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SOUTHWEST FLORIDA
More waterfront shopping and dining than any other destination in Naples! VANDE R
BILT BEACH RD.
PARK SHORE DR.
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Six Sparkling Waterfront Restaurants
Bayside Seafood Grill & Bar • Fish Restaurant • M Waterfront Grille • MiraMare Restaurant • T-Michael’s Steak & Lobster The Village Pub • Plus Naples’ Only Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream and Rendez-Vous French Café
40 Unique Boutiques
A Horse of a Different Color • All About April • Casanova Boutique • Casanova Venetian Glass & Art • Chico’s • DanaTyler • Diane’s Fine Fashions • Elegant Style Salon • Everything But Water • Expedia CruiseShipCenters • Exquisite Timepieces • Fabec-Young & Co. • First American Bank •H.T. Chittum & Co.• J. McLaughlin • J&K Collections • Lux Boutique • Marine Arts Gallery • Mondo Uomo • Natural Comfort•Panache • Park Shore Marina • Patchington • Pearl Jewelers • Pratt’s Shoe Salon • Premier Sotheby’s International Realty• Robert of Philadelphia Hair Design • Sara Campbell • Simply Natural • Sperry Shoes • Sukie’s Wine Shop • Teruzzi • The B. Store • The Gallery of Estate & Precious Jewels • Time 4 U med spa• Tommy Bahama • Whispers of Naples • Wildflower • W.M. Phelps Custom Jewelers
Visit VenetianVillage.com From US 41, take Park Shore Dr. to 4200 Gulf Shore Blvd. N. 239.261.6100
CONTENTS 12
FIRST LOOK Watch the sunset from a historic pier, get nose-to-nose with big cats (behind glass) and walk the estates of the U.S.’ greatest inventors—Southwest Florida has it all.
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SERENITY NOW The sun and surf of Southwest Florida do wonders for the spirit. PHOTOS BY JOEY WAVES
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NATURE’S NIRVANA Embrace Mother Nature while birding, biking and shelling in Southwest Florida. BY EMILY SISCO
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THE BIRTHPLACE OF NAPLES Come spend a day on Third Street South. BY BROOKE FEHR
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ALL ALONG THE COAST From ocean breezes to city living, Southwest Florida is a traveler’s delight.
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PARTING SHOT
ON THE COVER: DETAIL OF A FLAMINGO’S FEATHER ©THOMASLENNE/ SHUTTERSTOCK INSIDE COVER: COLORFUL FAÇADES IN FORT MYERS. ©TONO BALAGUER/ SHUTTERSTOCK 4
W H E R E G U E ST B O O K
CONTRIBUTORS
Joey Waves
Emily Sisco
Joey Waves is a fine art photographer who makes his home in Naples, Florida. The visual drama and artistry of his photographs are born of a keen eye for the many moods of the South and Southwest Florida lifestyle, in addition to a lifelong passion for the beauty of nature in its most raw form. Waves began his career in art by becoming a spray-can graffiti artist in Miami as a teenager. He later taught himself how to create digital art and worked as a graphic designer for more than a decade for Southern Wine & Spirits. Waves has been featured frequently on WINK News, CBS Miami, WPTV in West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale Magazine, Experience Southwest Florida and Marco Scene.
Emily Sisco is an assistant editor for WhereTraveler magazines and is very passionate about all things nature- and fitnessrelated. She is a certified yoga teacher and avid gym-goer who loves learning about wildlife and has probably seen every nature documentary on Netflix, so, writing about birding, biking and shelling in Southwest Florida was a natural fit. Sisco is from Augusta, Georgia and has a degree in comparative literature from the Ohio State University. She hopes to one day travel to Redwood, Olympic and Glacier National Parks.
Serenity Now, page 18
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Nature’s Nirvana, page 24
Brooke Fehr
The Birthplace of Naples, page 28 Brooke Fehr is the current editor of Where Orlando publications, and has traveled extensively throughout all of Florida. Sanibel and Captiva hold an extra special place in her heart, where she frequently vacations with her husband and two children. When she’s not checking out the latest hot spots and hidden gems around the state, you’re likely to find her in front of her laptop, java in hand, writing to her heart’s content.
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SOUTHWEST FLORIDA MORRIS VISITOR PUBLICATIONS MVP I EDITORIAL & DESIGN EDITOR Jennifer McKee ART DIRECTOR Veronica Montesdeoca ASSISTANT EDITOR Madison Sullivan CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Brooke Fehr, Emily Sisco CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER Joey Waves
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FIRST LOOK
©FILIPPOBACCI/ISTOCK
Watch the sunset from a historic pier, get nose-tonose with big cats (behind glass) and walk the estates of the U.S.’ greatest inventors— Southwest Florida has it all.
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Naples Pier
Breathe in the sea air and watch marine life flicker in and out of view as the water laps below your feet. If this sounds enjoyable, make a trip to the beloved, historic Naples Pier. Not only is this 1,000-foot-long fishing pier the place to be for wildlife viewing, it’s also home to a concession stand and covered eating area, restrooms, showers and more. 25 12th Ave. S., Naples, 239.213.7120. www.naplesgov.com/parksrec/page/naples-pier
FIRST LOOK
Edison & Ford Winter Estates
Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens
Nationally accredited as both a zoo and botanical garden, Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens plays host to more than 360,000 families, biologists and educators a year. It plays a critical role in nurturing appreciation for the natural world by providing an educational nature experience for people of all ages. The combination of lush, tropical flora and exotic animal habitats creates an inspiring backdrop for visitors to connect with nature and enhance their understanding of wildlife and the habitats in which wild animals live. 1590 Goodlette-Frank Road, Naples, 239.262.5409. www.napleszoo.org 14
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ŠROMRODPHOTO/SHUTTERSTOCK; COURTESY NAPLES ZOO AT CARIBBEAN GARDENS
One of the most visited historic home sites in America, these estates provide visitors with the chance to explore more than 20 acres of gardens and buildings—including a botanical laboratory and museum. Inhabited by Thomas Edison and Henry Ford in the 1800s as a way to escape the harsh northern winters, the estates are a treasure trove for history buffs. 2350 McGregor Blvd., 239.334.7419. www.edisonfordwinterestates.org
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FIRST LOOK
Venture into the heart of Big Cypress Basin to walk the endangered Florida Panther’s habitat. Two hiking trails are open to the public during daylight hours; one “winds through a hardwood hammock dominated by ancient oak trees and tropical vegetation.” It’s rare to stumble across a panther during your visit (early morning and late afternoon are the best times to observe wildlife), but the Refuge’s website has information on how to react if it occurs. 12085 SR 29 S., 239.657.8001. www.fws.gov/refugeFlorida_Panther
J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge
Hike, bike, drive or boat through J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge. The Refuge features a free visitor and education center, trails, an observational pavilion, Wildlife Drive and designated launch sites for kayaking, canoeing and stand-up paddle boarding. Bird watchers have plenty to observe, as the Refuge is part of the largest mangrove ecosystem in the nation—home to more than 245 species of birds. 1 Wildlife Drive, Sanibel, 239.472.1100. www.fws.gov/refuge/JN_Ding_Darling 16
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Everglades Wonder Gardens
Established as The Reptile Gardens in 1936, the Wonder Gardens are still a mustsee. Guests “travel back in time to Old Florida [when] visiting this historical, cultural icon,” encountering wildlife as they wander through a 3.5-acre botanical jungle. 27180 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs, 239.992.2591. www. evergladeswondergardens.com
(CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT) ©DON MAMMOSER/SHUTTESRTOCK; ©MLORENZ/SHUTTERSTOCK; ©JAIMIE TUCHMAN/ISTOCK
Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge
Once a private residence (on dry land), the Cape Romano Dome House is now a unique perch for Southwest Florida’s birds.
SERENITY NOW The surf and sun of Southwest Florida do wonders for the spirit PHOTOS BY JOEY WAVES
TEXT BY MADISON SULLIVAN
Left: Keewaydin is a boater’s paradise. Right, clockwise: room to explore at Tigertail Beach; an egret perches above the waves; you’re sure to find a room with a view in Southwest Florida; shells surround a lone starfish.
Right: a glistening wave curls overhead. Left, clockwise: you never know who you’ll swim across in Southwest Florida; moorings jut out of peaceful waters; a fever of rays glides along just below the surface; waves lap the rocks along Naples’ shore.
NATURE’S NIRVANA Embrace Mother Nature while birding, biking and shelling in Southwest Florida
Southwest Florida has a bounty of natural wonders for the outdoors enthusiast. In particular, Southwest Florida lies along the Great Florida Birding Trail, a major migratory route for many species of birds. The unique geography of Southwest Florida also makes it an internationally known location for shell hunting, known as shelling. While you’re here, bring (or rent) your bike and enjoy the abundance of trails and balmy weather. First on your list should be Sanibel Island. With an international reputation for both birding and shelling, in addition to 24 miles of shared-use roads and a designation as a “Bike Friendly Community” by the League of American Bicyclists, an outdoors enthusiast will find everything they need here. Home to J. N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, an internationally renowned birding destination—part of the largest undeveloped mangrove ecosystem in the United States—you can drive or bike the four-mile Wildlife Drive within, or canoe or kayak the surrounding waters. Providing habitat to more than 245 species of birds, keep your eyes peeled for the American white pelican, mangrove cuckoo, reddish egret, roseate spoonbill and yellow-crowned night-heron. These five birds are some of the most sought-after sightings, due to their uniqueness and rarity in the Refuge. For more birding and some of the best shelling in the world, head to Lighthouse Beach Park, which is home to more than 200 species 24
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©PETER TITMUSS/SHUTTERSTOCK
BY EMILY SISCO
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Make use of the viewing tower, complete with bird ID guides and scopes, for a chance to see plovers, terns, spoonbills, frigatebirds and sometimes bald eagles. While you’re at Tigertail, don’t forget to look down in the sand for some of the best shelling on Marco Island. Maybe you’ll get lucky and find one of the rare and sought-after junonia shells—they’ll publish your picture in the local newspaper if you do! Within the vicinity of Marco Island, there is also Collier-Seminole State Park, Rookery Bay Research Reserve and Environmental Learning Center and Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park—all excellent locations for bird watching. If you’re interested in biking, you don’t need to leave Marco Island at all. The island has 29 miles of in-road bike lanes and 11 miles of shared-use pathways. You can rent bicycles from Island Bike Shop or take a guided tour of Marco Island offered by Naples Bicycle Tours. For more biking options, check out Naples and Downtown Fort Myers. In Naples, you’ll find the Rich King Memorial Greenway, a 3-mile-long, asphalt bike trail, as well as the Gordon River Greenway, a 1.7-mile-long trail made of asphalt and boardwalk. The city of Naples also has more
Opposite page: Southwest Florida is along the Great Birding Trail and offers myriad opportunities for birding enthusiasts. This page: Sanibel and Marco Island are world-renowned for their smooth shells of various shapes and sizes; at left is the rare junonia shell.
©ALLENSPHOTO/ISTOCK; ©DANIEL NOVAK/SHUTTESRTOCK
of birds. Arrive at sunrise after a storm for a chance to witness a spectacular migration event, and to find the best shells as the rough waves help dislodge and wash up shells from deeper parts of the ocean. Sanibel’s unique curved shape helps the island act like a shovel, scooping a huge number and variety of shells out of the ocean currents. Sanibel is so famous for its shells that the bent-over position used to pick up shells is known as the “Sanibel stoop.” It also hosts the annual Sanibel Shell Show every March, where enthusiasts from around the world come to exhibit their collections. For more shell hunting, head to Bowman’s Beach or Blind Pass Beach or take a tour offered by Captiva Cruises up to the relatively-uninhabited Cayo Costa Island. Make sure you visit the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum before you leave to see perfect shell specimens from around the world and learn about the mollusks that inhabit them. From Sanibel, head south to Marco Island’s Tigertail Beach for the second-best birding location in Southwest Florida. More than 175 bird species have been sighted there and the combination of tidal lagoons and beaches help make this one of the best all-around birding spots.
©SUSAN RYDBERG/SHUTTERSTOCK; ©DONYANEDOMAM/ISTOCK
than 30 miles of bicycle pathways and cycle-friendly roadways. In Old Naples, rent bicycles from Bike Route or take a guided bicycle tour of the town. Near downtown Fort Myers, you’ll find the John Yarbrough Linear Park Trail, which is a 6-mile concrete trail, while the Billy Creek Preserve Filter Marsh has 1.5 miles of paved trails. For the extra adventurous, head 30 minutes away to Caloosahatchee Regional Park where you will find an 11-mile mountain bike trail. Thirty minutes in the opposite direction, you’ll hit Fort Myers Beach, an outstanding location for more birding. All within a 15-minute drive, you’ll find Bowditch Point Park, Estero Bay Preserve State Park, Little Estero Island Critical Wildlife Area, Matanzas Pass Preserve and San Carlos Bay-Bunche Beach Preserve. You’ll find the best shorebirding in Lee County at San Carlos Bay-Bunche Beach Preserve, particularly at low tide. Early morning and late evening also offer a special treat as birds further inland come and go from their roosts. Matanzas Pass Preserve is one of the last remaining maritime tropical hammocks (a type of closed-canopy forest) and has the unusual characteristic of supporting all three species of
mangrove tree, making it an often-overlooked jewel when it comes to the diversity of birds it supports. Lovers Key State Park has more birding as well, along with a total of five miles of trails in the park, including the Black Island Trail, a 2.7-mile loop perfect for biking. Near Lovers Key is the Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve, which is home to approximately 40 percent of Florida’s endangered and threatened wildlife species, so be sure to disturb as little as possible while visiting. You can organize an educational wading trip through the preserve’s staff for a chance to get up close and personal with some of the marine fauna in the preserve as well. For one last shelling stop and another look at Florida’s feathered wildlife, head to Bonita Springs. At DelnorWiggins Pass State Park, you’ll find herons, egrets, plovers, terns and gulls, plus a viewing tower at the north end of the park, which offers long-range views of both the park and the beach. For shelling, check out Barefoot Beach Preserve and Little Hickory Beach Park. Both beaches are relatively quiet and receive less foot traffic, meaning you have an opportunity to find a good variety of shells before other beach-combers get to them.
Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve is home to approximately 40 percent of Florida’s endangered and threatened wildlife species.
WHERE GUEST B OOK
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THE BIRTHPLACE OF NAPLES Come spend a day on Third Street South
Located just two short blocks from the Gulf of Mexico and blanketed by its warm breezes, Third Street South is the heart and soul of Old Naples. The district is home to a collection of trendy boutiques, award-winning restaurants and charming beach cottages, nestled among beautifully landscaped paths and lively fountains. It’s hard to believe that the area as it appears today has only been in existence for around 130 years. The city got its beginnings at a time when Florida expansion was booming. In 1885, General John S. Williams, a for28
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mer Confederate general and senator from Kentucky, and his business partner, Walter Haldeman, founder and publisher of the Louisville Courier-Journal, funded an exhibition in hopes of finding a suitable spot along Florida’s Gulf Coast to found a resort town. They accessed the area via Gordon Pass, and upon seeing the natural inland harbor, named it Naples after the famed city in Italy. Williams and Haldeman founded The Naples Town Improvement Company the following year, and immediately went to work creating the town.
©HART HOWERTON
BY BROOKE FEHR
CLOCKWISE FROM CENTER LEFT: ©THE NAPLES BEACH HOTEL & GOLF CLUB; ©ABLOKHIN/ISTOCKHOTO.COM; ©NAPLES, MARCO ISLAND, EVERGLADES CVB
During its early days, Naples was only accessible by water, so the Naples Pier, completed in 1889, was one of the town’s earliest structures. Visitors would need a place to lodge as well, and the Naples Hotel, with its 16 guestrooms, opened the same year. Development slowed in the small town for the next several years, mostly due to its remote location and lack of investment interest. It wasn’t until after the Tamiami Trail connected Tampa, Naples and Miami, and opened up the West Coast, that more growth occurred. After World War II ended, Naples in general, and Third Street South in particular, grabbed the attention of Julius “Junkie” Fleischmann and his wife, Dorette. Fleischmann was the heir to the Fleischmann Yeast company, but chose pursuits in the arts and philanthropy instead of running the family business. The Fleischmanns, well-traveled and well-connected in northern art and society circles, soon began investing heavily in the area. Their daughter, Joan Fleischmann Tobin, would later remark that her parents saw Naples as a place where “interesting people collected but you didn’t have to put on black-tie every night.” Their first purchase was the Mercantile Building, originally built in 1919, which became the Antique Addict, and was stocked with treasures the couple had acquired from their extensive travels. The Fleischmanns continued to renovate existing buildings and create new ones, and encouraged their northern acquaintances to do the same. The Fleischmanns and their fashionable friends are responsible for the glamourous air that still exists in the Old Naples neighborhood today. Visiting notables included actors George Montgomery and Hedy Lamarr, among others; famed opera singer Lawrence Tibbett and his wife, Jane, also had a house close by. The beautiful community that the Fleischmanns helped to build continues to thrive, due in great part to their daughter, Joan, who continues her parents’ legacy in the area. It was Joan who added the area’s trademark antique fountains and serene courtyards. “I wanted it to be the kind of place where people actually welcomed you, wanted you and treated you well,” she says.
Today, Third Street South welcomes guests with an array of boutiques, galleries, cafes and restaurants. Historic landmarks dot the area as well, and include Naples Pier to the west, The Old Naples Building, The Palm Cottage and more. The weekly Farmer’s Market takes place each Saturday, and beckons residents and visitors with a tempting array of fresh produce, flowers, pastured meats, baked goods, prepared foods and more. Market goers can stroll with a fresh cup of coffee and listen to live music in this family- and dog-friendly environment. While it seeks to honor its past, it is clear that the future of Old Naples will continue to shine brightly in this quaint corner of the world.
Opposite page: A rendering of the Old Naples Hotel. Below: The Naples Beach Hotel; Naples fountain surrounded by multicolored buildings; the Naples Pier.
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ALL ALONG THE COAST FROM OCEAN BREEZES TO CITY LIVING, SOUTHWEST FLORIDA IS A TRAVELER’S DELIGHT.
Sanibel Island’s white-sand beach is tempting any time of day (seen here at sunset).
ALL ALONG THE COAST
Boasting powdery beaches and shallow waters, Southwest Florida is a beautiful part of the Sunshine State with its own storied history and culture. For years, people have fled to the region to escape the cold winters up north—including some of our nation’s most inspired inventors. Now home to many year-round residents, including retirees and younger families looking for a quiet place to raise their children, each part of Southwest Florida has something different to experience for both residents and visitors alike. From beaches to historical sites, there’s a venue for every interest. 32
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Fort Myers, Bonita Springs & the Beaches Throughout its history, Fort Myers has been an escape for many Northerners, due to its year-round sunshine—Henry Ford and Thoms Edison were early adopters of the trend. In fact, their spacious winter homes are open to the public, sending visitors back in time to 100 years ago. The 20-acre Edison & Ford Winter Estates is located on sprawling gardens with exotic plant life from around the world, including the famous banyan tree on the property. During a guided tour you can walk through Edison’s research laboratory and see some of the first Model T cars invented by Ford, the father of the assem-
(PREVIOUS SPREAD) ©DANITA DELIMONT/ALAMY; (THIS PAGE) ©KEVINDERRICK/ISTOCK
Fort Myers beach and bridge at sunrise
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ALL ALONG THE COAST
bly line. Their homes are still in pristine condition, so much so that you almost expect one of the inventors to walk into the halls as you explore the property. Those living in Fort Myers will find endless things to do around town. Downtown, the first Friday of the month is the Fort Myers Art Walk; there’s also plenty of shopping at the Edison Mall and Bell Tower Shops. At the Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium, enjoy the great outdoors with daily shows, animal presentations and the butterfly house. Other science fun can be had at the IMAG History & Science Center, where the whole family can participate in a fossil dig, feel sea creatures in the touch tank and experience the environment of the Caloosahatchee River. It’s the natural habitat that makes the West Coast of Florida so special. Fort Myers Beach, located on Estero Island, threads white sand beaches along the shore for seven miles. Lee County’s Manatee Park is aptly named, as visitors in town from November through March can witness the sea cows frolicking in the warm water. For sports fans, the city is home to the minor league baseball team Fort Myers Miracle, but during Spring Training major league players from the Boston Red Sox and the Minnesota Twins call the place home. 36
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The Sox practice at Fenway South while the Twins work out at the CenturyLink Sports Complex. At the college level, Florida Gulf Coast University constantly plays against neighboring Florida teams. Head south to Fort Myers’ sister city, Cape Coral, which has a history of catering to retirees. The coastal community boasts more than 400 miles of canals and four large nature parks. The small town of Estero is a treasure trove of history. The spring-fed Estero River, which flows to Estero Bay, first brought Native Americans and then Spanish settlers to this area. In 1894, a religious group practicing Koreshanity were led by their leader, Cyrus Teed, off to the city to erect New Jerusalem. Teed and his followers founded the Koreshan Unity, today preserved as the Koreshan State Historic Site. South of Estero is Bonita Springs, home to charming neighborhoods and upscale resorts. Once a small farming and fishing town, Bonita Springs officially became a city in 1999 and is growing strong. For those into nature, Bonita Beach Park, Lover’s Key State Park and many other parks and preserves are open to the public to witness animal and plant life. For those traveling with Fido, the Dog Beach at Lover’s Key State Park is open for dogs to romp and play in the waves.
©BANKSPHOTOS/ISTOCK
Times Square area at Fort Myers Beach
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MENU HIGHLIGHTS Appetizers Fried Green Tomatoes Fresh Mussels Homemade Crab Cakes Entrees Southern Bouillabaise Fresh Scallops with Key Lime Risotto
CRISTOF’S ON MCGREGOR WITH PASSION FOR THE LOVE OF FOOD
Cristof’s on McGregor is a neighborhood eatery located in Fort Myers Florida. Cristof Danzi was born in Sicily. Cristof honed his culinary training while living in Italy, France, England, Barbados and Bahrain. With a Mediterranean influence and a passion for seafood, local art, aged beef and classic pasta dishes, Cristof’s livens up the hype with his amazing food. Mouthwatering appetizers include the likes of fried green tomatoes stacked with bacon, fresh mozzarella, and roasted corn-jalapeno salsa. Other house favorite appetizers include fresh tuna capriccio, fresh made crab cakes, calamari and our famous charcuterie board. Entrees include many of Cristof’s favorite dishes such as southern style bouillabaisse, shrimp & grits, Chicken Toscana, braised pork shank with red wine reduction. Vegetarian entrees are also available.
Cristof’s on McGregor also boasts an amazing wine list, craft beers and a fully stocked liquor bar to sate your thirst. We also offer a daily happy hour and bar menu. Large parties are always welcome. Reservations are recommended. Join us for Sunday Brunch or to celebrate a special occasion. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will make your dining experience one to remember. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Hours of operation are Monday thru Saturday 11AM to 9PM and Sundays 10AM to 9PM.
Shrimp-N-Grits Desserts Homemade Key Lime Pie Orange Blossom Cake
10231 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33919
239.791.8473
www.CristofsonMcGregor.com
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gator bites
PARADISE CHARTERS
We have what you are craving! Whether you’ve got to get your sports fix or need to feed… we’ve got you covered with a multitude of HD TV’s, pub grub and icy cold Crock-tails or beer! It wouldn’t be GatorBites if we didn’t have some gator that will tickle your taste buds in the best way possible. There are five fabulous preparations that will get you going! With our extensive menu of pub fare, shrimp prepared in six satisfying ways, Famous Fish and Chips or mouth-watering Mahi-Mahi, there is something that is sure to satisfy any appetite. Where the heck is happy hour only an hour??? Not here! We are happy every day from 11-7! Come in for the good food and cheap drinks, stay for the super service! Come see us! We are located on Summerlin, across from the Sanibel Outlet Mall.
Backwater and near shore fishing on our 24 ft Tidewater center console, you will be fishing from offers the best of both worlds, with a draft shallow enough to stalk the skinnier waters, and fast enough to hit up some nearby passes and reefs. We specialize in light-tackle fishing and bringing home the best fish South West Florida has to offer. Of the many fish you can expect to catch, Snook, Redfish, Trout and Snapper are some of the best. We also occasionally catch pompano, shark, ladyfish, spanish mackeral, and more! The boat has a small porta-potti, minimal shade, and an iced cooler on board for your favorite food and drinks that you provide. Or there is room for your own cooler. We are limited to 6 passengers max. We provide everything you will need for fishing, you just bring food and drinks.
20321 Summerlin Rd Ft. Myers, FL 33908
Snook Bight Marina, 4765 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach 33931
239.267.1317
bewareofthegator.com
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239.247.8288
www.paradisecharters.com
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Naples-Fort Myers GreyhouNd track “A long time landmark and popular recreational and entertainment facility on Florida’s southwest coast, the racetrack operates year ‘round with greyhound racing, full card simulcasting of dogs and thoroughbreds and a 34 table casino-style Poker room. Since the 1970’s, the track has offered quality racing, charitable and special events, civic and social amenities and has provided a classic entertainment center for residents. We invite you to visit the track and poker room to enjoy a truly tropical setting of our greyhound track….unique in the country.” 10601 Bonita Beach Rd SE, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
239.992.2411
FLORIDA REPERTORY THEATRE “One of America’s Top Repertory Companies!” -The Wall Street Journal Florida Rep is a fully professional and nationally recognized regional theatre company serving all of Southwest Florida. Reaching nearly 100,000 people in the Downtown River District annually, Florida Rep performs six days a week during its September to May season. Now entering its third decade, Florida Rep produces a wide variety of work – from cutting-edge Pulitzer & Tony Winning dramas to entertaining musicals and comedies. As the area’s largest non-profit arts organization, Florida Rep is also dedicated to active Educational Programming and produces work throughout the year that benefits over 33,000 young people all over Southwest Florida. In numerous national reviews, The Wall Street Journal has called Florida Rep “An Excellent Theatre Company” with a “Sterling track record” and called its work “Profoundly satisfying…Splendid… Absolutely perfect…As good as Broadway,” and told readers across America to “Make haste to Fort Myers, where the weather is warm and the theater fine!”
Fort Myers River District • Historic Arcade Theatre Bay Street between Jackson & Hendry 239-332-4488 • www.FloridaRep.org Photos (Top left to right) Florida Repertory Theatre Marquee Courtesy of Bryelle Dafeldecker • Susan Greenhill in Becoming Dr. Ruth Photo Courtesy of Nick Adams • Michael Marotta, Susan Haefner, and Kate Campo in Tenderly: The Rosemary Clooney Musical Photo Courtesy of Nick Adams • The Cast of August Wilson’s Fences Photo Courtesy of Joseph Dafeldecker.
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Sanibel & Captiva These two islands radiate the natural beauty of Southwest Florida with its turquoise waters, sandy beaches dotted with seashells and resorts designed for a day in the sunshine. Originally home to the Calusa Indians, Sanibel’s 10,000 acres offer fresh sea breezes, shell-laden shores, whispering palms and stunning sunsets. It is home to the J. N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, a popular recreation destination and an essential estuarine habitat along the migratory Atlantic Flyway. One of the most popular stretches of sand in Sanibel is Bowman’s Beach, well-known by locals as the place to find the most gorgeous seashells lying atop powder white sand. 40
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Lighthouse Beach is home to the Sanibel Island Lighthouse, sometimes known as the Point Ybel Light, which has been guiding ships into shore since 1884. With its beautiful statuesque figure, it’s arguably one of the most photographed structures on the island. Unfortunately, as it’s not open to the public, it can only be admired from the sand below. Another historical point of interest is the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village, a collection of buildings that gives visitors a glimpse of old Florida living from the late 1800s onward. For shopping and dining, there are plenty of nooks on the island with shops and outdoor patios. Olde Sanibel Shoppes has the award-winning Over Easy Cafe, while Tahitian Gardens is packed with jewelry stores, resort wear and Florida-style restaurants. To the north and just over the bridge is the smaller island of Captiva, welcoming visitors with its soft Australian pines, which create a canopy over the road. Glimpses of the shoreline and grand waterfront homes are revealed through breaks in the lush tree line. The bridge over Redfish Pass is a new part of the landscape—until 1921, it wasn’t even its own island. However, due to a large hurricane, the pass was created by nature, forever separating Sanibel and Captiva.
©EQROY/SHUTTERSTOCK
A sandy path leads to the sea on Sanibel
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Naples aglow at sunset
This tropical paradise has a cool downtown with lots of shops and eateries. The beach is steps away, the perfect place to take in sunsets.
After dark, Naples buzzes
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The largest city in Collier County, Naples is situated along 10 miles of Gulf beaches and is home to more than 70 golf courses. Often called the “Golf Capital of the World,” it’s said that the city has more golf courses per capita than anywhere else in the world. For a day out on the greens, check out the courses at Naples Grande Golf Club, ArrowHead, Links of Naples, the Country Club of Naples and dozens more places that have drawn some of the biggest names in the sport. The city is also known for its love of art and is home to dozens of galleries, and the Artis-Naples, a cultural complex housing the Baker
©LAGUNATICPHOTO/ISTOCK; ©BENJAMIN RUSNAK
Naples
Waterfront dining on
Venetian Bay
A Perfectly Crafted Cocktail A Glass of Fine Wine An Amazing Culinary Experience All with a Spectacular Water View! 4050 Gulfshore Blvd., Naples, FL 34103 (239) 261-0622 www.T-Michaels.com Hours: Sun – Thur 11 to 9 • Fri & Sat 11 to 10 • Happy Hour 4 to 6:30 • Sunday Brunch 11 to 3
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Museum and the Naples Philharmonic. Artists of all kinds have exhibits, from international talent to local Florida artists. The Philharmonic draws some of the biggest names in show business, from worldrenowned orchestras, Broadway musicals and classic performers to singer-songwriters on the road. There are also ongoing art classes and special seminars for art lovers of all ages. There are many ongoing art events in Naples. The first Saturday of the month, from November to April, is Naples Art in the Park. Just under two blocks from Fifth Avenue, visitors can see brilliant art up close with area artists displaying works in watercolor, mixed media, photography, jewelry and woodworking. Hosted once a year, the Naples National Art Festival invites artists from around the country to participate. The Downtown Naples Festival of the Arts is a collection of more than 230 artists and crafters who show off their work. The Mercato is a modern shopping district stuffed with upscale dining chains and shopping options. For a more vintage feel, downtown Naples’ shopping and dining is found along Fifth Avenue and the “Old Naples” district is a few blocks away along Third Street South. Bars and locally owned restaurants define most of Fifth Avenue, along with 44
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Naples street scene
©PEETERV/ISTOCK; ©JEROME LABOUYRIE/SHUTTERSTOCK
People shop at a street market in Naples.
FOUR WINDS GALLERY Exceptional Native American Jewelry and Art Since 1982
BU Y I N G COLLE C T I ON S
Traditional Vintage Contemporary Historic Third Street District www.fourwindsnaples.com
340 13th Avenue South 239-263-7555
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Water Garden at the Naples Botanical Garden
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a design district on the west end, while Third Street boasts luxury gift shops, fine jewelry and apparel boutiques, as well as coffee shops and wine bars. At the west end of nearly every avenue, you’ll find public access to Naples Beach where you’ll discover calm Gulf waves and that famous white sand. If you have children in tow, the 12-acre Cambier Park in the heart of the old city has an amazing array of recreation for all ages. The huge play structures are a hit with little ones and include many bouncy bridges, zip lines and various tunnels and towers to play in. The park is also home to top-notch tennis courts, which are always active with players working on their serve or engaging in a playful volley. Cambier is also home to many festivals, art shows and music performances year-round. The Edge Johnny Nocera Skate Park at Fleischmann Park has over 40,000 square feet of wood and concrete ramp structures for the ultimate skating and BMX biking experience. Both beginners and advanced riders can session the bowl, pool and snake run. The Naples Preserve (at the corner of U.S. 41 and Fleischmann Boulevard) is perfect for a mellow nature walk. You’ll likely see gopher
©SARANTALA_LLC.; ©ISOGOOD/ISTOCK
Naples Grande Golf Club
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
MENU HIGHLIGHTS Appetizers Coconut Shrimp Shrimp Cocktail Potato Kegs Escargot Entrees Beef Stroganoff BBQ Baby Back Rib
THE PEWTER MUG NORTH A NAPLES TRADITION SINCE 1970
The Pewter Mug North has been a Naples Tradition since 1970. The Pewter Mug takes great pride in providing quality steaks, award winning prime rib, local seafood as well as one of the best “All you can eat” homemade soup and salad bars. Recently relocating into a bigger and more updated location, The Pewter Mug continues to give excellent service, quality food, and great bar drinks. Owner/Executive Chef Bernard “BJ” Zarvis makes sure every dish receives his attention as it leaves his kitchen, working closely with the General Manager Michael George and the service staff to make sure your dining experience is unforgettable. With help from Bar Manager Jodi West and Restaurant Manager Pat “Murph the Surf” Murphy, The Pewter Mug North features a full bar with
creative signature cocktails, craft beers, and an extensive wine list. They can accommodate small/large groups, an intimate setting for that “special” occasion, or something for the whole family. Whether on vacation or business, come see why The Pewter Mug North has been a Naples tradition going on 50 years. Please visit their website for Business hours, Happy Hour, and current menu items. Reservations are recommended year round, but walk-ins are always welcome! 14700 Tamiami Trl N. #14 Naples, Fl. 34110
239-596-6844
www.pewtermugnorth.com
Roasted half Duck Mug Burger Pan Seared Sea Scallops Grilled Tipsy Salmon Shrimp Scampi Prime Rib Filet Mignon NY Strip Desserts Salted Caramel Cheese Cake Chocolate Madness Cake House Made Key Lime Pie”
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Beach-fronting hotels abound in Naples
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tortoises in their natural habitat, native plants, birds, butterflies and more. The peak months for viewing wildflowers and butterflies are between August and September. The Hedges Family Eco-Center, also on-site, is a resource for learning about Southwest Florida’s native animals and plants, and will help you arrange a way to see some of these organisms in the wild. Children’s activities and lectures are scheduled throughout the year. Less than a mile east down Fleischmann Boulevard, you’ll find the Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens, home to a variety of wildlife, such as birds, mammals and reptiles. In addition to being home to lions, leopards, monkeys, honey badgers and the native Florida panther, the Naples Zoo also tends to some of the rarer species in the world. Remain outdoors and continue enjoying Naples’ beauty at the Naples Botanical Garden, just south of Naples Municipal Airport in East Naples. More than 170 acres of gardens provide all different types of flora as well as knowledge in preserving and cultivating plant life. Explore all the joys the garden has to offer, including walking trails, a hands-on interactive children’s garden, butterfly garden and a natural preserve.
©VISIT FLORIDA; ©FLORIDASTOCK/ISTOCK
Serenity at the beach
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BAYFRONT RENTALS
BAMBU
COME AND ENJOY
TROPICAL BAR & GRILLE
While aboard one of our brand new, high quality vessels. Explore our sugar sand beaches, lunch at a waterfront restaurant, tour waterfront realestate or take in an afternoon of fishing. Bayfront Rentals offer 20’ Sundeck Sport Deck Boats, 20’ Pontoon Boats, single and tandem Kayaks, Paddleboards and Bicycles. The water adventure begins at Bayfront Rentals located at the Bayfront Inn 5th Avenue.
Whether its sitting on our Waterside Terrace or in our covered dining space, both options will offer breathtaking views of the Naples Bay. Our unique, tropical menu items include fresh salads, grilled and raw seafood, tapas and complete entree selections. Our experienced bartenders will mix up your favorite concoction of choice! On most weekends, guests can enjoy an electric mix of acoustic sounds of live entertainment by local musicians. For the early risers, we host a delicious A La Carte Breakfast selection in our Bambu Tropical Bar & Grille!
Bayfront Inn 5th Ave South 1221 5th Ave South, Naples, Fl 34102
239.465.0223
www.BayfrontRentalsNaples.com
Bayfront Inn 5th Ave | 1221 5th Ave South, Naples, Fl 34102
239.649.5800
www.BayfrontInnNaples.com
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WYNN’S MARKET
TIMELESS
Wynn’s Market, a Naples Landmark since 1938. Through the years we have grown and modified our offerings to have the current trends, while keeping true to our core values of excellent customer service. • Certified Angus and Prime Beef, Natural & Organic Chicken, Domestic Lamb. • Local wild caught Gulf Shrimp, Stone Crabs, Florida and Maine lobster, Local and cold water fish. • Full Service Gourmet Deli offering box lunches, sandwiches and sunset trays. • Large selections of Wine, Sparkling Wines, Beers and New Artisan Cheese and Charcuterie case. • Fresh Produce offering both Organic and Non Organic. We offer local produce when available. • Fresh Bakery with a large selection of breads, pastries, cakes and deserts.
Created by Naples veteran Chef, David Nelson, Timeless – An MHK Eatery offers a contemporary twist on classic, comfort foods, prepared with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. The menu places an emphasis on coal-fired artisan pizzas, farm fresh salads, classic and gourmet sandwiches, gastro pub-driven small plates and a selection of inventive entrees. A unique selection of signature cocktails, local and regional craft beers on tap and wines by the glass and bottle complements the inventive menu. Perfect for dining, happy hour, a quick bite to eat, an afternoon snack or to catch your favorite sports game, Timeless provides an array of dining options in the main dining room with an open kitchen, cocktail and pizza Lounge, indoor/outdoor bar, takeout and delivery services. It is open for lunch, happy hour, dinner and Sunday Brunch starting at 10:00 am.
141 Tamiami Trail North, Naples
239.261.7157
www.wynnsonline.com
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Timeless - An MHK Eatery 90 Tamiami Trail N. Naples, FL 34102
239.331.4325
www.TimelessEatery.com
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
VINTINO’S
TAVERN ON THE BAY
Vintino’s Premium Cigars & Smoking Lounge is Naple’s premier cigar destination. With plenty of space, ample seating, and numerous TVs, every seat is the best seat in the house! Or if you prefer to enjoy the beautiful Florida weather we have our spacious covered outdoor lounge with seating for your largest party and several large screen TVs. Our walk-in humidor is one of SW Florida’s largest with nearly one hundred thousand cigars representing hundreds of brands. We stock a cigar for every palette including limited releases from Ashton, Liga Privada, Opus X, Padron, Rocky Patel, Tatuaje, and many, many more! Whether you are here to cheer for your favorite sports team, catch up with friends, or for a quiet escape, Vintino’s is Naples favorite spot to enjoy a cigar!
Tavern on the Bay is Naples’ premier spot for casual waterfront dining and watching your favorite team on one of our many HD tv’s! Quality food, craft cocktails, and ice cold beer served by the friendliest staff in town make us like no other! Come try traditional favorites like our jumbo chicken wings, beer battered fish n’ chips, or our famous braised baby back ribs. Join us for our Happy Hour Monday-Friday from 3-6pm and enjoy $2.50 domestic drafts and half-priced pizzas. We also offer brunch specials every Saturday and Sunday from 11am-2pm including $12 bottomless Mimosas and $15 bottomless Bloody Mary’s! Tavern carries ALL major sports Direct TV packages, and be sure to ask about our parties and special events. We’re located in Bayfront across from Tin City, so come chill out on our beautiful Naples Bay patio and enjoy!
4424 Tamiami Trail E., Naples, FL
489 Bayfront Place Naples, FL 34102
PREMIUM CIGARS & SMOKING LOUNGE
239.963.9410
www.vintinocigars.com
239.530.2225
www.tavernonthebay.net
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Marco Island & The Everglades Marco Island offers a way to live and play in paradise while the Everglades preserves Florida’s most treasured natural lands. The area south of Naples is surrounded by some of the state’s most important wildlife sanctuaries, including Everglades National Park, Big Cypress National Preserve and the Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge. These parks are an important part of Florida, serving as apeaceful sanctuary for at-risk animals such as the Florida Panther, American crocodile and West Indian manatee. 52
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At 26,400 acres, the panther sanctuary was created in 1989 in an effort to bring up the animal’s numbers. Seeing a panther is very unlikely, as there are fewer than 200 left in the entire state. All panthers are tracked using radio collars, and oftentimes their deaths are the result of being hit by a vehicle, so drive safely. A truly stunning place, the Big Cypress Bend Boardwalk in the Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park is a 2,000-foot-long boardwalk through old growth cypress swampland. It’s just north of the Big Cypress National Preserve on U.S. 29 on the Tamiami Trail. The Marco Island Historical Museum invites visitors to stop by. At the southernmost tip of Florida’s Gulf Coast, Marco Island, flanked by nearly 100 miles of islands, bays and estuaries, is the largest inhabited island in the beautiful Ten Thousand Islands ecology. A dozen key historic markers across the island chart Marco Island history, including ancient burial mounds, island marinas, an 1883 historic inn, remnants of the Caxambas Clam Colony, the remains of the Marco Island Witch Watchtower and more. When it’s time for sun and sand, visitors can head to South Marco Beach or Tigertail Beach. At Tigertail Beach, the shallow lagoon is per-
©IAN DAGNALL/ALAMY
The majestic Southwestern Florida palm tree
fect for swimming and windsurfing. There are also restrooms, a playground, showers and sailboards, kayaks and cabanas available for rent onsite. It’s also an ideal destination for outdoor sports such as boating, kayaking and snorkeling. For casual dining and cocktails, Marco Island’s Town Center is a good bet with lots of restaurants. The Esplanade Shoppes is also a good choice, with a number of restaurants and retail stores. Along the Mediterranean-style village is a marina, a fun place to walk to see the boats, and if you’re lucky, dolphins, too. Marco Walk is a shopping and dining favorite with its charming, open-air plaza and movie theater. Shopping goes beyond beach wear with stores that offer artistic items of local flavor and interesting souvenirs. Art League, Marco Island’s Center for the Arts, has a free gallery that includes a gift shop selling locally produced art pieces. Visit the Blue Mangrove Gallery in the Marco Island’s Town Center for handmade gifts, one-of-a-kind souvenirs and local paintings, photographs and sculptures from more than 300 artists, many Florida-based. South off of Tamiami Trail, Everglades City is Southwest Florida’s gateway to 1.5 million acres of the Everglades National Park, 54
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the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States. It is recognized globally as a World Heritage Site, a Wetland of International Importance and an International Biosphere Reserve—one of only three places on the planet with all three designations. The park covers so much ground that it has three entrances, but they are not interconnected—so having a concrete plan for your visit is a must. Boat tours are available in Everglades City; the starting point for the 99-mile Wilderness Waterway. Ride on the fast airboats, cutting through the swamp for prime alligator viewing spots that only the tour guides would know best. Corey Billie’s is a 15-minute drive from Naples, convenient for those who don’t want to stray too far. Hop in the car and take a scenic ride along Turner River Road and Loop Road within the Big Cypress Preserve for sightings of deers, birds and otters. On the eastern edge of Big Cypress Preserve, an hour from Fort Myers, is Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum located on the Big Cypress Seminole Indian Reservation. Chokoloskee Island, a teardrop shaped island located near the southern border of Collier County, is accessed by a long causeway that begins in Everglades City.
©VITO PALMISANO/ISTOCK
The colors of the rainbow are vibrant in Southwest Florida
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ISLAND BIKE SHOP
THAI SUSHI BY KJ
Serving Southwest Floridians and visitors alike for over 25 years, Island Bike Shop is your “hometown” store away from home. We offer sales, service and a great fleet of rental bikes to choose from. Whether you are a novice or pro, stop in to one of our two convenient locations today. Come meet our friendly professional staff and look over our huge inventory of kids bikes, beach cruisers, scooters and more. There is something for everyone here and you can’t beat our prices! Both stores are open Mon - Sat 9 to 6, Sun 10 to 3.
Fresh ingredients are the key to any good meal. At Thai Sushi by KJ you can’t get any fresher! Enjoy a wide variety of sushi grade fishes prepared by a master sushi chef. Try one of the many specialty rolls for a combination of flavors that is truly memorable. If you prefer your food cooked, our kitchen will delight you with traditional Thai delicacies all made fresh to order for you! Spicy or mild, you will always enjoy your meal. Beer and wine served daily. Open Mon – Fri 4 pm to 10 pm and 12 pm to 10 pm on Sat & Sun. Outdoor seating and take out available.
Marco Island
317 N. Collier Blvd. – Marco Island
1095 Bald Eagle Dr., Marco Island, FL 34145
239.394.8400
239.970.2625
www.ThaiSushiByKJ.com
Naples (Shops at Hammock Cove) 4342 Thomasson Dr., Naples, FL 34112
239.732.8400
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PARTING SHOT
THE BEACHES OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA BECOME ABSOLUTELY ETHEREAL WHEN THE SUN BEGINS TO SET. AS IT SINKS LAZILY INTO THE DISTANCE, THE PALMS CAST THEIR SHADOWS ONTO THE STILL WATER, MIRRORING THE SUNSHINE STATE’S LAID-BACK VIBE—PULL UP A BEACH CHAIR AND ENJOY.
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©JOEY WAVES
Dreamland