OLD NAPLES, FLORIDA
Historic Village Among The Palms

The neighborhood known as Old Naples within the City of Naples, Florida does not have a precise definition, but I'll give it a shot here.

Seagate Beach in Naples, Florida

OLD NAPLES NORTHERN LIMIT
NAPLES BEACH HOTEL AND GOLF CLUB

I always think of the northwestern corner of Old Naples to be the Naples Beach Hotel and Golf Club.  This was one of the earliest hotels in modern Naples, a place the locals loved to go for drinks at sunset.

The hotel also sponsored concerts on the grounds in the summer months.

Naples Beach Hotel and Golf Club, Credit PGA

The photo above is how it looked in 2010.  The only thing that remains the same today is the 1,000 foot long white sand beach.

The old hotel and club itself has been replaced and rebranded as the Naples Beach Club.  The "club" has 150 residences, a 216 room Four Seasons Hotel, a market square and a golf course.

The club is at the Gulf end of South Golf Drive (also known as 8th Avenue North).  Golf Drive is so named because it runs along the southern boundary of the golf club.

Palm Cottage, Old Naples, Florida

One of the original landmarks of Old Naples is Palm Cottage.

Built in 1895, it is on the National Register of Historic Places and is near the Naples Pier.

Naples zoning does not allow any condos on the ocean south of the hotel.

As a result, there are only single family homes on the beach all the way down to the southern limit of Old Naples and beyond to Gordon Pass and Keewaydin Island.

Modern Home in Old Naples, Florida

Some of these homes are bigger than many entire condominium buildings.  You have to look twice to make sure they are a single family home.

Old Naples is a charming combination of old beach cottages and mansions resting peacefully among hundreds of tall coconut palms and banyan trees.

Cottage in Old Naples, Florida

Some of the new mansions stand beside old houses dating back to the early 20th century. 

Every avenue, from Golf Drive on the north to 14th Avenue on the south ends at the Gulf. 

These avenues each have little city parks with benches and are favorite spots for locals to watch the sunset.

Old Naples Sunset

OLD NAPLES SOUTHERN LIMIT 14TH AVE SOUTH

The neighborhoods south of that, Aqualane Shores and Port Royal, are beautiful upscale communities that were dredged up out of the mangroves in the 1950's and are therefore not "old" by Old Naples standards.

Tin City in Old Naples
Flickr/Todd Van Hoosear

The Old Naples I am describing is all west of US-41 until the highway bends east and heads over to Miami as a continuation of the famous Tamiami Trail.

Tin City, a restored fishing village, is a local shopping venue on Gordon River that is in Old Naples.

View From Tin City, Old Naples (Flickr/Todd Van Hoosear)

Then for the short section of US-41 that heads west before the bridge over the Gordon River, everything south of 41 and west of the Gordon River is Old Naples.

Naples Pier at Sunset
Flickr/Wilhelm Rosenkranz

Some people also refer to "Olde Naples Florida" (notice the e added to old), and that is generally the area around the Naples Pier and Third Street South.

Cambier Park is a community park in the center of Old Naples where free outdoor movies are shown during the year.  The park also has playgrounds, a community building, and a theater auditorium.

Banyan Tree in Old Naples

I lived in Old Naples from 2004 to 2010, and it will always rank as one of the nicest places I've ever lived.

Old Naples Antique Car Show

There are many art shows and other events that take place during the year, as well as classic and specialty car shows.

Castleton Gardens Old Naples

My small condo in Castleton Gardens was two blocks from the shops and restaurants of Fifth Avenue South, and six blocks from the Third Street South historic district.

I sold it in 2010 and I could buy it back in 2023 for twice as much as what I sold it for.  It's the story of most properties in Naples.

Castleton Gardens Old Naples

My morning walk took me west to the Gulf, then north on the soft white sand to 5th Avenue South, then east to Starbucks and my morning cup of Pike and a fresh copy of the Naples News.

Campiello's Courtyard, Third Street

Many of the restaurants and bars I enjoyed in Old Naples are still there, but there has also been a lot of turnover.  My favorite, Campiello, remains as good as ever.

The Tripadvisor link below does a good job of showing you what's in Old Naples and the reviews of people who've tried them.

THINGS TO DO IN OLD NAPLES, FLORIDA

Palm Cottage
137 12th Ave S, Naples, FL 34102 | (888) 472-1895

Palm Cottage, mentioned and pictured earlier, is the oldest house in Naples. It was built in 1895 and is a historic gem. We enjoy exploring the charming rooms filled with antique furnishings.

The cottage offers a glimpse into Naples' past. Visitors like to join guided tours to learn about local history. The lush garden around the house is a peaceful spot to relax. This place is perfect for history buffs and those who love vintage architecture.

Naples Pier
25 12th Ave S, Naples, FL 34102 | (239) 213-7120

Naples Pier, pictured earlier, is a favorite spot for both locals and tourists. Stretching 1,000 feet into the Gulf of Mexico, it's great for fishing and dolphin watching. We enjoy walking along the pier at sunset.

The views are breathtaking. Guests like to relax on the sandy beach nearby. There are also picnic tables and a snack bar. It’s a fantastic place to enjoy a day by the water.

Tin City Waterfront Shoppes
1200 5th Ave S, Naples, FL 34102 | (239) 262-4200

Tin City, pictured earlier, is a vibrant shopping and dining destination. Located on the waterfront, it has a fun, nautical theme. We enjoy browsing unique shops and boutiques. Visitors like the variety of seafood restaurants and ice cream parlors.

There are also boat tours and river cruises available. It's a lively spot with something for everyone, making it a great place to spend an afternoon.

Cambier Park
755 8th Ave S, Naples, FL 34102 | (239) 213-3058

Cambier Park, mentioned previously, is a lovely green space in the heart of Naples. It features tennis courts, a playground, and an outdoor amphitheater. We enjoy the free concerts and events held here.

Visitors like to relax under the shady trees or play a game of shuffleboard. There’s also a fun, interactive fountain for kids. It's a wonderful place for families and friends to gather and enjoy outdoor activities.

Campiello's
1177 3rd St S, Naples, FL 34102 | (239) 435-1166

Campiello's, mentioned earlier, is a delightful dining spot in Naples. The outdoor seating area is charming with its twinkling lights and lush plants. We enjoy the Italian cuisine served here. Visitors like the friendly atmosphere and attentive service.

The wood-fired pizzas and pasta dishes are crowd favorites. It’s a great place for a romantic dinner or a casual meal with friends. The courtyard’s ambiance makes dining here a special experience. Reservations are required. Vegetarian dishes are available.

Third Street South
1207 3rd St S, Naples, FL 34102

Third Street South is a bustling shopping and dining area. We enjoy strolling along the picturesque streets lined with palm trees. Visitors like the mix of high-end boutiques, art galleries, and charming cafes.

There’s always something happening, from farmers markets to live music events. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely day out.