Naples, Florida, is a charming coastal city known for its stunning beaches, upscale shopping, and vibrant dining scene. While Naples itself offers plenty to see and do, exploring the surrounding areas on day trips from Naples FL can add an extra layer of excitement to your vacation. From the picturesque islands of Sanibel and Captiva to the unique wildlife encounters in the Everglades National Park, there are endless possibilities for unforgettable day trips from Naples FL. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a change of scenery, these day trips are sure to enhance your stay in Naples.
Sanibel Island
Travel tips
- Distance from Naples FL: Approximately 25 miles
- Time to get there: Around 45 minutes by car
- How to get there: From Naples FL, take the I-75 N highway towards Fort Myers. Continue on the highway until you reach exit 131 for Cape Coral/Sanibel. Follow signs for Sanibel Island.
- Click for Google maps directions: Sanibel Island
Exploring Sanibel Island: Things to do
Sanibel Island is a must-see destination for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts alike. Known for its pristine sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant wildlife, this barrier island off the Gulf Coast of Florida offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
One of the top activities on Sanibel Island is shelling along its shores. The island is famous for its seashells, and collectors from around the world flock here to search for unique treasures washed up by the tides. Bowman’s Beach and Lighthouse Beach are popular spots for shelling, where you can spend hours combing the sand for conch shells, sand dollars, and more.
For those interested in wildlife, a visit to the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge is a must. This 6,400-acre sanctuary is home to a diverse array of bird species, including roseate spoonbills, pelicans, and herons. Explore the refuge on foot or by kayak to get up close to the native flora and fauna that call Sanibel Island home.
Outdoor enthusiasts will also enjoy biking along the island’s scenic trails or kayaking through its mangrove forests. The Sanibel Lighthouse, a historic landmark dating back to the 1800s, offers panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico and is a great spot for watching the sunset.
Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore nature, or simply unwind in a tranquil setting, Sanibel Island has something for everyone. Plan your day trip from Naples FL to this idyllic island paradise and discover the beauty of Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Everglades National Park
Travel tips
- Distance from Naples FL: Approximately 50 miles
- Time to get there: Around 1.5 hours by car
- How to get there: Take US-41 E/Tamiami Trail to Everglades National Park. The park entrance is well marked.
- Click for Google maps directions: Everglades National Park
Exploring Everglades National Park: Things to do
Everglades National Park is a must-see destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike. This unique ecosystem is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a paradise for outdoor adventurers. One of the top activities to do in the park is to take an airboat tour through the mangrove forests and sawgrass prairies, where you can spot alligators, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
For those interested in hiking, the park offers various trails that lead you through different habitats, allowing you to experience the beauty of the Everglades up close. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Shark Valley Observation Tower for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Birdwatching is another popular activity in Everglades National Park, with over 350 species of birds calling the park home. Keep your eyes peeled for colorful wading birds, raptors, and the elusive snail kite.
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider joining a guided kayak or canoe tour to explore the park’s waterways and get a unique perspective on this vast wilderness. Paddling through the mangrove tunnels and open waters is a peaceful and immersive way to connect with nature.
Whether you’re interested in wildlife spotting, hiking, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the tranquility of nature, Everglades National Park offers something for everyone. Plan your visit to this iconic park and experience the beauty and biodiversity of the Everglades firsthand.
Marco Island
Travel tips
- Distance from Naples FL: Approximately 18 miles
- Time to get there: Around 30 minutes by car
- How to get there: Take US-41 S/Tamiami Trail E from Naples and continue on FL-951 S/Collier Blvd to Marco Island. The nearest bus station is the Collier Area Transit Transfer Center in Naples.
- Click for Google maps directions: Marco Island
Exploring Marco Island: Things to do
Marco Island, known for its stunning white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, is a must-see destination for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts alike. One of the top attractions on the island is Tigertail Beach, where visitors can enjoy swimming, shelling, and birdwatching. For those looking for adventure, a kayak or paddleboard tour through the mangrove tunnels is a unique way to explore the island’s diverse ecosystem.
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, where they can learn about the local wildlife and conservation efforts. The Marco Island Historical Museum offers a glimpse into the island’s rich history, showcasing exhibits on the Calusa Indians and early settlers.
Golfers will find plenty of opportunities to tee off at the island’s world-class golf courses, while foodies can indulge in fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. Sunset cruises are a popular way to end the day, offering breathtaking views of the sun setting over the horizon.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation on the beach, outdoor adventures, or cultural experiences, Marco Island has something for everyone to enjoy during a day trip from Naples.
Sarasota
Travel tips
- Distance of Sarasota from Naples FL: Approximately 50 miles
- Time to get there: Around 1 hour drive
- How to get there from Naples FL: Take I-75 N from Naples and continue on I-75 N to Sarasota. Take exit 210 from I-75 N. The main bus station in Sarasota is the Sarasota County Area Transit (SCAT) station. The nearest train station is in Tampa, about an hour’s drive away.
- Click for Google maps directions: Sarasota
Exploring Sarasota: Things to do
Sarasota, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant cultural scene, is a must-see destination for visitors to Florida’s Gulf Coast. One of the top attractions in Sarasota is the Ringling Museum of Art, where you can explore a world-class art collection and the historic Ca’ d’Zan mansion. For nature lovers, a visit to the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful tropical flora.
Be sure to spend some time at Siesta Key Beach, renowned for its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. Stroll along St. Armands Circle, a charming shopping and dining district with a European flair. Don’t miss the opportunity to catch a performance at the Sarasota Opera or the Sarasota Orchestra for a taste of the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Myakka River State Park, where you can go hiking, kayaking, or take a scenic airboat tour to spot wildlife in their natural habitat. If you’re a fan of architecture, the Sarasota Architectural Foundation offers guided tours of the city’s modernist buildings, showcasing Sarasota’s unique architectural history.
Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, immerse yourself in art and culture, or explore the natural beauty of the Gulf Coast, Sarasota has something for everyone. Plan your day trip from Naples to Sarasota and discover all that this vibrant city has to offer.
Fort Myers
Travel tips
- Distance of Fort Myers from Naples FL: Approximately 45 miles
- Time to get there: Around 1 hour by car
- How to get there from Naples FL: Take I-75 N from Naples and continue on this route until you reach Fort Myers. The main bus station in Fort Myers is the Rosa Parks Transportation Center.
- Click for Google maps directions: Fort Myers
Exploring Fort Myers: Things to do
Fort Myers, a vibrant city on the southwest coast of Florida, is a must-see destination for travelers seeking a mix of history, culture, and outdoor adventures. One of the top attractions in Fort Myers is the Edison and Ford Winter Estates, where visitors can explore the historic homes and gardens of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. History buffs will also enjoy a visit to the Southwest Florida Military Museum, which showcases artifacts and exhibits from various wars.
For nature lovers, Fort Myers offers the beautiful Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve, a wetland ecosystem perfect for birdwatching and hiking. The Calusa Nature Center and Planetarium is another great spot to learn about the local wildlife and enjoy stargazing shows.
Be sure to spend some time at Fort Myers Beach, known for its soft white sands and clear blue waters. You can relax on the beach, go for a swim, or even try your hand at water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding. For a taste of local culture, explore the vibrant downtown area with its art galleries, shops, and restaurants serving up delicious seafood.
Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or simply relaxing on the beach, Fort Myers has something for everyone to enjoy during a day trip from Naples.
Captiva Island
Travel tips
- Distance of Captiva Island from Naples FL: Approximately 30 miles
- Time to get there: Around 1 hour by car
- How to get there from Naples FL: Take I-75 N from Naples and continue on to FL-884 W. Follow signs for Sanibel/Captiva and cross the Sanibel Causeway. Once on Captiva Island, follow Captiva Dr to reach your destination.
- Click for Google maps directions: Captiva Island
Exploring Captiva Island: Things to do
Captiva Island is a gem on Florida’s Gulf Coast that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational activities. The pristine beaches with powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters are a major draw for visitors. One of the top things to do on Captiva Island is shelling, as the beaches are known for their abundance of unique seashells.
For nature enthusiasts, a visit to the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge is a must. This sanctuary is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including birds, alligators, and mangroves. Kayaking through the mangrove forests or taking a guided wildlife tour are popular activities here.
Captiva Island is also a paradise for water sports lovers. From paddleboarding and kayaking to jet skiing and parasailing, there are plenty of options to enjoy the water. Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck at catching snook, redfish, or tarpon in the surrounding waters.
For a relaxing day, explore the charming village area of Captiva Island, where you can browse art galleries, boutique shops, and enjoy delicious seafood at waterfront restaurants. Don’t miss the stunning sunsets that paint the sky in hues of orange and pink, creating a picture-perfect backdrop for a romantic evening.
Whether you are seeking adventure or relaxation, Captiva Island offers something for everyone, making it a must-see destination for your next Florida getaway.
Key West
Travel tips
- Distance of Key West from Naples FL: Approximately 160 miles
- Time to get there: Around 3.5 to 4 hours by car
- How to get there from Naples FL: The most convenient way to reach Key West from Naples is by driving along the scenic Overseas Highway (US-1). Alternatively, you can also take a bus from Naples to Miami and then transfer to a bus heading to Key West. The nearest train station is in Miami, where you can catch a bus to Key West.
- Click for Google maps directions: Key West
Exploring Key West: Things to do
Key West is a must-see destination for those seeking a laid-back island vibe combined with rich history and vibrant culture. One of the top attractions in Key West is the iconic Southernmost Point Buoy, where visitors can snap photos at the southernmost tip of the continental United States. For history buffs, a visit to the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum offers insight into the life of the famous author.
Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the crystal-clear waters surrounding Key West through activities such as snorkeling, diving, and sunset cruises. The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory provides a serene escape into a tropical paradise filled with colorful butterflies and exotic plants.
Don’t miss out on the lively atmosphere of Duval Street, known for its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and bars. Grab a slice of Key Lime pie, a local specialty, and wander through Mallory Square to catch a breathtaking sunset celebration with street performers and live music.
Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or simply relaxing on the beach, Key West offers a diverse range of experiences that make it a must-visit destination in Florida.
