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Are you already one of the privileged individuals who calls Southwest Florida home or is considering relocating to this ever-expanding community?
Florida—the third-most populous state— is currently the second fastest-growing, too. You’re not alone in discovering the Sunshine State’s advantages and this region’s special charms.
I have had the pleasure of growing up and raising my family in Southwest Florida, interspersed by long stints away. There is a long list of reasons why I hold Southwest Florida close to my heart, and many of these special places and experiences are showcased in these pages.
Here you’ll find information that will help you decide where to live, shop, dine, and play. You will also get a detailed overview of Collier and Lee counties and their incorporated cities—as well as health care, education, and transportation—and a whole lot more.
If you want to get outdoors, Southwest Florida has unparalleled natural resources and world-class facilities. (And we conveniently average more than 250 days of sunshine each year.) Beaches, golf, tennis, pickleball, sportfishing, watersports, biking, and hiking we’re surrounded by unending opportunities, no matter where you live in the region.
Because of a consistent annual increase in the local population, the housing market remains strong and the array of options to fit a range of budgets, needs, and lifestyles continues to expand.
Reading through this guide, it should become clear why so many people are choosing to plant roots in Southwest Florida.
Explore the area and settle in. We’re glad you’re here.
Cathy Chestnut Editor
1
Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León is credited as the first European to reach Florida in 1513. He returned in 1521 with two ships, 200 men, and ca le, landing along the Southwest Florida coast and releasing the cows into the scrubland. De León was fatally injured when the explorers were a acked by the native Calusa people who ruled a wide range of Southwest Florida. The Spaniards’ abandoned ca le drew resourceful se lers and became a vital commodity following the Civil War.
2
Inventor Thomas Alva Edison bought a winter home in Fort Myers on the banks of the Caloosahatchee in 1885. He publicly professed his love of the community, announcing: “There is only one Fort Myers in the United States, and there are 90 million people who are going to find it out.”
3
Southwest Florida is a top birdwatching spot. In Collier County, Audubon’s Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is a significant nesting ground for the endangered wood stork. In Lee County, J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Preserve on Sanibel Island supports an array of wading and migratory birds. There are 26 sites in both counties along the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail
4
In 1923, Collier County was named for Barron Gift Collier Sr., who at one time was reputed to be the largest landowner in the state. The New York City advertising mogul and real estate developer agreed to complete the construction of the Tamiami Trail (its name derived from its Tampa-to-Miami route) from Naples to Miami. Collier County was carved from Lee County and is the largest county in the state by geographical size.
5
Big-game sportfishing was born when William Halsey Wood landed a 93-pound tarpon (known as the “Silver King”) near Sanibel Island on March 25,
1885, with an ordinary rod and reel—news that traveled around the world and made the region the epicenter of the brand-new sport.
6
The top employers in Lee and Collier counties are the two primary health care providers: NCH Healthcare System with more than 7,000 employees and Lee Health with more than 13,500.
7
Since the 1990s, Southwest Florida has claimed the No. 1 spot in the nation for golf holes per capita. With some communities featuring two and, in some cases, three 18-hole courses, Collier and Lee counties boast more than a combined 150 courses.
8
Time-honored community traditions include the annual Swamp Buggy Races held since 1918 in Collier County, where the unique vehicles were invented for the rugged backcountry, and the Edison Festival of Light Parade in Fort Myers, which began in 1938 to honor Thomas Alva Edison. The Izaak Walton Tarpon Tournament was founded on Useppa Island circa 1908, and is the oldest tarpon
tournament in the United States.
9
For paddlers, Lee County’s Great Calusa Blueway encompasses 190 miles through three distinct regions of the Gulf of Mexico coast. Collier County’s Paradise Coast Blueway paddling trail features six day trips from Everglades City to the village of Goodland. The Everglades Waterway kayak and canoe trail is 99 miles long.
10
Lee County is home to two Major League Baseball spring-training facilities and stadiums for the Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins. Spring training has been at home in Southwest Florida since the Terry Park Ballfield stadium, east of Fort Myers, was built to host the Philadelphia Athletics in 1925.
lifespan : 12 to 15 years
BY CONSERVANCY OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDAThe Sunshine State is teeming with terrestrial, aquatic, and avian wildlife.
More than 130 native species are threatened or endangered—and many make their home in Southwest Florida. Whether they’re outgoing or shy, get to know a few of your neighbors’ “cool factors.”
scientific name: Caretta caretta
adult size: 3 feet
weight : 250 to 300 pounds
lifespan : More than 50 years
habitat : Temperate and tropical regions of the ocean
diet : Fish, crustaceans, jellyfish, and occasionally seagrass and algae
status: Threatened in Florida, endangered in other parts of the world
Cool factor: Mature sea turtles return to the beaches where they hatched to lay their eggs.
scientific name: Puma concolor coryi
adult size: 7 to 8 feet from the nose to tail tip
weight : 100 to 160 pounds
habitat : Confined to Southwest Florida’s pinelands, hardwood hammocks, and mixed swamp forests
diet : Deer, wild hogs, raccoons, armadillos, snakes, alligators
status: Endangered, with an estimated 120 to 230 panthers in Florida, making them one of the rarest and most endangered mammals in the world
Cool factor: Panthers are strong swimmers. They have a keen sense of smell and a 130-degree field of vision.
scientific name: Drymarchon couperi
adult size: 6 to 8 feet long
weight : Up to 9-plus pounds, averaging about 5 pounds
habitat : Upland forests, hardwood hammocks, Florida scrub
diet : Small mammals, reptiles, amphibians
status: Threatened
Cool factor: This snake eats its prey live, and hunts and consumes other snakes, including venomous ones. It is also the longest native snake in North America.
scientific name: Platalea ajaja
adult size: 2.5 to 3.5 feet, with a wingspan
of 4.5 to 5 feet
weight : Up to 4 pounds
habitat : Shallow wetlands, marshes, bays, or swamps
diet : Small fish, insects, small aquatic crustaceans
status: Threatened, protected by the U.S. Migratory Bird Treaty Act
Cool factor: Shortly after hatching, spoonbill chick bills gradually flatten and develop into their iconic flared shape after a few weeks’ time.
scientific name: Lontra canadensis
adult size: 3 to 5 feet
weight: 11 to 31 pounds
lifespan: 10 years
habitat: Rivers, creeks, lakes, ponds, and swamps
diet: Fish, crayfish, turtles
status: Native
Cool factor: The tail comprises 40 percent of total body length and facilitates strong swimming skills. Otters can swim eight miles per hour and dive to depths of 36 feet. They are mostly nocturnal and live in burrows on the banks of fresh or brackish waterbodies.
scientific name: Gopherus polyphemus
adult size: Up to 15 inches
weight: 8 to 15 pounds
lifespan: 40 to 60 years
habitat: Well-drained, sandy soils found in habitats such as longleaf pine sandhills, oak hammocks, scrub, pine flatwoods, dry prairies, and coastal dunes
diet: Low-growing plants, such as wiregrass, broadleaf grasses, gopher apple, and legumes
status: Threatened
Cool factor: The only tortoise naturally found east of the Mississippi River, they spend up to 80 percent of their time in burrows that average 15 feet long and more than 6 feet deep. These burrows offer shelter for more than 350 other species.
scientific name: Antigone canadensis
adult size: Approximately 4 feet
adult size: 7 to 10 pounds
habitat: Marshlands, wetlands, and open fields
diet: Berries, seeds, small invertebrates
Cool factor: The sandhill crane mates for life, and pairs dance together to reinforce their bond.
We all play a part in making sure these natives remain happy, healthy neighbors. Whether you are a long-time resident or first-time visitor, here are some tips for being a good neighbor.
• Leave nothing but footprints. A leading cause of harm to all creatures is plastic pollution. Bottle caps, ribbons, balloons, and monofilament fishing line commonly kill or maim birds, sea turtles, and marine mammals. (More than 700 pelicans die each year in Florida alone from entanglement in fishing gear.) Use less plastic and clean up litter, especially around waterways.
• Keep your eyes on the road. Observe safe speeds on the roads and on the water to avoid unnecessary collisions with wildlife.
• Don’t feed wildlife. This causes animals, including alligators, to lose their fear of people, posing a threat to humans and domestic animals—and to the animals that are being fed.
• Take nothing but pictures. Florida has strict laws that prohibit the capturing, harming, or harassment of Florida’s native species, including live shells, sea stars, urchins, and sand dollars at the beach.
GET UP-CLOSE The Conservancy of Southwest Florida is a nonprofit environmental protection organization established in 1964. Learn about Southwest Florida’s ecosystems, plants, and wildlife at the Dalton Discovery Center. Rent kayaks, take an electric boat tour, and stroll through native ecosystems. See gopher tortoises at the Christopher B. Smith Preserve. Go behind the scenes at the von Arx Wildlife Hospital. Find out more: conservancy.org.
BY CONSERVANCY OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA
To newcomers, Southwest Florida’s topography might seem flat and unchanging, but don’t let its subtleties fool you. Changes in elevation coupled with rainfall create distinct habitats that are home to a web of life for native wildlife and a wondrous spectrum of flora. You are likely quite familiar with the beach and coastal areas, so here’s a primer on the other natural habitats you will encounter as you explore these sometimes hardy, and sometimes fragile, lands.
PINE UPLANDS: This habitat is high in elevation, at least for Southwest Florida. A few inches in elevation can make a big difference, and this elevation allows for pine forests, which are high and dry areas dominated by needleleafed slash pine. The trees get their name from the early settlers who “slashed” the bark of the pines and collected their sap to make turpentine and rosin.
HARDWOOD HAMMOCKS: Tropical hardwood hammocks are found along both
coasts of South Florida, and throughout the Everglades and Florida Keys. Hammocks are also called “tree islands” because they rise from wet, low-lying areas. Oaks, sweetgum, hickories—more than 120 species of tropical
plants—provide cool and shady refuge for deer and other wildlife during hot summer months.
CYPRESS SWAMPS: These swamps experience seasonal changes in water levels
that fluctuate during wet and dry months. Elevations determine hydroperiods—how long soils are saturated or flooded. Many species have adapted to live in this variable habitat, such as the predominant cypress tree. Their knees (above-ground extensions of their roots) and their buttresses (wide fluted bases) provide stability in the soft, organic soils and increase surface area for gas exchange. Cypress trees are deciduous conifers; they lose all their needles in the fall and winter.
MANGROVE FORESTS: Mangroves play a unique and important role in Southwest Florida’s ecosystem. Red mangroves ring coastal estuaries. Their intricate root systems act as a nursery for many small fish, crustaceans, shellfish, and other marine life during their earliest stages of life. They also provide shelter and nutrients for wading birds and land creatures and protect the coastline from storm-driven
SAWGRASS MARSHES: These grassy, freshwater wetlands allow for water to move from north to south, making its way from Lake Okeechobee into Florida Bay. Grasses and sedges grow in these important habitats for amphibians. Sawgrass is a sedge with “teeth” lining the edges of its leaves. Marshes provide a protected haven for alligators, otters, apple snails, dragonflies, and wading birds to nest and raise their young.
OPEN-WATER SLOUGHS: Sloughs (pronounced SLOOs) are deep marsh habitats that are slow-moving paths of freshwater utilized by many species, sometimes as a travel corridor. This environment is active with wildlife because it remains wet year-round. Sloughs shed floodwaters and improve the quality of the water as it makes its way into the estuaries in the Gulf of Mexico and Florida Bay.
“There are no other Everglades in the world. They are, they have always been, one of the unique regions of the earth; remote, never wholly known. Nothing anywhere else is like them.”
—Marjory Stoneman DouglasThe Everglades region—a vast, nearly flat, seabed that was submerged at the end of the last Ice Age—is so unique that it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. Here’s why, according to these excerpts from the official statement of its significance:
Everglades National Park is the largest subtropical wilderness reserve on the North American continent. Its juncture at the interface of temperate and subtropical America, fresh and brackish water, shallow bays and deeper coastal waters creates a complex of habitats supporting a high diversity of flora and fauna. It contains the largest mangrove ecosystem in the Western Hemisphere, the largest continuous stand of sawgrass prairie, and the most significant breeding ground for wading birds in North America.
The Everglades contains vast subtropical wetlands and coastal/marine ecosystems including freshwater marshes, tropical hardwood hammocks, pine rocklands, extensive mangrove forests, saltwater marshes, and seagrass ecosystems important to commercial and recreational fisheries. The mixture of subtropical and temperate wildlife species is found nowhere else in the United States.
Everglades National Park provides refuge for more than 20 rare, endangered, and threatened species (including the Florida panther, snail kite, American alligator, crocodile, and manatee). It provides important foraging and breeding habitat for more than 400 species of birds, includes the most significant breeding grounds for wading birds in North America, and is a major corridor for migration.
For a locally crafted piece of paradise to share with your northern pals (or to keep for yourself), consider a souvenir or culinary delight made in Southwest Florida
The signature Naples Medallion celebrates the iconic Naples Pier and was designed by Marilyn Janss, who founded her downtown boutique in 1966 as the city’s first fine jewelry designer. The medallion is available in 14-karat gold or sterling silver and a variety of sizes, backgrounds, and frames. (cleopatrasbarge.com)
No doubt you have found yourself doing the “Sanibel stoop,” bent at the waist as you eagerly survey the shell-strewn shoreline. Congress Jewelers on Sanibel Island has captured these memories in its proprietary, hand-crafted Sealife by Congress collection, featuring a wide range of pendants in gold, enamel, and pavé diamonds of various local shells for necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. (congressjewelers.com)
This high-profile landmark in Fort Myers has a unique on-site gift shop with so many one-ofa-kind offerings that it also has an off-site store in the Edison Mall called Edison Ford Shoppe. Both retail locations have an extensive book selection, Edison and Ford memorabilia, kids’ games, local artwork, and kitchen items. (edisonfordwinterestates.org)
There are several awardwinning breweries in the region, but Fort Myers Brewing Company was the first to open in Lee County in 2013 and it continues to lead Southwest Florida’s craft beer movement. Fort Myers Brewing creates an award-winning line of flagship beers in addition to seasonal brews and small-batch specialties. Its ales, pilsners, stouts, and IPAs are poured and sold at hundreds of bars, restaurants, and retail outlets, including Publix and Total Wine. Fort Myers Brewing’s 40,000-square-foot Gateway facility includes a tasting hall, event space, beer garden, and food-truck zone. It offers tours and regular events. (fmbrew.com)
Of course, you can find fresh citrus and orange juice around these parts. Here are two places where you can pick up a bag of vitamin-C goodness or have it shipped north: In Lee County, grab a couple of gallons of freshsqueezed orange juice and citrus goodies at Sun Harvest Citrus in Fort Myers. Learn the difference between honeybell, Valencia, and temple oranges and order gift baskets brimming with red grapefruit, mandarins, or tangelos. Sun Harvest also sells smoothies, orange blossom honey, Key lime cookies, Florida jellies and marmalades, and other regional delights. (sunharvestcitrus.com)
In Collier County, South Naples Citrus
Grove is the go-to for Key lime pie, citrus candy, and bags of fresh-picked oranges and grapefruits. The farm stand, established in 1978, is stocked with seasonal delights, including ruby red, pink, star grapefruit, honeybells, sugarbells, navels, honey tangerines, and Orlando tangelos. Find fresh-squeezed orange and grapefruit juices, gift baskets, swirled orange and vanilla soft-serve ice cream, jams, marmalades, and candies. (naplescitrus.com)
Electric boat tours • Interactive educational galleries
Dynamic learning theater • Engaging daily programs
Native sea life touch tank • Wildlife encounters & MORE!
If you like to crank up the heat, pick up one of Gator Hammock’s sauces, rubs, or mustards. The first in the line of products, Gator Sauce, launched in 1989. The Felda-based company’s growing line of handmade, all-natural condiments have been applauded by the Fiery Food Industry and featured on the Food Network. Gator Sauce, a blend of peppers, garlic, vinegar, and other spices, is sold in local grocery stores and utilized at are restaurants. Other condiments include Cooter Rubb, Swamp Mustard, Bull Gator, Gator Sprinkle, Lethal Gator, and Sawgrass Boil. (gatorhammock.com)
Gourmet, handcra ed Kristi’s Key Lime Cookies are vanilla cookies smothered with a decadent Key lime, preservative-free topping and baked to order. All new: Kristi’s Orange Cookies. With a three-week shelf life, these kosher treats are popular as wedding favors and corporate gi s. They are sold at local a ractions, resorts, and boutique food stores, including Seed to Table and Three60 Market. (kristiskeylimecookies.com)
A er struggling with eczema and psoriasis, Naples Soap Company Founder/CEO Deanna Wallin set out to find effective skincare solutions. In 2009, she opened Naples Soap Company in Naples’ Tin City to sell her all-natural s products that are free of preservatives and commercial additives. Naples Soap Company operates several retail stores in Florida. Find therapeutic bath bombs, allergen-free parfum, loofah soaps, body scrubs, and shampoo and conditioner bars at its coastalthemed shops in Estero, Naples, and Fort Myers. (naplessoap.com)
If you’re a chocolate connoisseur, you already know the name Norman Love. Since Norman Love Confections began cra ing ultra-premium chocolates in Southwest Florida in 2001, the award-winning, Fort Myers–based chocolatier has been lauded internationally by Forbes.com, The Huffington Post, The Daily Telegraph, and more. Norman Love has chocolate salons in Fort Myers, Estero, and Naples, and a pastry shop and café at Whole Foods Markets in Fort Myers and Naples. (normanloveconfections.com)
Taste of Immokalee is a social enterprise that teaches entrepreneurship and real-world skills to Immokalee High School students. They develop family recipes spotlighting Immokalee’s crops and cultures, while learning about food science, marketing, accounting, operations, and public speaking. Its line of products is sold at Publix stores and small, organic grocers throughout Collier County. Taste of Immokalee incorporates Lipman Family Farms’ field-grown tomatoes into barbecue sauces, habanero and serrano hot sauces, and salsas. Best of all, profits
are donated to local charities. (tasteofimmokalee. com)
Since 2012, Wicked Dolphin Rum Distillery in Cape Coral has been pulling in awards for its ever-growing line rums—black, silver, gold, premium, spiced, flavored. The distillery’s rums are made Florida sugar and ingredients. Handcra ed in small batches in an American copper-pot still, the rum is aged in white-oak barrels once used for premium Kentucky bourbon. The 100-proof RumShine infuses fresh fruits— strawberry or blueberry— picked at their peak of ripeness and comes in a Mason-style jar, imparting the spirit of moonshining in the ‘Glades frontier. Wicked Dolphin is sold and served in local restaurants, bar, and stores. The distillery also has a retail shop on-site and offers free tours. (wickeddolphinrum.com)
TOWER GALLERY
Tower Gallery on Sanibel Island is an artists’ cooperative featuring two-dimensional and three-dimensional mediums by two dozen artists. The gallery was founded in 1982 and features the work of popular regional artists—some you won’t find anywhere else. (towergallery.net)
LOCAL LEADERS ARE EMBRACING EDUCATION, WORKFORCE TRAINING, LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT, AND REGIONAL COLLABORATIONS TO LAY A SOLID ECONOMIC FOUNDATION—FOR TODAY AND TOMORROW
There is some serious business happening in Southwest Florida, and we have the economy to prove it. The potent combination of a diverse commercial base and the nonstop population growth contribute significantly to the region’s vitality.
We no longer rely upon tourism, agriculture, and construction industries, which have historically carried the load. Rather, the economic base now includes emerging manufacturing, finance and insurance, and health care sectors. That assortment, combined with a solid workforce, attract American and global companies that are expanding within or relocating to the region. Existing businesses and entrepreneurs are thriving as well.
All of this means that Southwest Florida’s 1.44 million residents—as of 2022—can take comfort in knowing that our economic health offers stability during cyclical ups and downs.
The region consists of Charlotte, Collier, Glades, Hendry, and Lee counties, which are home to a labor force of 446,228, according to the 2023 Southwest Florida Educational and Workforce Outcomes Report. The analysis is a collaboration of the Regional Economic Research Institute (RERI) at Florida Gulf Coast University Lutgert College of Business, Florida SouthWestern State College and the FutureMakers Coalition, a Fort Myers workforce education and development initiative.
The five largest industries by employment are retail trade, accommodation and food services; construction; health care and social assistance; and administrative and waste
services, according to the report. Other sectors are adding jobs, as well.
For example, the professional and technical services sector now ranks as the second-fastest growing, just behind construction and almost even with health care and social services. Tech startups, services—such as spas, auto repair, and recreational rental outfits—and new restaurants and retail shops are a vital component of the local small-business ecosystem, which provides roughly a quarter of all jobs in Southwest Florida.
That economic diversity dynamic is fueled by the region’s population surge, which has exceeded the state’s growth by 16.9 percent since 2010. From 1990, Collier County’s compounded population growth average was 3.2 percent per year and Lee County’s grew by 2.8 percent annually. These rates are expected to consistently gain at least 1.2 percent annually in Collier County and 1.4 percent in Lee County through 2045, according to the RERI.
The bottom line: More people create higher demand in all sectors of the economy. This reality has prompted local leaders to collaborate with trade and technical schools, colleges, and universities on measures that will meet those needs. Efforts are being coordinated among educational institutions, employers, and public stakeholders to address today’s market demands while preparing for the future.
Regionally, a significant emphasis has been
placed on education. Southwest Florida’s community leaders understand that graduating high school seniors need to have a vision for their futures and ways to achieve those goals—learning a trade, starting a business, joining the military, or heading off to college. Academic success that results in obtaining a high school diploma and earning an industry certificate or higher degree begins when little ones entering kindergarten are ready to learn their ABC’s and 1, 2, 3’s.
These are two great examples of “cradleto-career pathway” collaborations focused on creating a sustainable workforce pipeline:
• Future Ready Collier, made up of 60 learning partners, wants to ensure that every child is prepared to enter kindergarten—the start of their academic journey—on strong footing, and that each high school senior graduates with a clear college or career path. The initiative, coordinated by Champions For Learning— Education Foundation of Collier County, is working on several fronts to identify and fill educational gaps throughout the expansive county. (Learn more: futurereadycollier.org)
• The FutureMakers Coalition is spearheaded by Collaboratory (formerly the Southwest Florida Community Foundation). It aims to transform Southwest Florida’s workforce by increasing the proportion of working-age adults with college degrees, professional and industry certifications, and other high-quality credentials to 55 percent by 2025.
FutureMakers has more than 260
participants representing business, education, government, nonprofits, philanthropy, residents, and students. The target population includes students and adults who haven’t pursued education beyond high school and adults who started a degree or certificate program but never finished.
Thanks to a $29 million federal grant, the FutureMakers Coalition has launched the
Southwest Florida Equitable Jobs Pipeline to compensate employers who train under-skilled employees in four key sectors: PK-12 education, manufacturing, logistics, and health care. (Learn more: futuremakerscoalition.com and collaboratory.org)
Other highlights of local leaders working
together to diversify and expand the local economy :
• The Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce and its partnerships with regional, state, and national organizations focus on business retention, expansion, a raction, talent development, and relocation. The chamber
collaborates with government agencies, foundations, schools, and businesses on key issues shaping the local economy. It also cultivates future community leaders through the Leadership Collier Foundation. (Learn more: napleschamber.org)
• The Florida Culinary Accelerator @ Immokalee is a state-of-the-art commercial kitchen open to a membership base. Members select from a range of customized hours and plans to prepare, cook, and package their culinary creations for sale and distribution. (Learn more: collieredo.org)
LEE COUNTY
• The Lee County Economic Development
Office provides business assistance to retain existing businesses, encourage entrepreneurship and attract new business, and promotes new private development projects and investment activity. (Learn more: leecountybusiness.com)
• Leadership Lee County invites professionals and rising entrepreneurs to gain a deeper understanding of local challenges and opportunities while honing their community leadership skills. (Learn more: leadershipleecounty.org)
• The public-private Horizon Council advises the Lee County Board of Commissioners on retaining and encouraging the expansion of existing businesses, and attracting new and diversified employers. The council has up to 80 members representing municipalities, businesses, and education organizations. (Learn more: leecountybusiness.com)
• The Lee County Industrial Development Authority is a seven-member board appointed by the Lee County Commissioners that encourages manufacturing companies to utilize Industrial Development Revenue Bonds to finance projects. (Learn more: leecoida.com)
• Florida Gulf Coast University’s FGCU Daveler & Kauanui School of Entrepreneurship has earned national acclaim for its innovative model of teaching entrepreneurship across all academic disciplines and providing programs for veterans
and students to launch their own businesses. The school’s Veterans Florida Entrepreneurship Program is a tuition-free program that provides equity-free funding directly to veteranowned businesses (Learn more: fgcu.edu/ school-of-entrepreneurship)
Leadership Collier Foundationnapleschamber.org
Naples Newcomers Club Northnaplesnewcomersnorth.com
Wake Up Naples napleschamber.org
Young Professionals of Naplesypnaples.com
WOMEN'S GROUPS
American Association of University Women (AAUW) Greater Naples Branch greaternaples-fl.aauw.net
The League Club leagueclub.org
Local Chapters of Business Women (LCBW) Naples Chapter lcbw.org
Naples Junior Woman’s Clubnaplesjuniors.com
Naples Woman’s Club napleswomansclub.org
Women’s Business League Naples Chapter womensbusinessleague.com
Women’s Foundation of Collier County wfcollier.org
Women of the (239)
Zonta Club
womenofthe239.com
Bonita Springs Newcomers Clubbonitaspringsnewcomersclub.com
Estero Newcomers Club esteronewcomers.com
New Resident Club of Cape Coralcapecoralnewresident.com
WOMEN’S GROUPS
American Business Women’s Association Palms of Edisonia Chapter palmsofedisonia.abwa.org
American Business Women’s Association Palms of Edisonia Chapter Imperial River Chapter abwaimperialriver.org
Fort Myers Woman’s Community Clubfmwcc.net
Junior League of Fort Myers jlfm.org
Local Chapters of Business Women (LCBW) Cape Coral Chapter lcbw.org
Local Chapters of Business Women (LCBW) Fort Myers Chapter lcbw.org
Zonta Club
zonta-district11.org
ENTREPRENEURSHIP
Goodwill SWFL MicroEnterprise Institute
goodwillswfl.org/microenterprise
SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives) score.org
Small Business Development Center @ FGCU
zonta-district11.org
Tamiami Angel Funds
fsbdcswfl.org
tamiamiangels.com
A one-cent sales surtax in Collier County collected from 2019 to 2023 raised an estimated $550 million to fund a slate of much-needed projects. The county shares a portion of the funds with the cities of Naples, Marco Island, and Everglades City. The tax money is funding:
• Hurricane resilience projects
• Three emergency medical services substation upgrades
• A career and technical training center
• A Veterans Administration nursing home
• Numerous road, bridge, and sidewalk improvements
• A central mental health and addiction treatment facility
• A new forensic evidence building that will be used by a variety of law enforcement agencies •
• Florida SouthWestern State College’s Corporate Training and Workforce Now Research Initiative assists local businesses in obtaining Quick Response Training grants to train new hires when their business expands and Incumbent Worker Training grants to train existing employees and develop customized training classes. (Learn more: fsw.edu)
• SWFL Tech is a nonprofit membership organization that encourages the development, growth, and a raction of technology companies and resources. It is comprised of technology companies and users, economic development groups, and higher education institutions. It promotes and expands the regional tech sector through seminars, forums, and educational programs. (Learn more: swfrtp.org)
Real Estate firm, our team of agents offers diverse solutions for every real estate interest.
Job seekers may naturally check out some of the largest employers in the region because they offer positions that fit all ranges of experience and skill level. The following are some of the largest employers based in Collier and Lee counties.
Some of the biggies are not included in this list: the federal government and national and regional retailers and chains, such as Home Depot, Walmart, and Publix Supermarkets. Here, as in many places, local government,
including school districts, as well as health care systems are the largest employers.
In Southwest Florida, November through April is prime time for tourists and returning seasonal residents, so many resorts, restaurants, and shops beef up staff temporarily to meet the fluctuating seasonal demand.
Here are some of the region’s biggest employers listed in alphabetic order, not size of workforce.
ARTHREX
1370 Creekside Blvd., Naples 800-933-7001 • arthrex.com
This global medical device company—a leader in new product development—pioneered the field of arthroscopy and sports medicine. Arthrex’s global headquarters is in Naples, with worksites in Ave Maria, Bonita Springs, and Fort Myers, as well as internationally. Arthrex, a privately held company, has developed more than 14,000 surgical devices. More than 3,900 employees are based in Collier County.
8950 Fontana Del Sol Way, Ste. 100, Naples 239-261-2244 • downingfrye.com
Since 2004, Downing-Frye Realty has been ranked in the top 100 real estate offices in the country based on closed sales volume. It focuses on selling properties in Collier County, Bonita Springs, and Estero.
15000 Old 41 N., Naples 239-597-3131 • gargiulofarms.com
Gargiulo has farms and a packinghouse in Collier County for growing and distributing tomatoes. Founded in 1980, it is estimated to generate $58 million in annual revenues, and employs more than 2,000.
Our e orts come in a variety of forms, from financial investments to support economic growth to traditional philanthropy and volunteer hours contributed by our team members. We strive to provide community banking as it should be.
350 Seventh St. N., Naples 239-624-5000 • nchmd.org
NCH is an alliance of physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and 3,200 employees with two hospitals and dozens of medical locations in Collier County and Bonita Springs. NCH is a member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network.
MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL marriott.com
The international hotel chain has three luxury resort properties in Collier County—The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón, and JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort—in addition to other properties in Collier and Lee counties.
MOORINGS PARK
120 Moorings Park Drive, Naples 239-643-9111 • mooringspark.org
Moorings Park originated with the members of Moorings Presbyterian Church in 1977 as a nonprofit corporation designed to create a nondenominational community where retirees could enjoy a secure, comprehensive residential and health care program. With three local campuses, Moorings Park offers luxurious residences with upscale and casual dining, comprehensive physician services, state-of-the art fitness centers, social activities, and continuing care options.
OAKES FARMS
925 New Harvest Road, Immokalee 239-592-9024 • oakesfarms.com
Oakes Farms is one of the largest independently owned agribusiness operations in South Florida. Oakes Farms’ diversified portfolio includes farming, packing, shipping, and seafood aquaponics, and food service and retail markets Oakes Farms Market, Food & Thought, and Seed to Table.
8300 Collier Blvd., Naples 239-354-6000 • physiciansregional.com
Community Health Systems is the parent company of Physicians Regional Healthcare System, which has three hospitals in Collier County and more than 700 employees.
Community Health Systems owns seven health care campuses along the gulfcoast.
506 S. First St., Immokalee 239-658-1313 • seminoleimmokaleecasino.com
The Seminole Tribe owns and operates the Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee. Opened in 1994, it is Southwest Florida’s premier gaming destination, offering slot machines, table games, concerts, and 100 suites and rooms.
VI AT BENTLEY VILLAGE (VI LIVING)
850 Retreat Drive, Naples 239-431-2100 • viliving.com
Vi at Bentley Village is a 156-acre continuing care retirement community featuring a par-3 golf course and exceptional amenities. Vi operates 10 communities across the United States where residents enjoy stylish apartments, world-class cuisine, and varied lifestyle programming.
CITY OF NAPLES
735 Eighth St. S., Naples 239-213-1000 • naplesgov.com
COLLIER COUNTY GOVERNMENT
3301 Tamiami Trail E., Naples 239-252-8999 • colliercountyfl.gov
COLLIER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
5775 Osceola Trail, Naples 239-377-0001 • collierschools.com
COLLIER HEALTH SERVICES (HEALTHCARE NETWORK)
1454 Madison Ave. W., Immokalee 239-658-3000 • healthcareswfl.org
DAVID LAWRENCE CENTERS FOR BEHAVIORAL HEALTH
6075 Bathey Lane, Naples 239-455-8500 • davidlawrencecenters.org
GENESISCARE
733 4th Ave. N., Naples 239-436-5520 • genesiscare.com
GULF BAY GROUP OF COMPANIES
8156 Fiddlers Creek Parkway, Naples 239-732-9500 • gulfbay.com
JOHN R. WOOD PROPERTIES
9130 Corsea Del Fontana Way, Naples 239-262-1900 • johnrwood.com
NAPLES GRANDE BEACH RESORT
475 Seagate Drive, Naples 239-597-3232 • naplesgrande.com
NAPLES LAKE COUNTRY CLUB
13491 Tamiami Trail N., Naples 239-592-5533 • germaincars.com
PELICAN BAY FOUNDATION
6251 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples 239-597-8081 • pelicanbay.org
PHILHARMONIC CENTER FOR THE ARTS (ARTIS-NAPLES)
5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples 239-597-1900 • artisnaples.org
11215 Metro Parkway, Fort Myers
239-277-6200 • chicosfas.com
Through three brands—Chico’s, White House Black Market, and Soma—Chico’s FAS is a specialty retailer of apparel, accessories, and lifestyle products for women 30 years and older. The brand was founded in 1983 on Sanibel Island. Its corporate headquarters is located on an award-winning, 24-acre campus and there are several retail stores in Collier and Lee counties.
10501 FGCU Blvd. S., Fort Myers
239-590-1000 • fgcu.edu
FGCU opened its doors as the state’s tenth fouryear university in 1997. The 800-acre campus east of I-75 in south Lee County is home to six colleges with an enrollment of 16,000 students annually and a staff of 900-plus that includes 587 faculty. Half of the campus—400 acres—is restored or preserved natural habitats.
8099 College Parkway, Fort Myers
239-489-9300 • fsw.edu
The main campus of Florida SouthWestern
(FSW) is in Fort Myers in Lee County, with satellite campuses in Charlotte and Collier counties and outreach programs in Hendry and Glades counties. It has an enrollment of 16,576 in 45 academic programs and employs a staff of 1,245.
12651 Gateway Blvd., Fort Myers 800-213-4848 / 239-561-4000 • gartner.com
Gartner is the world’s leading research and advisory company, with more than 16,000 client organizations and 120 offices. Its Fort Myers campus is its largest to date and employs 2,100 people. Gartner provides technology research to senior executives with business-specific insights, tools, and advice. It offers high-wage jobs exceeding averages for the region and was named to Forbes’ annual list of the “2023 World’s Most Admired Companies.””
1333 Santa Barbara Blvd., Cape Coral 239-772-1333 • gulfcoastvillage.com
Gulf Coast Village is a large continuing care community providing a range of expertly delivered health care options. It has been in operation since 1989 and is part of the nonprofit, faith-based Volunteers of America.
Gulf Coast Village offers Seniors Choice at Home, a program that enables seniors to age in place at home. It has rapidly expanded with The
Preserve in Fort Myers and the development of the Colonnade in Estero, adding a combined 982 units and 750 employees.
27500 Riverview Center Blvd., Ste. 100, Bonita Springs 239-301-7000 • hercrentals.com
Herc Rentals is a 57-year-old, full-service equipment rental company with 350 locations across the United States and Canada. In lieu of a headquarters, its Field Support Center provides support services for branches and other field operations and company-wide business functions.
8501 Williams Road, Estero 239-301-7000 • hertz.com
The Hertz Corporation is one of the largest worldwide vehicle rental companies. It operates the Hertz, Dollar and Thrifty vehicle rental brands throughout North America and beyond. It is a major local employee at its headquarters and rental locations.
9470 HealthPark Circle, Fort Myers 239-482-4673 • hopehospice.org
Hope Healthcare is a nonprofit, comprehensive home health-care system nationally recognized as a leader in providing high-quality, innovative care. Serving Southwest Florida for more than 30 years, Hope Hospice cares for more than 3,000 individuals a day through a variety of programs at its locations in Lee, Charlotte, Collier, Hendry, and Glades counties.
2776 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers 800-936-5321 • leehealth.org
Lee Health is the largest health-care system in Southwest Florida with more than 14,000 employees and 100-plus locations offering medical services.
RADIOLOGY REGIONAL CENTER
3660 Broadway Ave., Fort Myers 239-936-2316 • radiologyregional.com
Radiology Regional is one of the largest physician-driven diagnostic imaging providers in the Southeast United States. Radiology Regional has 13 imaging centers in Southwest Florida.
SHELL POINT RETIREMENT COMMUNITY
13921 Shell Point Plaza, Fort Myers 800-780-1131 • shellpoint.org
Florida’s largest single-site continuing care retirement community for people 60 and older was established in 1968 by the nonprofit ministry Christian and Missionary Alliance Foundation Inc. Shell Point has approximately 2,500 residents and more than 1,200 employees. Amenities include a championship golf course, Gulf-access marina, dining, salon, and fitness, and a $15 million performing arts hall that opened in 2021.
AMAZON
7929 Drew Circle, Fort Myers hiring.amazon.com/#/
BONITA BAY CLUB
26660 Country Club Drive, Bonita Springs 239-495-0200 • bonitabayclub.net
CITY OF CAPE CORAL
1015 Cultural Park Blvd., Cape Coral 239-574-0401 • capecoral.net
CITY OF FORT MYERS
2200 Second St., Fort Myers 239-321-7000 • cityftmyers.com
FLORIDA CANCER SPECIALISTS & RESEARCH INSTITUTE
5578931 Colonial Center Drive, Ste. 300, Fort Myers • 239-274-8200 • flcancer.com
LEE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT
2855 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers 239-334-1102 • leeschools.net
LEE COUNTY GOVERNMENT
2115 Second St., Fort Myers 239-533-2245 • leegov.com
LEESAR/COOPERATIVE SERVICES OF FLORIDA (CSF)
2727 Winkler Ave., Fort Myers 239-939-8800 • leesar.com
NEOGENOMICS
9490 NeoGenomics Way, Fort Myers 239-768-0600 • neogenomics.com
SEAGATE DEVELOPMENT GROUP
9921 Interstate Commerce Drive, Fort Myers 239-738-7900 • seagatedevelopmentgroup.com
SHAW DEVELOPMENT
25190 Bernwood Drive, Bonita Springs 239-405-6100 • shawdev.com
VANCE BROTHERS CONSTRUCTION
P.O. Box 51009, Fort Myers 239-243-1557 • vancebrothersconstruction.com
What goes in your cart must be clean, dry and loose. No plastic bags.
Scan our code to find out what day your services are.
• Twice-a-week garbage collection
• Once-a-week recycling collection
• Once-a-week yard waste collection
• Once-a-week bulky item collection. Call 239-252-2380, 48 hours in advance to schedule collection of appliances, electronics, standard vehicle tires or vehicle batteries
Preparations and Guidelines to follow:
• There will be no curbside services on Fourth of July, Thanksgiving or Christmas Day
• Set your carts out before 6 a.m. on collection day and remove before 6 a.m. on the day after collection
• Place your carts at least three feet from each other and from other obstacles like mailboxes Plastic bottles, jars,
Safely dispose of paint, batteries, electronics and more at a Drop-Off Center near you
Monday-Saturday 8:30 a.m.- 4:30 p.m.
• Naples
• Marco Island
• Northeast Collier – Tim Nance Center
• North Collier
Most items are accepted free of charge. For a full list of accepted material and rates, visit colliercountyfl.gov/dispose
Visit colliercountyfl.gov/hurricaneprep to learn how you can prepare for a storm
Where are you located in relation to the airport?
The Naples Airport is a catalyst for the regional economy, providing critical public services and supporting philanthropic efforts. In 2022, the airport supported 5,454 jobs and generated a total economic impact of $781 million as estimated by the Florida Department of Transportation. The impact of aircraft noise depends on your location. View the map of Naples on the right to locate where you are in relation to the airport.
Scan the QR code above to learn about the airport’s noise abatement measures and 2023 Part 150 noise study.
NaplesAirport NaplesAirportAPF
NaplesAirportAuthority
Visit flynaples.com to schedule a tour of the airport. For inquiries about airport operations, please call us at 239-643-0733.
The public school systems in Collier and Lee counties are working hand in glove with local governments, businesses, and nonprofit organizations to provide a cradleto-cap learning experience that begins with school readiness when entering kindergarten and continues through career readiness for all graduating high school seniors.
Both districts provide a robust roster of Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs that prepare students for college or careers through professional certifications and specialization in fields such as aerospace, information technology, web development, and the culinary arts. Magnet schools with a primary emphasis provide an opportunity for students to hone their skill or passion. For college-bound students, high schools offer International Baccalaureate, Cambridge AICE, Advanced Placement, AVID, honors, and dual enrollment programs.
Technical colleges provide a host of courses that lead to immediate employment in an array fields, from law enforcement to veterinarian care to medical billing, with many offering a “career in a year” format. Both Collier and Lee
counties are home to two technical colleges.
CLASS SIZE: The Florida Constitution sets limits on the number of students in core classes in the state’s public schools. The maximum number of students in each core class are set at:
• 18 students: PK through Grade 3
• 22 students: Grades 4 through 8
• 25 students: Grades 9 through 12
In Collier and Lee counties, students attend a school based on two factors—their geographical zone and their choice of schools within that zone. Students and parents rank the schools that lie within the zone in which they live, and the student is assigned based on a lottery system during the regular registration period. In Lee County, schools located on the barrier islands (Sanibel Island, Pine Island, and Estero Island) are not
considered part of any choice zone. However, these students may apply for zone or multizone magnet schools.
School and out-of-zone assignments may change if the student requires special educational programs that are not provided at the assigned school or within the zone, if the family moves to another zone, or if a districtemployed parent changes schools, in addition to other specific factors.
If you are new to Collier or Lee county, contact the school district’s Student Enrollment Office to learn about the documents needed for enrolling a child and registration and school assignment deadlines.
• High school graduation rate: 92.7%
• Statewide grade: A
• Elementary schools: 31
• K-12: 1
• Middle schools: 10
• High schools: 8
• Charter schools: 9
• Special/alternative centers: 1
• Technical colleges: 2
• Career academies: 32
• Student enrollment: 48,000
• Teachers: 3,165
• Languages spoken: 104
Website: collierschools.com
(
Source: CCPS Fact Sheet, July 2022)
• High school graduation rate: 88.5 %
• Statewide grade: B
• Elementary schools: 45
• K-8: 4
• Middle schools: 16
• High schools: 15
• Charter schools: 23
• Special education centers: 11
• Technical colleges: 2
• Career & Technical Education Programs: 16 career clusters
• Student enrollment: 97,264
• Teachers: 5,170
• Languages spoken: 160
Website: leeschools.net
(Source: 2021-2022 Impact Report and Florida Dept. of Education)
Charter schools in Florida are nonprofit organizations sponsored by a school district, which oversees the schools. The Florida Department of Education provides an annual
analysis and comparison of the overall performance of charter school students to traditional public-school students based on statewide assessments.
Both the Collier County and Lee County school districts sponsor charter schools. In both counties, some charter schools offer a general curriculum similar to that of the public schools, while many others provide unique specialty or career education options not available elsewhere.
Students enrolled in high school in Collier and Lee counties may be dual enrolled at a local institution of higher learning such as a community college, technical college, or university. Credits earned on highereducation campuses are applied to high school
flvs.net/homeschool
graduation requirements. In addition, formal articulations have been established with local and statewide institutions to ensure that students receive credit or advanced standing if they enroll in these institutions to continue a career program. At technical colleges, dualenrolled high school students with a grade of C or higher earn weighted credit and may also earn industry certifications.
Florida administers a Postsecondary Education Readiness Test (PERT) to 11th-grade high school students, virtual school students, and homeschooled students to assess their academic skills, college readiness, and course placement. Achievement of a qualifying score on the test, or successful completion of a remediation course, is required for high school
Florida Virtual School (FLVS) is a free, online public school offering more than 150 courses. FLVS gives students the ability to enroll in courses 365 days a year and the choice to take courses online during the summer or school year. As virtual learners, students can chart an educational path around individual needs, hobbies, athletic pursuits, activities, and travel. Students who complete the virtual course of study receive the same accredited diploma distributed by any other public school.
lvs.leeschools.net
Lee County has its own virtual program. Lee Virtual School provides full-time, K-12 virtual instruction that follows the school district calendar and provides access to many of the same courses available in the bricks-and-mortar schools, including Advanced Placement and dual enrollment, along with the flexibility of participating in electives and sports at local schools.
Lee Virtual School is a franchise of FLVS.
graduation. PERT scores are also used for college placement.
The SAT and ACT tests are generally accepted or required by Florida’s state universities and colleges. Several private colleges and community colleges in the state permit the substitution of alternative tests such as COMPASS, a multiple-choice, untimed, computerized placement test or the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children.
Recent workforce and labor studies indicate that two out of three jobs created between now and 2030 will require education and training beyond a high school diploma, but not
necessarily a four-year college degree, so gaining a professional or industry certificate or license is a smart career move. Technical colleges operate under the governance of the Florida Department of Education Division of Workforce Development and by the local school district. Tuition is competitively low and financial assistance is available. The colleges also aid in job placement. The programs offer a mix of in-class, online, and hands-on experiences, and many can be completed within a year.
IMMOKALEE TECHNICAL (ITECH) COLLEGE
itech.edu
iTECH offers 17 programs in addition to courses designed for English-language learners
The Florida Prepaid College Board offers several plans tailored to meet a range of financial needs. These include a 529 plan; one-year, two-year, and four-year plans; and a 2+2 plan that starts a child at one of the 28 Florida colleges at a lower cost and guarantees their admission to a state university upon completion of an associate degree. Information about each plan is available at myfloridaprepaid.com.
and for obtaining a GED. Campus storefronts include a cyber café and restaurant, practicing medical office, automotive service center, childcare center, and cosmetology center. The Center for Manufacturing Excellence, an extension of the campus, is a cuttingedge training facility that gives students the knowledge and skills they need for a successful career in today’s manufacturing field.
LORENZO WALKER TECHNICAL COLLEGE
lwtc.edu
Lorenzo Walker Technical College offers two dozen programs in addition to courses designed for English-language learners, literacy, and for obtaining a GED. It is a stateof-the-art, 200,000-square-foot facility with a catalog of offerings that frequently expands to meet industry needs. It offers adult and community education courses.
Homeschooling is popular in Florida, with a2zhomeschooling.com estimating approximately 86,500 homeschooled students in the state. Families interested in homeschooling must register with the Colllier or Lee County School District by filing a letter of intent. Parents must also maintain a portfolio logging each student’s educational activities and provide an annual evaluation, which may include the Florida Standards Assessment, among other required actions. For comprehensive information, contact the Home Education Department of each district at:
COLLIER COUNTY: collierschools.com
LEE COUNTY: leeschools.net
CAPE CORAL TECHNICAL COLLEGE
capecoraltech.edu
Cape Coral Technical College offers 16 programs in the categories of agriculture, business, health, hospitality, and technology.
FORT MYERS TECHNICAL COLLEGE fortmyerstech.edu
Fort Myers Technical College offers more than 20 programs in a variety of occupational clusters, from construction to law enforcement to cosmetology. More than 150 business leaders serve on program advisory committees.
FLORIDA PUBLIC SERVICE ACADEMY
swfpsa.org
The Southwest Florida Public Service Academy is comprised of two separate public safety academies: The Southwest Florida Criminal Justice Academy and The Southwest Florida Fire Academy.
CAREERSOURCE
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA careersourcesouthwestflorida.com
CareerSource is the organization chartered by the state of Florida to develop, create, and retain a quality workforce system in Southwest Florida. It offers professional services to all employers and job-seekers.
FOUNDATION OF COLLIER COUNTY championsforlearning.org
Champions For Learning’s College & Career Preparation Program supports 11th- and 12th-grade students and their families. The foundation supports and recognizes teachers with grants and awards and administers the Take Stock in Children scholarship. Champions For Learning is the backbone organization supporting Future Ready Collier, a collaborative network working to ensure every child in Collier County is ready for kindergarten and every young
person graduates high school with a career path. It is also a partner in the regional FutureMakers Coalition.
The Early Learning Coalition works to increase the availability of quality early-learning programs to meet the needs of families, particularly those working toward economic self-sufficiency. Its Child Care Resource & Referral is a free community service for all families.
The FutureMakers Coalition is a five-county regional initiative that includes businesses, nonprofits, school districts, and other organizations that aims to transform Southwest Florida’s workforce by increasing the proportion of working-age adults with college degrees, industry certifications, and other high-quality credentials.
The foundation enhances the quality of public education in Lee County by increasing community involvement, supporting and recognizing teachers with classroom grants and awards, and providing local students with the College & Career Center. It administers the Take Stock in Children scholarship program; online scholarship application portal; and the Student Advocacy and Mentoring Partnership for at-risk students.
A nonprofit foundation that has worked tirelessly for more than 25 years to strengthen one of the nation’s largest migrant communities, with a focus on education, vocation, and life skills. It helps more than 2,500 students annually through its individualized Pathways to Success programs and administers the Take Stock in Children scholarship program. One-hundred percent of its students graduate from high school and go on to postsecondary education.
COLLIER COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
Collier Scholars Common Application colliercf.org
SCHOLARSHIP CONNECTOR
A web-based scholarship search engine serving Southwest Florida swflscholarships.org
THE FOUNDATION FOR LEE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS leeschoolfoundation.org
COLLABORATORY—SOUTHWEST
FLORIDA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION collaboratory.org
FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
fldoe.com
FLORIDA STUDENT SCHOLARSHIP AND GRANT PROGRAMS (BRIGHT FUTURES)
floridastudentfinancialaid.org
Florida’s largest merit-based scholarship program
FLORIDA PUBLIC TECHNICAL COLLEGE “CAREER IN A YEAR” PROGRAMS careerinayearfl.com
FLORIDASHINES
floridashines.org
Free, online tools and resources designed to help students succeed in school, earn a college degree, and embark on a rewarding career
Collier County has 30 private schools serving more than 8,400 students from pre-kindergarten to high school graduation. More than 61 percent are religiously affiliated (most commonly Catholic and Christian) although several have no religious affiliation, including Montessori schools for preschoolers. The average tuition cost is $11,355, which is higher than the Florida average of $10,574.
Following is a select list of the largest Collier County private schools that serve PK-12 students. (Source: privateschoolreview.com)
13275 Livingston Road, Naples 239-597-7575; communityschoolnaples.org
Community School of Naples (CSN) is an independent, college-preparatory day school
committed to the development of the whole child. CSN’s rigorous and globally focused academic curriculum from grades PK3-12 prepares students not only for college, but for a lifetime of intellectual curiosity and social accountability. Students are encouraged to strengthen skills and build confidence through various athletic, art, music, and extracurricular clubs and activities.
DONAHUE ACADEMY OF AVE MARIA (PK-12)
4955 Seton Way, Ave Maria 239-842-3241; donahueacademy.org
Ranked among the top 50 Catholic schools nationally, Donahue Academy is located in the town of Ave Maria, located 36 miles east of Naples. It offers sports and extracurriculars.
FIRST BAPTIST ACADEMY (PK-12)
3000 Orange Blossom Drive, Naples 239-597-2233; fbalions.org
This school, set on a 94-acre campus, opened in 1996 as a ministry of First Baptist Church Naples to provide a rigorous academic program of studies infused with Christian teaching. It offers Advanced Placement courses, in addition to programs for homeschooled students, sports, and extracurriculars. Upperclassmen participate in hands-on learning internships to expose them to a range of career fields.
NAPLES CHRISTIAN ACADEMY (PK-8)
2655 Northbrooke Drive, Naples 239-455-1080; napleschristian.net
Naples Christian Academy was the first school in Collier County to be honored as a National Blue Ribbon School and its
stated mission is “to develop well-rounded student leaders who will be known by their faith, Christian character, intellect, and impactful contributions.” It offers sports and extracurriculars.
NICAEA ACADEMY (PK-12)
14785 Collier Blvd., Naples 353-9090 • nicaeaacademy.com
Instruction at Nicaea Academy is based on the Christian-based Abeka textbooks developed by the Pensacola Christian Academy. It has three early learning campuses—one in Naples and two in Lee County.
SAINT ANN CATHOLIC SCHOOL (PK-8)
542 Eighth Ave. S., Naples 239-262-4110 • stann.net
Saint Ann Catholic School, a ministry of Saint Ann Parish, is rooted in the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church and was founded in 1956. The school offers robust athletic and extracurricular programs.
SAINT ELIZABETH SETON
CATHOLIC SCHOOL (PK-8)
2730 53rd Terrace SW, Naples 239-455-2262 • saintelizabethseton.com
St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School is a Catholic school founded in 1981. The school offers six sports and six extracurriculars and has an average class size of 22.
3000 53rd St. SW, Naples
239-455-3044 • sjnceltics.org
Students from different counties attend this small, faith-based, college-preparatory school, founded in 1980 and rooted in the Roman Catholic tradition. It provides a rigorous learning environment with several Advanced Placement, honors, and college preparatory courses, as well as extracurriculars, community volunteer programs, sports, and robust cultural offerings. It is known for its personalized college advisory program that begins with incoming freshmen to ensure students have a vision and plan for higher education or their careers after graduation.
7100 Davis Blvd., Naples
239-793-1986 • seacrest.org
Seacrest Country Day School is an independent, nonsectarian school for children ages 3 through twelfth grade on its 42-acre campus in East Naples. Established in 1983, Seacrest fuels intellectual engagement and leadership with several Advanced Placement courses, as well as two dozen extracurriculars, a dozen sports, and cultural opportunities. The academy allows highly competitive athletes who participate in individual sports (such as swimming, golf, and tennis) to fulfill graduation requirements, prepare for standardized testing, and work with professional college counselors. Seacrest Country Day School enrolls a socioeconomic diverse population based on annual income.
6000 Goodlette-Frank Road, Naples
239-593-7686 • villageschoolnaples.org
The Village School of Naples is an independent Methodist school serving infants through twelfth grade. As the first independent STEAM school in Collier County, the school is dedicated to the pursuit of excellence in academics, technology, athletics, and the arts. The Upper School for 9-12 students was launched in 2017, and it offers an intense college preparatory experience in an encouraging atmosphere with a wide array of Advanced Placement courses.
Lee County has 50 private schools serving 8,850 students from pre-kindergarten to high school graduation. About 74 percent are religiously affiliated (most commonly Christian and Baptist), but there are several nonreligious schools, including Montessori schools. The average tuition cost is $10,603.
Following is a select list of the largest Lee County private schools that serve PK-12
students. (Source: privateschoolreview.com)
5598 Sunrise Drive, Fort Myers 239-274-6700 • bvhs.org
Since 1962, Bishop Verot Catholic High School has provided an academic environment that integrates learning about the Roman Catholic tradition. Its college preparatory curriculum consists of state-required courses for graduation, including two dozen Advanced Placement courses, and a wide range of electives. It offers two dozen sports, performing arts, and more than two dozen extracurriculars, as well as assistance to students with diagnosed learning disabilities.
8141 College Parkway, Fort Myers 239-481-4323;
canterburyfortmyers.org
Founded in 1964, Canterbury School is a college preparatory school dedicated to academic excellence within an atmosphere emphasizing character, leadership, and service. At Canterbury, the life of the mind is complemented by a strong athletic program and a commitment to the arts. These elements come together to instill a love of learning. Canterbury offers a robust Advanced Placement program with more than 30 courses.
Schedule your tour today!
Tracy Farley at 239.262.4110 • ext. 224
tfarley@stann.net
1901 Park Meadows Drive, Fort Myers 239-481-4478 • crestwellschool.org
Crestwell is a nonsectarian school established in 1993 by parents and educators. It’s located on a 7-acre campus with an expansive student-maintained garden and greenhouse.
8237 Beacon Blvd., Fort Myers 239-936-3319 • goecs.org
Founded in 1973, Evangelical Christian School is an independent, college-preparatory school on a 28-acre campus that incorporates biblical principles into academics, athletics, technology, and fine arts. Its curriculum includes Advanced Placement courses, in addition to sports and extracurriculars.
1550 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers 239-939-4642 • fortmyerschristianschool.org
Fort Myers Christian School was established in 1979 by First Assembly of God of Fort Myers and provides a Christian-based academic setting and curriculum. It offers sports, extracurriculars, STEM, art, and music programs.
4770 Orange Grove Blvd., North Fort Myers 239-995-7711 • goodshepofnfm.com
Good Shepherd Lutheran School, founded in 1967, is owned and operated by Good Shepherd Lutheran Church with a well-balanced, Biblebased curriculum.
SAINT ANDREW CATHOLIC SCHOOL (PK-8)
1509 SE 27th St., Cape Coral 239-772-3922 • standrewcs.org
St. Andrew Catholic School opened in 1989 and provides a solid academic foundation that infuses Roman Catholic learning across its curriculum. It a STREAM (Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Art, Math) school that provides a Primary Years International Baccalaureate program for ages 3 to 12. It offers extracurriculars and sports.
SAINT FRANCIS XAVIER CATHOLIC SCHOOL (PK-8)
2055 Heitman St., Fort Myers
239-334-7707 • stfrancisfortmyers.org
St. Francis Xavier School, founded in 1938, provides quality academic instruction that integrates the teaching of the Roman Catholic faith at its open-air campus featuring a performing arts center and high-tech Learning Commons. St. Francis Xavier School also offers several sports and extracurricular activities.
SAINT MICHAEL LUTHERAN (PK-8)
3595 Broadway, Fort Myers
239-939-1218 • smlcs.org
Saint Michael Lutheran School is a parochial Lutheran school founded in 1956, offering a challenging academic and arts curriculum. It provides support for learners with dyslexia and language-based and learning disabilities, as well as sports and extracurriculars.
SONSHINE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY (PK-12)
12925 Palm Beach Blvd., Fort Myers 239-694-8882 • sonshinewarriors.org
Build a Bright Future for Your Child…Join Our School Family!
St. Elizabeth Seton School 2730 53rd Terrace SW | Naples 239.455.2262
www.SaintElizabethSeton.com
Dedicated Teachers
Proven track record for student learning and life success since 1981.
Sonshine Christian Academy, located on 18 acres, provides a Christcentered education focused on Abeka Christian Curriculum and Accelerated Christian Curriculum. It offers sports, a vocal ensemble, and A.C.E. Student Convention extracurricular enrichment programs.
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA
CHRISTIAN ACADEMY (K-12)
3750 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers 239-936-8865 • sfcakings.org
Southwest Florida Christian Academy opened in 1994 as a ministry of McGregor Baptist Church. The high school is focused on college preparation, offering Advanced Placement courses for students in grades 10 through 12. It offers more than a dozen sports.
Note: See individual websites for details. For a listing of all private schools in Collier and Lee counties: privateschoolreview.com
LOOKING TO CHANGE PROFESSIONS OR OBTAIN A POSTSECONDARY DEGREE OR PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATION? YOU’RE IN LUCK. SOUTHWEST FLORIDA HAS SEVERAL OPPORTUNITIES TO GROW YOUR CAREER. TUITION IS FOR IN-STATE STUDENTS PER SEMESTER AND IT DOES NOT INCLUDE ON-CAMPUS HOUSING, BOOKS, OR OTHER EXPENSES.
FLORIDA GULF COAST UNIVERSITY
10501 FGCU Blvd. S., Fort Myers
239-590-1000, 800-590-3428 fgcu.edu
Four-year state university set on 800 acres offering 63 undergraduate programs, 26 master’s programs, 18 certificate programs, and 7 doctoral programs
Enrollment: 16,004
Established: 1991, opened in 1997
Tuition: $6,118
FLORIDA SOUTHWESTERN STATE COLLEGE
7007 Lely Cultural Parkway, Naples
239-732-3700
8099 College Parkway, Fort Myers
239-489-9300 • fsw.edu
This public college serves a five-county area with campuses in Fort Myers, Naples, and Punta Gorda, as well as a Corporate Training Center in Bonita Springs and a satellite center in LaBelle. It is a cost-effective choice, with 70 percent of students graduating debt-free. FSW offers 10 Academic & Career Pathways— a set of associate and/or bachelor’s degrees
Enrollment: 14,714
Established: 1962
Tuition: $3,401
AVE MARIA SCHOOL OF LAW
1025 Commons Circle, Naples
239-687-5300 • avemarialaw.edu
An independent law school in the Catholic tradition that is fully accredited by the American Bar Association, located on a 12-acre campus near the Vineyards community.
Enrollment: 299
Established: In Michigan in 2000 and relocated to Naples in 2009 Tuition: $47,900
5050 Ave Maria Blvd., Ave Maria 239-280-2500 • avemaria.edu
A private university in the Catholic tradition with a 113-acre campus in the town of Ave Maria offering 31 bachelor’s programs as well as a master’s of theological studies and an MA and PhD in theology.
Enrolled: 1,245
Established: In Michigan in 1998, relocated to Naples in 2003, permanent campus completed in 2007 Tuition: $14,408
Sunrise Building, 12381 S. Cleveland Ave., Ste. 502, Fort Myers 239-278-3041 • barry.edu
The second-largest private Catholic university in the Southeast, with bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs offered in Fort Myers and online.
Highest degrees (Fort Myers): MAA, MPA, MSW
Established: 1940 Tuition: $16,400
3909 Tamiami Trail E., Naples • 239-513-1135 9100 Forum Corporate Parkway, Fort Myers 239-277-1336 • keiseruniversity.edu
Keiser University has 18 campuses in Florida and offers degrees in more than 100 different doctoral through associate degrees in a variety of high-demand fields, including health care, business, information technology, culinary arts, legal studies, and education.
Established: 1977
Tuition: Dependent on program
3650 Colonial Court, Fort Myers 239-274-6070 • nova.edu
Florida’s largest independent, not-for-profit
institution of higher education based in Fort Lauderdale offers undergraduate, graduate, and specialist degrees in 50 career-focused programs at its Student Educational Center in Fort Myers.
Highest degrees: MBA, DO, JD, DBA, EdD, PhD
Enrollment: 755 in Southwest Florida
Established: 1964
Tuition: Dependent on program
9160 Forum Corporate Parkway, Ste. 100, Fort Myers 239-477-2100 • rasmussen.edu
Private, regionally accredited college with a focus on business, design, education, health sciences, justice, nursing, and technology, as well as professional certifications. It offers some full degrees through online courses. Past college coursework, military transcripts, course waivers, and industry certifications maximize credits and reduce overall costs.
Highest degrees (Fort Myers campus): MH, MS in Data Science, MSHR, MSN
Established: 2008 in Fort Myers (Originally 1900 in St. Paul, Minnesota)
Tuition: Dependent on program and location
If you are looking for a doctor close to home, want more information about our services, or have a question about NCH, call to speak with one of our representatives today.
Call us from 7am to 7pm, 7 days a week at NCH-7777 (239-624-7777)
Health Care Overview
Major Medical Facilities
Children’s Hospitals
Freestanding ERs
Urgent Care Clinics
VA Clinics
QUALITY CARE IS A PRIORITY IN SOUTHWEST FLORIDA
Health care is a vital industry in Southwest Florida’s economy, and the region is home to state-of-the-art medical centers and expert practitioners in a range of specialties.
Collier County is home to award-winning NCH and Physicians Regional Healthcare System. Lee Health is the flagship hospital system in Lee County, while Millennium Physician Group is a network of walk-in urgent care centers and primary care medical providers. HCA Florida Heatlhcare has entered the Southwest Florida market with two freestanding emergency rooms—one in Cape Coral and one scheduled to open in Fort Myers in fall 2024. (It also operates HCA Florida Fawce Hospital in nearby Charlo e County.) In addition, there are ample Veterans Affairs services, nonprofit health care networks for low-income residents, and hospice services.
NCH
239-624-5000 • nchmd.org
NCH ranks in the top 2 percent of hospitals nationwide for overall clinical performance and among the top 50 for surgical care, according to Healthgrades. NCH operates two hospital campuses, and urgent-care, wellness, and family medical facilities. It is building a new NCH Rooney Heart Institute and Wingard Stroke Institute (an accredited Comprehensive Stroke Center) on its downtown campus. It has partnered with the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) on the state-of-the-art
Patty & Jay Baker Pavilion for orthopedic and musculoskeletal care. Its orthopedic program is already accredited by the Joint Commission. NCH is a member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network and sponsors the Blue Zones Project Southwest Florida. The system has approximately 4,644 employees, more than 700 physicians, and 716 licensed beds.
NCH Baker Hospital Downtown
350 Seventh St. N., Naples 239-624-5000
The flagship, 391-bed acute care and emergency hospital, home to the NCH Heart Institute, has been a top performer nationally in cardiac care for five consecutive years.
NCH North Naples Hospital
11190 Health Park Blvd., Naples
239-552-7000 • nchmd.org
This acute care facility has 322 beds, a palliative care unit, and a pediatric emergency department that is run in collaboration with the esteemed Nicklaus Children’s Health System, nephrology, and more.
physiciansregional.com
Physicians Regional Healthcare System operates three hospitals and a rehabilitation center with 357 licensed beds. More than 500 physicians provide advanced medical care in more than 45 specialties and subspecialties. Its 24/7 emergency rooms on Collier Boulevard and Pine Ridge Road typically boast short wait times. Community Health Systems is the parent company of Physicians Regional Healthcare System
Physicians Regional-Collier Boulevard
8300 Collier Blvd., Naples
239-354-6000
This 130-bed hospital is a 24/7 STEMI (ST-elevation myocardial infarction) receiving facility providing around- the-clock treatment for patients experiencing chest pain and other cardiology emergencies. It is conveniently located to Marco Island and East Naples, with a special emergency clinical staff and amenities designed for older adults.
Physicians Regional-Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility
1285 Creekside Blvd, Naples
239-304-4102
Located on the North campus, this facility has 30 private rooms to help patients regain physical and cognitive abilities so they can return home at their highest level of health and independence.
Physicians Regional-North
1285 Creekside Blvd., Naples • 239-260-6631
This 55,000-square-foot facility is focused on orthopedic and spine surgical patients. It includes four operating suites and is licensed for 20 medical/surgical beds, all of which are private.
Physicians Regional-Pine Ridge
6101 Pine Ridge Road, Naples • 239-348-4000
This 177-bed acute care facility features all private rooms, general medical/surgical services, and specialized centers for robotic surgery, neurovascular and stroke, cardiology, vein, orthopedic and spine, and ENT specialty care.
LEE HEALTH
800-936-5321 • leehealth.org
Lee Health has been the major hospital
provider in Lee County since it was founded in 1916. It has 11,000 employees, 1,812 beds, and 950-plus physicians and advanced practitioners in 100-plus practice locations throughout Southwest Florida. It provides comprehensive care for children and adults, as well as kidney transplants, immunology, wound care, urgent care facilities, and occupational, physical, and speech therapy. Lee Health is a national, accredited leader in stroke care.
Cape Coral Hospital
636 Del Prado Blvd., Cape Coral • 239-424-2000
Cape Coral Hospital is a 303-bed, acute care facility with all private rooms. It has earned several recognitions for quality of care and was the first hospital in the state to receive the Governor’s Sterling Award for performance excellence in management and operations. Its full-service Healthy Life Center is a medically based fitness center providing members access
to cardiovascular equipment, exercise classes, indoor pools, massage, a healthy café, pro shop, and health and wellness presentations. Cape Coral Hospital is a Primary Stroke Center.
Coconut Point Emergency Department
23450 Via Coconut Point, Estero • 239-468-0095
As part of Lee Health’s 31-acre facility off U.S. 41 near Coconut Point Mall, the 24/7 emergency department features 25 examination, observation, and recovery rooms, along with staff trained in advanced cardiac life support. The staff treats chest pain, breathing difficulty, head and eye injuries, severe illnesses, sudden change in mental states, and other emergency conditions.
Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida
9981 S. HealthPark Drive, Fort Myers 239-343-5437
This state-of-the-art, 135-bed pediatric hospital provides emergency and specialized services for infants, children, and teens, including behavioral health, surgery, neonatal intensive care, orthopedics, cancer, cardiology, and burn treatments. The only center of its kind between Tampa and Miami, it is located on the HealthPark Medical Center campus.
Gulf Coast Medical Center
13681 Doctor’s Way, Fort Myers 239-343-1000
Gulf Coast Medical Center is a 699-bed, acute care facility— the only Level II Trauma Center between Sarasota and Miami—with 54 intensive care unit beds and 584 private rooms. It features a floor dedicated to inpatient cancer care and is an accredited Comprehensive Stroke Center. Gulf Coast Medical Center has an on-site pharmacy, laboratory, and 75 skilled nursing unit beds.
HealthPark Medical Center
9981 S. HealthPark Drive, Fort Myers
239-343-5000
HealthPark Medical Center is the primary location for Lee Health’s cardiac program and gynecological and obstetric care, including an OB emergency room and state-of-the-art birthing suites. More than 6,100 babies are born at HealthPark each year. It is co-located with Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida. The 461-bed hospital was named one of the “100 Top Hospitals” for cardiology and intensive care nationwide.
HealthPark Care & Rehabilitation Center
16131 Roserush Court, Fort Myers
39-433-7300
Located on the campus of HealthPark Medical Center, this 112-bed skilled nursing facility carries a five-star rating from the Agency for Health Care Administration. It provides care for patients recovering from joint surgery, a stroke,
heart surgery, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or any other medical condition.
Lee Memorial Hospital
2776 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers 239-343–2000
Lee Memorial Hospital, originally established in 1916, is a 336-bed, acute care hospital provides emergent care and diagnostic services. The facility also houses the Rehabilitation Hospital (239-343-3900), a 60-bed comprehensive, inpatient rehabilitation unit focused on neurological and orthopedic injuries. It is a Certified Primary Stroke Center and Chest Pain Center.
1500 Lee Blvd., Lehigh Acres 239-369-2101 • lehighregional.com
A member of Prime Healthcare, Lehigh Regional Medical Center is a 53-bed, acute care facility commi ed to patient-centered health
care since 1965. The state-of-the-art facility provides emergency and critical care, as well as specialty and subspecialty care, pathology, imaging, and women’s health. It has earned the Joint Commission Seal of Approval.
NAPLES VA CLINIC
800 Goodlette Road N., Ste. 120, Naples 239-659-9188 • baypines.va.gov
This regional clinic, part of the Bay Pines VA Healthcare System, provides primary care, mental health and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) care, women’s health, nutrition counseling, laboratory and pathology services, a pharmacy, and referrals for specialty care.
NAPLES VET CENTER
2705 Horseshoe Drive S., Unit 204, Naples 239-403-2377 * 877-927-8387 (24/7 call center) • baypines.va.gov
The community-based center offers confidential help for veterans, service members, and their families at no cost in a non-medical setting. Services include counseling for depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and military sexual trauma. It offers resources for support in the VA system and the community.
LEE COUNTY
LEE COUNTY VA CLINIC
2489 Diplomat Parkway E., Cape Coral 239-652-1800 • baypines.va.gov
This full-service regional clinic, part of the Bay Pines VA Healthcare System, is open Monday through Saturday, providing comprehensive primary care, mental health services, women’s health, ambulatory surgery, audiology, cardiology, dental, dermatology, optometry, gastroenterology, home care, orthopedics, neurology, pharmacy, spinal cord injury,
urology, diagnostic screening, nutrition counseling, prosthetics, physical and occupational therapy, podiatry, addiction and substance use treatment and rehabilitation, and referrals for specialty care.
FORT MYERS VET CENTER
2891 Center Pointe Drive, Ste. 100, Fort Myers 239-652-1861 • 877-927-8387 (24/7 call center) • baypines.va.gov
The community-based center offers confidential help for veterans, service members, and their families at no cost in a non-medical setting. Services include counseling for
depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and military sexual trauma. It offers resources for support in the VA system and the community.
COLLIER COUNTY
HEALTHCARE NETWORK
239-658-3000 • healthcareswfl.org
Offering the highest level of coordinated care to all ages, Healthcare Network (HN) plays an integral role in keeping the entire community healthy, providing quality and comprehensive care and financial assistance when needed. With practices located throughout Collier
County, primary health care services include family care, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, dental care, and pharmacy as well as behavioral health counseling. Medical Centers • (Main line: 239-658-3000)
NAPLES
HN Dental Care East
1749 Heritage Trail, #801
HN Children’s Care East
6350 Davis Blvd., #1001
HN at Veteran’s Park
1845 Veterans Park Drive, Naples
HN at Cordero Pediatrics
1090 Sixth Ave. N .
HN Friendship Health
2355 Stanford Court
HN at Nichols Community
Health Center
12655 Collier Blvd.
HN at Nichols Pediatric at YMCA of Collier County
5450 YMCA Road, #102
IMMOKALEE
HN at Marion E. Fether
1454 Madison Ave. W.
HCN at Florida State University, College of Medicine
1441 Heritage Blvd.
HN Family Care at iTech
508 North Ninth St. #142
NEIGHBORHOOD HEALTH CLINIC
88 12th St. N, Naples • 239-529.2255
neighborhoodhealthclinic.org
This nonprofit clinic delivers quality medical and dental care to low-income, working but
uninsured Collier County adults, using a professional volunteer staff of 250 physicians and 50 dentists, as well as nurses, translators, and wellness instructors. It is funded by private philanthropy.
844-342-7935 • fhcswf.org
Family Health Centers of Southwest Florida has several medical and dental offices and pharmacy locations with a focus on disease management, prevention, and education. Family Health Centers provides medical, dental, pediatric, podiatry, women’s services, and optometry services to children and adults, regardless of insurance or ability to pay. It is part of the National Health Service Corps. Medical Centers • (Main line: 844-342-7935)
BONITA SPRINGS
Family, Pediatrics First Choice Kid Care, and Family Dental
11921 Saradrienne Lane
CAPE CORAL
First Choice Kid Care
305 S.W. 2nd Terrace
Del Prado Optometry, Podiatry, Pharmacy, Family Dental, and First Choice Kid Care
316 Del Prado Blvd. S.
ESTERO
Estero Adult Medical, Family Dental, Pediatrics First Choice
Kid Care, Pharmacy, Women’s Health
19701 S. Tamiami Trail
FORT MYERS
Broadway Family Dental
3600-A Broadway, Fort Myers
Summerlin Pediatrics First Choice Kid Care, Podiatry, Women’s Health 11100 Summer Ridge Lane
Downtown Fort Myers Adult Medical, Pediatrics First Choice
Kid Care, Family Dental, Pharmacy, Women’s Health
2232 Grand Ave.
East Fort Myers Adult Medical 4040 Palm Beach Blvd.
LEHIGH ACRES
Lehigh Acres Adult Medical, Family Dental, Pediatrics First Choice Kid Care, Optometry, Pharmacy, Women’s Health
3415 Lee Blvd., 1st Floor
NCH Baker Hospital Downtown
350 Seventh St. N., Naples 239-624-5000 • nchmd.org
NCH North Naples Hospital
11190 Health Park Blvd., Naples 239-552-7000 • nchmd.org
Physicians Regional-Collier Boulevard
8300 Collier Blvd., Naples 239-354-6000 • physiciansregional.com
Physicians Regional-Pine Ridge
6101 Pine Ridge Road, Naples 239-348-4000 • physiciansregional.com
LEE COUNTY
Cape Coral Hospital
636 Del Prado Blvd., Cape Coral 239-424-200 * leehealth.org
Coconut Point Emergency Department
23450 Via Coconut Point, Estero 239-468-0095 • leehealth.org
Gulf Coast Medical Center
13681 Doctor’s Way, Fort Myers 239-343-1000 • leehealth.org
HCA Florida Cape Coral Emergency
322 SW Pine Island Rd, Cape Coral 941-249-6858 • hcafloridahealthcare.com
HealthPark Medical Center
9981 S. HealthPark Drive, Fort Myers 239-343-5000 • leehealth.org
Lee Memorial Hospital
2776 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers 239-343–2000 • leehealth.org
Lehigh Regional Medical Center
1500 Lee Blvd., Lehigh Acres 239-369-2101 • lehighregional.com
GET THE HELP YOU NEED, WHEN YOU NEED IT
HOSPICE/ END-OF-LIFE CARE
COLLIER COUNTY
Avow Hospice
1095 Whippoorwill Lane, Naples 239-261-4404 • avowcares.org
Visiting Angels
999 Vanderbilt Beach Road, #200, Naples 239-561-7600 • visitingangels.com
VITAS Healthcare
4980 N. Tamiami Trail, Ste. 102, Naples 239-649-2300 • vitas.com
LEE COUNTY
Comfort Keepers
12480 Brantley Commons Court, #101, Fort Myers
239-590-8999 • comfortkeepers.com
Hope Hospice
9470 HealthPark Circle, Fort Myers
239-482-4673 • hopehospice.org
VITAS Healthcare
12751 Westlinks Drive, Fort Myers 855-946-3144 • vitas.com
UNIQUE CITIES AND COMMUNITIES THRIVE ALONG THE SOUTHWEST FLORIDA COAST
City Spotlights
Lifestyle Communities
Senior Living
Collier County is often touted as the largest county by geographical size in Florida, and what’s more impressive: More than 75 percent of the land is set aside for federal, state, and county parks and conservation. As a result, it is home to vast wildlands—swamp, prairie, marsh, and coastal ecosystems—along with rural and agricultural areas that flourish in the frost-free area. Collier County was one of the last frontiers in the American South, and it was named for advertising magnate Barron Gift Collier who, at one time, was the largest landowner in Florida and fueled the completion of the construction of the Tamiami Trail. Today it has three incorporated cities and many distinct communities throughout the unincorporated parts of the county. Here is a snapshot of the municipalities:
When Collier County was carved out of Lee County by the Florida legislature in 1923, this remote town was incorporated as Everglades and designated the county seat. (The county seat later moved to Naples.) The town served as the base for Barron Collier’s development of the Tamiami Trail, linking the east and west coasts of South Florida, which opened with national fanfare in 1928. Its arduous completion through muck, limestone, and swarms of mosquitoes unlocked the remote region for more efficient travel for tourism, commerce, and development.
Located on the edge of Chokoloskee Bay, the Everglades City area had previously been occupied for millennia by Native Americans, followed by Seminoles and white settlers after the Civil War.
Today, this remote incorporated city is renowned for fishing and its proximity to Everglades National Park, Fakahatchee Strand State Preserve, and Ten Thousand Islands. Its population of 400 residents is a hardy, tightknit community still recovering from the direct impact of Hurricane Irma in 2017. Nearby, smaller towns include Chokoloskee, Plantation, Jerome, Copeland, and Ochopee.
At 24 square miles, Marco Island lies 35 miles south of Naples and is the largest barrier island within the Ten Thousand Islands. With a permanent population of about 16,170 and a peak winter season
population of 40,000, Marco Island features six miles of beaches and is crisscrossed with more than 100 miles of canals and waterways created when the city was developed in the 1960s. Marco Island is recognized for its high quality of life with a low crime rate, proximity to fantastic fishing, and casual atmosphere, and friendliness. While real estate is relatively expensive compared to many communities in Florida, there is a wide variety of price ranges for homes, condominiums, and vacation rentals.
Upon its founding as a resort town in 1888, Naples was named for the romantic town in Italy because of its shimmering Naples Bay and location on the Gulf of Mexico. As the county seat of Collier County, it is home to both city and county government offices, law enforcement headquarters, and courts. It has ranked among the top 10 wealthiest cities in the United States. Home to about 20,000 residents, Naples has long been a popular winter destination, boasting more than 250 sunny days per year, rich cultural amenities, a strong philanthropic spirit, and sophisticated dining and shopping.
404,310 Population
1,997 square miles
Geographical size by land area
$82,011
Median household income
$443,700
Median value of owneroccupied housing dwellings
25.5 minutes
Mean commute time to work
3 Incorporated cities
Source: U.S. Census, 2023 estimates
834,573 Population
781 square miles
Geographical size by land area
$69,368
Median household income
$290,900
Median value of owner-occupied housing dwellings
27.9 minutes
Mean commute time to work
6 Incorporated cities
Source: U.S. Census, 2023 estimates
The 67-mile-long Caloosahatchee River wends its way to the Gulf of Mexico through Lee County, which was created in 1887 after it was carved out of Monroe County. The river is part of the Western Gulf Intracoastal Waterway and Okeechobee Waterway, which connects the state’s west and east coasts by water inland. The Caloosahatchee is also a unique natural resource for the county seat, Fort Myers. Originally a military fort and then a cattle town, Fort Myers was selected by inventor Thomas A. Edison for his seasonal winter home, which is now a popular tourist destination. International travelers are also drawn to Sanibel and Captiva islands, Gasparilla Island, and the rich fishing grounds of Pine Island Sound and Charlotte Harbor. Lee County has Major League Baseball
spring training facilities for both the Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins. There are six incorporated cities and many distinct communities throughout the unincorporated parts of the county. Here is a snapshot of the municipalities:
BEACHFRONT PARADISE
Bonita Springs is an incorporated city in south Lee County with a population of 56,370. It is home to the 1,616-acre Lovers Key State Park, stunning beachfront homes, public access to its gulf shoreline, a large community park on the Imperial River, and a historic downtown.
Across the Caloosahatchee west of Fort
Myers, Cape Coral is the largest city between Tampa and Miami with a population of 216,000. It is the seventh largest in the state. At 120 square miles, Cape Coral is the third largest city in Florida by land mass. Developed in the late 1950s, Cape Coral is one of the largest master-planned communities in the nation. It is known as the “City of Canals” for good reason: With 400 miles of navigable waterways, it has more canals than Venice, Italy. Cape Coral has a wide mix of residential options and plenty of vacant, developable lots; it is only 50 percent built out, so there are many commercial and industrial opportunities.
Estero is a 25-square-mile village nestled between Fort Myers and Bonita Springs that became incorporated in 2014. Today, it hosts a population of 37,700. For more than a century, it has drawn visitors to the Koreshan State Historic Site and the Estero River. In recent decades, it has become home to Florida
Gulf Coast University, Hertz Corporation’s headquarters, Coconut Point Mall, and the Hertz Arena. The arena attracts national concerts and hosts the Florida Everblades hockey team.
The county seat of Lee County, Fort Myers is a diverse community of 95,900 residents living in the 40-square-mile city. Fort Myers is home to the Caloosahatchee River, palm-tree-lined McGregor Boulevard, Dunbar community, the county’s central government offices, and Southwest Florida’s largest concentration of historic commercial buildings in the downtown River District. The residential neighborhoods feature a blend of architectural styles ranging from the early 1900s to modern gems. Many apartment complexes and riverfront condos provide options.
At six square miles, Fort Myers Beach has a
year-round population of about 5,660, though it soars with seasonal visitors in the spring and winter months. Beachfront lovers can find a bungalow, condo, or multilevel mansion for full- or part-time living. The island lifestyle is casual and laid-back, with dining, live music, and community events that draw visitors from throughout the region.
Sanibel and Captiva Islands have a unique natural beauty and commitment to environmental stewardship that has restricted both commercial and residential development. These islands are home to about 6,400 residents. Their shores have drawn the world-famous for more than a century. Captiva consistently ranks among the most desirable beaches in the world, and Sanibel has a global reputation for unparalleled shelling and coastal recreation. Due to limited inventory, these island gems boast the highest price tags in the county.
WHAT’S YOUR IDEA OF LIVING IN PARADISE? SOUTHWEST FLORIDA IS HOME TO A SPRAWLING SELECTION OF GATED COMMUNITIES THAT EMPHASIZE FITNESS, SOCIALIZATION, FUN IN THE SUN— OFTEN CENTERED AROUND BREATHTAKING GOLF COURSE VIEWS—AND AMENITIES GALORE
AUDUBON COUNTRY CLUB
625 Audubon Blvd., Naples audubonccofnaples.com
Audubon Country Club is a 755-acre, gated community with 58 percent dedicated to natural preserve and 28 lakes interspersed throughout. It is an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary that provides world-class golfing at the Joe Lee–designed, 18-hole golf course and clubhouse, in addition to tennis, croquet, bocce, swimming, and a fitness center.
EAGLE CREEK GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB
11 Cypress View Drive, Naples eaglecreekgcc.org
Eagle Creek Golf and Country Club is a small, award-winning gated community on 300 wooded acres, centrally located midway between Naples and Marco Island. Eagle Creek has 460 residences, including condominiums, carriage home villas with detached guest suites, and estate homes with golf views. The recently renovated Larry Packard-designed golf course winds through cypress and pine preserves, with residential housing
only on six holes. Amenities include a fullservice clubhouse, tennis and bocce, pool and spa, and a fitness center.
8912 Torre Vista Lane, Naples naplesesplanadegcc.com
This new 1,800-acre gated community includes 1,000 acres of natural preserves, wetlands, and walking trails, as well as 170 acres of lakes. When complete, the community will consist of approximately 1,121 planned residential homes. The championship golf course, designed by architect Chris Wylczinsk, has already earned awards. The community, located three miles east of Interstate 75, offers a clubhouse, tennis and pickleball, resort pool, bocce, and fitness, wellness, and spa facilities.
2400 Grey Oaks Drive N., Naples greyoakscc.com
Grey Oaks offers 18 neighborhoods featuring single-family and estate homes, detached villas, and three condominium neighborhoods, as well as three championship golf courses for a total of 54 holes. Grey Oaks is centrally located in Naples west of Livingston Road and north of Golden Gate Boulevard. The Estuary at Grey Oaks is the newest neighborhood, located across the street, east of Airport-Pulling Road. Both have clubhouses and luxury, resort-style amenities. The Estuary at Grey Oaks has a 62,000-square-foot clubhouse, heated lagoon swimming pool with an outdoor café, fitness center with personal trainers, tennis center with eight lighted Har-Tru tennis courts, and children’s playground.
8004 Lely Resort Blvd., Naples
lelyresortgolfandcountryclub.com
Lely is a census-designated neighborhood of 2,037 households in a large range of options. Lely Resort Golf & Country Club is home to 54 holes of golf designed by three of golf’s most legendary names. The public-access Flamingo Island and Mustang courses were designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. and Lee Trevino, respectively, and the private Classics course was designed by Gary Player. Flamingo and Classics each have a clubhouse, and there are two expansive, full-service golf practice facilities.
15755 Corso Mediterra Circle, Naples mediterraliving.com
Mediterra comprises 1,700 acres of nature preserves, lakes, and parks, as well as 950 luxury homes. The community’s design and luxury homes replicate the lush beauty of Europe’s Mediterranean region. The five-star,
private country club includes a USTA awardwinning tennis program, Har-Tru tennis and pickleball courts, fitness studio and spa, and the Mediterra Beach Club, a 10,000-squarefoot clubhouse with a heated pool on the Gulf of Mexico on Bonita Beach.
4784 Naples Lakes Blvd., Naples oldecypress.com
Naples Lakes Country Club features an 18hole, Arnold Palmer signature course. With 200 acres of protected nature preserves and lakes, Naples Lakes has been an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary since 2001 and amenities include dining, tennis, fitness, a pool and spa, and a calendar of social activities.
7165 Treeline Drive, Naples oldecypress.com
Olde Cypress is a 540-acre, gated community featuring P.B. Dye’s first 18-hole championship golf course in Collier County. Its seven neighborhoods feature 550 singlefamily estate homes, villas, and courtyard homes on 176 acres of pine and cypress preserves. The 36,000-square-foot clubhouse includes an outdoor area with a bar and bigscreen TV overlooking the ninth green, as well as a players’ lounge, library, media center, card rooms, private lockers, tennis courts, swimming pool, dining, and fitness center.
1810 Persimmon Drive, Naples pelicanmarshgc.com
Pelican Marsh is nestled within more than
1,000 acres of tropical landscaping, lakes, and 133 acres of nature preserves, including the Cocohatchee Strand Preserve. This gated Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary community provides miles of pathways for biking, jogging, or walking. Pelican Marsh offers a wide variety of neighborhoods and home and condo selections. The award-winning Robert Von Hagge championship golf course, Pelican Marsh Golf Club, and the two-story clubhouse, are the jewels of the community. Pelican Marsh also enjoys a community center with tennis, bocce, and fitness and spa studio.
5950 Burnham Road, Naples quailwest.com
This community spans Collier and Lee counties, with the majority of the 688 luxury estate homes in Collier. Its 70,000-square-
foot clubhouse was recently refurbished, alongside the opening of a new two-story fitness center and restored championship golf courses. The club also offers eight red-clay tennis courts, an indoor, lagoon-style, Junior Olympic–sized pool, and a private beach pavilion.
8950 Weathered Stone Drive, Naples quarrygolfnaples.com
The Quarry is a gated community that offers both a golfing and waterfront lifestyle, featuring a large freshwater lake for water skiing, relaxing on the beach, catch-andrelease fishing, or visiting the beach club. The waterfront club includes a tiki bar and grill, resort-style lap pool, fitness and wellness center, tennis, pickleball, and bocce courts, boating, and dining. The Quarry’s clubhouse, fitness facilities, and 72-par golf course wind around 700 acres of lakes and private nature preserves. The community consists of singlefamily homes in 11 home designs ranging from 1,600 to 4,400 square feet and condos.
5840 Strand Blvd., Naples thestrandcc.com
The Strand is a luxury community located on more than 500 acres of preserves and lakes, with 27 holes of golf on three courses designed by Gordon Lewis, a practice aqua range, putting green, and golf academy at The Club at The Strand. Members enjoy a fitness center and day spa, a Junior Olympic–sized swimming pool, tennis and pickleball courts, basketball courts, and 55,000-square-foot clubhouse with a boardroom, meeting rooms, pro shop, locker rooms, ballroom, and several dining options.
16980 Livingston Road, Naples talispark.com
This gated luxury community in North Naples with 12 neighborhoods features attached villa homes, penthouse-style condominiums, and single-family and showcase estate homes ranging from 5,900 to 6,820 square feet. Designed for country club living with a focus on health, walkability, and social vitality,
Talis Park includes an acclaimed 133-acre golf course with champion trees designed by Pete Dye and Greg Norman. Its Tuscany-inspired village center includes a fitness center and spa, pool, café, and tennis. Residents enjoy complimentary trips to Vanderbilt Beach via the community’s exclusive shuttle service.
75 Vineyards Blvd., Naples vineyardsnaples.com
This planned, 2,000-acre neighborhood has 38 unique communities—many gated—with villas, condos, coach homes, single-family homes, and luxury custom homes. The 32-acre Vineyards Community Park, with soccer and ballfields, walking trails, courts, and water play area, is located adjacent to the community. The Vineyard’s 70,000-squarefoot clubhouse includes dining rooms overlooking the Tuscany-style patio with golf course views. Amenities include a new wellness and fitness center and spa, saltwater lap pool and sun deck, smoothie café, and salt room. It is one of the largest country clubs in Naples, with a professionally staffed tennis
and pickleball center, 70,000-square-feet clubhouse, and more than 300 acres dedicated to the club’s grounds.
700 Wyndemere Way, Naples wyndemere.com
Wyndemere Country Club is a golfing community comprising 634 single-family homes, condos, and villas in 16 communities on 450 acres. Wyndemere includes an Arthur Hills–designed championship golf course with 27 holes, 10 Har-Tru tennis courts, pickleball, bocce, a 44,000-square-foot clubhouse, and a fitness center with a heated, outdoor swimming pool.
3451 Bonita Bay Blvd., Ste. 100, Bonita Springs
bonitabayresidents.com
Bonita Bay is a 2,400-acre gated community of 56 neighborhoods, tucked among 1,400 acres of parks, nature preserves, lakes, and open spaces. A 12-mile network of biking and walking paths links intimate collections of single-family homes, villas, coach homes and luxury high-rise residences. At build out, Bonita Bay will have fewer than 3,300 homes. Three Arthur Hills–designed courses within Bonita Bay and two courses by Tom Fazio at nearby Bonita Bay Club provide 90 holes of championship golf. The private Bonita Bay Club also offers residents an opportunity to enjoy tennis, fitness center and spa, and a new clubhouse with a variety of dining options. The full-service Bonita Bay Marina provides direct access to the Gulf of Mexico—via the Imperial River and Estero Bay— and boasts wet slips, dry storage, and a ship’s store.
17001 Bonita Beach Road S.E., Bonita Springs
bonitanationalgolfcc.com
Bonita National Golf & Country Club is a luxury golf course community that consists of condominiums, attached homes, and singlefamily homes. Residents enjoy the 18-hole championship golf course and clubhouse with a fitness center, resort-style pool, scenic walking paths through conservation areas dotted with lakes, and a beach shuttle.
26388 Hickory Blvd., Bonita Springs thecommonsclub.com
This 2,492-acre, master-planned development offers different types of properties in five distinct gated communities: Shadow Wood, Shadow Wood Preserve, Spring Run, Lighthouse Bay, and Copper Leaf. Shadow Wood and Shadow Wood Preserve have three diverse, championship golf courses, while Copper Leaf and Spring Run boast their own courses. Residents of The Brooks are offered membership in The Commons Club, a member-owned club of 2,300 families situated in a tranquil, park-like setting in Estero. The club features a health and lifestyle center, enrichment center, lakeside restaurant, and a private beach club located on Little Hickory Island.
15391 Canongate Drive, Fort Myers fiddlestickscc.com
With 585 homes and two golf courses, Fiddlesticks is a low-density community with two golf courses and private, estate-sized lots, condos, townhouses, and single-family residences. The resort-style community features a cabana and pool, eight HarTru tennis courts that host league and recreational play, and a 7,000-square-foot fitness facility with youth programs, including summer and school vacation camps.
11360 Championship Drive, Fort Myers gatewaygolf.com, gatewaydistrict.org
This 3,000-acre, master-planned community with 32 neighborhoods offers residential options for a wide range of lifestyles and budgets. Gateway is centrally located off Daniels Parkway near I-75 and is largely a single-family home community with quarter-acre lots. Neighborhoods such as Hammock Cove, Stoneybrook, Timber Ridge, and Summerwind also feature condos and townhouses. The private, 18-hole, Tom Fazio–designed golf course highlights amenities that include an Olympic-sized swimming pool, soccer complex, the Gateway Fun Park, a dog park, 15 miles of multi-use trails, tennis
and volleyball courts, and a lake and picnic grounds.
11481 Grand Oak Blvd., Estero grandezzacc.com
The centerpiece of Grandézza is a 53,000-square-foot, Tuscan-style clubhouse with multiple dining and lounge locations, a Junior Olympic pool, fitness center and studio, and tennis facility. The Club at Grandézza’s championship golf course, designed by Darwin Sharp III, plays to a par 72. The privately owned and managed community, featuring scenic exercise paths, has easy access to I-75.
16257 Willowcrest Way, Fort Myers lexingtoncountryclub.com
Lexington Country Club consists of a Golf Village and a Lake Village, with 1,479 homes and an 18-hole championship golf course with six tee box choices redesigned by Kipp
Schulties Golf Design in 2017. The community also features 12 lighted hydro-grid tennis courts, six heated swimming pools, a fitness center, and bocce courts. The main clubhouse boasts a variety of dining experiences, social clubs, and special events, as well as an outdoor tiki bar, pool and jacuzzi, computer center and library, and a sandy beach.
18061 Miromar Lakes Parkway, Miromar Lakes miromarlakes.com
A 700-acre freshwater lake with three miles of white-sand shoreline is the centerpiece of this community, providing endless recreational and social activities. Luxury estate, beach, coach, and villa homes overlook the lake or the remastered Arthur Hills championship golf course. Residents year-round social events, boating, water skiing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing, casual and fine dining at three restaurants, and resortinspired amenities along the lakefront. Located near Estero, Miromar Lakes also
has a full-service, European spa and fitness center, tennis and bocce courts, marine services, and private golf club.
11611 Paseo Grande Blvd., Fort Myers mypaseo.life
Paseo is an award-winning community located in south Fort Myers off Daniels Parkway, close to shopping, the beaches, attractions, and I-75. It is a private, gated community surrounded by Six Mile Cypress Slough. There are a variety of single-family homes, two-story and split-level townhouses, casitas, and villas. Its village center offers a resort-style pool complex, fitness facilities, community movie theatre, fishing pier, an internet café/library, and courts for tennis and pickleball, basketball, volleyball, and bocce.
PELICAN LANDING
4450 Pelicans Nest Drive, Bonita Springs nestgolf.com
Welcome to the nation’s golf capitol. Did you know that there are an estimated 150-plus golf courses in Collier and Lee counties? The minority—less than 10 percent—are open to the public. That means the other 90-plus percent are private courses, typically located in gated golf course communities. In rare instances, a handful of these courses are semi-private, providing play to non-residents and non-members.
If you are a player who is interested in buying a home in a private community, be sure to do your homework. Referrals and word of mouth are a good way to start. If you’re looking at the bottom line, remember that annual membership dues vary greatly. Here are two key distinctions in memberships; be sure to investigate your options.
BUNDLED GOLF COMMUNITIES: Golf and social memberships are bundled into the purchase of your residence. You do not pay an additional initiation fee, but annual membership dues are required. Every homeowner will be a golf or social member of the club.
EQUITY GOLF COMMUNITIES: These require an upfront initiation fee for golf membership, followed by annual membership dues.
ALTERNATIVE MEMBERSHIPS: Ask if there are alternative membership options to player memberships, such as a social, executive, or sports membership. These memberships include year-round access to social activities and amenities. (Social and sports memberships allow golf privileges during the summer months, May through October 31, while executive memberships allow for some in-season play.)
NOT A GOLFER? If so, there are plenty of reasons to live in a golfing community: security, fewer neighbors, great views, and social activities. In Southwest Florida, these communities are also focusing on providing a vibrant, healthy lifestyle for all residents. State-of the-art fitness centers have become vital for many new homebuyers, as well as natural spaces, walkability, and recreational opportunities. Many of these fitness centers have full-time personal trainers, and large ones often have an on-staff nutritionist. Local clubhouse menus are continually revamped to provide culinary options for specific diets and local seafood, farm-to-table vegetables, and organic meat and poultry.
As with any home purchase, consider the location and do your homework to ensure the community fits your needs and your budget.
Pelican Landing is a master-planned community of 3,350 residences spread across 2,365 acres accented by lakes and preserves. It is situated along Spring Creek and its private, highly rated The Nest Golf Club has 36 holes at two golf courses: the Audubon-designated Hurricane and Gator courses. Pelican Landing owns a private barrier island with a 34-acre beach park on the Gulf of Mexico, and provides a boat shuttle, beach house with restrooms, shower facilities, a nature library, sun decks, and a screened pavilion. Other amenities include a 4,400-square-foot fitness center, bocce and pickleball courts, championship tennis courts, full-time pro and pro shop, sailing club, docking and launch facilities, and canoe/kayak parks. The community center provides activities coordinated by an activities director. The Hyatt Regency at Coconut Point offers residents lodging discounts and access to hotel services. Residences include custom estate homes, single-family homes, villas, coach homes, and condominiums. The Colony Golf and Country Club, with a private, par-72, Jerry Pate–designed course, is a sister community located within Pelican Landing.
RIVER HALL
2401 River Hall Parkway, Alva liveriverhall.com
This 1,500-acre, master-planned community features a semi-private, Davis Love III–designed, par-72 golf course and a 14,000-square-foot clubhouse. Located in Alva, a Town Hall Amenity Center in this 10-year-old community provides a resortstyle lagoon pool, programmed activities led by an on-site lifestyle director, miles of interconnected and meandering sidewalks around lakes and preserves, and River Hall Elementary School. More than 600 vacant homesites are available.
2573 Sandoval Parkway, Cape Coral
livesandoval.com
This 524-acre master-planned, gated community with a Caribbean flair has a host of family amenities: a lagoon pool with waterslide, wide, two-mile-long linear park path for running and cycling, four-anda-half-acre Calypso Park with grills and fishing pier, dog park, and a community center. It also has sports courts, volleyball, bocce, and horseshoe pits. Sandoval housing options include carriage homes and single-family homes.
12201 River Village Way, Fort Myers verandah.com, verandahlife.com
Verandah is located along the Orange River in East Fort Myers near Alva, not far from I-75. In addition to two 18-hole championship golf courses—Old Orange, designed by Bob Cupp, and Whispering Oak, a Jack Nicklaus II–designed course— residents enjoy a fitness with spa treatment rooms, tennis and bocce center, group and personal training, resort-style pool, and green space for outdoor games. The waterfront River House restaurant was recently renovated.
22050 S. Tamiami Trail, Estero westbayclub.com
Nestled on 868 acres among wetlands and nature preserve, and bounded by Estero Bay and Estero River, West Bay Club includes nine established neighborhoods and a new luxury, single-family villa neighborhood, WestLake Court. Choices of home styles range from carriage homes and villas to single-family estates and highrise condos. The final development within the community will be the 24-floor condo, The Island, offering panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico and golf course and 86 residences. The 18-hole championship golf course was designed by Pete and PB Dye, and the community features tennis, a resort-style pool, private beach club, and state-of-the-art fitness center.
20300 Country Club Drive, Estero wildcatruncc.com
Located east of I-75, Wildcat Run is a mature, luxury community with golf and water views from most homes. Amenities include a clubhouse with tennis, library, fitness center, putting green, and signature Arnold Palmer golf course. It is an intimate community, with only 450 homes ranging from carriage houses, detached villas, and condos to custom estate homes.
IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A COMFORTABLE PLACE TO LIVE OUT YOUR GOLDEN YEARS, HERE’S A HANDY GUIDE TO SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITIES IN COLLIER AND LEE COUNTIES
COLLIER COUNTY
LIFE CARE/CONTINUING CARE RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES
(Area code 239)
ALL SEASONS NAPLES
15450 Tamiami Trail N., Naples, 34110 316-4479 • allseasonsnaples.com
ARBOR TRACE
1000 Arbor Lake Drive, Naples, 34110 598-2929 • arbortrace.com
THE ARLINGTON OF NAPLES
7900 Arlington Circle, Naples, 34113 932-2946 • thearlingtonofnaples.com
ASTON GARDENS AT PELICAN MARSH
4800 Aston Gardens Way, Naples, 34109 215-3356 • astongardens.com
THE CARLISLE NAPLES
6945 Carlisle Court, Naples, 34109 249-6877 • srgseniorliving.com
DISCOVERY VILLAGE AT NAPLES
8417 Sierra Meadows Blvd., Naples, 34113 243-0145 • discoveryvillages.com
THE GLENVIEW AT PELICAN BAY
100 Glenview Place, Naples, 34108 977-9744 • glenviewnaples.com
GRAND LIVING AT NAPLES
15150 Tamiami Trail N., Naples, 34110 428-0163 • grandliving.com
MOORINGS PARK AT GRANDE LAKE
7410 Little Lane, Naples, 34105 900-3749 • mooringspark.org
MOORINGS PARK AT GREY OAKS
2591 Rue Du Jardin, Naples, 34105 314-3691 • mooringspark.org
TERRACINA GRAND
6825 Davis Blvd., Naples, 34104 455-1459 • terracinaseniorliving.com
SEASCAPE AT NAPLES
3490 Thrive Drive, Naples, 34105 309-7729 • rui.net
VI AT BENTLEY VILLAGE
850 Retreat Drive, Naples, 34110 877-660-0714 • viliving.com
BRADFORD SQUARE RETIREMENT COMMUNITY
3255 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples, 34109 465-0650 • rlcommunities.com
LELY PALMS RETIREMENT COMMUNITY
1000 Lely Palms Drive, Naples, 34113 775-7661 • lelypalmsretirementliving.com
SANDALWOOD VILLAGE
3511 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples, 34109 855-385-7844 • sandalwoodvillage.com
THE MARBELLA AT PELICAN BAY
7425 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples, 34108 593-2300 • marbellapelicanbay.com
ASSISTED LIVING
ADVINIACARE OF NAPLES
7801 Airport-Pulling Road N., Naples, 34109 566-8077 • adviniacare.com
BROOKDALE NORTH NAPLES
1710 S.W. Health Parkway, Naples, 34109 944-9220 • brookdale.com
THE COVE AT THE MARBELLA AT PELICAN BAY
7425 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples, 34108 593-2300 • marbellapelicanbay.com
TUSCANY VILLA OF NAPLES
8901 Tamiami Trail E., Naples, 34113 775-2233 • fivestarseniorliving.com
AMIRA CHOICE NAPLES
9015 Bellaire Bay Drive, Naples, 34120 734-5639 • amirachoice.com
BARRINGTON TERRACE OF NAPLES
5175 Tamiami Trail E., Naples, 34113 719-3298 • arborcompany.com
BEACH HOUSE
1000 Airport-Pulling Road S., Naples, 34104 • 399-5507 beachhousenaplesseniorliving.com
THE COLLIER AT NAPLES
770 Goodlette Road N., Naples, 34102 351-1803 • inspiritseniorliving.com
ELITE ALF AT NAPLES
1155 Encore Way, Naples, 34110 598-1368 • elitealf.com
THE FAIRWAYS AT NAPLES
3053 Airport-Pulling Road N., Naples, 34105 880-8516 * thefairwaysatnaples.com
MOORINGS PARK –
OAKSTONE AT GREY OAKS
2591 Rue Du Jardin, Naples, 34105 919-1732 • mooringspark.org
MOORINGS PARK - ORCHID TERRACE
111 Moorings Park Drive, Naples, 34105 643-9136 • mooringspark.org
THE PINEAPPLE HOUSE AT SAPPHIRE LAKES
7901 Radio Road, Naples, 34104 259-0707 • pineapplehousenaples.com
ARDEN COURTS PROMEDICA MEMORY CARE COMMUNITY - LELY PALMS
6125 Rattlesnake Hammock Road, Naples, 34113 417-8511 • arden-courts.com
BAYSHORE MEMORY CARE NAPLES
1260 Creekside Blvd. E., Naples, 34109 213-9370 • seniorlifestyle.com
MEMORY CARE OF NAPLES
2626 Goodlette-Frank Road, Naples, 34103 403-0826 • memorycarenaples.com
NAPLES GREEN VILLAGE
101 Cypress Way E., Naples, 34110 514-0300 • naplesgreenvillage.com
LIFE CARE/CONTINUING CARE RETIREMENT
AMAVIDA
7650 Gladiolus Drive, Fort Myers, 33907 445-3250 * amavidaliving.com
AMERICAN HOUSE - COCONUT POINT
8460 Murano Del Lago Drive, Estero, 34135 221-6050 • americanhouse.com
ATRIUM AT LIBERTY PARK
1321 N.E. 24th Ave., Cape Coral, 33909 800-0318 • meridiansenior.com
CANTERFIELD SENIOR LIVING
18301 Trifecta Lane, Fort Myers, 33967 990-6100 • canterfieldseniorliving.com
CYPRESS COVE AT HEALTHPARK
10200 Cypress Cove Drive, Fort Myers, 33908 297-7377 • cypresscoveliving.org
DISCOVERY VILLAGE AT THE FORUM 2645 Forum Blvd., Fort Myers, 33905 236.1785 • discoveryvillages.com
GULF COAST VILLAGE
1333 Santa Barbara Blvd., Cape Coral, 33991 772-1333 • gulfcoastvillage.org
HIGHPOINT AT CAPE CORAL
1701 Four Mile Cove Parkway, Cape Coral, 33990 282-4794 • highpointcapecoral.com
THE PALMS OF FORT MYERS
2674 Winkler Ave., Fort Myers, 33901 275-7800 • fivestarseniorliving.com
SEASIDE AT FORT MYERS
15800 Beachwalk Blvd., Fort Myers, 33908 349-3769 • rui.net
SHELL POINT RETIREMENT COMMUNITY
15101 Shell Point Blvd., Fort Myers, 33908 441-2054 • shellpoint.org
THE TERRACES AT BONITA SPRINGS
26455 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, 34134 949-7555 • theterracesatbonitasprings.com
AMERICAN HOUSE - BONITA SPRINGS III
27301 Foster Lane, Bonita Springs, 34135 206-4289 • americanhouse.com
BROOKDALE - COLLEGE PARKWAY
8351 College Parkway, Fort Myers, 33919 457-1862 • brookdale.com
CAMPO FELICE
2500 Edwards Drive, Fort Myers, 33901 307-5493 • camposeniorliving.com
COASTAL GARDENS SENIOR LIVING
3625 Hidden Tree Lane, Fort Myers, 33901 666-1847
DIAMOND OAKS VILLAGE
24110 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, 34134 319-5338 • diamondoaksvillage.com
FOUNTAIN CREST RETIREMENT COMMUNITY
1230 Taylor Lane, Lehigh Acres, 33936 239-214-8752 • sunshineretirementliving.com
These communities are designed to enable residents to remain independent as long as possible. A community may offer annual or month-to-month payment structures. Independent communities provide residents with convenient access to dining and meal plans, entertainment and social activities, transportation, housekeeping and laundry, maintenance, and wellness clinics. Independent living communities are not licensed to provide personal or nursing care.
These communities offer several kinds of residences that provide various levels of housing options, community amenities, and health care services for residents ranging from active seniors to those in need of skilled nursing. They typical include apartments, condos, or homes for independent living. Assisted living residents usually live in apartments, while those in skilled nursing and memory support areas reside in private or shared suites or rooms. Life care communities usually provide a long-term contract between the resident (frequently lasting the term of the resident’s lifetime) and the community, which offers maintenance-free living and access to a continuum of health care, commonly all on one campus. If the resident requires assisted living, memory care, or skilled or rehabilitative nursing, the community provides varying levels of care.
Assisted living provides a combination of housing, personal care services, and personalized health care designed for individuals who need assistance with normal daily activities in a way that promotes maximum independence. Services typically include: nutritional meals and special diets, supervision and assistance with personal care, assistance with medications, transportation and escort to medical appointments, housekeeping and laundry, and social and leisure activities. There are four types of assisted living licenses.
These are licensed assisted living communities that specialize in delivering care to residents suffering from a cognitive impairment, dementia, or Alzheimer’s. These communities are secure for residents’ safety and provide 24-hour supervised care. The same license rules apply as assisted living. Staff members are trained for the special needs of this population.
(Source: Seniors BlueBook, seniorsbluebook.com)
THE ROSE GARDEN OF FORT MYERS
2117 Earl Road, Fort Myers, 33901 215-1337 • rosegardenfortmyers.com
THE SUMMIT OF FORT MYERS
1499 S. Brandywine Circle, Fort Myers, 33919 433-0477 • thesummitoffortmyers.com
BROOKDALE - BONITA SPRINGS
26850 South Bay Drive, Bonita Springs, 34134 488-3005 • brookdale.com
CALUSA HARBOUR
2525 First St., Fort Myers, 33901 332-3333 • fivestarseniorliving.com
ASSISTED LIVING
BROOKDALE - CAPE CORAL
1416 Country Club Blvd., Cape Coral, 33990 673-0735 • brookdale.com
BROOKDALE - LAKES PARK
14521 Lakewood Blvd., Fort Myers, 33919 239-308-0496 • brookdale.com
DORNOCH PLACE
2728 S.E. 16th Place, Cape Coral, 33904 573-7598 • capealf.com
LEHIGH ACRES ASSISTED LIVING
1251 Business Way, Lehigh Acres, 33936 368.2500
lehighacresassistedliving.seniorlivingnearme.com
MERRILL GARDENS AT BARKLEY PLACE
36 Barkeley Circle, Fort Myers, 33907 788-2337 • merrillgardens.com
PONDELLA RESIDENTIAL CARE
1923 N.E. Sixth St., Cape Coral, 33909 242-0597 • pondellaresidentialcare.com
SPRINGWOOD COURT
12780 Kenwood Lane, Fort Myers, 33907 206-4182 • springwoodcourtal.com
VILLA PALMS ASSISTED LIVING
6722 Winkler Road, Fort Myers, 33919 433-5553 • villapalmsalf.com
AMERICAN HOUSE – BONITA SPRINGS
11400 Longfellow Lane, Bonita Springs, 34135 206-8587 • americanhouse.com
AMERICAN HOUSE – FORT MYERS
14001 Metro Parkway, Fort Myers, 33912 844-779-1146 • americanhouse.com
BARRINGTON TERRACE OF FORT MYERS
9731 Commerce Center Court, Fort Myers, 33908 201-4891 • arborcompany.com
BAYSIDE SENIOR LIVING
3501 Hancock Bridge Parkway, North Fort Myers, 33903 208-1248 • volanteseniorliving.com
BROOKDALE - CYPRESS LAKE
7460 Lake Breeze Drive, Fort Myers, 33907 895-9648 • brookdale.com
DISCOVERY COMMONS CYPRESS POINT
6870 Alister Way, Fort Myers, 33912 768-4044 • discoverycommons.com
ELITE ALF AT CAPE CORAL
4920 Viceroy Court, Cape Coral, 33904 542-3121 * elitealf.com
PACIFICA SENIOR LIVINGFORT MYERS
9461 HealthPark Circle, Fort Myers, 33908 829-5119 • pacificafortmyers.com
THE PRESERVE
14750 Hope Center Loop, Fort Myers, 33912 264-4444 • thepreservevoa.org
THE WINDSOR OF CAPE CORAL
831 Santa Barbara Blvd., Cape Coral, 33991 772-9400 • legendseniorliving.com
ARDEN COURTS PROMEDICA
MEMORY CARE - FORT MYERS
15950 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, 33908 454-1277 • arden-courts.com
BROOKDALE - THE COLONY 13565 American Colony Blvd., Fort Myers, 33912 955-8381 • brookdale.com
BROOKDALE - SANTA BARBARA 911 Santa Barbara Blvd., Cape Coral, 33991 673-1159 • brookdale.com
GULF POINT MEMORY CARE 22900 Lyden Drive, Estero, 33928 221-6120 • ahmg365.com
INSPIRED LIVING AT BONITA SPRINGS
27221 Bay Landing Drive, Bonita Springs, 34135 301-3095 • inspiredliving.care
IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR THE RIGHT PLACE FOR YOU OR YOUR LOVED ONEIN SOUTHWEST FLORIDA, BE PREPARED BEFORE YOU GET STARTED.
Compare the senior communities in your area. Begin actively planning where you want to be today, before health problems develop. Determine the kind of lifestyle and health care options you want for yourself and narrow down your choices. Don’t feel rushed, but don’t procrastinate. Don’t be one of those people who end up saying, “I wish I hadn’t waited so long.”
Make a list of services, amenities, and features that are important to you. Remember: You are not just thinking about today but planning for your future.
Once you have narrowed down your choices, take tours. Can you visualize yourself living in this community? How do the grounds look? Is the staff friendly? Is the environment clean, well-maintained, and nicely appointed?
Come prepared with a list of questions. If you don’t ask questions, you won’t be able to make an informed decision. You should feel certain that the staff is answering your questions and addressing your concerns.
There are a variety of financial arrangements available. These might include rentals, equity, and entrance fees. Learn the pros and cons of each. Understand what is included and what is “extra.”
(Source: Seniors BlueBook, seniorsbluebook.com)
What levels of care are available? Does the staff seem caring and professional? Are there activities for the residents who are receiving care? What is the community licensed to provide, and what are the costs should care be needed? This is a very important part of your research
Can you envision the residents as your neighbors?
The more you can experience the lifestyle, the better. How is the atmosphere in the dining room? Is there a dress code for dinner? Does the menu offer good variety? Is the service attentive? Does the chef accommodate dietary requirements? Will you enjoy dining here?
Ask for an event calendar to see if there are programs and activities of interest to you. Are there a variety of educational, social, cultural, and fitness programs available? Can residents volunteer within the community? Are special travel opportunities available to residents?
If your family or friends can aid you in deciding, ask them to evaluate your top choices. They may raise questions you haven’t considered.
Utilizing a senior housing advisor can help you narrow down your choices and provide valuable insight about the places you are considering
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA CONTINUES TO ATTRACT NEW RESIDENTS SEEKING THEIR OWN SLICE OF PARADISE
In early 2024, a Naples beachfront estate hit the market for a cool $295 million; at the time it was reportedly the most expensive residential listing in the country. Although the eye-popping price for the lush, 9-acre compound would eliminate most mortals from the bidding, it illustrated the aspirational quality that surrounds Southwest Florida.
Thankfully for the rest of us, the good life here is a ainable at costs that fit a variety of budgets. And that has been the story ever since our corner of the Sunshine State began a racting new residents from the colder climes early last century.
Southwest Florida is a global destination for those seeking mild winters, along with
and abundant outdoor activities, sporting events, concerts, and festivals. Plus, there is no state income tax, a homestead exemption, and other tax benefits for residents.
Because of those a ributes, the population continues to surge. Collier County, which has a reported population of 397,994, ranked twel h in the state for growth with more than 12,000 new residents. Lee County added more than 34,000 newcomers from July 2021 to July 2022 to reach 822,453, making it the sixth fastest-growing county in the country, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. It also ranked first among Florida’s 67 counties in net migration.
Of course, the influx creates a substantial demand for housing, and lots of them. Fortunately, the local real estate profession is prepared to help newcomers find a place they can call home.
That need means new construction, as evidenced by scores of building sites popping up all over, from coastal neighborhoods to inland gated communities. Single-family home permits in Lee and Collier counties rose 31 percent between December 2022 and 2023, according to market studies.
The fresh supply of new housing combined with thousands of existing units
result in a sizzling real estate market. Inventory has grown a er a decline in 2022, and listings are also on the rise.
Prices varied in 2023, dipping 0.7 percent with a median price of $735,000 for singlefamily homes in Collier County (excluding Marco Island) and increasing 9.5 percent to a median price of $385,000 in Lee County. The condo-townhouse market is also solid in Collier County, where the median closed price (excluding Marco Island) rose 6.6 percent to $485,000 in 2023. In Lee County, the median sale price of condos and townhouses remained at a $300,000 in the same period.
Collier and Lee counties abound with assorted cities and towns, stretching from the smallest post office in the United States in tiny Ochopee in Collier County to the affluent environs of Boca Grande and Captiva islands to the rural calm of Buckingham and Alva
Some neighborhoods are tucked with turn-of-the-century and 1920s Mediterranean-style homes, and simple ranch houses from the 1960s and ’70s. Condominiums, townhouses, apartments, and updated homes round out the options. Most gated communities provide health, fitness, social amenities, and dining options.
Standing tall on the horizon, residential high-and low-rises can be found along the Caloosahatchee River front, gulf coast, and in city center locations. They include: Triton Cay, a five-story apartment building on the downtown Fort Myers River District; Aura at Metropolitan, a 15-story condominium high-rise in downtown Naples; Grandview at Bay Beach, an 11-story condo building on Fort Myers Beach; and the 24-story Island at West Bay in Estero that overlooks Estero Bay. Omega at Bonita Bay, in Bonita Springs, is a 27-story residential tower that’s also perched above Estero Bay.
The City of Cape Coral in Lee County ranks among the top 10 fastest-growing
cities in the nation. In Collier County, master-planned communities are rising in the rural east to make way for more residents and the workers needed to support population growth. Ave Maria in Collier County reported a total of 652 new home sales in 2023, placing it among the top 20 master-planned nationwide.
One a raction is financial. There is no state income tax, and state sales tax is 6 percent. A homestead exemption allows Florida homeowners to reduce the assessed value of their primary home when it’s declared their domicile. Other exemptions include those for veterans, active-duty military, first-responder survivors, seniors and low-income individuals.
Lifestyle-wise, the Gulf of Mexico invites boating, fishing, diving, and recreation, in addition to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Two official paddling trails—one each in Lee and Collier counties—offer scenic routes for canoe, kayak, and paddleboard exploration inland and along the coast.
On terra firma, Collier and Lee counties have a combined 150 golf courses that draw championship tournaments. Naples is ranked No. 1 nationally for golf holes per capita by the National Golf Foundation. For pickleball enthusiasts, there are plentiful courts. East Naples Community Park, with 65 courts, is home to the U.S. Open Pickleball Championships.
Vast natural lands are preserved as national, state, and regional parks, in addition to more than 34,000 acres of conservation areas purchased through Collier and Lee tax-funded preservation programs.
Relocating to a new town is exhilarating, but it can be tedious tracking down all of the details you need to know to get settled in comfortably. You have many questions, and this guide will make the process a little easier. If you are moving into an incorporated city, visit the city’s website to find out about local offices and services. If you are not living within the boundaries of a municipality, you are in an unincorporated area, so contact county government. (Area code 239)
EMERGENCY
Police, Fire, Medical: 911
TRAFFIC FINES, MARRIAGE LICENSES, DIVORCE, PASSPORTS, SMALL CLAIMS, JURY DUTY
Collier County Clerk of Court
Collier County Courthouse Annex, Second Floor
3315 Tamiami Trail E., Ste. 102, Naples 239-252-2646 • collierclerk.com
VOTER REGISTRATION
Collier County Supervisor of Elections
Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Building
3750 Enterprise Ave., Naples 252-8683 • colliervotes.com
Satellite office at the North Collier Government Services Center on Orange Blossom Drive.
COLLIER COUNTY LIBRARY SYSTEM
Library Headquarters
2385 Orange Blossom Drive, Naples 252-7311 • collierlibrary.org
The library system has as 10 locations to serve Collier County.
DRIVER’S LICENSES, VEHICLE TAGS, CONCEAL CARRY, BOAT REGISTRATION, HUNTING AND FISHING LICENSES
Collier County Tax Collector
Main Office
3291 Tamiami Trail E., Naples
252-8171 • colliertaxcollector.com
The Collier County Tax Collector has 11 offices/ locations in Collier County.
Collier County Domestic Animal Services
7610 Davis Blvd., Naples 252-7387 (PETS) • colliercountyfl.gov
The owners of all dogs and cats over four months old must obtain a Collier County license. Proof of a current rabies vaccination is required. Veterinary clinics can also issue pet licenses.
Collier County Solid Waste Division
3339 Tamiami Trail E., Ste. 302, Naples 252-7575 • colliercountyfl.gov
Collier County Solid & Hazardous Waste Division handles garbage and recycling for unincorporated areas of Collier County, City of Marco Island, and Immokalee. The county has one of the highest residential recycling rates in the state.
Recycling: Only these items should be placed in your recycling cart: plastic bottles, jars, jugs and tubs; glass bottles and jars; metal cans; paper; cardboard; and cartons. Do not place plastic bags in your recycling cart.
Hazardous waste: Collier County operates six main drop-off centers to dispose of hazardous waste for residents and businesses within the county. They are open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
Hazardous waste includes chemicals that can harm people, other living organisms, property, or the environment, such as aerosols, insecticides and herbicides, antifreeze, paint, batteries, pool chemicals, motor oil, and pharmaceuticals. They also accept electronics, including computers, TVs, and cellphones. Visit colliercountyfl.gov for collection locations.
The Naples Solid Waste Division is responsible for the collection and disposal of commercial and residential trash, horticultural, and recyclable material within the city. Contact: 2600 Corporate Flight Drive or 213-4700.
Marco Island Recycling Drop-off Center
Contact: 990 Chalmer Drive or 252-2380.
IRRIGATION AND FERTILIZING REGULATIONS
Watering restrictions (including lawn irrigation and car washing) and fertilizing schedules are in place year-round. Check with your local government for the schedules.
TRAFFIC FINES, MARRIAGE LICENSES, DIVORCE, PASSPORTS, SMALL CLAIMS, JURY DUTY
Lee County Clerk of Court
Lee County Justice Center
2075 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd./1700 Monroe St., First Floor, Fort Myers 533-5000 * leeclerk.org
VOTER REGISTRATION
Lee County Supervisor of Elections
Melvin Morgan Constitutional Complex
2480 Thompson St., Third Floor, Fort Myers LEE-VOTE (533-8683) • lee.electionsfl.org
Branch offices in Cape Coral, South Fort Myers, and Bonita Springs. Registration forms are available online. You can also register to vote when you apply for a new driver’s license.
DRIVER’S LICENSES, VEHICLE TAGS, CONCEAL CARRY, BOAT REGISTRATION, HUNTING AND FISHING LICENSES
Lee County Tax Collector
2480 Thompson St., Fort Myers 239-533-6000; leetc.com
The Lee County Tax Collector has eight offices. Application forms and information are available online.
PET LICENSE
Lee County Animal Services
5600 Banner Drive, Fort Myers 239-533-7387; leegov.com/animalservicesPet licensing: 239-533-9215 or 239-533-9217
All cats, dogs, and ferrets, four months of age or older, that live in Lee County for at least 30 days per year must be vaccinated against rabies (or show proof from another state) and licensed. Veterinary clinics can also issue pet licenses.
RECYCLING, YARD WASTE & SOLID WASTE
Lee County Solid Waste Division
6441 Topaz Court, Fort Myers 239-533-8000; leegov.com/solidwaste
Lee County Solid Waste, a division of the Department of Public Utilities, provides a variety of waste and recycling services to more
than 320,000 households in unincorporated Lee County and its six municipalities.
Recycling: Only five materials should be placed in your recycling bin: paper, glass (green, brown, and clear), cardboard (non-waxed coating), plastic containers labeled 1-7 in the triangle (no plastic bags or Styrofoam), and metal (aluminum and tin) cans.
Hazardous waste: Lee County also handles the disposal of residential hazardous waste such as aerosols, insecticides, antifreeze, paint, ba eries, pool chemicals, and herbicides. It also accepts electronics, including computers, TVs, and cellphones. (Electronics are accepted for trash pickup in some cities.)
Free mulch: Lee County provides free mulch to residents at five locations within the county.
City Waste Haulers: If you live in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Sanibel, Fort Myers Beach, Bonita Springs, or Estero, check with that city’s public works and solid waste divisions to learn about obtaining trash and recycling bins, local ordinances, and pickup schedules. Some cities contract with these private companies: Advanced Disposal Services: 239-334-1224 or 239-368-2300; advanceddisposal.com
Waste Management: 239-334-4115 or 941-629-1106; wm.com
Waste Pro: 239-945-0800; wasteprousa.com
Watering restrictions (including lawn irrigation and car washing) and fertilizing schedules are in place year-round. Check with your local government for the schedules.
Florida Power & Light (FPL): 800-226-3545or fpl.com
Establishing service online is preferred.
To report an outage: 1-800-4-OUTAGE (1-800-468-8243)
Lee County Electric Cooperative (LCEC): 800-599-2356 or lcec.net
LCEC headquarters: 4980 Bayline Drive, North Fort Myers
LCEC provides power to parts or all of several Southwest Florida communities:
Lee County: Cape Coral, North Fort Myers, Sanibel, Captiva, Pine Island, Matlacha, Burnt Store Marina, Useppa, Cabbage Key, Lehigh Acres
Collier County: Everglades City, Ochopee, Goodland, Marco Island, Golden Gate Estates, Immokalee, Ave Maria
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IT’S FAIRLY EASY TO GET FROM POINT A TO POINT B IN SOUTHWEST FLORIDA, BUT IT’S NICE TO HAVE A LITTLE ASSISTANCE WITH NAVIGATION—AND WE HAVE YOU COVERED
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (RSW)
11000 Terminal Access Road, Fort Myers 239-590-4800 • flyrsw.com
Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) is operated by the Lee County Port Authority and is one of the top 50 airports nationally for passenger traffic. It is located three miles east of I-75 off exit 128 (Alico Road).
COLLIER COUNTY
EVERGLADES AIRPARK
650 E.C. Airpark Road, Everglades City 239-252-6298• colliercountyfl.gov
A 29-acre airpark surrounded by Everglades National Park and Big Cypress National Preserve.
IMMOKALEE REGIONAL AIRPORT (IMM)
165 Airpark Blvd., Immokalee 239-252-6296 • colliercountyfl.gov
Located 35 miles northeast of Naples and 110 miles from the Port of Miami. It is a designated Foreign Trade Zone.
MARCO ISLAND EXECUTIVE AIRPORT (MKY)
2005 Mainsail Drive, Ste. 1, Naples 239-252-1059 • colliercountyfl.gov
This airport is conveniently located to Naples, Marco Island, Goodland, and Isles of Capri. It provides affordable, hassle-free air travel and is home to flight-training companies. Airport staff provides professional services and arranges ground transportation and local reservations.
CHARTER SERVICE
Salt Island Seaplanes: 239-263-7258 or saltislandseaplanes.com
NAPLES MUNICIPAL AIRPORT (APF)
160 Aviation Drive N., Naples 239-643-0733 • flynaples.com
Naples Airport (APF) is operated by the Naples Airport Authority and accommodates more than 115,000 general aviation takeoffs and landings each year. It is home to sightseeing tours, air charter operators, flight schools, and other businesses, and it provides U.S. Customs clearing for international arrivals.
CHARTER SERVICES
Air Trek: 239-262-8735 or airtrek.cc
Aviation Advisor: 847-395-3767 or aviationadvisor.com
Elite Jets: 239-900-9000 or elitejets.com
Flexjet: 866-309-2214 or flexjet.com
Jet 1: 239-643-9700 or flyjet1.com
Naples Jet Center: 239-649-7900 or naplesjetcenter.com
Northern Jet Management: 800-462-7709 or northernjet.net
LEE COUNTY
PAGE FIELD REGIONAL AIRPORT (FMY)
5200 Captain Channing Page Drive, Fort Myers 239-590-6600 • flylcpa.com/fmy
Page Field (FMY) is a business and general aviation airport operated by the Lee County Port Authority with Foreign Trade Zone status. It provides quick and convenient access to communities throughout the region. As a TSA-approved DCA Gateway Airport, Page Field is authorized to support direct flights into Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C.
Page Field also has FAA-approved aviation services including flight training, aircraft maintenance and repair, hangars, and air charter operations.
CHARTER SERVICES
Aeronautical Charters: 239-278-0101 or goflyaci.com
Cypress Air Charter: 239-272-5799 or cypressaircharter.com
PUNTA GORDA AIRPORT (PGD)
28000 A-1 Airport Road, Punta Gorda 941-639-1101, ext. 100 • flypgd.com
Punta Gorda Airport is located off exit 161 (Jones Loop Road) of I-75 in Charlo e County. Allegiant Air: 702-505-8888 or allegiantair.com
Sun Country Airlines: 651-905-2737 or suncountry.com
CHARTER SERVICES
Air Trek: 800-247-8735 or airtrek.cc
BY LANDMAJOR HIGHWAYS
I-75 runs 471 miles in Florida, from the Georgia border south to Naples, where it turns east to Fort Lauderdale and connects to I-95, which runs north-south along the East Coast. From the Georgia border, U.S. 41 / Cleveland Avenue/Tamiami Trail runs south and turns east at Naples and connects to Miami.
I-75 / Major Exits From North to South:
LEE COUNTY
143: Bayshore Road (SR 78)/North Fort Myers
141: Palm Beach Boulevard (SR 80)/Downtown or East Fort Myers
138: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard (SR 82)/ Downtown Fort Myers
136: Colonial Boulevard (SR 884)/Edison Mall or Fort Myers
131: Daniels Parkway/Bell Tower Shops, JetBlue Stadium, Beaches
128: Alico Road/RSW, FGCU
123: Corkscrew Road/FGCU, Miromar Outlets
116: Bonita Beach Road/Bonita Springs
COLLIER COUNTY
111: Immokalee Road (CR 846)/North Naples
107: Pine Ridge Road (CR 896)/Naples
105: Golden Gate Parkway (CR 886)/Golden Gate or Naples
101: Collier Boulevard (CR 951)
80: State Road 29/Immokalee, Lake Trafford, Everglades City
BUS & TROLLEY SERVICE
LEE COUNTY TRANSIT (LEETRAN)
239-533-8726 (LEE-TRAN) or leegov.com/leetran
Local routes, plus downtown trolley and beach shu les. Check website for schedules.
COLLIER AREA TRANSIT (CAT)
239-252-7777 or ridecat.com
Local routes, paratransit pick-up for the elderly and disabled, and beach shu les.
GREYHOUND
greyhound.com * 800-231-2222
Serving Collier and Lee counties
NAPLES TROLLEY TOURS
1010 Sixth Ave. S., Naples 239-262-7300
naplestrolleytours.com
See 100 points of interest while riding this vintage trolley.
LEE COUNTY
ADVENTURES IN PARADISE
Port Sanibel Marina: 14341 Port Comfort Road, Fort Myers
Sanibel Marina: 634 N Yachtsman Drive, Sanibel Snug Harbor: 645 Old San Carlos Blvd, Fort Myers Beach 239-472-8443• adventureinparadiseinc.com
Cruises to Cabbage Key, Cayo Costa, and North Captiva islands.
CAPTIVA CRUISES
13921 Waterfront Drive, Bokeelia 239-633-8142• islandgirlcharters.com
Cruises to Cabbage Key, Useppa Island, Gasparilla Island, and Pine Island
ISLAND GIRL CHARTERS AT PINELAND MARINA
13921 Waterfront Drive, Bokeelia 239-633-8142• islandgirlcharters.com
Water taxi service to North Captiva, Cabbage Key, Boca Grande, Captiva, and Useppa Island.
KEY WEST EXPRESS
1200 Main St., Fort Myers Beach
951 Bald Eagle Drive, Marco Island 239-463-5733• keywestexpress.net
Ferry linking Fort Myers and Marco Island with Key West.
COLLIER COUNTY
HEMINGWAY WATER SHUTTLE
951 Bald Eagle Drive, Marco Island 239-315-1136• hemingwaywatershuttle.com
Transports passengers from Rose Marina to Keewaydin Island.
NAPLES BAY WATER SHUTTLE
880 12th Ave. S., Naples 239-206-0160• naplesbaywatershuttle.com
A 1-hour hop-on, hop-off tour of Naples Bay, stopping at key waterfront shopping, hotel, and dining destinations.
Porter Airlines 888-619-8622
Southwest Airlines 800-435-9792
Spirit Airlines 855-728-3555
WestJet 888-937-8538
FILL YOUR CALENDAR WITH ART, THEATER, DANCE, HERITAGE, AND MUSIC COLLIER COUNTY
ARTIS—NAPLES
THE BAKER MUSEUM
5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples 239-597-1900 or 800-597-1900 artisnaples.org
BIG CYPRESS GALLERY 52388 Tamiami Trail E, Ochopee 239-695-2428 • clydebutcher.com
GULFSHORE OPERA
3281 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples 239-529-3925 • gulfshoreopera.org
GULFSHORE PLAYHOUSE
100 Goodlette-Frank Road S., Naples 239-261-7529 • gulfshoreplayhouse.org
HISTORIC PALM COTTAGE 137 Twelfth Ave. S., Naples 239-261-8164
napleshistoricalsociety.org
HOLOCAUST MUSEUM & COHEN EDUCATION CENTER 975 Imperial Golf Course Blvd., Ste. 108, Naples 239-263-9200 • hmcec.org
MARCO ISLAND ARTS CENTER THEATRE
1089 N. Collier Blvd., Marco Island 239-394-4221
• marcoislandart.org
MARCO ISLAND CENTER FOR THE ARTS
1010 Winterberry Drive, Marco Island 239-394-4221
• marcoislandart.org
NAPLES ART INSTITUTE
585 Park St., Naples 239-262-6517 • naplesart.org
NAPLES ART DISTRICT
Shirley Street, J&C Boulevard, AirportPulling Road, and Pine Ridge Road 239-249-1977 • naplesartdistrict.com
NAPLES DESIGN DISTRICT
Fith Avenue South, Seventh Avenue North, east side of U.S. 41 to GoodletteFrank Road • naplesdesigndistrict.com
NORRIS CENTER
Cambier Park • 755 8th Ave. S., Naples 239-213-3058 • naplesgov.com
OPERA NAPLES
2408 Linwood Ave., Naples 239-963-9050 • operanaples.org
THE NAPLES PLAYERS AT SUGDEN COMMUNITY THEATRE
701 Fifth Ave. S., Naples 239-263-7990 • naplesplayers.org
THE STUDIO PLAYERS
4701 Golden Gate Parkway, Naples 239-398-9192 • thestudioplayers.org
THEATREZONE
13275 Livingston Road, Naples 888-321-3090 • theatre.zone
LEE COUNTY
ALLIANCE FOR THE ARTS
10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers 239-939-2787 • artinlee.org
ARTS BONITA
PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
10150 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs
VISUAL ARTS CENTER
26100 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs 239-495-8989 • artcenterbonita.org
BARBARA B. MANN
PERFORMING ARTS HALL
13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers 239-481-4849 or 800-440-7469 bbmannpah.com
THE BELLE THEATRE
2708 Santa Barbara Blvd., #135, Cape Coral 239-323-5533 • thebelletheatre.com
BIG ARTS SANIBEL
900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel 239-395-0900 • bigarts.org
BROADWAY PALM DINNER THEATRE
1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers 239-278-4422 • broadwaypalm.com
BURROUGHS HOME & GARDENS
2505 First St., Fort Myers 239-337-9505 • burroughshome.com
CAPE CABERET
4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral 239-549-3000 • capecabaret.com
CAPE CORAL ART LEAGUE
516 Cultural Park Blvd.,
Cape Coral • 239-772-5657 capecoralartleague.org
CULTURAL PARK THEATRE
528 Cultural Park Blvd., Cape Coral 239-772-5862 • culturalparktheater.com
FLORIDA GULF COAST UNIVERSITY
BOWER SCHOOL OF MUSIC & THE ARTS
10501 FGCU Blvd. S., Fort Myers
239-590-7581 • fgcu.edu/ concerts
WASMER ART GALLERY AT FGCU
239-590-7199 • fgcu.edu/ artgalleries
THEATRELAB AT FGCU
239-590-7581 • fgcu.edu/ theatrelab
FLORIDA REPERTORY THEATRE
2267 Bay St., Fort Myers 239-332-4488 • floridarep.org
FLORIDA SOUTHWESTERN STATE COLLEGE
BOB RAUSCHENBERG GALLERY
8099 College Parkway, Fort Myers
239-489-9313 • rauschenberggallery.com
FORT MYERS SYMPHONIC
MASTERSINGERS
6900 Daniels Parkway, #29, Fort Myers 239-288-2535 • mastersingersfm.com
GHOSTBIRD THEATRE COMPANY
Site-specific performances at various venues ghostbirdtheatrecompany.org
GULF COAST SYMPHONY
6314 Corporate Court, #100, Fort Myers 239-277-1700 • gulfcoastsymphony.org
HERTZ ARENA
11000 Everblades Pkwy., Estero 239-948-7825 • hertzarena.com
LABORATORY THEATER OF FLORIDA
1634 Woodford Ave., Fort Myers 239-218-0481
laboratorytheaterflorida.com
MUSIC & ARTS COMMUNITY CENTER
13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers 239-277-1700 • gulfcoastsymphony.org
PLAYERS CIRCLE THEATRE
13211 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers 239-800-3292 • playerscircletheater.com
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA SYMPHONY
8290 College Parkway, Ste. 103, Fort Myers 239-418-1500 • swflso.org
SYDNEY & BERNE DAVIS ART CENTER
2301 First St., Fort Myers 239-333-1933 • sbdac.com
THEATRE CONSPIRACY
10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers 239-939-2787 • artinlee.org/theatre
IN SOUTHWEST FLORIDA, HAVING FUN ISN’T JUST FOR THE KIDS
COLLIER COUNTY
COLLIER MUSEUM
3331 Tamiami Trail E., Naples 239-252-8476 • colliermuseums.com
CONSERVANCY OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA
1495 Smith Preserve Way, Naples 239-262-0304 • conservancy.org
DOLPHIN EXPLORER
951 Bald Eagle Drive, Marco Island 239-642-6899
dolphin-study.com
THE EDGE JOHNNY NOCERA SKATE PARK
1600 Fleischmann Park, Naples 239-213-3020 • naplesgov.com
GOLISANO CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF NAPLES (CMON)
15080 Livingston Road, Naples 239-514-0084 • cmon.org
HOLOCAUST MUSEUM & COHEN
EDUCATION CENTER
975 Imperial Golf Course Blvd., Naples 239-263-9200 • hmcec.org
IMMOKALEE PIONEER MUSEUM AT ROBERT’S RANCH
1215 Roberts Ave. W., Immokalee 239-252-2611 • colliermuseums.com
ISLAND SAILING
800 12th Ave. S., Naples 239-398.1483 • sailnaples.com
MARCO ISLAND
HISTORICAL MUSEUM
180 S. Heathwood Drive, Marco Island 239-252-1440 • themihs.info
MUSEUM OF THE EVERGLADES
105 West Broadway Ave., Everglades City 239-252-5026 • colliermuseums.com
NAPLES BOTANICAL GARDEN
4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples 239-643-7275 • naplesgarden.org
NAPLES TROLLEY TOURS
1010 Sixth Ave. S., Naples 239-262-7300 • naplestrolleytours.com
NAPLES ZOO AT CARIBBEAN GARDENS
1590 Goodlette-Frank Road, Naples 239-315-7626 • napleszoo.org
REVS INSTITUTE
2500 S. Horseshoe Drive, Naples 239-687-7387 • revsinstitute.org
ROOKERY BAY ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING CENTER
300 Tower Road, Naples 239-530-5972 • rookerybay.org
S EMINOLE CASINO HOTEL
506 S. First St., Immokalee 239-658-1313 • seminoleimmokaleecasino.com
SUN-N-FUN LAGOON AT NORTH COLLIER REGIONAL PARK
15000 Livingston Road, Naples 239-252-4021 • napleswaterpark.com
TIN CITY WATERFRONT SHOPS
1200 Fifth Ave. S., Naples 239-262-4200 • tincityofnaples.com
WOOTEN’S EVERGLADES AIRBOAT TOURS
32330 Tamiami Trail East, Ochopee
239-420-9172 • wootenseverglades.com
BAILEY-MATTHEWS NATIONAL SHELL MUSEUM
3075 Sanibel Captiva Road, Sanibel Island 239-395-2233 shellmuseum.org
BURROUGHS HOME & GARDENS
2505 First Street, Fort Myers 239- 337-9505 burroughshome.com
BUCKINGHAM FARMS
12931 Orange River Blvd., Fort Myers 239-206-2303 • buckinghamfarmsonline.com
CALUSA NATURE CENTER & PLANETARIUM
3450 Ortiz Ave., Fort Myers 239-275-3435 • calusanature.org
CAPE CORAL MUSEUM OF HISTORY
544 Cultural Park Blvd., Cape Coral • 239-772-7037 capecoralhistoricalmuseum.org
CAPTIVA CRUISES
11401 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva 239-472-5300 • captivacruises.com
ECHO (EDUCATIONAL CONCERNS FOR HUNGER ORGANIZATION)
17391 Durrance Road, North Fort Myers 239-543-3246 • echonet.org
EDISON AND FORD WINTER ESTATES
2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers 239-334-7419 • edisonfordwinterestates.org
FORT MYERS SKATIUM
2250 Broadway, Fort Myers 239-321-7509 • fmskatium.org
GATOR MIKE’S FAMILY FUN PARK
35 N.E. Pine Island Road, Cape Coral 239-574-4386 • gatormikes.com
HERTZ ARENA
11000 Everblades Parkway, Estero 239-948-7825 • hertzarena.com
IMAG HISTORY & SCIENCE CENTER
2000 Cranford Ave., Fort Myers 239-243-0043 • theimag.org
KORESHAN STATE HISTORIC SITE
3800 Corkscrew Road, Ester 239-992-0311
• floridastateparks.org
MOUND HOUSE
451 Connecticut St., Fort Myers Beach 239-765-0865 • moundhouse.org
POPSTROKE GOLF
5531 Six Mile Commercial Court, Fort Myers 239-323-4653 • popstroke.com
RANDELL RESEARCH CENTER/ CALUSA HERITAGE TRAIL
13810 Waterfront Drive, Pine Island 239-283-2157
floridamuseum.ufl.edu/rrc
SHANGRI-LA SPRINGS
27750 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs 239-949-0749 • shangrilasprings.com
SHELL FACTORY & NATURE PARK
16554 N. Cleveland Ave., North Fort Myers 239-995-2141 • shellfactory.com
SOUTHERN FRESH FARMS
8500 Penzance Blvd., Fort Myers 239-633 7705
southernfreshfarms.com
WONDER GARDENS
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA MILITARY
MUSEUM & LIBRARY
Edison Mall 4125 Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers 239-541-8704 • swflmm.org
SUN SPLASH FAMILY WATERPARK
400 Santa Barbara Blvd., Cape Coral 239-574-0558 • sunsplashwaterpark.com
WONDER GARDENS
27180 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs 239-992-2591 evergladeswondergardens.com
TAKE A WALK ON THE WILD SIDE AT SPECIAL PLACES WITH UNIQUE HABITATS AND ECOSYSTEMS WHERE YOU CAN EXPLORE FLORIDA’S FLORA AND FAUNA.
HIKE, PADDLE, CYCLE, SWIM, CAMP, TRAVEL ON HORSEBACK, OR SIMPLY RELAX IN NATURE’S BEAUTY.
DO YOURSELF A FAVOR: RESEARCH EACH LOCATION TO PLAN A VISIT TAILORED TO YOUR INTERESTS AND NEEDS.
(239 AREA CODE)
AUDUBON’S CORKSCREW
SWAMP SANCTUARY
375 Sanctuary Road W., Naples 348-9151 • corkscrew.audubon.org
BIG CYPRESS NATIONAL PRESERVE
Big Cypress Swamp Welcome Center 33000 Tamiami Trail East, Ochopee 695-4758 • nps.gov/bicy
Oasis Visitor Center
52105 Tamiami Trail East, Ochopee 695-4111 • nps.gov/bicy
COLLIER-SEMINOLE
STATE PARK
20200 Tamiami Trail E., Naples 394-3397 • floridastateparks.org
CONSERVANCY OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA
1495 Smith Preserve Way, Naples 262-0304 • conservancy.org
CONSERVATION COLLIER PRESERVES
252-2961 or 252-2979 • collierparks.com
CREW LAND & WATER TRUST TRAILS
4600 Corkscrew Road, Immokalee 657-2253 • crewtrust.org
EVERGLADES NATIONAL PARK
GULF COAST VISITOR CENTER
815 Oyster Bar Lane, Everglades City 695-3311 • nps.gov
FAKAHATCHEE STRAND STATE PRESERVE 137 Coastline Drive, Copeland 695-4593 • floridastateparks.org
PICAYUNE STRAND STATE FOREST
2121 52nd Ave. S.E., Naples 348-7557 • fdacs.go
ROOKERY BAY NATIONAL ESTUARINE RESEARCH RESERVE 300 Tower Road, Naples 530-5940 • rookerybay.org
BUNCHE BEACH PRESERVE –SAN CARLOS BAY
18201 John Morris Road, Fort Myers leegov.com/parks
CALOOSAHATCHEE REGIONAL PARK
19130 N. River Road, Alva 694-0398 • leegov.com/parks
CAYO COSTA STATE PARK
Captiva 941-964-0375 • floridastateparks.org
CONSERVATION 20/20 PRESERVES leegov.com/conservation2020
ESTERO BAY AQUATIC PRESERVE 3800 Corkscrew Road, Estero 992-0311 • floridastateparks.org
FOUR MILE COVE
ECOLOGICAL PRESERVE
East end of S.E. 23rd Terrace, Cape Coral 549-4606 • capecoral.net
HICKEY CREEK MITIGATION PARK
17980 Palm Beach Blvd., Alva 694-0398 • leegov.com/parks
J.N. “DING” DARLING
NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE
1 Wildlife Drive, Sanibel Island 472-1100 • fws.gov
KORESHAN STATE HISTORIC SITE
3800 Corkscrew Road, Estero 992-0311 • floridastateparks.org
LAKES REGIONAL PARK
7330 Gladiolus Drive, Fort Myers 533-7575 • leegov.com/parks
MANATEE PARK
10901 State Road 80 (Palm Beach Boulevard), Fort Myers 690-5030 • leegov.com/parks
MATANZAS PASS PRESERVE
199 Bay Road, Fort Myers Beach leegov.com/parks
ROTARY PARK
ENVIRONMENTAL CENTER
5505 Rose Garden Road, Cape Coral 549-4606 • capecoral.net
SIX MILE CYPRESS
SLOUGH PRESERVE
7751 Penzance Blvd., Fort Myers 533-7550 • sloughpreserve.org
Nearby places to get in touch with wildlife
BIRD SANCTUARY OF NAPLES
1060 Purple Martin Drive, Naples 813-841-1911 • birdgardensofnaples.org
NAPLES ZOO AT CARIBBEAN GARDENS
1590 Goodlette-Frank Road, Naples 262-5409 • napleszoo.org
SHY WOLF SANCTUARY
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE CENTER
By appointment only 855-749-9653 • shywolfsanctuary.org
THE BUTTERFLY ESTATES
1815 Fowler St., Fort Myers 690-2359 • thebutterflyestates.com
CALUSA NATURE CENTER & PLANETARIUM
3450 Ortiz Ave., Fort Myers 275-3435 • calusanature.org
SHELL FACTORY & NATURE PARK
16554 N. Cleveland Ave., North Fort Myers 995-2141 • shellfactory.com
WONDER GARDENS
27180 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs 992-2591 • wondergardens.org
Permits for recreational vessels (motorized and non-motorized) and trailers are needed for county-operated boat ramps. (collierparks.com)
ANN OLESKY PARK
6001 Lake Trafford Road, Immokalee
Located at the end of Lake Trafford Road in Immokalee, the 1,500-acre Lake Trafford is known for fantastic freshwater crappie, bass, bluegill, and shellcracker fishing. The park features a 200-foot pier, boat ramp, and boat rentals.
BAYVIEW PARK
1500 Danford St., Naples
Four acres along Naples Bay offer two launching lanes, courtesy docks, 20 boat trailer parking spaces, canoe and kayak launching, picnic areas,
a pavilion, a playground, and restrooms.
BIG CYPRESS NATIONAL PRESERVE SEAGRAPE BOAT LAUNCH
3310 Tamiami Trail E., Ochopee
A single ramp, four trailer parking spaces, and 12 single vehicle spaces. It’s located at the south end of Seagrape Drive and provides access to Halfway Creek (no docks).
BIG CYPRESS RECREATION ACCESS
(ALLIGATOR ALLEY MILE 51)
Everglades Parkway / Alligator Alley Mile 51 along west-bound lanes
Big Cypress offers a double ramp, staging docks, 50 trailer parking spaces, and 23 single-vehicle spaces.
CAXAMBAS PARK
909 Collier Court, Marco Island
Four acres inside of Caxambas Pass offer two
launching lanes, courtesy docks, 31 boat trailer parking spaces, picnic area, and restrooms. Diesel and regular fuels are available. Onsite Coast Guard Auxiliary building with boating and safety classes.
COCOHATCHEE RIVER PARK MARINA
13535 Vanderbilt Drive, Naples
This 7-acre county park located between 111th Avenue (Immokalee Road) and Bonita Beach Road provides Gulf access through Wiggins Pass. It has 60 boat trailer parking spots, four launching lanes, courtesy docks, and restrooms; paddlecraft can also be launched.
COLLIER BOULEVARD BOAT RAMP
3620 Collier Blvd., Naples
This area located at the intersection of Capri Boulevard offers a double-wide launching lane, courtesy dock, and 80 paved trailer parking spaces.
11135 Gulfshore Drive, Naples
Located on the waters of Turkey Bay, this site has a single launching lane, courtesy docks, 30 boat trailer parking spaces, and restrooms at beach access points.
GOLDEN GATE BOAT RAMP
3300 Santa Barbara Blvd., Naples
Provides access to fresh/brackish water fishing for small vessels; located behind Golden Gate Community Park with ample boat and trailer parking.
GOODLAND BOAT RAMP
740 Palm Point Drive, Goodland
Two launching lanes, courtesy docks, 85 boat trailer parking spaces, and a ship’s store.
ISLES OF CAPRI PADDLECRAFT PARK
1295 Capri Blvd., Naples
Designed exclusively for launching nonmotorized paddlecraft—canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards—the park provides access to shallow, mangrove-fringed McIlvane Bay.
LANDINGS PARK
1101 Ninth St. S., Naples
Located on the western shore of Naples Bay, Landings Park has three launching lanes, courtesy docks, 35 boat trailer parking spaces, picnic pavilions, benches, and restrooms.
MAR-GOOD HARBOR PARK
321 Pear Tree Ave., Goodland
This 2.5-acre regional park has a launch for canoes and kayaks, but not for motorized vessels.
525 Newport Drive, Naples
Five acres of commercially zoned waterfront and upland property used for boat trailer and
car parking as well as storage. The site includes one oversized single-boat launch ramp and 94 parking spaces. Future plans call for expanding the boat launch area and adding more facilities.
Parking is $10 or less at county-operated boat ramps; annual parking stickers available. (leegov.com)
ALVA BOAT RAMP
21580 Pearl St., Alva
This public boat ramp has 15 parking spots, paddlecraft launch, and restrooms.
DAVIS BOAT RAMP
2227 Davis Blvd., Fort Myers
Single-lane community boat ramp with 11 spots for vehicle/trailer parking.
From the Caloosahatchee River in Fort Myers to Lake Trafford in Collier County, boating and fishing are popular pastimes in Southwest Florida. Few places in North America offer such a wide variety of boating and fishing options—the choices are limitless, depending on your goal.
Familiarize yourself with the rules and laws governing boating and fishing.
FISHING: A license is required for freshwater and saltwater fishing. (There are exceptions for people younger than 16; Florida residents older than 65 or disabled; fishing from a chartered vessel or a licensed pier; or a Florida resident in the U.S. armed services.) Nonresident freshwater or saltwater licenses are available for three days, seven days, or a year. Special permits are required for lobster, tarpon, and snook.
Different licenses and prices are available for residents and nonresidents, age ranges, and fresh or saltwater fishing. Licenses are issued by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC) at: myfwc.com or 888-FISH-FLORIDA (347-4356). You can also obtain fishing licenses at county tax collector offices, select bait and tackle shops, and retailers such
as Walmart and local hardware stores. FISHING RULES: Pick up or download a guide at myfwc.com that shows fish species, legal size, catch-number limits, and when each is in season.
BOATING: In Florida, any motorized vessel on a public waterway must be titled and registered. Find out about boat registration and legal boat operation at myfwc.com
BOATING LICENSE: Florida does not have a boating license, but anyone born on or after Jan. 1, 1988 is required to successfully complete a National Association of State Boating Law Administrators–approved boating education course or pass an equivalent course or temporary certificate examination. They must have in their possession a boating and photo ID card before operating a vessel with a motor of 10 horsepower or more.
Visitors must comply with the boating safety education requirements. If a nonresident can show proof of having successfully completed a safety course certificate or card that meets or exceeds Florida’s requirements, a Florida Boating Safety Education Identification Card is not required. Visitors planning to rent a boat may obtain a temporary certificate that is valid for one year. Learn more: myfwc.com.
Before heading out, check each location for parking and daily fees or permit requirements.
Island 239-394-9333 walkersmarine.com
Walker’s Hideaway Marina of Naples 475 North Road Naples 239-394-9333 walkersmarine.com
Hamilton Harbor Yacht Club7065 Hamilton Ave.Naples 239-775-0506
IMPERIAL RIVER
27551 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs
This facility has a small, wooden walking path to a fishing pier, restrooms, and canoe/kayak ramp—no motorized vessels.
LAVENDAR’S LANDING
7290 Barrancas Ave. N.W., Bokeelia
A two-slip boat launching facility that offers 23 boat trailer parking spaces, a marina store, and rental cottages. This Lee County Parks & Recreation facility and the cottages are under the management of Tropic Star of Pine Island.
LOVERS KEY STATE PARK
8700 Estero Blvd. Fort Myers Beach
Two double ramps, staging docks, and 20 trailer parking spaces provide access to this group of barrier islands, mangrove coastline, and beyond.
MATLACHA BOAT RAMP
4577 Pine Island Road N.W., Matlacha
Matlacha has a two-slip boat ramp with 30 boat trailer parking spaces.
PINE ISLAND COMMERCIAL MARINA
6001 Maria Drive, St. James City
This marina is limited to commercial use Monday through Friday, but recreational boaters and anglers can use the ramp Saturdays, Sundays, and on Lee County–recognized holidays. The gate is open 6:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
PUNTA RASSA BOAT RAMP
15001 Punta Rassa Road, Fort Myers
Located on the east side of the Sanibel Causeway, this popular facility features two double ramps and long, wooden docks on either side with plenty of room for staging. It also has a fish-cleaning station, restrooms, and several vehicle/trailer combination and single-vehicle parking spaces.
SANIBEL BOAT RAMP
Bailey Road, next to the Sanibel Causeway, Sanibel
This area boasts a double ramp, staging and launching docks, 42 trailer parking spaces, and 15 single vehicle spaces located on the island at the foot of the bridge.
NAPLES CITY DOCK
880 12th Ave. S., Naples 239-213-3070
• naplesgov.com/cdw
The Naples City Dock has 48 recreational slips on floating docks accommodating 30to 60-foot vessels and 19 commercial slips. Services include diesel and ethanol-free gasoline, free pump-out, restrooms, and laundry facilities. It is located at Crayton Cove, with a full-line ship’s store, hotel, specialty shopping, and The Dock at Crayton Cove restaurant. Transient vessels are welcome and there are mooring balls for vessels up to 43 feet in length.
MOORING FIELD
414 Crescent St., Fort Myers Beach 239-463-9258
• fortmyersbeachfl.gov
Also known as the Matanzas Pass Municipal Mooring Field, 89 mooring balls are available for public rental year-round, accommodating vessels up to 85 feet in length. It is located east of the Sky Bridge between San Carlos and Estero Island in Matanzas Pass at The Matanzas Inn. Amenities include a public dinghy dock, laundry room, restrooms, showers, pump-out, laundry facilities, and vending and ice machines.
Two municipal yacht basins have been closed due to extensive damage from Hurricane Ian in September 2022 and are in the process of being redeveloped:
Cape Coral (Godman) Yacht Basin capecoral.net
Fort Myers Yacht Basin cityftmyers.com
FOR AN ACTIVE DAY ALONG THE SHORE OR A RELAXING RESPITE, 80 MILES OF BEACHES BECKON WITH A RANGE OF AMENITIES IN COLLIER AND LEE COUNTIES
505 Barefoot Beach Blvd., Naples
One of the last undeveloped barrier islands in Southwest Florida, Barefoot Beach is regularly rated among the country’s best beaches. The 342-acre Barefoot Beach Preserve was damaged by Hurricane Ian but it is open with parking and portable toilets. Access is located 20 feet off Bonita Beach Road on Lely Barefoot Boulevard.
Crayton Road and Seagate Drive, Naples
The three-quarter-mile boardwalk through the mangroves at Clam Pass is a nature-filled jaunt. The tidal ecosystem is home to birds and other wildlife, and the mangrove roots provide important spawning grounds for fish and shellfish. Once you’ve made it through—on foot or on the courtesy tram—one of Naples’ most scenic beaches awaits. With guided walks, bike racks, equipment rentals, beach wheelchairs, and life jackets, spend the day exploring this 35-acre gem. There are 171 parking spaces.
11135 Gulfshore Drive, Naples
Secluded and relaxing, the park boasts of one of the most unspoiled beaches in the United States. Get your cameras ready, because natural wildlife abounds: resident and migratory birds, tortoises, dolphins, and more. The park was damaged by Hurricane Ian in 2022 though it is open for limited day use and the boat ramp is operational. Parking is limited. A free beach shuttle service to the park is available at Conner Park (Bluebill Avenue and Gulfshore Drive).
1301 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples
Lowdermilk Park is a great place for the whole family. Spend the day at this premier beachfront park with a playground, picnic tables, sand volleyball courts, and two rentable gazebos. Convenient facilities include a concession stand, and restrooms and outdoor showers. There is ample on-site metered parking and on the street.
SOUTH MARCO BEACH
930 S. Collier Blvd., Marco Island
This is one of only two public beaches on the island; the parking lot is on Swallow Avenue.
430 Hernando Drive, Marco Island
Tigertail Beach is a jewel along Marco Island’s western shore. On the island’s north end, this pristine beach can be accessed by five boardwalks though a mangrove forest. Visitors often wade across the tidal bay to Sand Dollar Island, a popular bird nesting area. The beach has an abundance of shells and sand dollars.
Amenities include picnic areas, a playground, and restrooms.
VANDERBILT BEACH PARK
West end of Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples
This is one of the most popular beaches because of its natural beauty and amenities, including beach wheelchairs and a parking garage, Snacks and watersports rentals are available at Vanderbilt Beach Resort.
ALISON HAGERUP BEACH PARK
14790 Captiva Drive, Captiva
This northern-most public beach on Captiva is as far from the beaten path you can get without having to hop on a boat. This tuckedaway locale is a best-kept secret for watching amazing sunsets and shelling. Pay to park with the ParkMobile app. Amenities include picnic shelters and restrooms.
PARKING: Plan to pay for parking at either metered parking spaces or pay stations—with a wide range of hourly or daily fees—or obtain a permit. (Disability permit holders may park at any space without payment.) Rules and fees vary for city, county, and state beaches. Research parking permit programs through the city or county where you will most frequently visit the beach.
BONITA BEACH PARK
27954 Hickory Blvd., Bonita Springs
Many amenities at this stunning beachfront park on the southern tip of Bonita Beach are still being repaired following extensive damage from Hurricane Ian in 2022. However, it is open dawn to dusk and offers stunning sunset vistas with dolphin sightings.
50 Estero Blvd., Estero Island
Bowditch Point Regional Park encompasses the 17-acre northern tip of Estero Island, with 10 acres set aside for preservation. Walking trails wind through varied environments and offer excellent opportunities for birdwatching and taking in views of Estero Bay. Many amenities are being repaired due to Hurricane Ian damage.
BOWMAN’S BEACH
1700 Bowman’s Beach Road, Sanibel Island
Isolated and picturesque, this is one of the most popular beaches on Sanibel Island, though there is plenty of space to stretch out. Great shelling and amenities make it worth the five-minute hike from the parking area to the beach. Adventurous beachcombers can walk for several miles on unobstructed white-sand beaches covered in shells. Amenities include charcoal grills, fishing, fitness stations, hiking trails, paddlecraft launch, picnic shelters, a playground, restrooms, and showers. Courtesy beach wheelchairs are provided upon 24-hour notice to the City of Sanibel Police Department Dispatch (239-472-3111).
BUNCHE BEACH PRESERVE ON SAN CARLOS BAY
18201 John Morris Road, Fort Myers
This 718-acre county park ranges from a sandy beach to mangrove forests to salt flats. It contains a wide variety of wildlife and flora, offering great photo opportunities and stunning sunsets. Bunche Beach Preserve is a designated Great Florida Birding Trail site, and Bird Patrol Tours (239-533-7275) are offered. The activity center has paddlecraft launches, wildlife viewing and fishing piers, a 310-foot boardwalk, and restrooms. The on-site Kayak Excursions (239-297-7011) is a full-service outfitter.
950 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers
Find ample beach parking at the public Lynn
Hall Memorial Park, located north of the foot of Matanzas Pass Bridge.
GASPARILLA ISLAND STATE PARK
880 Belcher Road, Boca Grande
Separated from the mainland by Charlotte Harbor and Pine Island Sound, Gasparilla Island is part of a barrier island chain that falls into both Lee and Charlotte counties. The centerpiece of the park is the restored 1890 Port Boca Grande Lighthouse. Swimming, snorkeling, and fishing are popular activities that can be accessed from five parking lots. Two picnic areas offer shaded pavilions and scenic views.
LITTLE HICKORY ISLAND PARK
26082 Hickory Blvd., Bonita Springs
Little Hickory Island Park is in an isolated location just off Little Hickory Island with portable toilets and a paddlecraft launch.
SANIBEL CAUSEWAY ISLANDS
19931 Sanibel Causeway Road (SR/CR 867), Sanibel
The Sanibel Causeway are two spoil islands that link Sanibel Island to the mainland. The two islands provide bay and Gulf access and have traditionally been popular for recreation. However, they are closed to pedestrian during the construction of new parking lots and restrooms.
SANIBEL LIGHTHOUSE BEACH PARK
1 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Island
Located on Sanibel Island’s southern tip, the 1884 lighthouse makes this family beach a picturesque location for shelling. It provides a clear view of the Gulf and plenty of large shade trees for picnicking, strolling, swimming, fishing from the pier, sailing, or windsurfing.
TURNER BEACH
17200 Captiva Drive, Sanibel Island
Located just past the bridge to Captiva, Turner Beach is a popular place for sunsets and fishing from the beach and the rock jetty. Swimmers should stay away from the bridge area due to deep water, strong tides, and the threat of undertow. Bars and restaurants are nearby. Amenities include paddlecraft landing/ launching and restrooms.
FEEL LIKE ROMPING OUTDOORS WITH YOUR FOUR-LEGGED COMPANION?
FIND OFF-LEASH PLAYGROUNDS FOR A ROUND OF FETCH AND CANINE CAVORTING
CANINE COVE DOG PARK
1361 Andalusia Terrace, Marco Island
FLEISCHMANN PARK
1600 Fleischmann Blvd., Naples
FREEDOM PARK
1515 Golden Gate Parkway, Naples
GOLDEN GATE COMMUNITY PARK
3300 Santa Barbara Blvd., Naples
NAPLES DOG PARK
(CENTRAL BARK)
99 Riverside Circle, Naples
ROVER RUN
1895 Veterans Park Drive, Naples
VETERANS COMMUNITY PARK
1895 Veterans Park Drive, Naples
BARKINGHAM DOG PARK
AT BUCKINGHAM PARK
9800 Buckingham Road, Fort Myers
Remember to pick up and properly dispose of your pet’s waste to prevent the bacterial and nutrient pollution of area waterways. In addition to degrading water quality, pet waste contains illness-causing pathogens, including parvovirus and parasites. Collecting your dog’s waste takes seconds, and many pet parks and walking areas provide bags and trash bins, making it a cinch to be a good citizen. Lee County’s motto is “Do your duty! Pick up the doodie!”
DOG BEACH
8800 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach
K-9 CORRAL AT ESTERO PARK
9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd., Estero
PAWS 4 DUTY AT VETERANS PARK AND RECREATION CENTER
55 Homestead Road S., Lehigh Acres
POOCH PARK AT JUDD PARK
1297 Parkview Court, North Fort Myers
WOOF-A-HATCHEE DOG PARK AT WA-KE HATCHEE PARK
16760 Bass Road, Fort Myers
On-leash dog walking is allowed in many parks in Collier and Lee counties. Each county has different rules. In Collier County, the leash cannot be longer than six feet. In both counties, leashed dogs are not allowed in many park areas, such as ballfields, dugouts, swimming pools, tennis and basketball courts, or designated skateboarding facilities. Heed park signage.
Discover Gasparilla Island’s soothing beaches, upscale eateries, shopping, and nautical history along this paved, six-mile trail that travels the length of the barrier island. Bring your sunscreen and wallet: Use of the trail is free, but the causeway crossing and sites along the route charge fees. From the south shore, you can begin at the state park and visit the museum. From the north, there are many
Gasparilla Sound overlooks. Whichever direction you choose, the scenic trail reaches central Boca Grande. Note: Golf carts share this trail.
This 768-acre park offers an outdoor escape along the Caloosahatchee River. It has interconnecting trails that make up 3.4 miles of hiking, with bicycles permi ed on many of the trails. The Overlook Trail is wheelchair-accessible. The park is also home to the more rugged and adventurous North Side Mountain Bike &
Equestrian Trails (Parking lot three at 18251 North River Road, Alva) boasting 10 miles of ru y trails.
When you travel the nearly eight-mile Cape Haze Pioneer Trail, you’re tracing the line that once serviced Florida’s early phosphate industry and moved people, livestock, and local produce to steamships in Boca Grande on Gasparilla Island. The fairly straight and flat rail-trail originating near Charlo e Beach has
multiple access points and three trailheads. The northern trailhead boasts ample parking, water, and restrooms.
ESTERO BAY PRESERVE STATE PARK
Off-road cycling is permitted at the Estero River Scrub Trails, however, bicycles are not permitted at the Winkler Point Trails. The Estero River Scrub Trails provide about 10 miles of sand, gravel, and dirt-surfaced paths. Riders are prohibited from traversing the salt flats.
JOHN YARBROUGH
LINEAR PARK TRAIL
Stretching from Colonial Boulevard to Six Mile Cypress Parkway, this six-mile, paved trail rolls alongside the Ten Mile Canal. Covered picnic tables provide shelter. Parking is located at the southern end of the trail, on the south side of Daniels Parkway.
MCGREGOR BOULEVARD
This stately, palm-lined thoroughfare in the city of Fort Myers is flanked by parallel pathways for exercisers of all types. Stay on the sidewalk of the 14.6-mile-long road that runs parallel to the Caloosahatchee River or veering into established neighborhoods leading to the river. There are many commercial places to park in downtown Fort Myers.
PINE ISLAND BIKE PATH
This 13.7-mile path spans the island along Stringfellow Road from York Road in St. James City to Barrancas Avenue in Bokeelia. Parking is located at Phillips Park (5675 Sesame Drive) at Pine Island Center.
SANIBEL ISLAND
The world-class island is well-known for its generous paths along the island’s main streets separated from traffic by grassy medians.
Entering the island from the causeway, Periwinkle Way is the main thoroughfare, offering access to the Sanibel Lighthouse, restaurants, and shops. Look for the brightly colored Sanibel Island Visitors Center (1159 Causeway Road) shortly after arriving on the island to pick up trip-planning information.
BIRD ROOKERY SWAMP TRAIL
This popular trail offers 12 miles of hiking and biking trails. A quarter-mile, crushed-shell path leads to a 1,500-foot boardwalk with wheelchair accessibility, then trails become ground-level, flat berms with swamp on both sides. This site is part of the public-private, nonprofit CREW Land & Water Trust conservation properties.
The century-old Historic Marco Road was the original route between Miami and Marco Island. Today it is part of Collier-Seminole State Park and a 3.5-mile segment welcomes hikers and bikers to its marsh, hammock, and pine flatwood habitat. The off-road trail is grass and dirt, which can get muddy in rainy months. The park rents bikes.
This 2.5-mile shared-use path through a 140-acre Gordon River Greenway Park in the heart of Naples is a mix of silky pavement, mulch, and boardwalk winding through a mixture of palm trees, pine flatwoods, and scrubland. The trail is interspersed with elevated boardwalk sections over wetlands. Access points with parking, bike racks, restrooms, benches, and drinking fountains make the trail doable for most ages and abilities.
Janes Scenic Drive through Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park qualifies as off-roading even though it is accessible by car. The 12-mile (one-way) dirt road provides access to off-road trails—elevated tram roads once used for logging. The trail (also known as West Main Trail) passes through the bald cypress stands, swamps, and prairies. Wildlife sightings are common. The flora is rich with native species of orchids and bromeliads. Fakahatchee Strand is west of Copeland on S.R. 29.
LOVERS KEY STATE PARK
More than five miles of unique, off-road trails wend through native landscapes and to serene canals and lagoons that are favorite grazing spots for manatee and shorebirds. Bikers and walkers can see all types of wildlife along their trek. A tram transports visitors to within 800
feet of the beach and The Discovery Center is open Wednesday through Friday until 1 p.m. 8700 Estero Blvd., Bonita Springs
Marco Island occupies 12.1 square miles of land, making it the perfect size to explore on two wheels. Wide, shared-use paths take cyclists past historic sites, shopping centers, and community destinations. The elevation of Marco Island is zero feet, though steepish elevations will be encountered in older neighborhoods built atop Calusa shell mounds.
RICH KING MEMORIAL GREENWAY
Rich King Memorial Greenway offers a paved, north-south, three-mile route along the east side of Naples. There is no designated parking lot; visitors park in area commercial or church lots. Trail end points are located at Ra lesnake Hammock Road and Radio Road (C.R. 856).
MORE OPTIONS, MAPS, AND RESOURCES:
BikeWalkLee bikewalklee.blogspot.com
Conservation Collier Preserve Trails colliergov.net
CREW Land & Water Trust crewtrust.org
Florida State Parks floridastateparks.org
Gordon River Greenway gordonrivergreenway.org
Lee County Conservation 20/20 Preserve Trails: leegov.com
Naples Pathway Coalition naplespathways.org
TrailLink by Rails-to-Trails Conservancy traillink.com
1. Be prepared to share the road courteously. In Florida, cyclists on roadways or bike lanes are considered vehicles by state law and must follow the same rules.
2. Obey all traffic laws, including stopping at STOP signs or red lights.
3. Ride in the same direction as other traffic—on the road and on the sidewalk.
4. Stay alert. Don’t wear headphones or earbuds.
5. Be predictable. Don’t swerve in and out of traffic. Be sure to use hand signals.
6. Do not ride more than two abreast. As a courtesy, allow motorists to pass when they are lined up behind you.
7. Be visible. Wear bright colors and make sure your bike has front and rear lights.
8. Wear a helmet. Helmets must be worn until the age of 16, by state law.
9. Light up. Lamps must be used on bikes after sunset.
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA IS A PARADISE FOR SPORTS AND RECREATION— ON LAND OR SEA—FOR PARTICIPANTS AND SPECTATORS
REGIONAL PARKS
AND RECREATION CENTERS
Collier and Lee counties are home to dozens of neighborhood, community, and regional parks. For the biggest variety of activities, regional parks and community parks with recreation centers feature varying amenities: disc golf courses, aquatic playgrounds, horse trails, and more. More information: collierparks.com
BIG CORKSCREW ISLAND
REGIONAL PARK
The county’s largest park with the largest playground is also its newest. The $51 million, 150-acre park Big Corkscrew Island Regional
Park near the Collier Fairgrounds opened in 2023. The hand-built playground includes slides, cable bridges, zip lines, climbing stations, ramps, and therapeutic swings.
Get competitive on its pickleball, tennis, and basketball courts or softball and multi-purpose fields. Take your fitness journey outdoors at the innovative National Fitness Campaign Court, where a range of invigorating workouts can be tracked with an accompanying app.
When you’ve worked up a sweat, make a splash at the 8,686 square-foot aquatic complex. The watery wonderland features waterslides, family and toddler pools, a competition pool with diving boards, and a party pavilion.
EAGLE LAKES COMMUNITY PARK
This East Naples facility includes an aquatic complex, fitness center, community center, 2.5-mile nature trail, 1-mile paved path, and lighted courts and fields for basketball, baseball, softball, soccer, and football.
GOLDEN GATE COMMUNITY PARK
A dog park and boat ramp are among the amenities at this park, which also boasts a fitness center, aquatic park, paved fitness trail, and numerous lighted facilities including tennis and racquetball courts.
NORTH COLLIER REGIONAL PARK
The highlights here are the state-of-the-art Sun-N-Fun Lagoon, exhibit hall, and Can U Dig It playground. It also includes a fitness center,
boardwalk, walking trails, and soccer field.
PARADISE COAST SPORTS COMPLEX
The world-class Paradise Coast Sports Complex—one of the largest in the nation— was designed to fulfill the needs of local and out-of-town athletes, with amenities for weekend gatherings and special events. New phases are continually opening at the 180-acre complex in East Naples. It will ultimately feature 21 turf fields: 10 Olympic fields for soccer, football, and lacrosse, and six baseball and five softball/youth baseball diamonds. The final Olympic field is opening this year. More information: playparadisecoast.com
ESTERO, NORTH FORT MYERS, VETERANS (LEHIGH), AND WA-KE HATCHEE (SOUTH FORT MYERS) PARKS AND RECREATION CENTERS: The fitness centers in each of these four county parks offer a full lineup of indoor programs and classes. Outdoors amenities are just as extensive. There is some variation from park to park, including which options are lighted, but mostly they have:
• Paved and natural exercise paths
• Fields and courts for basketball, baseball, softball, football, soccer, tennis, racquetball, pickleball, and sand volleyball
• Disc golf courses
• Off-leash dog parks
• Fishing at Estero and Veterans parks
• Skate park, cricket field, and splash pad at Veterans Park
LAKES REGIONAL PARK: Created around an old limestone rock quarry, this park in Fort Myers is popular with families for its bike and kayak rentals, many playgrounds, rentable pavilions, and other amenities. Miniature train rides, decorated for the holidays, are a specialty of the Railroad Museum of Southwest Florida. More information: leegov.com
CAPE CORAL
CAPE CORAL SPORTS COMPLEX
The largest of Cape Coral’s athletic complexes,
this 52-acre park has five soccer fields, five softball fields, four baseball fields plus three concession stands, a playground, and picnic shelters. It is the home of the Cape Coral Youth Soccer Association for ages 4 to 16 and league baseball for ages 13 to 18. It also houses adult men’s softball leagues and hosts tournaments throughout the year.
OTHER CAPE CORAL RECREATIONAL AMENITIES
The City of Cape Coral has 53 fields at 11 athletic complexes where weekly league competitions and regional, state, and national tournaments take place. And there’s a lot more to come. In 2018, Cape Coral voters approved a $60 million expansion and upgrade of the city’s parks and recreation amenities that are expected to be completed by 2022.
The city’s athletic division offers youth and adult sports, including basketball, football, baseball, and tennis. A number of other organizations for all ages, ranging from soccer and cheerleading to BMX motocross, also use the facilities. Here are a few specialty centers:
Next door to the William “Bill” Austen Youth Center, this is one of the largest skate facilities between Miami and Tampa, featuring nearly 27,000 square feet of ramps, rails, street obstacles, and a bowl.
STRAUSSER BMX SPORTS COMPLEX
BMX racers have converged on this popular motocross track for state and national BMX races since 1977. In addition to a lighted BMX track, three lighted softball fields, and a playground, the park is adjacent to a boat ramp to access freshwater lakes and canals.
With a large rec center and after-school programs, this is a great place for kids ages 8 to 18 to play computer games and sports, get help with homework, learn martial arts, or attend a dance. More information: capecoral.net
Southwest Florida is overflowing with natural beauty often best seen from its picturesque coasts and endless waterways. Grab your binoculars and long-focus lens or your fishing gear. And don’t forget your life vest, sun protection, and plenty of water. It’s the Sunshine State, after all. Here are key paddling locations. For more suggestions, see “Beach Time” and “Get Outdoors.”
It’s not called the Great Calusa Blueway for nothing. All-encompassing paddling trails meander 190 miles through Lee County coastal waters and inland up the Caloosahatchee River and its many mangrove-lined tributaries. Trail maps and well-marked signage on the water
guide beginners and avid paddlers on various-length excursions. Access points, outfitters, and guided tours are available throughout. The options are unlimited, as are the plant and wildlife viewing. Maps and more information: visitfortmyers.com
CAPE CORAL: The 120-square-mile peninsular city is home to 400 miles of canals that link to the Caloosahatchee River to the south and east and Matlacha Pass to the west. Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve is one major launch point with various amenities. More information: capecoral.net
Tarpon Bay and J.N. “Ding” Darling Wildlife Refuge: Located on the northern tip of Sanibel Island, Tarpon Bay was named by Canoe & Kayak one of the nation’s top 10 places to paddle. Tidal flats and sunset tours are rich with wading birds and chances to see dolphins and manatees. The famed habitat is home to more than 245 species of birds. The 6,400-acre J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge is named for the conservationist and Pulitzer Prize–winning editorial cartoonist who persuaded President Harry Truman to create the Sanibel National Wildlife Refuge Act in 1945. More information: dingdarlingsociety.org or tarponbayexplorers.com
PARADISE COAST BLUEWAY
This network of paddling routes in Collier County is led by GPS waypoints and will have future phases of development. The Ten Thousand Islands route begins in Everglades City and ends in the village of Goodland on Marco Island. The next two phases will extend north in the Gordon Pass area through Rookery Bay and then up the Gordon River and along the coast to connect with Lee County’s 190-mile Great Calusa Blueway. More information: paradisecoast.com
Sugden Regional Park: Home to one of Collier County’s only freshwater beaches, this park in east Naples is centered around 60-acre Lake Avalon. It is best known for water skiing and sailing, including classes for able-bodied and special-needs students. Additionally, paddle sports and other amenities are popular family attractions. More information: collierparks.com
Ten Thousand Islands: The endless number of passes and islets through this maze of mangroves and keys only makes it feel like they number 10,000; the actual count is somewhere in the hundreds. By water is the only way to access these almost-entirely uninhabited
spits of land off the most southwestern edge of Florida. Fishing and birdwatching opportunities are everywhere. For more advanced paddlers, research the many multiday options on the 99-mile Everglades Wilderness Waterway. More information: fws.gov
Whether it’s tennis or its young cousin, pickleball—the fast-growing, badminton-like sport—Southwest Florida has got it, day and night.
Lee and Collier counties have dozens of parks with hundreds of courts. Most are lighted and have lightning-warning systems. Some have clay courts open to the public (with a membership or court fee). Many include shorter 60- and 36-foot varieties to help kids learn the game in a comfortable setting. An array of associations and organizations offer lessons, organize leagues, and provide support. They’re a great place to start:
• Lee County Community Tennis Association: leecountytennis.com
• USTA Florida: ustaflorida.com
In case you haven’t heard, young and old alike love this fast-paced paddle sport that owes plenty of its surging popularity to Southwest Florida. East Naples Community Park and its 58 pickleball courts has been the only home to the U.S. Open Pickleball Championships. More parks are adding pickleball courts—sometimes new, sometimes converted tennis courts. Play is also held indoors. Here’s more information:
• USA Pickleball Association: usapa.org
• US Open Pickleball Championships: usopenpickleballchampionship.com
• Collier County Parks: collierparks.com
• Lee County Parks: leegov.com
Whatever your age or skill level, there is a rec league or travel circuit on a diamond near you. Many facilities have wall-to-wall games and tournaments scheduled, so check before going. Here are some associations that organize leagues and teams and oversee facilities:
Various softball leagues play across the county’s array of facilities, including CenturyLink Sports Complex, which has four softball fields next to Hammond Stadium, the spring training home of the Minnesota Twins. More information: More information: leegov.com
Men’s, women’s, co-ed, 45-plus, 50-plus, and church softball leagues play at the Cape Coral Sports Complex or 15-acre Northwest Complex. More information: More information: capecoral.net
For Little League, Pop Warner Football, youth soccer, lacrosse, track, Swim Florida, and other youth sports organizations, this list is fairly comprehensive: leegov.com/parks/athletics/ youth-sports You can also find many Cape Coral–based organizations through the Cape Coral Parks and Recreation Department: capecoral.net.
Formed in 1991, the league has more than 250 members ages 50 and up in three divisions. Games are held at North Collier Regional Park and Veterans Community Park in Naples. More information: colliercountyseniorsoftball.org
SUPER 60 SOFTBALL
The co-ed league for men 60 and older and women 50 and older plays at North Collier Regional Park through the winter. There are five outfielders and five infielders, no stealing or sliding, and other senior-friendly rules. More information: colliercountysuper60softball.org
YOUTH SPORTS
Visit the websites for county parks or YMCA or the specific program you are looking for, such as Little League, Pop Warner Football and Cheer, golf, hockey, running, and others.
Don’t look so surprised. Southwest Florida is heavily populated with plenty of Midwestern converts, fed straight down I-75 from coldweather states. Sometimes they bring their quaint accents and love of winter sports with them.
Group and private lessons, figure skating instruction, youth and adult hockey leagues, open public skating, and private group bookings all are available at the public facility. There’s food, rentals, gear, and equipment as well. More information: fmskatium.org
HERTZ ARENA
Located in Estero in southern Lee County, the 7,200-seat arena—when set up for hockey—has been home to the Florida Everblades of the East Coast Hockey League since the team and facility were created in 1998. The arena’s recreational rink hosts adult and youth hockey, figure skating, lessons, public skating, parties, and more. More information: skateeverblades.com
SPECTATOR SPORTS
For much of this century Southwest Florida has ranked No. 1 in the nation for golf holes per capita. Naturally, professional golf tournaments are a popular spectator draw—but there are other options too. Lee County is also home to two Major League Baseball teams for Spring Training, NCAA Division-I Florida Gulf Coast University, minor league baseball and ice hockey teams, and more. And they mostly have a strong history of winning.
The American League’s Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins have both spent their springs in Fort Myers for more than 25 years. The Red Sox, winners of nine World Series and spring tenants in Fort Myers since 1993, showcase their talent at the 10,823-seat JetBlue Park in south Fort Myers. More information: mlb.com/redsox
The Twins play at 7,500-seat Hammond Stadium at CenturyLink Sports Complex in south Fort Myers. They won the last of their three World Series titles in 1991 in their first season after moving their spring home to Fort Myers. Hammond stadium underwent an expansion and major renovations in 2015. More information: mlb.com/twins
The Class-A Advanced baseball affiliate of the Minnesota Twins also makes its home at Hammond Stadium. Along with perennial success in the High-A Florida State League, the Mighty Mussels games are known for affordable prices and fan-friendly promotions, including themed events and take-your-dog-tothe-park games. More information: milb.com/ fort-myers
The adult amateur baseball league—played in various age brackets across America, Canada, and the Caribbean—has held the Roy Hobbs World Series in Fort Myers for more than 25
years. More than 4,000 players on 240 teams compete in 20-plus divisions each year at Terry Park, Hammond Stadium, and JetBlue Park. More information: royhobbs.com
Southwest Florida can boast a professional golf trifecta, with the best on the PGA Tour, LPGA Tour, and PGA Tour Champions competing every winter in Naples. Tiburón Golf Club, designed by World Golf Hall of Famer Greg Norman, is home to both the LPGA Tour’s CME Group Tour Championship in November and his 24-player QBE Shootout in December. The Champions circuit’s Chubb Classic has played in Naples for 33 years.
More information:
• PGA Tour: qbeshootout.com
• LPGA Tour: cmegrouptourchampionship.com
• Champions: pgatour.com/champions/ tournaments/chubb-classic.html
Florida Everblades: Founded in 1998, the Everblades have been a dominant team in the minor-league East Coast Hockey League from the outset, reaching the Kelly Cup Finals four times. The Blades, an affiliate of the Nashville
Predators of the National Hockey League, have long been a popular draw in 7,181-seat Hertz Arena in Estero in south Lee County. More information: floridaeverblades.com
FLORIDA GULF COAST UNIVERSITY
FGCU opened as Florida’s twelfth public university in 1997. In 2013—its second season competing as a full member of NCAA D-I— FGCU rose to national acclaim as the only No. 15 seed ever to reach the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament. The March Madness fame is one of many successes across FGCU’s 15 sports that have made the Eagles one of the nation’s premier mid-sized athletics programs. FGCU’s athletics centerpiece is the 4,633-seat Alico Arena. More information: fgcuathletics.com
The former community college trumpeted its return to junior college athletics participation with the opening of 3,500-seat, $28 million Suncoast Credit Union Arena on its Fort Myers campus in 2016. The Buccaneers already have become legitimate national title contenders in multiple sports. More information: fswbucs.com
Thanks to the golf course—and real estate—boom of the 1980s, ’90s, and early 2000, Southwest Florida for years has been able to claim No. 1 status in the nation for golf holes per capita. With some communities featuring two and, in some cases, three 18-hole courses, Collier and Lee counties together boast well more than 150 courses.
The majority of the links are private, though many open their doors to the public during the summer and outside of the prime winter months—when the local population mushrooms with seasonal residents and the links are in high demand. Many communities have healthy reciprocal programs with other clubs. If you’re not a member or homeowner in a community club, you might want to make nice with someone who has memberships to expand
your opportunities to experience great golf.
Here are some of Southwest Florida’s best courses, including some that take outside play:
CALUSA PINES GOLF CLUB
• Where: 2000 Calusa Pines Drive, Naples
• Par/yardage: 72/7,267
• Designers: Michael Hurdzan and Dana Fry
• Of Note: Calusa Pines is routinely Southwest Florida’s top-ranked course on various national course lists. It is unforge able partly for its 185-yard, par-3 sixteenth hole, which plays from an elevated tee box that is colloquially dubbed the highest point in Collier County. This very private course is celebrated for its impeccable
design and conditions, as well as its idyllic se ing free of any homes on or around the property.
EAGLE CREEK GOLF
& COUNTRY CLUB
• Where: 11 Cypress View Drive, Naples
• Par/yardage: 72/6,909
• Designer: Larry Packard
• Of Note: Larry Packard is considered to be the father of the double dogleg. encountered on Eagle Creek’s #11 and #15 holes. A choice of six sets of tees offers a competitive round for any level of playing ability.
• Where: 8004 Lely Resort Blvd., Naples
• Par/yardage: 72/7,095
• Designer: Robert Trent Jones Sr.
• Of Note: The oldest of three courses in Lely Resort—and one of two open to the public— Flamingo Island has been named a Top 50 Resort Course by Golf World magazine. The course, which opened in 1989, is the more challenging of the two public-play courses. The second is the more welcoming Mustang course, designed by Lee Trevino. The private Classics course, designed by Gary Player, was host to the PGA Tour Champions Chubb Classic in 2019.
• Where: 9325 Collier Blvd., Naples
• Par/yardage: 72/7,045
• Designers: Michael Hurdzan and Dana Fry
• Of Note: A private course devoid of homes and known for its meticulously manicured grounds, Naples National also draws national acclaim for an artful design that incorporates natural topography. Playing surfaces blend delicately with waste areas and mature stands of pine and cypress trees. The annual Terra Cotta Invitational is a premier national amateur tournament.
• Where: 6005 Anthem Parkway, Ave Maria
• Par/yardage: 72/7,532
• Designer: Gordon Lewis
• Of Note: Courses that welcome the public in Collier County aren’t the easiest to find, making this semi-private course worth the drive to rural Ave Maria for multiple reasons. With ample former agricultural land to work with, Lewis made sure to include all the length anyone could need. He also had fun with the design, throwing in elements such as a classic “Redan” green— sloping away from the entrance—to augment excellent conditioning and amenities.
• Where: 8950 Weathered Stone Drive, Naples
• Par/yardage: 72/7,316
• Designers: Michael Hurdzan and Dana Fry
• Of Note: An old limestone rock quarry makes a spectacular visual setting around which to build a golf course. A saltwater-tolerant turf grass, known as paspalum, also offers environmental benefits and is just as inviting as Bermuda. Look into the reciprocal program for this private course.
• Where: 2620 Tiburón Drive, Naples
• Par/yardage: 72/7,382 (Gold Course), 72/6,949 (Black Course)
• Designer: Greg Norman
• Of Note: Both courses are part of The RitzCarlton Golf Resort but do take outside play. The longer Gold Course is home to the LPGA Tour’s CME Group Tour Championship and Norman’s 24-player QBE Shootout PGA Tour team event. But the Black Course may be tougher, with more forced carries and tighter lines on equally firm, fast fairways.
• Where: 9800 Treviso Bay Blvd., Naples
• Par/yardage: 72/7,367
• Designers: Arthur Hills and Hal Sutton
• Of Note: Part of the PGA Tour’s network of Tournament Players Club courses, Treviso Bay was built with capacity to host professional golfers in mind. A members’ course also open
to outside play, Treviso Bay is lined with a Hills signature design element: endless humps, bumps, and nobs that frame the fairways and guard the green complexes.
• Where: 11330 Twineagles Blvd., Naples
• Par/yardage: 72/7,193 (Talon Course), 71/7,634 (Eagle Course)
• Designers: Jack Nicklaus and Jack Nicklaus II (Talon), Steve Smyers and Patrick Andrews (Eagle)
• Of Note: Perhaps the best-liked course in Southwest Florida among PGA Tour veterans themselves, the Talon Course has hosted the 50-and-over tour’s Chubb Classic the most times (12) in its 32 installments in Collier County. TwinEagles also has a second course, the 7,634-yard Eagle Course, and Dr. Jim Suttie’s Golf Academy.
• Where: 1725 Double Eagle Trail, Naples
• Par/yardage: 72/7,145
• Designers: Gordon Lewis (Drew Rogers, 2018)
• Of Note: Even rarer than courses open to the public in Naples are daily-fee facilities. Renovated in 2018, Valencia is inviting, affordable, well-maintained, and as hard as you want it to be from different lengths. Ample practice grounds are another attraction.
• Where: 1800 N.W. 28th Ave., Cape Coral
• Par/yardage: 72/6,623
• Designer: Arthur Hills
• Of Note: Don’t overlook this municipal course just because it doesn’t have the deep superintendent budget of its private cousins. The course, which opened in 1988, is well-maintained and well-designed. And unlike many of its restricted-access peers, it wasn’t laid between vast swaths of homes to maximize real-estate views.
• Where: 6767 Winkler Road, Fort Myers
• Par/yardage: 72/7,032
• Designers: Dick Wilson (Ron Garl, 2001)
• Of Note: Established in 1959 in an area once widely known for its acres of gladiolus fields, Cypress Lake underwent a major renovation in 2001. But it maintained the original character from one of the most prominent architects of his era. Late LPGA Tour founding member Patty Berg was a founding member of the private course that features no homes within its boundaries and is still walkable.
• Where: 4600 Bruce Herd Lane, Fort Myers
• Par/yardage: 72/7,129
• Designers: Robert Von Hagge and Bruce Devlin
• Of Note: One of two municipal courses in Fort Myers, Eastwood was ranked among Golf Digest’s top 100 public facilities in the U.S. after its opening 1977, until a star designation system was implemented in 1996 due to the overwhelming growth of public courses. It’s still a great place to play and, without homes on the property, a fun afternoon. Ample practice areas are an added draw.
• Where: 15391 Canongate Drive, Fort Myers
• Par/yardage: 72/7,077
• Designer: Ron Garl
• Of Note: The harder of Fiddlesticks’ two original courses has long been known as one of the
best in Southwest Florida—if you get on. After opening in 1983, the private course was renovated in 2005 by its original designer, Ron Garl, and has maintained its elite and coveted appeal. The second course, the former Wee Friendly, was just renovated to 6,645 yards and renamed Loch Ness thanks in part to newly created lakes and inlets.
• Where: 3591 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers
• Par/yardage: 70/6,780
• Designers: Donald Ross (Steve Smyers, 2014)
• Of Note: Southwest Florida’s oldest course, by far, was built in 1917, an era when American golf architecture royalty Donald Ross laid tracks down all across the state. The municipal course still belongs to the city, welcomes walkers, has no homes inside its boundaries, and was given a major upgrade and renovation in 2014. Some hole lengths were changed to modernize them, but “The Fort” retained Ross’ classic domed greens and short-game demands. The annual Yuengling Open, with no gallery ropes and a nice list of champions going back more than 50 years, is a local favorite.
• Where: 3501 Avenida Del Vera, North Fort Myers
• Par/yardage: 72/7,265
• Designer: Gordon Lewis
• Of Note: Southwest Florida’s most-prolific course architect doesn’t get the credit he deserves thanks partly to a high number of designs sometimes constricted by real estate demands. But this immaculate, semi-private layout—which opened in 2007 at the end of a course construction boom—is a fun, fast run addition to the Naples designer’s roster.
• Where: 17320 Corkscrew Road, Estero
• Par/yardage: 72/7,393
• Designer: Jack Nicklaus
• Of Note: This beautiful, remote, nationally ranked course can always be counted on to leave competitors shaking their heads at its difficulty. That’s even when it’s regularly hosting highly skilled players in USGA and FSGA events. The fairways have tons of run and the massive greens are misleadingly punitive because of
how undulating and segmented they are, à la the beloved Augusta National. The good news: The course takes outside play, so bring your best.
• Where: 23001 Coconut Point Resort Drive, Bonita Springs
• Par/yardage: 71/6,461
• Designer: Raymond Floyd
• Of Note: Paired with the adjacent Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa overlooking Estero Bay, Raptor Bay takes public play and is a very friendly resort course. Welcoming fairways and massive green complexes—British Open style that you can bump and run or play on the ground from well off the green—keep frustration levels low and the pace enjoyable. Excellent conditions, great practice areas, and magnificent, near-shore ecology provide even more reason to visit.
• Where: 3500 River Hall Parkway, Alva
• Par/yardage: 72/7,124
• Designer: Davis Love III
• Of Note: Love embraced the gimmick-free style of golf course architecture from icons C.B. Macdonald, Seth Raynor, and others from
a century ago in designing this course. Great conditions and a great setting in rural Alva combine to make this one of the area’s mustvisit semi-private courses.
• Where: 12201 River Village Way, Fort Myers
• Par/yardage: 72/7,118
• Designer: Bob Cupp
• Of Note: Beautiful but challenging, this picturesque layout offers views of the Orange River. Massive live oaks, dripping with Spanish moss, further set the scene for a pastoral afternoon on a special piece of property. It’s high praise that Verandah’s second course, the 7,214-yard Whispering Oak, is just as well-regarded but still draws second notice despite its esteemed architects: Jack Nicklaus and his son, Jack II.
WHETHER YOU’RE A LOCAL LOOKING FOR A LITTLE RETAIL THERAPY OR A VISITOR IN SEARCH OF A MEMORABLE FIND, THERE ARE PLENTY OF SHOPPING OPPORTUNITIES IN SOUTHWEST FLORIDA. FROM CLASSIC MALLS AND OUTLETS TO OPEN-AIR LIFESTYLE CENTERS AND SPECIALTY BOUTIQUES, THE AREA HAS IT ALL
COASTLAND CENTER MALL
1900 Tamiami Trail N., Naples coastlandcenter.com
Coastland Center—Naples’ only indoor shopping center—lets you beat the heat while perusing goods at anchors Dillard’s, JC Penney, and Macy’s. This longtime Tamiami Trail landmark with 100 shops and restaurants is home to favorites Hollister, Old Navy, Forever 21, Aéropostale, and Champs Sports.
FIFTH AVENUE SOUTH
Downtown Naples fifthavenuesouth.com
Naples’ historic business district is home to more than 40 restaurants, cafés, and sweets shops, as well as a dazzling collection of galleries, jewelry boutiques, and clothing shops. Here you’ll discover Alice Simone, Arabesque of Naples stationer, Giggle Moon children’s wear, Marilyn’s hat emporium, Lovejoy Antiques, Port Royal Jewelers, Provident Jewelry, and Bluemercury. Hungry shoppers don’t need to leave the avenue to please their palates. The delectable dining choices include Sails, Brambles English Tearoom, The French Brasserie Rustique, Molto Trattoria, BiCE Ristorante, and a whole lot more.
2355 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples shopvanderbilt.com
A Mediterranean-style setting provides a
relaxing vibe at Galleria Shoppes at Vanderbilt, where visitors discover unique stores like Zazou, Kathryn’s Collection, and Kay’s on the Beach, plus upscale consignment shops True Fashionistas and Designer Divas. It is also home to health and beauty outlets and services for makeup, body sculpting, European wax, nails, and nutrition. Grab a bite at Flaco’s Mexican Restaurant, Mojo Thai & Sushi Bar, and Mystic Lobster Roll Co.
If fresh flowers, baked goods, and honey are on your shopping list, the Galleria Shoppes hosts a year-round, pet-friendly farmers market.
MERCATO
9118 Strada Place, Naples experiencemercato.com
Perfect for a date night, Mercato is home to more than a dozen places to eat and drink and special community events. It is also home to perennial favorites J. Crew, Nordstrom Rack, and Tommy Bahama, featuring luxurious and casual clothing that matches Southwest Florida’s weather and way of life. This lifestyle center also holds unexpected finds, such as East West Fine Art, Cariloha Bamboo eco-friendly home store, Paper Source, Sur La Table, and Yoga Lab.
Central Naples naplesdesigndistrict.com
The Naples Design District—spanning 10 blocks from Fifth Avenue South to Seventh Avenue North, and the east side of U.S. 41 to Goodlette-Frank Road—is a regional destination with 40 businesses offering an eclectic mix of artwork, furnishings and antiques, interior and architectural design services, home accents, lighting, wine, food, and culture.
Downtown Naples thirdstreetsouth.com
Head to downtown’s Third Street South for fashions from Marissa Collections, a luxury boutique for men and women. From surfer threads to classic looks, there are endless options on Third Street South, including Maus & Hoffman, J.McLaughlin, John Craig Clothier, Carter & Finley, and Lilly Pulitzer. This sophisticated destination for art, antiques, home and garden decor, gourmet food and wine, and jewelry boasts award-winning dining at Campiello Ristorante & Bar, Barbatella, Sea Salt, Jane’s Garden Café on Third, Ridgway Bar & Grill, and The Continental.
1200 Fifth Ave. S., Naples tincityofnaples.com
Tin City—a kitschy, fun-filled destination for the whole family, and for your Northern visitors— is a collection of colorful, tin-roofed Old Florida buildings on the Gordon River. A former oysterand clam-processing plant, it is home to more than 30 locally owned shops, restaurants, and water-based adventures and boat rides.
4200 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples venetianvillage.com
More than 45 shops and restaurants are set in the old-world ambience of The Village Shops on Venetian Bay, a waterfront destination. Meander through upscale shops A Horse of a Different Color, Wildflower, Talbots, Teruzzi menswear, Sara Campbell, Spice & Tea Exchange, and Sukie’s Wine Shop. You’ll also find names you
know, including J.McLaughlin, Jean-Pierre Klifa, and WM Phelps Custom Jewelers.
5415 Tamiami Trail N., Naples watersideshops.com
At the south end of Pelican Bay, Waterside Shops is home to 60 shops and restaurants— anchored by Saks Fifth Avenue—curated for affluent shoppers. Highlights include Carolina Herrera, Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., Rolex, Hermès, L’Occitane, and Johnny Was. Many other popular stores offer something for everyone in the family, including Anthropologie, Apple, Gucci, J. Jill, Pottery Barn, Lilly Pulitzer, Williams-Sonoma, and Tesla.
MARCO WALK PLAZA
599 S. Collier Blvd., Marco Island marcowalkplaza.com
This open-air plaza with fine restaurants and small boutiques on the south end of the island is walking distance from major resorts and hotels, offering a collection of specialty shops, such as Chico’s and Beach Daisy—popular for women’s clothing and accessories—as well as salons, spas, and dining options that are anything but ordinary. Convenient parking with free valet service and covered walkways invite you to explore what’s around every corner.
760 N. Collier Blvd., Marco Island esplanadeshoppesatmarcoisland.com
Arrive by car or boat to The Esplanade Shoppes, an Italian-style village of upscale shops, specialty stores, fine dining, luxury residences, and a 77-slip marina on the northern tip of Marco Island. Stroll around its lush landscaping, fountains, courtyard, and waterfront loggias while browsing for resort wear or boating apparel, shoes, fishing gear, and souvenirs.
LEE COUNTY
CAPE CORAL
CAPE HARBOUR
5828 Cape Harbour Drive, Cape Coral capeharbor.net
Cape Harbour, at the southern tip of Cape Coral, is a luxury waterfront residential and yachting community with a full-service marina and popular dining and shopping opportunities, including Harbour View Gallery, Islands Gift Shop, and Scentiments Handbags & Apparel, featuring upscale resort wear, including Peruvian cottons, linens, and silks.
CORALWOOD SHOPPING CENTER
2301 Del Prado Blvd., Cape Coral woolbright.net
This conveniently located center is home to more than 23 retailers, restaurants, and services, including Bealls Outlet, HomeGoods, Ulta Beauty, and Hobby Lobby. Shoppers can grab a bite at a restaurant or café, take in a movie at Marquee Cinemas, work out at LA Fitness, or pick up what they need at budget grocer Aldi.
1811-1847 N.E. Pine Island Road, Cape Coral Cape Coral’s massive Northpoint Shopping Center on Pine Island Road is where you’ll find any number of big brands you know.
2354 Surfside Blvd., Cape Coral
Featured shops here include Belk, HomeGoods, Dollar Tree, Starbucks, and Woody’s Waterside Grill. This is home to a weekly farmers market each Tuesday.
S.E. 47th Terrace, Cape Coral
The historic commercial hub of Cape Coral, this pedestrian-friendly district is home to yearround community events, locally owned shops, and 60 eateries, pubs, and cafés. South Cape is the pulse of the city’s nightlife.
5971 Silver King Blvd., Cape Coral tarponpoint.com
Tarpon Point is a resort-style waterfront community and residents and visitors head to the Marina Village Shops for boutique shops and casual dining.
COCONUT POINT
23106 Fashion Drive, Estero simon.com/mall/coconut-point
Coconut Point is a picturesque outdoor mall featuring more than 140 stores including Dillard’s, Apple, DSW Shoe Warehouse, J. Jill, Loft, Lilly Pulitzer, Aveda, and Barnes & Noble, as well as restaurants surrounding several acres of lakes with a boardwalk. You’ll also discover little gems like Naples Soap Company, GameSpot, COCO Art Gallery, and Everything But Water. Before a show at the 16-screen Hollywood Theaters, indulge at Amfora Mediterranean Restaurant, Ruth’s Chris Steak House, South Fork Grille, or Ted’s Montana Grill, or grab a quick bite at a fast-casual eatery.
10800 Corkscrew Road, Estero miromardesigncenter.com
Miromar Design Center is a one-stop design destination for inspiration at 45 home furnishing and design stores representing hundreds of brands. Sign up for a professional consultation at the center or peruse fabrics, flooring, furnishings, lighting, accessories, wallpaper, window treatments, and closet organization systems with your licensed design professional.
10801 Corkscrew Road, Estero miromaroutlets.com
Miromar Outlets’ store directory is music to discount shoppers’ ears: Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, Columbia Sportswear, Nike, Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH, and Under Armour. There are more than 140 designer and brandname outlets for the home and everyone in the family. Sweets-lovers also make regular treks to patronize Norman Love Confections and Le Macaron French Pastries.
Daniels Parkway and U.S. 41, Fort Myers belltowerfl.com
A long-time go-to for fashion, beauty, and meeting up with friends, the Bell Tower underwent a comprehensive redevelopment to modernize the 343,000-square-foot destination with updated architecture, storefronts, and lighting. Families are drawn for Dave & Buster’s, holiday and community events, and the Regal Stadium 20 cinema. There is plenty of shopping and dining opportunities, including Nordstrom Rack, Trader Rick’s “for the artful woman,” Talbots, children’s toys and clothing, and Ulta Beauty. Popular restaurants include Cantina Laredo, DaRuMa, Grimaldi’s Coal Brick-Oven Pizza, and Burntwood Tavern, among others.
4125 Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers shopedisonmall.com
A Fort Myers landmark, Edison Mall holds wellknown anchors Macy’s, Dillard’s, and JC Penney, as well as American Eagle Outfitters, GameStop, GNC Nutritional Center, Spencer’s Gifts, and Pandora, specialty stores, hair salons, and a food court.
Downtown Fort Myers myriverdistrict.com
Put on your walking shoes to explore the shopping opportunities that await in downtown Fort Myers. The River District is home to art and eye candy galore, beginning with Arts for ACT Gallery and The Franklin Shops. Hunt for great finds at Blue: A Goodwill Boutique on
First Street, Joe’s Record Exchange, Market Earth, DAAS Co-op Art, and Seed and Bean. For antiques and home decor, the River District and surrounding neighborhoods have several interesting shops, including Remedies Parlor, Timeless, Another Time, and Rust Never Sleeps Architectural Salvage.
GANNON’S ANTIQUES AND ART
16521 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers gannonsantiques.com
If you like to go on treasure hunts, you’ll feel right at home at Gannon’s Antiques and Art, home to an upscale collection of 100 vendors’ fine art, collectibles, decor, and furnishings.
COAST TOWN CENTER
9903 Gulf Coast Main Street, Fort Myers gulfcoasttowncenter.com
This town center near the campus of Florida Gulf Coast University has more than 100 shops, a movie complex, spacious courtyards, restaurants, and nightlife. It is a magnet for anglers and outdoorsmen, with its sprawling Bass Pro Shops. Teens like Ron Jon Surf Shop and Marshalls, while big-box favorites like Ross, PetCo, and Joann Fabrics and Crafts maintain loyal shoppers.
Pine Island Road, Between Cape Coral and Pine Island pineislandchamber.org
This small island (pronounced Mat-luh-SHAY) is located due west of Cape Coral across a small bridge spanning from the mainland to Pine Island. Matlacha is an artist’s paradise, dotted with whimsical shops and galleries, seafood markets, waterside restaurants, and a waterfront community park. Find bohemian beach threads, art, and special gifts.
SANIBEL ISLAND.
OLDE SANIBEL SHOPPES
630 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel
TAHITIAN GARDENS
1975–2019 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel
THE VILLAGE SHOPS
2340 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel shoponsanibel.com
AMERICAN/EUROPEAN/MIDDLE EASTERNS
ALEXANDER’S GARDEN RESTAURANT
239-262-4999
4077 Tamiami Trail N., Naples alexandersnaples.com
THE BEVY
239-228-4220
360 12th Ave. S., Naples naplesbevy.com
BHA! BHA! PERSIAN BISTRO 239-594-5557
865 Fifth Ave. S., Naples bhabhabistro.com
BLUE MARTINI
239-591-2583
Mercato, 9114 Strada Place, #12105, Naples naples.bluemartini.com
BRICKTOP’S
239-596-9112
5555 Tamiami Trail N., Naples bricktops.com/naples
BURNTWOOD TAVERN
239-631-6921
Mercato, 9110 Strada Place, #6135, Naples burntwoodtavern.com/naples
THE CAVE BISTRO & WINE BAR
239-513-0095
2343 Vanderbilt Beach Road, #604, Naples thecavenaples.com
COOPER’S HAWK WINERY & RESTAURANT
239-449-1700
11905 Tamiami Trail N., Naples chwinery.com
DISTRICT
1200 Central Ave., Ste. 105, Naples districtnaples.com
FUSE GASTROBAR
239-455-4585
2500 Tamiami Trail N., #114, Naples fusegastrobar.com
THE HAMPTON SOCIAL
239-202-2038
Mercato, 9114 Strada Place, #12110, Naples thehamptonsocial.com/naples
KC AMERICAN BISTRO
239-566-2371
885 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples kcamericanbistro.com
KAREEM’S LEBANESE
KITCHEN
239-315-4167
4270 Tamiami Trail E., Naples kareemskitchen.com
NAPLES LAKE PARK DINER
239-228-6351
944 Seventh Ave. N., Naples thelakeparkdiner.com
LAMORAGA
INTERNATIONAL
CUISINE & TAPAS
239-331-3669
3936 Tamiami Trail N., Naples lamoragarestaurant.com
MEDITERRANO
239-261-7498
336 13th Ave. S., Naples mediterrano-naples.com
239-384-9208
NOSH ON NAPLES BAY
1490 Fifth Ave. S., Ste. 101, Naples noshonnaplesbay.com
THE PEWTER MUG NORTH
239-347-4092
14700 Tamiami Trail N., #14, Naples pewtermugnorth.com
RIDGWAY BAR & GRILL
239-262-5500
1300 Third St. S., Naples ridgwaybarandgrill.com
SEASONS 52
239-594-8852
8930 Tamiami Trail N., Naples seasons52.com
SIMIT FRESH MEDITERRANEAN
239-331-4477
1230 Airport-Pulling Road, Naples simitfresh.com
THE 239 NAPLES
239-631-1902
Mercato, 9108 Strada Place, Naples the239naples.com
TOMMY BAHAMA RESTAURANT
239-643-6889
111 10th St. S., Naples the239naples.com Delicious
1220 Third St. S., Naples tommybahama.com/restaurants
WARREN AMERICAN WHISKEY KITCHEN
239-330-2611
ASIANS
NAMBA RAMEN & SUSHI
239-592-4992
8847 Tamiami Trail N., Naples nambanaples.com
ZEN ASIAN BBQ
239-260-7037
10823 Tamiami Trail N., Naples eatatzen.com
BAKERIES AND SWEETSS
MENCHIE’S FROZEN YOGURT
239-572-8936
6355 Naples Blvd., Ste. 4-B, Naples menchies.com
NORMAN LOVE CONFECTIONS
239-687-7215
3747 Tamiami Trail N., Naples normanloveconfections.com
NOTHING BUNDT CAKES
239-294-2484
1410 Pine Ridge Road, Ste. 9, Naples nothingbundtcakes.com
TONY’S OFF THIRD
239-262-7999
1300 Third St. S., Naples tonysoffthird.com
VAMPIRE PENGUIN
SALTED SNOW & DESSERTS
844-844-7669 (SNOW)
2355 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Ste. 142, Naples vampirepenguinswfl.com
CASUALS
BAMBU TROPICAL
BAR & GRILLE
239-649-5800
Bayfront Inn, 1221 Fifth Ave. S., Naples bayfrontinnnaples.com
COSMOS RISTORANTE & PIZZERIA
239-262-8181
536 Tamiami Trail N., Naples cosmospizzanaples.com
THE CRUST
239-244-8488
8004 Trail Blvd., Naples thecrustpizza.net
DYLAN’S DRAFT HOUSE
239-300-0192
1258 Airport-Pulling Road N., Naples dylansdrafthouse.com
EJ’S BAYFRONT CAFE
239-353-4444
469 Bayfront Place, Naples
EJ’S MERIDIAN CAFE
239-438-1186
3375 Pine Ridge Road, Naples ejsbayfrontcafe.com
FIRST WATCH
Three Collier County locations firstwatch.com
THE HANGOUT BY TWO GUYS
239-384-9072
2360 Pine Ridge Road, Naples hangoutnaples.com
JASON’S DELI
239-593-9499
2700 lmmokalee Road, Naples jasonsdeli.com
THE LOCAL
239-596-3276
5323 Airport-Pulling Road, Naples thelocalnaples.com
MEL’S DINER
239-643-9898
3650 Tamiami Trail N., Naples
239-455-4242
12035 Collier Blvd., Naples melsdiners.com
NARRATIVE COFFEE ROASTERS
239-631-2061
Mercato, 9106 Strada Place, #4105, Naples
239-234-6496
1103 Central Avenue, Naples narrativecoffeeroasters.com
RIVERWALK AT TIN CITY
239-263-2734
1200 Fifth Ave. S., Naples riverwalktincity.com
SAM SNEAD’S TAVERN AT LELY RESORT
239-793-6623
8004 Lely Resort Blvd., Naples samsneadslely.com
SEED TO TABLE
239-310-7333
4835 Immokalee Road, Naples seedtotablemarket.com
SUNBURST CAFÉ
239-263-3123
2340 Pine Ridge Road, Naples sunburstnaples.com
TEXAS ROADHOUSE
239-417-1111
6815 Collier Blvd., Naples texasroadhouse.com
THREE60 MARKET AND WINE SHOP
239-732-7331
2891 Bayview Drive, Naples
239-307-1500
8100 Trail Blvd., Naples three60market.com
YARD HOUSE
239-263-3773
4251 Tamiami Trail N., Naples yardhouse.com
CUBAN S
FERNANDEZ THE BULL
CUBAN CAFE
239-653-9097
3375 Pine Ridge Road, Naples
239-254-9855
1201 Piper Blvd., Unit 10, Naples fernandezthebull.com
RUMBA CUBAN CAFÉ
239-659-2996
1265 Airport-Pulling Road S., Naples rumbacubancafe.com
SANDY’S CUBAN CAFE
239-331-8204
1383 Airport-Pulling Road, Naples sandyscubancafenaples.com
FRENCHS
BLEU PROVENCE
239-261-8239
1234 Eighth St. S., Naples bleuprovencenaples.com
LE COLONIAL
CAFÉ NORMANDIE NAPLES
239-261-0977
3756 Tamiami Trail N., Naples cafenormandienaples.com
CHEZ BOËT
239-643-6177
755 12th Ave. S., Naples chezboetnaples.com
ESCARGOT 41
239-793-5000
4351 Tamiami Trail N., Naples escargot41.com
THE FRENCH BRASSERIE RUSTIQUE
239-315-4019
365 Fifth Ave. S., Naples thefrenchnaples.com
LE COLONIAL NAPLES
239- 372-9700
457 5th Ave S, Naples lecolonial.com/naples
GREEKS
MYKONOS KUZINA
239-325-8502
13510 Tamiami Trail N., Naples mykonoskuzina.com
PELAGOS CAFE
239-263-2996
4951 Tamiami Trail N., Naples
INDIANS
21 SPICES BY CHEF ASIF
239-919-8830
4270 Tamiami Trail E., Ste. 21, Naples 21spicesdining.com
LE INDYA
239-591-5156
975 Pine Ridge Road, Naples leindya.com
ITALIANS
ALDOS ITALIAN
TABLE & BAR
239-659-2536
4820 Davis Blvd., Naples aldosnaples.com
AMORE RISTORANTE
239-643-2201
4681 Ninth St. N., Naples amoreristorante.com
BARBATELLA
239-263-1955
1290 Third St. S., Naples aielligroup.com
BAR TULIA
239-288-7606
462 Fifth Ave. S., Naples 239-438-1031
Mercato, 9118 Strada Place, Ste. 8150, Naples bartulia.com
BICE RISTORANTE
239-262-4044
300 Fifth Ave. S., Naples bice-naples.com
BRIO ITALIAN GRILLE
239-593-5319
5505 Tamiami Trail N., Ste. J1, Naples brioitalian.com
CAMPIELLO RISTORANTE & BAR
239-435-1166
1177 Third St. S., Naples campiellonaples.com
CASA NERI
239-963-9060
382 Fifth Ave. S., Naples casanerinaples.com
GRAPPINO
239-331-4325
90 Ninth St. N., Naples aielligroup.com
MINO
239-302-5990
1100 Sixth Ave. S., Ste. 1, Naples minofl.com
MIRAMARE RISTORANTE
239-430-6273
4236 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples miramarenaples.com
MOLTO TRATTORIA
239-261-5853
368 Fifth Ave. S., Naples moltonaples.com
OSTERIA TULIA
239-213-2073
466 Fifth Ave. S., Naples osteriatulia.com
PARMESAN PETE’S ITALIAN KITCHEN
239-992-3663
7935 Airport-Pulling Road, Naples parmesanpetes.com
VERGINA
239-659-7008
700 Fifth Ave. S., Naples verginarestaurant.com
MEXICANS
FELIPE’S TAQUERIA
239-302-1444
4255 Tamiami Trail N., Naples
239-323-6619
2220 Logan Blvd. N., Naples felipestaqueria.com
K-RICO MEXICAN GRILL
239-316-7662
475 Bayfront Place, Naples kricosmexicangrill.com
ROCCO’S TACOS & TEQUILA BAR
239-500-8226
Mercato, 9123 Strada Place, Naples roccostacos.com
TACOS & TEQUILA CANTINA
Three Collier County locations tacosandtequilanaples.com
TURCO TACO
239-331-4527
410 Ninth St. N., Naples
239-431-6682
1514 Immokalee Road, Naples theturcotaco.com
SEAFOODS
THE BAY HOUSE
239-591-3837
799 Walkerbilt Road, Naples bayhousenaples.com
BAYSIDE SEAFOOD
GRILL & BAR
239-649-5552
4270 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples baysideseafoodgrillandbar.com
THE BOATHOUSE ON NAPLES BAY
239-643-2235
990 Broad Ave. S., Naples boathouseonnaplesbay.com
THE CLAW BAR
239-231-3912
Bellasera Hotel, 221 Ninth St. S., Naples theclawbar.com
DEEP LAGOON SEAFOOD
239-880-3337
8777 Tamiami Trail N., Naples
239-235-7497
760 North Collier Blvd. Ste. 105. Marco Island deeplagoon.com
GUMBO LIMBO AT THE RITZ-CARLTON, NAPLES
239-598-3300
280 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples ritzcarlton.com
HOGFISH HARRY’S
239-776-7623
600 Neapolitan Way, Naples hogfishharrys.com
KEEWAYDIN’S ON FIFTH
239-262-5787
711 Fifth Ave. S., Naples keewaydins.com
M WATERFRONT GRILLE
239-263-4421
4300 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples mwaterfrontgrille.com
REAL SEAFOOD COMPANY— NAPLES
239-591-3523
8960 Fontana Del Sol Way, Naples realseafoodcorestaurant.com
SAILS RESTAURANT
239-360-2000
301 Fifth Ave. S., Naples sailsrestaurants.com
SEA SALT
239-434-7258
1186 Third St. S., Naples aielligroup.com
SWAN RIVER RESTAURANT + RAW BAR + FISH MARKET
239-403-7000
3741 Tamiami Trail N., Naples swanriverseafood.com
TRULUCK’S OCEAN’S FINEST
SEAFOOD & CRAB
239-530-3131
698 Fourth Ave. S., Naples trulucks.com
THE TURTLE CLUB
239-592.6557
9225 Gulfshore Drive N., Naples turtleclubnaples.com
USS NEMO
239-261-6366
3745 Tamiami Trail N., Naples ussnemorestaurant.com
STEAKHOUSESS
ANDRE’S STEAK HOUSE
239-263-5851
2800 Tamiami Trail N., Naples andressteakhouse.com
THE CAPITAL GRILLE
239-254-0640
9005 Mercato Drive, Naples thecapitalgrille.com
CHOPS CITY GRILL
239-262-4677
837 Fifth Ave. S., Naples chopscitygrill.com
THE CONTINENTAL AMERICAN PROVISIONS & CRAFT BAR
239-659-0007
1205 Third St. S., Naples damicoscontinental.com
DORONA
239-529-2819
2110 Tamiami Trail N., Naples aielligroup.com
FLEMING’S PRIME
STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR
239-598-2424
8985 Tamiami Trail N., Naples flemingssteakhouse.com
THE GRILL AT THE RITZ-CARLTON, NAPLES
239-598-6644
280 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples ritzcarlton.com
OCEAN PRIME
239-430-0404
Inn on Fifth, 699 Fifth Ave. S., Naples ocean-prime.com
SHULA’S STEAKHOUSE
239-430-4999
5111 Tamiami Trail N., Naples shulasnaples.com
LEE COUNTY ASIANS
DARUMA JAPANESE
STEAKHOUSE AND SUSHI LOUNGE
239-344-0037
Bell Tower, 13499 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers darumarestaurant.com
GINGER BISTRO
239-558-8865
2366 Surfside Blvd., C-101, Cape Coral
239-689-3113
4650 S. Cleveland Ave., #8, Fort Myers gingerbistrousa.com
KOMOON THAI SUSHI & CEVICHE
239-234-2442
3300 Bonita Beach Road, #101, Bonita Springs komoonthai.com
SPOONDRIFT ISLAND BOWLS
239-472-0875
2441 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel sanibelspoondrift.com
SUSHI-THAI OF NAPLES
239-992-5600
Prado at Spring Creek 25101 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs sushithaitoo.com
CASUALS
ALVA COUNTRY DINER
239-728-3366
21220 Palm Beach Blvd., Alva alvacountrydiner.com
ARTISAN EATERY
239-887-4844
8951 Daniels Parkway, Fort Myers artisaneatery.com
BURNTWOOD TAVERN
239-288-4068
Gulf Coast Town Center, 10035 Gulf Center Drive, #F100, Fort Myers
239-437-6046
Bell Tower Shops, 13499 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers burntwoodtavern.com
CENO GRILLE
239-549-2366
1715 Cape Coral Parkway W., Cape Coral cenogrille.com
CRISTOF’S ON MCGREGOR
239-791-8473
10231 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers cristofsonmcgregor.com
EUROPEAN AMERICAN
BAKERY CAFE
239-225-0450
12450 Metro Parkway, Fort Myers eabake.com
FARMERS MARKET
RESTAURANT
239-334-1687
2736 Edison Ave., Fort Myers farmersmarketrestaurant.com
FIRST WATCH
Six Lee County locations firstwatch.com
HARVEST & WISDOM
239-949-0749
Shangri-La Springs
27750 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs shangrilasprings.com/ harvestandwisdom
MCGREGOR CAFÉ
239-936-1771
4305 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers mcgregorcafe.com
MEL’S DINER
Three Lee County locations melsdiners.com
SKILLETS
Three Lee County locations skilletsrestaurants.com
SWEET BEAN CAFE
239-834-9541
13251 McGregor Blvd Suite 110, Fort Myers sweetbeanfl.com
TARPON LODGE
239-283-3999
13771 Waterfront Drive, Bokeelia tarponlodge.com
THE OTHER SIDE BISTRO
239-992-7433
24630 U.S. 41, Bonita Springs othersidebistro.com
CUBANS
BEGONIA’S RESTAURANT & BAKERY
239-208-8243
2215 Winkler Ave., Fort Myers
CUBAN RESTAURANT EL TROPICAL
239-772-8858
106 Hancock Bridge Parkway W., Cape Coral eltropical.business.site
LUIS BAKERY
239-673-7081
2708 Santa Barbara Blvd., Cape Coral luis-bakery-bar-grill.business.site
RINCON CUBANO OF CAPE CORAL
239-772-7790
958 Country Club Blvd., Cape Coral
FRENCHS
AZURE
239-288-4296
15301 McGregor Blvd., #1, Fort Myers azurefortmyers.com
BLANC
239-887-3139
13451 McGregor Blvd., #10, Fort Myers blancentertainment.com
C LEVEL RESTAURANT & COCKTAIL BAR
239-221-7046
4450 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs c-levelbar.com
GREEKS
NOMIKI’S PLAKKA GREEK RESTAURANT
239-433-5659
Bridge Plaza
12901 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers
INDIANS
INDIA PALACE
239-932-5100
3300 Bonita Beach Road S.E., Bonita Springs indiapalacebonitasprings.com
MASALA MANTRA
INDIAN BISTRO
239-540-6300
4518 Del Prado Blvd. S., Cape Coral masalaamantra.com
PASSAGE TO INDIA
239-513-0024
975 Imperial Golf Course Blvd., Bonita Springs thetasteofbangladesh.com
ITALIANS
BUON APPETITO CAFÈ
239-433-0117
6314-D Corporate Court, Fort Myers restaurantftmyers.com
CAPONE’S COAL FIRED PIZZA
239-337-2625
2225 First St., Fort Myers caponescoalfiredpizza.com
DEROMO’S GOURMET MARKET & RESTAURANT
239-325-3583
26811 S. Bay Drive, Ste. 140 & 148, Bonita Springs deromos.com
ENZO’S RISTORANTE
ITALIANO & BAR
239-992-5555
4351 Bonita Beach Road S.W., Bonita Springs enzosofbonita.com
GRIMALDI’S PIZZERIA
239-432-9767
Bell Tower
13499 S. Cleveland Ave., Ste. 201, Fort Myers grimaldispizzeria.com
GUSTO CUCINA ITALIANA
239-458-5900
229 Del Prado Blvd. N., Ste. 15, Cape Coral gustocucinaitaliana.com
LA FONTANELLA
RISTORANTE
239-237-2143
7050 Winkler Road, Ste. 112
Fort Myers
239-498-6808
24600 S Tamiami Trail, Ste. 204 Bonita Springs lafontanellahospitality.com
NICE GUYS PIZZA AND BEER
239-549-7542
1404 Cape Coral Parkway E., Cape Coral niceguyspizza.com
PETAR’S RESTAURANT
239-249-4064
Center of Bonita Springs
3300 Bonita Beach Road S.W., #120, Bonita Springs petarsrestaurant.com
PI THEORY PIZZA
239-257-1715
159 Hancock Bridge Parkway, Cape Coral pitheorypizzamenu.com
RISTORANTE FABIO
239-656-5727
4150 Hancock Bridge Parkway, North Fort Myers ristorantefabio.com
SAGE ON 47th
239-542-0200
1015 S.E. 47th Terrace, Cape Coral sageon47th.com
TRATTORIA CIAO
239-471-0033
823 S.E. 47th Terrace, Cape Coral tratciao.com
MEXICANS
3 PEPPER BURRITO COMPANY
Seven Lee County locations 3pepperburrito.com
CABOS CANTINA
239-332-2226
2226 First St., Fort Myers caboscantinafl.com
CANTINA LAREDO
239-415-4424
5200 Big Pine Way, Fort Myers cantinalaredo.com
CARNICERIA MONTERREY
239-939-6992
11530 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers
239-369-3294
1505 Gretchen Ave. S., Lehigh Acres carniceriamonterrey.com
IGUANA MIA
239-949-2001
28051 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs
239-945-3181
1027 E. Cape Coral Parkway, Cape Coral 239-362-0705
4329 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers iguanamia.com
SABOR A MEXICO
239-997-9995
13121 N. Cleveland Ave., North Fort Myers saboramexicofortmyers.com
TACO WORKS
239-237-2504
12731 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers tacoworksfl.com
TACOS SAN MIGUEL II
239-645-7854
1404 Del Prado Blvd., Cape Coral tacossanmiguel.com
TAQUERIA
SAN JULIAN
239-936-0037
11601 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers
TORTILLERIA LA RANCHERITA
239-498-4633
26751 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs
SEAFOODS
COLDWATER OYSTER MARKET
239-220-5918
5611 Six Mile Commercial Court, Fort Myers coldwateroystermarket.com
DEEP LAGOON SEAFOOD
239-689-5474
14040 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers deeplagoon.com
DIXIE FISH COMPANY
239-233-8837
714 Fishermans Wharf, Fort Myers Beach dixiefishfmb.com
DOC FORD’S RUM BAR & GRILL
239-472-8311
2500 Island Inn Road, Sanibel
239-765-9660
708 Fishermans Wharf, Fort Myers Beach docfords.com
FISH TALE GRILL BY MERRICK SEAFOOD
239-257-3167
1229 S.E. 47th Terrace, Cape Coral bestseafoodcapecoral.com
FRESH CATCH BISTRO
239-488-2400
4761 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach freshcatchbistro.com
LOBSTER LADY SEAFOOD MARKET & BISTRO
239-471-0136
1715 Cape Coral Parkway, Cape Coral lobsterladyseafood.com
PINCHERS
Five Lee County locations pinchersusa.com
PRAWNBROKER RESTAURANT & FISH MARKET
239-489-2226
13451-16 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers prawnbrokerfortmyers.com
TARPON LODGE RESTAURANT
239-283-3999
13771 Waterfront Drive, Bokeelia tarponlodge.com
THE TIMBERS RESTAURANT & FISH MARKET
239-395-2722
703 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel Island
timbersofsanibel.com
TWISTED LOBSTER
239-800-2879
1341 Del Prado Blvd. S., Ste. 1, Cape Coral twistedlobster.com
UPSCALES
A TABLE APART
239-221-8540
4295 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs atableapart.com
ANGELINA’S RISTORANTE
239-390-3187
24041 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs angelinasofbonitasprings.com
ARIANA RISTORANTE
ITALIANO
239-772-8000
1529 SE 15th Terrace, Cape Coral ariani.com
THE BOHEMIAN RESTAURANT
239-451-9619
27975 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs thebohemianbonita.com
CONNOR’S STEAK & SEAFOOD
239-267-2677
10076 Gulf Center DrIve, Fort Myers connorsrestaurant.com
THE FIRESTONE GRILL ROOM
239-334-3473
2224 Bay St., Fort Myers firestonefl.com
HAROLD’S
239-849-0622
15250 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers haroldscuisine.com
THE MELTING POT
239-481-1717
13251 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers meltingpot.com/fort-myers-fl
OLD CAPTIVA HOUSE
239-472-5161, ext. 4
‘Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa, 15951 Captiva Drive, Captiva tween-waters.com
THE ROADHOUSE CAFÉ
239-415-4375
15660 San Carlos Blvd., Ste. 280, Fort Myers roadhousecafefl.com
THE VERANDA
239-332-2065
2122 Second St., Fort Myers verandarestaurant.com
The Naples Winter Wine Festival is one of the top 10 arts and entertainment events for wealthy Americans, according to the Luxury Institute, based on its exclusivity, quality, and prestige. (Packages run from $17,500-$40,000.) The very best food and wine offerings come together in this weekend-long festival that includes vintner dinners with award-winning chefs and culminates with a live auction and grand tasting each January to raise money for the Naples Children & Education Foundation. (napleswinfestival.com)
Local musicians take to the Naples Botanical Garden’s performance stage overlooking the Water Garden for Music in the Garden on select Saturday afternoons from January through June (naplesgarden.org)
Cambier Park Bandshell Concerts Stroll over to Cambier Park for free concerts (suggested $5 donation per person) on select Sundays, 2 to 4 p.m., from January through April. Bands include Gulf Coast Big Band, Naples Concert Band, Naples Dixieland Jazz Band, Naples Jazz Society, and Stardust Memories Big Band. (naplesgov.com)
Find high-caliber artwork and meet the artists at outdoor arts fair juried and hosted by the Naples Art Institute from January through
April. These four-series fairs consistently rank among the top 10 best in the nation. Art in the Park presents world-class outdoor fairs featuring original works by 40 professional artists from all over the state while the two-day National Art Fair showcases the best of contemporary painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media in the United States. (naplesart.org)
The Caloosahatchee Celtic Festival is a favorite New Year’s tradition filled with Celtic vibes, Scottish and British specialty foods, and brews in downtown Fort Myers at Caloosa Sound Amphitheater. (cityftmyers.com)
For 34 years, the Cape Coral Parks and Recreation Department has hosted Tour De Cape—15-30-62-100-mile bike tours in the northwest and southwest regions of Cape Coral, as well as a 5K and mini rides for children. (tourdecape.net)
Art Walk happens the first Friday evening of each month and Music Walk is every third Friday evening in downtown Fort Myers. (myriverdistrict.com)
The annual Cars on Fifth Concours features more than 400 luxury vehiclesFerraris, Lamborghinis, Maserati’s Porsches, Corvettes, and more along Fifth Avenue South the first weekend of February to benefit St. Matthew’s House. (carsonfifth.com)
The Third Street South Farmer’s Market overflows with fresh produce, flowers, pastas, seafood, baked goods, prepared foods, jams, relishes, fresh-roasted coffee, and music. The pet-friendly market is open year-round each Saturday from 7:3011:30 a.m. (thirdstreetsouth.com)
The prestigious, two-day Southwest Florida Wine & Food Fest is the signature event of Southwest Florida Children’s Charities, featuring uniquely themed vintner dinners held at private venues with acclaimed chefs throughout Southwest Florida and a grand tasting and live auction. (swflwinefest.org)
Everglades City is well known as an historic fishing village and notorious smuggling haven, but it is also synonymous with the annual Everglades Seafood Festival that takes over this iconic small town in a big way each February. For 50-plus years, the free festival has enticed visitors to imbibe in live music, fresh seafood, handmade crafts, and festivities. (evergladesseafoodfestival.org)
With 75-plus public and private golf courses, it’s no wonder that Naples draws a few high-profile tournaments. One of the most popular, the Chubb Classic—featuring the top golf talent from the year’s PGA Tour—is held at Tiburón Golf Club at The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples. (chubbclassic.com)
ArtFest Fort Myers is a two-day outdoor art festival featuring the works of more than 200 juried artists in all mediums, lively entertainment, food trucks, children’s art activities, and live art demonstrations. (artfestfortmyers.com)
Several weeks of activities and events commemorating Thomas Alva Edison’s lifetime achievements and his 50 years as a seasonal Fort Myers resident unfold during the Edison Festival of Light, culminating with the Grand Parade of Light— named as the largest night parade in the Southeast. The Edison Festival has been a local tradition since 1938. (edisonfestival.org)
The Naples Garden Club’s annual Naples Flower Show at the Naples Botanical Garden is a two-day event that includes a Garden Market, educational demonstrations, juried designs, and horticultural exhibits. It is one of the largest flower shows in Florida. (naplesgarden.org)
Two dozen children’s, teen, and adult authors discuss their work and their process and celebrate books with readers of all ages during the annual Southwest Florida Reading Festival organized by the Lee County Library System held in downtown Fort Myers. (readfest.org)
Learn about exotic foods, sustainable living, innovative farming, and gardening during the four-day ECHO Global Food & Farm Festival each March. You can experience unique tours, tastings, cooking shows, and make-and-take workshops. (echonet.org)
The annual two-day Fort Myers Beach Lions Club Shrimp Festival is a 67-year tradition celebrating the local shrimp industry with a blessing of the fleet, plenty of “pink gold” (gulf shrimp), a shrimp crawl, crafts, and a parade. (fortmyersbeach.org)
For almost 90 years, the Sanibel Shell Festival has showcased live mollusks, shell arts and crafts, books, and more. (sanibelcommunityhouse.net)
Naples is the epicenter of the pickleball phenomenon, which is why it is dubbed the “Pickleball Capital of the World.” East Naples Community Park, with 64 courts, has hosted the U.S. Open Pickleball Championships since its inception. The event welcomes more than 20,000 enthusiasts and spectators and 3,000 players, ages 8 to 88, from around the world. Admission is free, but there is a parking fee. (usopenpickleballchampionship.com)
The Alliance for the Arts hosts uncensored fun during its Fringe Fort Myers performing arts festival with all performers chosen via a lottery system to create boundary-pushing theatre and live performances. The participating independent artists receive 100 percent of ticket sales. (artinlee.org)
The annual Fort Myers Film Festival kicks off with a red-carpet reception at the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center with screenings and events at various Southwest Florida venues. (fortmyersfilmfestival.com)
COUNTY
The weekend-long Stone Crab Festival tradition extols one of the region’s most famous delicacies—stone crab! Explore the Naples waterfront while noshing on this seasonal treat at Tin City Waterfront Shops. (stonecrabfestival.com)
The three-day Naples International Film Festival includes more than 50 films— narrative features, documentaries, and short filmsfrom around the world. Filmmakers and actors participate in post-screening Q&A’s and panel discussions. It has been named among MovieMaker magazine’s “Top 25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World.” Screenings and events are held in Hayes Hall or the Norris Garden on the Artis—Naples campus or Paragon Theaters–Pavilion. (artisnaples.org)
COLLIER COUNTY
The women’s professional golf tournament
CME Group Tour Championship—the season-ending event of the LPGA Tour—plays out at Tiburón Golf Club at The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples. (cmegrouptourchampionship.com)
The Sounds of Jazz and Blues is Cape Coral’s premier musical event. It is held outside on the greens of Coral Oaks Golf Course. (capeconcerts.com)
Bring an appetite for fun to the annual Taste of the Beach, where local restaurants showcase their best appetizers, and seafood dishes. (fortmyersbeach.org)
It’s Culinary Month in Southwest Floridaso it’s high time for Sizzle Dining. Featuring more than 95 participating restaurants, the regional event offers pre-fixe, two-course lunch and three-course dinner menus at special prices. (sizzledining.com)
December ushers in a seasonal community favorite: decorated boats of all sizes wending along local waterways, spreading a subtropical, festive cheer. The Naples parade can be viewed from various restaurants on Naples Bay, Bayview Park, and Naples City Dock. (miacc. org/event) The Cape Coral Holiday Boat-ALong includes stage entertainment, local food trucks, crafts, a visit from Santa Claus, and the boat parade. (capecoral.gov)
For dates, admission prices, and other event details, be sure to visit each venue’s or organization’s website for the latest information.
