dishes served in a rustic-chic setting or the Bar Tulia gastropub, which has unbeatable craft cocktails. $$$ ITALIAN

opv

Pazzo! Cucina Italiana 853 Fifth Ave. S., 434-8494. pazzoitaliancafe.com. Beautiful presentations and twists on Italian favorites. $$$$ ITALIAN

opv

Pinchers* Multiple locations throughout Collier and Lee counties. pinchersusa.com. Local seafood in a casual setting. $$$ SEAFOOD

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$$$$ SEAFOOD

opvb

Sushi Thai Multiple locations throughout Collier and Lee counties. sushithaitoo.com. Large selection of sushi and Thai dishes. $$$ ASIAN

Riverwalk* 1200 Fifth Ave. S., 263-2734. riverwalktincity.com. This is a favorite in Tin City, with indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the river. Open for lunch, Sunday brunch and dinner. $$$ SEAFOOD

Sails Restaurant 301 Fifth Ave. S., 360-2000. sailsrestaurants.com. This refined eatery and raw bar has a Sunday champagne brunch that’s a destination in itself.

opv

Truluck’s 698 Fourth Ave. S., 530-3131. trulucks.com. The fine dining locale touts seafood from the Gulf and beyond. $$$$ SEAFOOD

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NOSTALGIA SERVED WITH A SMILE SOUTHERN - STYLE COMFORT FOOD RETRO DINER ATMOSPHERE BREAKFAST ALL DAY LUNCH FROM 11AM - 2PM OPEN FROM 7AM TO 2PM DAILY

BOURBON PECAN FRENCH TOAST TOPPED WITH BOURBON BROWN SUGAR, GLAZED APPLES & TOASTED PECANS

2200 EDWARDS DRIVE FORT MYERS, FL 33901 239.314.3854 ELLAMAESDINER.COM

TASTE OF THE GULF

DINING GUIDE

Veranda E 290 Fifth Ave. S., 659-3466. hotelescalante.com. A courtyard setting and menu with both Asian and French influences in the Hotel Escalante.

$$$$ MODERN AMERICAN

op

Grappino 90 9th St N., 331-4325. grappinonaples.com. New from the Aielli Group, this Italian eatery offers a fine selection of charcuterie and bruschetta as well as build-your-own pasta dishes and pizzas. $$$ ITALIAN

DOWNTOWN NAPLES

op

The Claw Bar 221 Ninth St. S., 231-3912. theclawbar.com. Expect Southern charm in spades, the best oysters (hot and cold), exquisite seafood masterpieces and cocktails with flair.

The Lake Park Diner 944 Seventh Ave N., 228-6351. thelakeparkdiner.com. Grab and go or sit on the outdoor patio. From the team behind The Bevy, this casual spot serves healthy, organic fare with many vegan options, plus diner classics including milkshakes. $$ MODERN AMERICAN

$$$$ SEAFOOD

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op

Seventh South Craft Food + Drink 849 Seventh Ave S., 231-4553. seventhsouth.com. A winning chef and bartender teamed up to launch this new locale with a focus on seasonal ingredients that’s the best restaurant to have launched in the past year. $$$ AMERICAN

BAYFRONT

bo

op

The Rooster Food + Drink 600 Goodlette-Frank Road N. Suite 101, 228-5973. theroosternaples.com. A breakfast and lunch spot with elaborate dishes, like braised short ribs over grits with salsa verde.

Dinner is served Wednesday through Friday in season.

CRAY TON COVE

$$ CASUAL

op

It’s all about coastal-inspired, modern eats and drinks at Hampton Social in Naples’ Mercato shopping center.

Industry Beer & BBQ 449 Bayfront Place, 331-4160. industrybeerandbbq.com.

High-low goodness at its best: a hip, lively joint with hearty ‘cue and superb brews, all with top-notch quality. $$ BARBECUE

Bleu Provence 1234 Eighth St. S., 261-8239. bleuprovencenaples.com.

Consistently one of the best restaurants in the area, it channels the south of France in Old Naples with amazing food and a stunning wine list. $$$$ FRENCH

opv

Chez Boët 755 12th Ave. S., 643-6177. chezboetnaples.com. French staples with a personal touch from the husband-wife owners, plus a full bar. $$$$ FRENCH

opw The Dock at Crayton Cove* 845 12th Ave. S., 263-9940. dockcraytoncove.com. A longtime favorite, this laidback spot serves Florida seafood on Naples Bay. $$$ SEAFOOD

opw

EAST NAPLES 21 Spices by Chef Asif 4270 Tamiami Trail E. #21, 919-8830. 21spicesdining. com. No average curry house (but you can get great chicken tikka masala). It features an award-winning chef and a full bar. $$$ INDIAN Brian Tietz

op

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g ulf shorelife.com

Kareem’s Lebanese Kitchen 4270 Tamiami Trail E., 3154167. kareemskitchen.com. Locals rave about the authentic seven types of hummus and entrees like roasted chicken with za’atar-spiced potatoes. $$$ MIDDLE EASTERN

o

LowBrow Pizza & Beer 3148 Tamiami Trail E., 5296919. lowbrowpizzaandbeer. com. Gourmet pies with artisanal cheeses and unique toppings made from scratch are fired in a wood-burning oven; served with craft brews in a fun, art-filled atmosphere. $$ ITALIAN

op

Rumba Cuban Café 1265 Airport-Pulling Road S., 659-2996. rumbacuban cafe.com. Classic Cuban

cuisine with fun twists and attentive service. $$$ LATIN AMERICAN

o

Texas Tony’s* 4519 Tamiami Trail E., 732-8392. texastonys.com.

Ribs, brisket and more are complemented by a large selection of beer at this eatery. $$ BARBECUE

o

Three60 Market 2891 Bayview Drive, Naples, 732-7331. three60market.com.

A breakfast and lunch cafe with gourmet flair and an extensive wine shop that offers dinner carryout specials. $$ MODERN AMERICAN

opw

MIDTOWN Alexander’s Restaurant 4077 Tamiami Trail N., 2624999. alexandersnaples.com.

The menus are filled with seafood and tastes from around the world, presented in a modern cafe and lush garden atmosphere. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN

op

native Dominican Republic mix with American classics. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN

op

Dorona 2110 Tamiami Trail N., 5292819. doronanaples.com. Upscale-casual steakhouse from the owners with a delightfully diverse menu. $$$$ STEAK

opb

Andre’s Steakhouse 2800 Tamiami Trail N., 2635851. If you’re a fan of Peter Luger, opt for this tiny joint founded by one of its former chefs. $$$$ STEAK

op

Cibao Grille 814 Neapolitan Way, 4346653. cibaogrille.com. Caribbean dishes from the owners’

Escargot 41 4339 Tamiami Trail N., 7935000. escargot41.com. This traditional French restaurant features a page of escargot specials alone, plus a large wine list. $$$ FRENCH

op

Fernández the Bull 3375 Pine Ridge Road, Unit

Photo courtesy of Maxwell Mackenzie

HHHHI Yelp / TripAdvisor

STAY 2 NIGHTS, ENJOY 3RD FREE! *Valid 6/15/2021 – 9/30/2021 Restrictions apply TarponLodge.com/specials

WATERFRONT DINING IN PARADISE Tarpon Lodge and Restaurant offers a tranquil getaway steeped in “Old Florida” tradition.

Famous for its acclaimed dining, whispering Gulf breezes, and spectacular nightly sunset shows.

TARPONLODGE.COM 13771 WATERFRONT DR PINE ISLAND, FL 239-283-3999

COME BY CAR OR BOAT: N 26.39.562 W 82.9.180

an extensive selection of vegetarian and vegan fare. $$ INDIAN

The Local 5323 Airport-Pulling Road, 596-3276. thelocalnaples. com. Locally sourced, healthy cuisine. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN

o

Martin Fierro 13040 Livingston Road, 3004777. martinfierrorestaurant. com. Authentic Argentinian and Uruguayan parrillada, with grass-fed beef and tango music. $$$ LATIN AMERICAN

o

cocktails, gastropub-inspired bites and stunning sushi.

101, 653-9097; 1201 Piper Blvd. Unit 10, 254-9855. fernandezthebull.com. Great, authentic Cuban dishes. $$ LATIN AMERICAN

op Food & Thought 2132 Tamiami Trail N., 2132222. foodandthought.com.

An organic grocer and counter-service cafe with raw and vegan options. $ VEGETARIAN

op

Fujiyama 2555 Tamiami Trail N., 261-4332. naplesfujiyama. com. Japanese master chefs prepare dinners with flair at your hibachi table. $$$ ASIAN

o

FUSE Global Cuisine/ FUSE BBQ 2500 Tamiami Trail N. #115, 455-4585. fuseglobalcuisine. com. Cuisines from around the world at the fine dining Fuse; 206

insanely good barbecue next door. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN

tasting menus is an inimitable experience in fine dining.

op

$$$ MODERN AMERICAN

Harold’s Place 2555 Tamiami Trail N., 263-7254. naplesharoldsplace. com. This chickee bar serves an award-winning charbroiled burger. $ CASUAL

Jimmy P’s Charred 1833 Tamiami Trail N., Naples, 643-2427; 25301 Tamiami Trail S., Bonita Springs, 390-0301. jimmypscharred.com. A casual steakhouse specializing in wagyu beef from Naples’ longtime trusted butcher.

op

Hogfish Harry’s 600 Neapolitan Way, 7767623. hogfishharrys.com.

Expect an airy island feel with a streamlined menu that is following a commitment to sourcing 90% of it from local fishermen. $$$ SEAFOOD

o

Hyde N Chic 923 Creech Rd., 404-3065, hydenchicrestaurant.com.

An evening spent in chef Andy Hyde’s artfully appointed dining room with him guiding you through his eclectic, inspired

GULFSHORE LIFE

$$$$ STEAK

o

Lamoraga Restaurant 3936 Tamiami Trail N., 3313669, lamoragarestaurant.com.

Contemporary upscale twists on Spanish dishes, plus other small plates. $$$$ SPANISH

opv

Le Indya 975 Pine Ridge Road, 591-5156. leindya.com. The authentic Indian cuisine here has attracted many fans since its recent debut and features

o

Shula’s Steak House

430-4999. shulasnaples. com. Expect classic steakhouse fare from Hall-ofFame Coach Don Shula. $$$$ STEAK

Swan River Seafood and Fish Market

3741 Tamiami Trail N., 4037000. swanriverseafood. com. Find Cape Cod-style seafood, and a market with a fresh catches, Angus beef, wine and more.

$$$ SEAFOOD

o

USS Nemo

3745 Tamiami Trail N., 2616366. ussnemorestaurant. com. Masterful creations using fresh seafood from a classically trained chef who is among the best in the area. $$$ SEAFOOD

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g ulf shorelife.com

Vanessa Rogers

In addition to authentic korean barbecue, Fort Myers’ Ember overdelivers on

Moura Bistro 3369 Pine Ridge Road, 7388883. mourabistro.com. A tiny spot with flavorful selections of Lebanese fare, like falafel, tabbouleh, shawarma and kebabs. $$$ MIDDLE EASTERN

TASTE OF THE GULF

DINING GUIDE MiraMare Ristorante THE VILL AGE SHOPS ON VENETIAN BAY Bayside Seafood Grill & Bar 4270 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., 649-5552. baysideseafoodgrillandbar.com. More than 200 feet of waterfront dining, inside and out–plus music at the deck bar. $$$$ SEAFOOD

opv

M Waterfront Grille 4300 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., 263-4421. mwaterfrontgrille. com. Expect organic meat, seafood and produce served in the main dining room with bay views, plus a full bar and front terrace. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN

ovwb

4236 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., 430-6273. miramarenaples. com. Come for the waterfront patio, stay for large portions of calamari and chicken francese. $$$ ITALIAN

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T-Michaels Steak and Lobster House 4050 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., 261-0622. t-michaels.com.

Steakhouse dining on the waterfront, featuring USDA prime meats and Maine lobster. $$$$ STEAK

vw

WATERSIDE SHOPS True Food Kitchen 5375 Tamiami Trail N. Suite 15, 431-4580. truefoodkitchen. com. The majority of the menu

caters to vegetarians, but it’s a perfect place for flexitarians, too. $$$ VEGETARIAN

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NORTH NAPLES Baleen 9891 Gulf Shore Drive, 598-5707. laplayaresort.com.

A beachfront wraparound terrace sets the stage for the creative cuisine at the LaPlaya resort. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN

ovw

The Bay House/The Claw Bar at Tierney’s Tavern 799 Walkerbilt Road, 5913837. bayhousenaples.com.

Enjoy the Southern-inspired menus with panoramic views of a mangrove-lined waterway, or the rustic tavern and bar $$$$ SEAFOOD

ovwb Bella Mia Italian Cafe 808 Wiggins Pass Road, 2503310. bellamiaitaliancafe.com.

European coffee and pastries are the backbone here, plus a tightly edited menu from an acclaimed chef. $$ ITALIAN

bo

Black Forest Restaurant Immokalee Road, 592-4784. blackforestnaples.com.

Classic German and Austrian dishes in an intimate setting in the Green Tree Plaza. $$$ EASTERN EUROPEAN

Bone Hook Brewing Co. 1514 Immokalee Road, 6318522. bonehookbrewing.com.

This well-respected microbrewery has a taproom with a full kitchen, table service and

DRY AGED

ON-PREMISE

LIVE MUSIC • OUTDOOR HEATED DINING & FIRE PITS • SAT AND SUN BRUNCH • FULL LIQUOR LICENSE

Reserve your individual steak now.

239-208-8518

2150 West First Street Fort Myers, Fl 33901

www.kingskitchenandbar.com www.facebook.com/kingskitchenandbar TA S T E O F T H E G U L F

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DINING GUIDE lasagna. $$$ ITALIAN

op

Café Gourmand 9853 Tamiami Trail N., 2607109. cafegourmand.net. Try the best selection of crepes in Naples at this quaint spot.

Tuesday-Sunday, white tablecloths come out at night for formal dinner service. $$ FRENCH

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Dusk 280 Vanderbilt Beach Road, 598-6644. ritzcarlton.com.

Known for some of the most intriguing sushi around, this lounge in The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, is full of dark corners and couches, plus a patio overlooking the Gulf. $$$$ ASIAN

Côte d’Azur 11224 Tamiami Trail N., 5978867. cotedazurrestaurant. com. Delectable French cuisine offering everything from filet mignon to quail in a cozy Provençal setting. $$$$ FRENCH

ovw

Grain De Café

8803 Tamiami Trail N., 594-8081. frenchcafenaples. com. Waiting in the line is worth it for the freshest pain au chocolat, quiches and crepes. $$ FRENCH

bo

The Crust

8004 Trail Blvd., 244-8488. thecrustpizza.net. With a huge bar and games on TV, it’s one of Naples’ most popular pizza joints, specializing in thin-crust pies cut into bite-size squares, plus salads and subs. $$ ITALIAN

The Grill

DaRuMa Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Lounge*

Komoon Thai Sushi & Ceviche 1575 Pine Ridge Road #9; 1514 Immokalee Road; 3300 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs.

234-2442. komoonthai.com. A fun mix of Thai, Japanese and Peruvian fare. $$ ASIAN

241 Center St. N., 591-1200. darumarestaurant.com.

Traditional service or Teppan-style tableside cooking. Teriyaki steak, filet mignon, chicken, seafood, tempura and sushi. $$$$ ASIAN

Deep Lagoon Seafood & Fish Market*

10395 Tamiami Trail N., 631-6266. deeplagoon.com.

At this fresh concept from the family behind Pinchers, there’s an extensive seafood market. $$$ SEAFOOD

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280 Vanderbilt Beach Road, 598-6644. ritzcarlton.com.

This steakhouse in The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, evokes the ambience of an elegant private club. $$$$ STEAK

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Namba

8847 Tamiami Trail N., 592-4992. nambanaples. com. This Japanese menu is limited to a remarkable selection of ramen, sushi and small plates. $$$ ASIAN Parmesan Pete’s

7935 Airport-Pulling Road, 992-3663. parmesanpetes. com. Order huge portions of Parmesans, meatballs and

GULFSHORE LIFE

o

The Turtle Club 9225 Gulf Shore Drive, 5926557. turtleclubnaples.com.

Upscale casual beachfront restaurant offering coastal cuisine. $$$$ SEAFOOD

ovw

Zen Asian BBQ 10823 Tamiami Trail N., 2607037. eatatzen.com. Pan-Asian fusion joint with sushi, ramen, bar bites and Korean barbecue. $$$ ASIAN

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MERCATO The Hampton Social 9114 Strada Place, 202-2038. thehamptonsocial.com.

A lofty Chicago-export with a chic, rosé-all-day bar scene complemented by great seafood. $$$ SEAFOOD

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Rocco’s Tacos

9123 Strada Place, 500-8226. roccostacos.com/naples.

It’s a perpetual party at this lively joint which serves more than 400 tequilas. $$$ MEXICAN

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THE PAVILION KC American Bistro 885 Vanderbilt Beach Road, 566-2371. kcamericanbistro. com. Seasonal, regional American cuisine in a casually elegant setting from chef Keith Casey. Now has an Estero location, too. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN

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Tacos & Tequila Cantina

8971 Tamiami Trail N., 254-8226; 4834 Davis Blvd., 732-8226; 10952 Eagle

Village Drive, Fort Myers, 330-8226. tacosandtequilanaples.com. Tacos with lots of clever spins, plus margaritas aplenty. $$ MEXICAN

op

GALLERIA SHOPPES AT VANDERBILT Alpine Restaurant

2355 Vanderbilt Beach Road, 325-9499. alpineofnaples.com. The best of German, Slovak, Czech, Polish and Hungarian cuisines. $$$ EASTERN EUROPEAN

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The Cave Bistro & Wine Bar

2343 Vanderbilt Beach Road, 513-0095. naples winecollection.com. An ode to Burgundy’s cellars, complete with continental small plates. $$$ BAR BITES

ob

Mister O1 Extraordinary Pizza

2355 Vanderbilt Beach Road, 631-6844. mistero1. com. “Extraordinary” isn’t hyperbole; try the star pizza for proof. $$ ITALIAN

o

BONITA SPRINGS Angelina’s Ristorante 24041 S. Tamiami Trail, 390-3187. angelinasofbonitasprings.com. Fine foods, lush banquettes and an award-winning wine list make for a top area restaurant. $$$$ ITALIAN

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C Level Bistro & Wine Bar

4450 Bonita Beach Road,

g ulf shorelife.com

Courtesy The Continental

grub. $$ BAR BITES

A place to see and be seen in downtown Naples, The Continental is known for its lush courtyard seating and elevated steakhouse menu.

221-7046. c-levelbar.com.

Quiet and effortlessly refined, this intimate eatery is dependable for continental fare like steak au poivre.

Waterfront Grille

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opvw

$$$$ MODERN AMERICAN

Cirella’s*

25265 Chamber of Commerce Drive, 948-3885. cirellasrestaurantsswfl.com. It’s an unusual combination that works—an Italian restaurant with a sushi bar. $$$ ITALIAN

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Coconut Jack’s

5370 Bonita Beach Road, 676-7777. coconutjacks.com.

Quiet water views off Bonita Beach Road. Perfect for a quick bite. $$$ SEAFOOD DeRomo’s Gourmet Market & Restaurant 26811 South Bay Drive, Suites 140 and 148, 325-3583. deromos.com. This restaurant with a big-city vibe is part and parcel of an Italian market, featuring fresh pastas, cheeses and baked goods. $$$$ ITALIAN

op

w Figs Grille 25987 S. Tamiami Trail #109, 390-1700. figsgrille.com.

Refreshing fusion of Spanish, Turkish, Moroccan, Lebanese and French cuisines. $$$ MEDITERRANEAN

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The Other Side Bistro

24630 S. Tamiami Trail, 9927433. bonitaspringsbistro. com. Chef Brian McCarley serves comforting dishes with a modern flair. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN

op

Olde Florida Chop House* 3401 Bay Commons Dr., 948-4400. oldefloridachophouse.com. Waterfront dining specializing in Florida-style dishes. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN

TA S T E O F T H E G U L F

Petar’s Restaurant

3300 Bonita Beach Road, Unit 120, 249-4064. petarsrestaurant.com. Chef Petar Al Kurdi developed a strong following for his deftly pre-

209

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DINING GUIDE pared continental cuisine.

Rim. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN

o

Tarpon Bay 5001 Coconut Road, 3904295. hyatt.com. Elegant waterfront dining at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point.

$$$ MODERN AMERICAN

Pinchers* Multiple locations throughout Collier and Lee counties. pinchersusa.com. Seafood from local fishermen in a family-friendly setting. $$$ SEAFOOD

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Roy’s Restaurant 26831 South Bay Drive, 4987697. roysrestaurant.com. Enjoy celebrity chef Roy Yamaguchi’s Hawaiian and Pacific fusion fine dining. $$$$ ASIAN

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A Table Apart 4295 Bonita Beach Road, 221-8540. atableapart.com.

This restaurant fuses influences from all throughout the Pacific

$$$$ SEAFOOD

ovw

Wylds Café 4271 Bonita Beach Road, 9470408. wyldscafe.com. Three chefs join forces for a modern American fine dining experience at a reasonable price. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN

opv

ESTERO Divieto Ristorante 23161 Village Shops Way #101, 390-2977. divietoristorante. com. This place is famous for

fettuccine Alfredo prepared in a hollowed-out Parmesan wheel. $$$ ITALIAN

opv

FORT MYERS BE ACH Fresh Catch Bistro

3040 Estero Blvd., 463-2600. freshcatchbistro.com. A notch above the more casual fare on the beach without feeling stuffy. $$$ SEAFOOD

ow

Pinchers* Multiple locations throughout Collier and Lee counties. pinchersusa.com. Seafood from local fishermen in a super-casual, family-friendly setting. $$$ SEAFOOD

ow

FORT MYERS SOUTH FORT MYERS Artisan Eatery

8951 Daniels Parkway, 887-4844. artisaneatery.com.

Look beyond the counter service, soda machine and postage stamp size of this cafe for outstanding eggs Benedict, flatbreads and daily specials. $$ CASUAL

Ember

7091 College Parkway #9, 771-8818. emberfortmyers. com. A contemporary gem with everything from tabletop barbecue to fusion dishes and sushi. $$$ ASIAN Fancy’s Southern Café

In Bonita Springs, A Table Apart’s globally inspired menu is accompanied by a carefully curated wine list.

8890 Salrose Lane #101, 561-2988. fancyssoutherncafe.com. Classic southern favorites served in a casually elegant atmosphere. $$ MODERN AMERICAN

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Harold’s 15250 S. Tamiami Trail Suite 107, 849-0622. haroldscui-

sine.com. Chef Harold Balink presents farm-to-table cuisine and a large wine list in a cozy bistro setting. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN

La Trattoria Café Napoli

Villas Plaza, 12377 S. Cleveland Ave., 931-0050. latrattoriacafenapoli.com. Known for chef-owner Gloria M. Jordan-Cabral’s paella, this Spanish restaurant features a variety of tapas, pasta and seafood dishes.

Brian Tietz

$$$ MEDITERRANEAN

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GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com

Liberty

12995 S. Cleveland Ave. Ste. 112, 689-5528. eatliberty.us.

A rising star chef owns and runs this 32-seat, dinner-only gem, where the flavors are progressive, artfully plated and constantly changing.

Perfect for date night. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN

Osteria Celli

15880 Summerlin Road #308, 267-1310. osteriacelli. com. Authentic, freshly made pastas are a highlight of this upscale casual eatery.

NAPLES . FT. MYERS . SARASOTA

241 Center Street N, Naples, Florida 34108 239-591-1200 13499 South Cleveland Ave, Ft Myers, Florida 33907 239-344-0037 5459 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota, Florida 34232 941-342-6600 4910 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Florida 34231 941-552-9465

$$$ ITALIAN

Pinchers* Multiple locations throughout Collier and Lee counties. pinchersusa.com. Seafood from local fishermen in a casual and family-friendly setting. $$$ SEAFOOD

www.DaRuMaRestaurant.com

Inspired by the Season

NER

$$ ITALIAN

Silk Road

SOUPS + SALADS

Red Lentil Soup with Fresh Lemon local Drive, soup of the day Gladiolus

V

GF

THE LOCAL IS PROUD TO SUPPORT AND SERVE LOCAL + SUSTAINABLE FARMS, RANCHES, + FISHERIES: Worden Farm, Farmer Mike’s Produce and Eggs, Inyoni Farm, Palmetto Creek Farm, Blue Star Seafood, Care 2 Grow Mushrooms, Oakes Farms, Colusa Farms

Inspired by the Season.

The Saucy Meatball Sourced Locally.

12401 CommerceLocally Lakes Impassioned by Sustainability.

Drive, 800-7172. saucymeat-

ball.com. A younger sister to the long popular 2 Meatballs in the Kitchen, this industrial-chic pizzeria also serves crave-worthy pasta dishes, salads, entrees.

Experience Naples’ only true farm and sea to table restaurant

o

Experience Naples’ only true farm and sea to table restaurant

HANDMADE ARTISINAL BREAD PLATTER (BY REQUEST ONLY): 2-3 PEOPLE: $4.5 | 5-7 PEOPLE: $8

Created by Chef Jeff Mitchell

OFFERING OUR

entrees E N JSUNSET OY MENU

Sourced Locally EN J OY

Cowboy-rubbed Beef Brisket GF Smoked Coffee + Brown sugar-rubbed brisket with Vinegar BBQ, 4:00pm to 6:15pm pico de gallo + pickled red onion

20% OFF 5/10 Market

Created by Chef Jeff Mitchell

20% OFF 27

8646 Dine In ONLY • Organic mixed greens salad 7 689-4845. Specializing in heirloom tomato slices, red onions, blue cheese Keto steak 28 crumbles, Fresh Basil Central Asian cuisine, thiswith blue cheese vinaigrette 6.5oz grilled steak with Grilled Onion, Enjoy a delicious Basil salsa verde, fresh Tomato + Avocado place takesORganic dinersspinach on a salad V farm 7& sea to table cashews, cabbage, carrots, cucumber, radishes, oven-roasted pasture raised chicken breast 27 rewarding epicurean journeyvinaigrette 3-Course mealbread crumbs, soft boiled egg + pecorino cheese sauce local fruit with ginger-soy mustard

with Uzbek ORganic delicacies and $25 Kale Caesar salad 7 per person Sauteed Snapper “Piccata” 32 lo-cal caesar traditional food anddressing, wine parmesan, lemon zest + pumpernickel croutons featuring a soup,Shallot, saladGarlic, andCapers, butter, white wine, Lemon Juice + Olive Oil The Local Melon Salad V 8 pot roast 29 offerings from throughout Impassioned by Sustainability your choice of some of our Organic Spinach, Cantaloupe, Honeydew, Red Bell Pepper, with grandma’s vegetables Onion, Cucumber, Olive Oil, Lemon Juice, Sumac + Feta most popular dinner entrees. $$ ASIAN the region. Tomato, grilled pork tenderloin 28 GF

GF

GF

GF

Shrimp, mango, + avocado salad GF

GF

GF

S AT U R DAY BRUNCH 20

GF

GF

GF

S AT U R DAY BRUNCH

cumin rubbed, topped with Mango/papaya salsa + basil salsa verde

10AM - 2PM 10AM - 2PM Viet Villagecarrot, cabbage, spinach with ginger, lime + Lemongrass vinaigrette The local cobb salad (*no substitutions) 20 all entrees come with your choice of 2 sides * with exception of pot roast 16571 S. Tamiami Trail, PRESENT THIS CARD BY PRESENT THIS CARD BY Mixed greens, chopped bacon, blackened chicken, hard-boiled eggs, 5323 Airport-Pulling Rd., Naples and Experience Naples seavegetables to table+ restaurant Experience31, Naples 31, 2019 only true farmfarm NOVEMBER 2019 only true farm and sea fresh starches blue cheese crumbles, chopped tomato, avocado, scallions NOVEMBER 208-8368. vietvillagefl.com. + avocado-ranch dressing Roasted cauliflower with garlic, parsley + lemon zest • Creamy Au Gratin Hash (239) 596-3276

Brussel Sprouts with Sesame Soy • Broccolini with sauteed

garlic + chili flake

please note: want to add an item to your pizza? great! add $2 per item our pizzas are house-made sourdough pizza crust.

PLANT BASED OPTIONS farm plate V GF choice of any 4 vegetables or starches

staurant

PIZZAS

www.TheLocalNaples.com sweet potato cake with citrus creme fraiche

5 key west pink shrimp $6 avocado $3

staurant

Add: 3.5oz free range chicken $5 4oz Blackened catch $9

GF

• House-made Kimchi (cold)

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TASTE OF THE GULF

DINING GUIDE

BELL TOWER SHOPS DaRuMa Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Lounge* 13499 S. Cleveland Ave., 344-0037. darumarestaurant.com. Traditional service or Teppan-style tableside cooking. $$$$ ASIAN

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CENTRAL FORT MYERS Chef Brooke’s Natural Café

1850 Boy Scout Drive #A106, 332-2433. chefbrookeonline.com. Organic, gluten-free and vegan cuisine. Open until 4 p.m.

$$$ MODERN AMERICAN

Sasse’s Restaurant

3651 Evans Ave., 2785544. sassesrestaurant. com. Northern Italian and European cuisine cooked in a wood-burning oven to critical acclaim. $$$$ ITALIAN

MCGREGOR CORRIDOR Azure

15301 McGregor Blvd., 288-4296. azurefortmyers. com. At this casual boîte, chef Joe Pittman excels at modernized classics. $$$ FRENCH

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Blanc

13451 McGregor Blvd., 8873139. blancentertainment. com. The contemporary restaurant mixes trends, like sous vide and robata grilling, with a French influence. $$ FRENCH

Cibo

454-3700. cibofortmyers. com. At Bridge Plaza, this Italian restaurant features seafood, steak, pasta— and an abundance of wines. $$$ ITALIAN

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Crave Restaurant

12901 McGregor Blvd., 4664663. cravemenu.com. The chef makes all the comfort food from scratch—down to

the deli meat for breakfast and lunch. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN

Deep Lagoon Seafood & Oyster House* 14040 McGregor Blvd., 6895474. deeplagoon.com. This waterfront spot distinguishes itself with a raw bar and scenic marina views. $$$ SEAFOOD

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Roadhouse Café 15660 San Carlos Blvd., 415-4375. roadhousecafefl. com. There’s something for everyone, with steaks as well as a wide range of dishes. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN

o

DOWNTOWN FORT MYERS

$$ VEGETARIAN

bo

El Gaucho Inca 4383 Colonial Blvd., 275-7504. elgauchoinca.com. Traditional Argentinian and Peruvian food prepared to perfection.

Thepersonal service is also a delight. $$ LATIN AMERICAN

Drawing from the owner’s Italian background, Grappino serves up casually elegant pastas, Roman-style pizzas and Venetian tea sandwiches.

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Ginger Bistro

4650 Cleveland Ave. #8, 689-3113; 2366 Surfside Blvd. Unit C-101, Cape Coral, 558-8865. gingerbistrousa.com. Authentic Chinese fare, including dim sum and traditional Cantonese barbecue. $$ ASIAN KJ’s Steakhouse

10950 S. Cleveland Ave., 275-4745. kjsfreshgrill.com.

The creators behind this upscale-casual chophouse pride themselves on aging and searing.

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GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com

Tina Sargeant

After an extensive renovation, this lovely Vietnamese spot reopened to critical acclaim; don’t miss the rare-beef pho and the special rice cooked in a clay pot. $$ ASIAN

Bullig Coffee & Bites 1815 Fowler St., 703-2629.

Thoroughly modern with a whimsical touch, Bullig has bespoke java brews that are works of art, plus savory and sweet waffles and more. Not open past 3 p.m. $ CASUAL

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Izzy’s Fish & Oyster 2282 First St., Fort Myers, 337-4999. izzysftmyers.com.

A former Miami-based chef relocated his chic raw bar and New England-style seafood spot to the River District. $$$ SEAFOOD

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King’s Kitchen

2150 W. First St., 2088518. kingskitchenandbar. com. This laidback spot with a warehouse vibe and beer garden serves global comforts, like country fried chicken and mojo roast pork. $$ ECLECTIC

ed coastal cuisine in a contemporary setting. $$$$ SEAFOOD

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The Standard 1520 Broadway, 219-6463.

thestandardftmyers.com.

Fresh and from-scratch eats and craft cocktails in a convivial atmosphere. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN

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Twisted Vine Bistro

2214 Bay Street, 226-1687. twistedvinebistro.com.

Expect eclectic twists on grill and seafood dishes with a large wine list. The Barrel Room next door stocks rare whiskies and live blues. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN

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The Veranda 2122 Second St., Fort Myers, 332-2065. verandarestaurant. com. Fort Myers’ grande dame; find filet mignon and veal with top-notch service. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN

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Oxbow Bar & Grill 1300 Hendry St., 314-3856. oxbowfortmyers.com. On the banks of the Caloosahatchee, it’s under the Luminary Hotel & Co.’s umbrella and offers upscale-casual dockside dining with a Southern coastal flair. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN

NORTH FORT MYERS

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Rosy Tomorrows Heritage Farm 8250 Nalle Grade Road, 5676000. rosy-tomorrows.com.

Enjoy breakfast and lunch Thursday through Sunday—as you graze, you can see the humanely raised longhorn cattle, hogs and chickens. $$ MODERN AMERICAN

Seed & Bean Market* 1520 Broadway, 243-8137.

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seedandbeanmarket.com.

SANIBEL ISL AND

A shop selling all things CBD, plus a cute cafe serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. $$ CASUAL

Silver King Ocean Brasserie 2200 Edwards Drive, 833-9181512. luminaryhotel.com. It’s the signature restaurant inside the new Luminary Hotel & Co., and it’s serving up sophisticat-

Bleu Rendez-Vous French Bistro

2430 Periwinkle Way, 5651608. bleurendezvous.com.

Chef Christian Vivet’s menu is lauded for its authentic

Where Fresh, Mexican Food Meets Icily Refreshing Margaritas

Voted Best Tacos in Lee County Indoor & Outdoor Seating Walking Distance to the Beach Open Daily 11:30AM – 10PM 14970 Captiva Dr. Captiva Island, FL

RestaurantsOnCaptiva.com

TASTE OF THE GULF

DINING GUIDE o

FRENCH

Cielo

1244 Periwinkle Way, 4725555. cielo-sanibel.com. The modern American fare is all made in-house. $$$$

MODERN AMERICAN

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Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille Multiple locations throughout Lee County. docfords.com.

Go for the seafood, mojitos and its namesake rum bar. $$$ SEAFOOD

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The Mad Hatter

6467 Sanibel Captiva Road, 472-0033. madhatterrestaurant.com. Whimsical beachfront fine dining. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN

w Mud Bugs Cajun Kitchen 1473 Periwinkle Way, 4722221. mudbugssanibel.com.

A menu full of Crescent City classics (beignets, po’ boys, muffuletta), harkens the French Quarter. $$ MODERN AMERICAN

2340 Periwinkle Way, 558-8919. t2traders.com.

This retro-chic spot serves short rib flatbreads, curried snapper and house-made bread pudding. $$$

472-3434. muckyduck.com.

Expect a British pub vibe with seafood platters, beers and live music on the beach.

MODERN AMERICAN

RC Otter’s Island Eats* 11506 Andy Rosse Lane, 3951142. captivaislandinn.com.

This beachside restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner to the tune of daily live music. $$ CASUAL

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C APTIVA ISL AND

Sweet Melissa’s Café 1625 Periwinkle Way, 4721956. sweetmelissascafe. com. Sanibel’s first semifinalist for a James Beard Award, chef Melissa Donahue-Talmage creates creative menus that are not to be missed. $$$

Keylime Bistro at Captiva Island Inn* 11509 Andy Rosse Lane, 3954000. keylimebistrocaptiva. com. Colorful, with an island feel, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner with a full bar.

MODERN AMERICAN

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T2

$$$ MODERN AMERICAN

The Mucky Duck 11546 Andy Rosse Lane,

$$$ CASUAL

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Sunshine Seafood Cafe and Wine Bar 11508 Andy Rosse Lane, 472-6200. captivaislandinn. com. A step above the rest of the island’s beachy cafes, this spot serves selections such as paella and rack of lamb. $$$$ SEAFOOD

El Gaucho Inca draws from Argentinian and Peruvian roots. Opposite: Cielo, on Sanibel,

C APE COR AL & PINE ISL AND

plates modern American in a recently renovated space.

Blu Agave

1404 Cape Coral Parkway E., 471-2075. bluagaverestaurant.com. Expect Mexican classics like tacos, enchiladas, margaritas and flan. $$ MEXICAN

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Cork Soakers Deck & Wine Bar 837 SE 47th Terrace, 5426622. corksoakers.net. A delightfully irreverent tone shows in decor and menu (“The Hangover sandwich” and curry-brined wings). $$ MODERN AMERICAN

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Fathoms Restaurant & Bar

5785 Cape Harbour Drive, 542-0123. fathomsrestau rant.com. A modern Cape Harbour restaurant serving cuisine with international influences and authentic flavors. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN g ulf shorelife.com

Vanessa Rogers; Scott McIntyre

cuisine. $$$$

Refreshed and Enlivened!!!

Experience Innovative Culinary Treasures at...

bha! bha! Persian Bistro

The Jewel of Fifth

“Persian Perfection” -NY Times

www.BhaBhaBistro.com opw Fish Tale Grill By Merrick Seafood

1229 SE 47th Terrace, 257-3167. fishtalegrill.com.

Starting with fresh fish from the adjacent market, many popular items here earn descriptions like “the best I ever ate.” $$$$ SEAFOOD

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by

ANDY HYDE

Gather

5971 Silver King Blvd., 6739939. gathercape.com. This eclectic Tarpon Point Marina spot is the product of two of the Cape’s most celebrated chefs. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN

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Jungle Bird Authentic Tiki

1520 Lafayette St., 471-4111. junglebirdtiki.com. One of the most exciting restau-

923 Creech Road, Naples, FL 34103 Tel: 239-404-3065 www.hydenchicrestaurant.com Catering | Private Events | Off-site Events

TASTE OF THE GULF

DINING GUIDE

Take A Break The Italian Way rants to debut in 2020, it’s a sophisticated homage to all things tiki, with cocktails and nuanced dishes from across the Pacific Rim. $$$ ASIAN

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Marker 92 Waterfront Bar & Bistro/Nauti Mermaid 5961 Silver King Blvd., 5415600. Sit outside for views of an open bay and tasty entrees and sharing plates like Oysters Rockefeller. $$$ SEAFOOD

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Nevermind Awesome Bar & Eatery

927 E. Cape Coral Parkway, 994-3062. nevermindcapecoral.com. A hip spot with seriously good comfort food, strong cocktails and a fun atmosphere—where you’ll often find live music.

BREAKFAST SANDWICHES AVAILABLE

8AM UNTIL 8PM Featuring fresh bread daily, Inhouse, Delivery or Carry-out.

Outdoor dining available

$$ MODERN AMERICAN

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Pinchers* Multiple locations throughout Collier and Lee counties. pinchersusa.com. Seafood from local fishermen in a super casual and family friendly setting. $$$ SEAFOOD

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Point 57 Kitchen & Cocktails

808 WIGGINS PASS RD UNIT 104 NAPLES, FL 34110 (239) 250-3310 WWW.BELLAMIAITALIANCAFE.COM

3522 Del Prado Blvd. S., 471-7785. point-57.com. A critically acclaimed menu is the bedrock of this upscale-casual eatery that is one of Lee County’s best. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN

2 16

GULFSHORE LIFE

o Rumrunners 5848 Cape Harbour Drive, 542-0200. rumrunnersrestaurant.com. On a picturesque mangrove-lined canal, this laidback, indoor-outdoor spot offers dependable fare. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN

opw Slate’s

4820 Candia St., 540-6800. slatescapecoral.com. New Orleans is evoked in all dishes, from the traditional to the inventive—as well as in the lively jazz lounge. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN

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Tarpon Lodge Restaurant* 13771 Waterfront Dr., Bokeelia, 283-3999. tarponlodge. com. Imaginatively crafted lunch and dinner in a 1920s fishing lodge overlooking Pine Island Sound. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN

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Texas Tony’s* 738 SW Pine Island Road, 3477033. texastonys.com. Enjoy ribs, brisket and a large selection of beer at this eatery from the folks behind Pinchers. $$ BARBECUE

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Courtesy Artis—Naples/Richard Beavers Gallery. Marcus Jansen, The Colonialist, 2021. Oil enamels, spray paint and oil stick on canvas. 50 in. x 74 in.

NO _ 5 0 8

ARTS + LEISURE

The Colonialist, pictured here, is part of Marcus Jansen’s first solo show at The Baker Museum through July 25.

218

Can’t-Miss Events for June

0 6 _ 2 0 21

ARTS + LEISURE

AGENDA Fill up your month with art shows, festivals, live performances and other community events. As conditions are constantly changing due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we recommend you contact the organizations for the latest information.

Edison and Ford Winter Estates honors craftsmanship, ingenuity and resourcefulness with an exhibit of artwork and

Through June 6

that fell in Hurricane Irma.

perfect suitor follows tales of

Travel back to the 1960s

edisonfordwinterestates.org

blackmail, political corruption

when female voices took

and all sorts of public scan-

center stage with artists,

Through June 13

dals. naplesplayers.org

such as The Chiffons, The

Don’t miss the last days of

An Ideal Husband at

Through June 26

this show at the Fort Myers

Sugden Community

historic estate and museum,

Theatre

Beehive: The ’60s Musical

featuring woodwork by

This lively Oscar Wilde

at Broadway Palm Dinner

Florida craftsmen using trees

comedy about finding the

Theater

Creating Beauty from Disaster at Edison and Ford Winter Estates

2 18

Supremes, Aretha Franklin

GULFSHORE LIFE

and Connie Francis. Dinner included. broadwaypalm.com

g ulf shorelife.com

Courtesy Edison and Ford Winter Estates

furnishings using fallen trees from Hurricane Irma.

T H E W E AT H E R A U T H O R I T Y

W H E N A C C U R A C Y M AT T E R S

Matt Devitt Chief Meteorologist

ARTS + LEISURE

AGENDA

Bob Rauschenberg Gallery collaborates with musicians Mark Mothersbaugh and Beatie Wolfe

Through July 10 Fish, Fruit and Fine Dining:

the museum, the acclaimed

growing fruit for the rest of

Fort Myers-based artist

the U.S. colliermuseums.com

comments on global issues

Mark Mothersbaugh &

and reflects on experiences

Beatie Wolfe: Postcards

that have shaped his life,

for Democracy at Bob

including fighting in the Iraq

Rauschenberg Gallery

Marco Island’s Food Culture at Marco Island

Through August 8

the bounty of the Gulf to

Through July 25

Historical Museum A new exhibit through Collier

Marcus Jansen: Two

War and living with PTSD.

Following the success of

Museums presents the

Decades of Relevance at

artisnaples.org

the two celebrated artists’

history of Marco Island’s food

The Baker Museum

project that created and

culture, from discovering

With his first solo show at

collected postcard art to

220

GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com

Courtesy Postcards for Democracy Mark Mothersbaugh and Beatie Wolfe (2021)

to create a site-specific installation of their buzzed-about Postcards for Democracy project.

T H E W E AT H E R A U T H O R I T Y

W

H

E

N

T R U S T I S

M

U

A

S

T

Comedian, actor and filmmaker Pauly Shore comes to Naples.

June 12

support the United States

Dana Roes features artists

Postal Service and its role in

she says, “are not beholden

democracy, the Rauschen-

to a single medium. They will

Cooking for the Arts: An

that people could paddle or

berg Gallery worked with the

reach for video, wood, cloth,

Evening in Tokyo at Sidney

boat to early on and outdoor

duo to create this site-specif-

paper, ink or paint to express

& Berne Davis Art Center

catered shows as restrictions

ic exhibit of selected works.

their ideas.” bigarts.org

Local chef Brian Roland col-

loosened—reunites with

laborates with the center for

fans in a closer setting at

an interactive fundraiser, in

the beachside restaurant at

which guests help cook up a

’Tween Waters Island Resort

Pauly Shore Stand-up at

four-course Japanese dinner,

& Spa in Captiva.

Fast Forward at BIG ARTS

Off The Hook Comedy

plus live and silent auctions.

tween-waters.com

In this Florida SouthWest-

Club

Proceeds benefit the art

ern State College alumni

With a 2020 comedy flick

center’s education programs.

exhibition, multimedia works

(his first since the 1996 cult

sbdac.com

by seven former students

favorite Bio-Dome), the co-

capture an imagined future

median known for his SoCal

informed by current events

stoner antics, is back in ac-

and the news of the day.

tion and stopping in Naples

Steve Farst at Crow’s Nest

On display in person and

with his national stand-up

The Fort Myers musician—

virtually online, the exhibition

tour. offthehookcomedy.com

who garnered attention

June 7-16 June 3- July 31

curated by FSW professor

222

GULFSHORE LIFE

with his dockside concerts

June 25-26

and kept the tunes flowing

g ulf shorelife.com

Courtesy Off The Hook Comedy Club, Jeffrey Salter

rauschenberggallery.com

throughout the pandemic

Contemporary Fort Myers artist Marcus Jansen showcases two decades of work at The Baker Museum.

PARTING SHOT

I SSU E April 1978

ED I T O R Lanny Sher win

S T O RY “Fashion”

FROND MEMOR IES During summer in Southwest Florida, every day and occasion is suitable for swimwear, if you so choose. That’s why this month we’re drawing inspiration from this eternally chic, frond-printed, one-shoulder suit and headwrap look styled by GL’s late-1970s fashion editor, Phyllis Sherwin. Then like now, a getup like this is perfect for swimming,

224

GULFSHORE LIFE

GL Archives

shelling, mingling and everything else under the sun.

g ulf shorelife.com

AESTHETIC S U R G E RY C E NTE R

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LASER TREATMENTS

M.D., F.A.C.S.

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VASER® LIPOSUCTION

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