Naples Journals

Weekend Getaway to Naples

An April 2005 trip to Naples by ChrisfromMiami

Corkscrew Clutch Photo - Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, Naples, Florida

Quote: A weekend packed with all our favorite spots in Naples, FL

1 Photo

Weekend Getaway to Naples

Overview

Quote:

My ideal Naples trip must include the Ritz Carlton Naples (the beach resort, not the golf resort), a trip to Randy's Fishmarket, some shopping on 5th Ave, a whole lotta lounging on the beach, and a trip to Preston's Steakhouse.

Quick Tips:

The local newspaper online, http://www.naplesnews.com/, has a calendar of events, as well as restaurant reviews. It's a very good source of info until you find your way around the city.

Best Way To Get Around:

Car rental is probably the best way to get around.

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Ritz Carlton

Hotel

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Best Things Nearby:Fabulous restaurants, quaint movie theater, and lots of shopping very close by the resortBest Things About the Resort:You can arrive, park your car, and not have to even get it from the valet until you leave. Everything you could ever need and more are right here at the resort.Resort Experience:This is my favorite resort by far! The hotel is gorgeous. The beach is breathtaking! There are two pools (one adults-only), two Jacuzzis, and numerous restaurants (which all serve amazing food!) both inside and on the beach. The spa at the resort not only has incredible packages but also the most amazing spa facilities I have ever enjoyed. Overa...Read More

Member Rating 5 out of 5 on May 25, 2005

Ritz Carlton
280 Vanderbilt Beach Road
Naples, Florida
(239) 598-3300

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Randy's Fishmarket Restaurant

Restaurant

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The best of fresh Florida seafood. Get whatever fish is the special of the day, and make sure to include their house special mac-and-cheese on the side, along with their divine hush puppies that come with a heavenly honey butter. Finish things off with their homemade Key lime pie.

http://www.randysfishmarketrestaurant.com/fresh_seafood.php

Member Rating 5 out of 5 on May 25, 2005

Randy's Fishmarket Restaurant
10395 Tamiami Trail North
Naples, Florida 34108
(239) 593-5555

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Preston's Steak House

Restaurant

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This is the best steakhouse I have ever been to anywhere. The steaks are to-die-for, and the sides are incredible. Be sure to start with the Morton Bay Bugs (Australian baby lobster) and enjoy some wine from their extensive list. The filet is the best anywhere, especially with a side of creamed spinach. Wine, appetizer, steak, two sides (which can be shared), and dessert for two will set you back $150-$200. If you're looking for a splurge, this is worthy!

Member Rating 5 out of 5 on May 25, 2005

Preston's Steak House
109 9th St S
Naples, Florida 34102
(239) 435-1986

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Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary

Attraction

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This is a fabulous 2.25-mile boardwalk through Corkscrew Swamp. During the walk, you travel through four different kinds of swamp sanctuaries (a pine forest, a cypress forest, a marsh, and a prairie). When we went, we saw alligators, snakes, deer, raccoons, and lots of different types of birds. It is really beautiful and very relaxing. If 2.25 miles is too much of a walk for you, there is a short route that can be taken. If you plan to do the entire long version of the boardwalk, plan to spend 2 to 3 hours on the tour.

http://www.audubon.org/local/sanctuary/corkscrew/

Member Rating 4 out of 5 on May 30, 2005

Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary
375 Sanctuary Road West
Naples, Florida 34120
(239) 348-9151