Ready to trade your usual beach day for something new without going far? From sunny Naples, I set out on day trips to white-sand beaches, nature preserves, and laid-back coastal towns. Each one is a breezy escape packed with Southwest Florida’s natural beauty and relaxed charm. These day trips from Naples, Florida offer nature escapes, island vibes, and cultural treasures perfect for a refreshing change of pace.
Best Day Trips from Naples:
1. Ten Thousand Islands
Location:
Naples, FLHighlights:
Want to feel like you've found your own private slice of paradise? The Ten Thousand Islands deliver peaceful paddling, wild beaches, and island serenity that feels a world away from busy Florida cities.What I Love:
Remote beachy islands, scenic kayak routes, abundant wildlife, and the chance to pitch a tent on a deserted shoreline.- Explore the Ten Thousand Islands within Everglades National Park and the Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge, where just a few hundred islands create an illusion of endless natural wonder.
- Paddle your way through this aquatic maze, enjoy beach access, fishing, and multi-day kayak excursions that let you escape the modern world.
- Camp on uninhabited islands with your own supplies for a true backcountry wilderness adventure.
- Watch for shorebirds, dolphins, manatees, and all sorts of coastal wildlife thriving in this untouched environment.
Distance from Naples:
About 45 minutes southeast via U.S. Highway 41.How to Get to the Ten Thousand Islands:
From Naples, head east on U.S. Highway 41. Visitor access points include the Gulf Coast Visitor Center near Everglades City or boat launches throughout the area.Address:
Ten Thousand Islands, U.S. Highway 41, Naples, FL 341142. Walk along charming streets in Ave Maria - 50 minutes from Naples
Location:
Ave Maria, FLHighlights:
Looking for something unexpected in South Florida? Ave Maria is a peaceful, growing community with beautiful architecture, a rich spiritual heart, and charming small-town events—all just an hour from Naples.What I Love:
The striking Ave Maria Catholic Church, a mix of modern and gothic design, weekly farmers markets, trolley tours, and live music under the sun.- Visit Ave Maria, South West Florida’s fastest-growing planned community, just about an hour southwest of Naples.
- Admire the awe-inspiring gothic and art deco architecture of the Ave Maria Catholic Church and surrounding university buildings, blending modern steel design with traditional elegance.
- Tour the community on a 45-minute trolley ride that departs from the town center—check the Ave Maria website for updated schedules.
- Enjoy local culture with the Saturday Farmers Market and Thursday afternoon live music events in the central square.
Distance from Naples:
Around 1 hour northeast by car through scenic rural routes.How to Get to Ave Maria:
From Naples, take Oil Well Road east directly into the town. Look for signs directing visitors toward the town center and church.3. Discover lush wetlands in Big Cypress National Preserve - 40 minutes from Naples
Location:
Ochopee, FLHighlights:
If you want to truly immerse yourself in Florida’s wild side, Big Cypress National Preserve is a dream come true. It’s where you’ll find alligators, orchids, and quiet cypress swamps just an hour from Naples.What I Love:
Five rare habitats, remote airboat-accessible corners, and the chance to spot creatures you won't find anywhere else on Earth.- Explore the Big Cypress National Preserve, established in 1974 to protect five distinct habitats filled with unique and rare wildlife.
- Enjoy your favorite outdoor adventures like hiking, biking, canoeing, kayaking, and wildlife watching—all in a vast, pristine swamp landscape.
- Access remote areas by airboat or licensed off-road vehicles, where alligators, crocodiles, turtles, and wading birds rule the ecosystem.
Distance from Naples:
Less than 1 hour east by car along the Tamiami Trail.How to Get to Big Cypress:
From Naples, head east on US-41 (Tamiami Trail). The preserve’s visitor center is well-marked near Ochopee, with access points throughout the region.Address:
33100 Tamiami Trail East, Ochopee, FL 34141Phone: 239-695-2000
4. Relax on pristine beaches in Bonita Springs
Location:
Bonita Springs, FLHighlights:
Looking for a laid-back, family-friendly day trip with nature, beaches, and learning all in one spot? Bonita Springs has just the right mix of outdoor fun and hands-on activities for kids and adults alike.What I Love:
Wildlife education at the Nature Center, electric boat tours, beautiful beaches at Lover’s Key, and kayaking through mangrove-lined waters.- Explore the Nature Center at the Conservancy of Southwest Florida, where kids can learn about wildlife rehabilitation and even experience a touch tank at the Dalton Discovery Center.
- Relax at Lover’s Key State Park with 2.5 miles of scenic beach ideal for sunbathing, birdwatching, and shelling, or rent a kayak from Kayak Southwest Florida for a paddle through nature.
Distance from Naples:
About 30 minutes north by car.How to Get to Bonita Springs:
Take Tamiami Trail (US-41) or I-75 North from Naples. Exit onto Bonita Beach Road or follow signage into the heart of town and toward Lover’s Key.Romantic Day Trips from Naples:
5. Walk along soft sandy shores on Captiva Island
Highlights:
If you’re dreaming of white sand, turquoise water, and laid-back island charm, I think you’ll fall in love with Captiva. I always feel like I’m on vacation the moment I get here—you get to relax, play, and just soak up the sunshine.
What I Love:
You’ll get to float in the warm Gulf waves, hunt for amazing shells, and take scenic boat rides that always leave me smiling. I also love hopping over to Sanibel for cute shops and tasty food—you’re never far from something fun.
- You should visit Captiva Island (and neighboring Sanibel Island) for a classic Gulf Coast day. I love how they’re easy to reach by car from Fort Myers via the Sanibel Causeway.
- You’ll want to enjoy a full day of shelling, swimming, and sunbathing. I always add a little paddleboarding or a sunset cruise if I can. There’s something magical about being out on the Gulf.
- You can explore on land too, I recommend renting bikes, checking out the local boutiques, and grabbing a bite on Sanibel. I never leave without a souvenir or a scoop of ice cream.
Distance from Naples:
You’ll get there in about 1 hour and 30 minutes if traffic’s light. I always give myself a little extra time in case the bridge is busy—it’s worth the trip.
How to Get to Captiva Island:
If you’re starting in Naples, I suggest taking I-75 North to Daniels Parkway in Fort Myers. From there, follow Summerlin Road to the Sanibel Causeway. You’ll cross Sanibel Island and keep going straight to reach Captiva. It’s an easy drive and such a beautiful reward at the end.
6. Explore remote beaches in Cayo Costa State Park
Highlights:
If you’re ready to escape the crowds and slow down, I think you’ll fall in love with Cayo Costa. You can spend the day on powdery white sand, swim in turquoise water, and feel like you’ve found your own private island. I always leave feeling totally refreshed.
What I Love:
You’ll find nine miles of pristine beach with barely anyone around. I love hopping on the ferry and watching the coast disappear behind me—it’s the kind of adventure that starts the moment you leave shore. You’ll feel like the island is all yours.
- You should explore Cayo Costa State Park, where you’ll walk along untouched shoreline and take in that peaceful, coastal vibe. I always bring a camera—it’s stunning.
- You’ll need to get there by ferry or private boat from places like Captiva, Sanibel, Punta Gorda, or Bokeelia. I always think the boat ride itself is half the fun—you’ll see dolphins and beautiful water along the way.
- You can enjoy some of the best shelling anywhere, along with hiking, snorkeling, fishing, and bird-watching. I usually pack a lunch and spend the whole day exploring barefoot and salty.
Distance from Captiva:
You’ll get there in about 1 hour by ferry, depending on where you start. I recommend giving yourself extra time—you won’t want to rush this.
How to Get to Cayo Costa:
If you’re coming from Captiva or nearby, you can book a ferry from Bokeelia, Captiva, Sanibel Island, or Punta Gorda. I always book ahead, especially in peak season—spots can fill up fast.
7. Step into the past at Edison and Ford Winter Estates
Location:
Fort Myers, FL
Highlights:
If you need a break from the beach, I think you’ll love stepping into the past at the Edison & Ford Winter Estates. You’ll get to experience history, innovation, and peaceful gardens all in one place. I always leave feeling inspired by what these two minds created.
What I Love:
You’ll walk through historic homes that feel frozen in time. I love wandering through the tropical gardens, seeing Edison’s inventions up close, and checking out the vintage Model T—it always makes me smile.
- You should tour the Edison & Ford Winter Estates, where you’ll walk the same paths as Edison and Ford on 20 acres of lush, historic grounds. I think you’ll be amazed by how well everything’s been preserved.
- You’ll want to explore the Edison Homes, the Ford Estate, and the Museum. I always stop by the Botanic Research Lab and admire the 1916 Model T—it really brings history to life.
- You can create something fun in the Spark!Lab. If you’ve got kids—or if you’re a curious adult like me—you’ll love the hands-on experiments and invention-themed activities.
Distance from Naples:
You’ll get there in about 45 minutes if you drive north. I usually take my time and enjoy the ride—it's a super easy trip.
How to Get to Edison & Ford Winter Estates:
If you’re starting in Naples, just hop on I-75 North to Exit 138. Then head west on Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. and turn onto McGregor Blvd. You’ll find on-site parking and clear signs once you’re close. I’ve always found it easy to navigate.
Visitor Info:
Edison & Ford Winter Estates, 2350 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33901Phone: 239-334-7419
Family Day Trips from Naples:
8. Explore vast wetlands in Everglades National Park
Highlights:
If you’re visiting South Florida, I think you absolutely need to carve out time for the Everglades. You’ll step into one of the most unique ecosystems in the world. I always feel small—in the best way—surrounded by the endless wetlands and all the wildlife.
What I Love:
You’ll get lost (the good kind) in the beauty of the Ten Thousand Islands. I love driving the scenic Loop Road and paddling through mangrove tunnels—it’s so quiet and surreal. You’ll feel like you’ve entered another world.
- You should visit Everglades National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that I think is one of the most extraordinary places in the entire country.
- You can access the park easily from Naples by heading to the Gulf Coast Visitor Center in Everglades City. I always recommend starting there—it’s your jumping-off point for exploring the Ten Thousand Islands.
- You’ll want to explore by boat tour or kayak. I’ve taken a Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Eco Tour, and it’s one of the most peaceful and immersive things you can do in South Florida.
- You can also drive the Loop Road through Big Cypress. I’ve spotted alligators, birds, and even a few turtles just from the car window—it’s a quiet, stunning stretch of nature.
Distance from Naples:
You’ll reach it in under an hour heading southeast. I usually leave in the morning so I have time to enjoy both land and water adventures.
How to Get to Everglades National Park:
If you’re starting in Naples, take US-41 (Tamiami Trail) east. I follow the signs into Everglades City, and you’ll see the Gulf Coast Visitor Center right near the entrance. It’s an easy and scenic drive the whole way.
9. Walk along nature trails in Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge
Location:
Immokalee, FL
Highlights:
If you’ve ever wanted to explore Florida’s wilder side, I think you’ll love the Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge. You’ll walk in a protected habitat where one of the rarest cats in the U.S. still roams. I always feel a sense of quiet excitement out here—no crowds, just raw nature.
What I Love:
You’ll experience peaceful trails and the thrill of spotting tracks or wildlife. I love the quiet—it’s just you, the forest, and the mission to protect something truly rare. You might not see a panther, but I promise you’ll feel their presence.
- You should visit the Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge, where fewer than 250 Florida panthers remain. I always find it humbling to be in their territory.
- You can hike two public trails where I’ve spotted everything from deer and bear tracks to colorful birds. You’ll want to move quietly—this is nature’s territory, not ours.
- You’ll love joining their Spring Open House events. I’ve taken guided swamp hikes, buggy rides, and birding walks through areas that are usually off-limits. It’s an awesome way to connect with the land and learn more from the experts.
Distance from Naples:
You’ll reach the refuge in about 45 minutes if you drive northeast. I always bring snacks, water, and a good pair of hiking shoes—this place invites you to stay a while.
How to Get to the Refuge:
If you’re starting from Naples, take I-75 East and exit at 80. Then drive north on SR 29 toward Immokalee. You’ll see signs for the refuge, and I’ve always found the entrance easy to spot just off the highway.
Visitor Info:
Florida Panther Refuge, 12085 SR 29 South, Immokalee, FL 24142Phone: 239-657-8001
10. Visit historic landmarks in Fort Myers
Location:
Fort Myers, FL
Highlights:
If you’re craving sunshine and salty air, I think Fort Myers is calling your name. You’ll get your fill of water fun, from boat rides to jet-skiing, plus museums and nature trails that make the day fly by. I always find something new to enjoy every time I visit.
What I Love:
You’ll love the mix—go for a sunset cruise, reel in a fish, or hit a museum that keeps kids entertained for hours. I’ve also spent peaceful afternoons in the parks, and honestly, Fort Myers just knows how to do variety right.
- You should play on the water in Fort Myers. I suggest booking a sunset cruise, fishing trip, or jet-ski adventure if you love being out on the Gulf. It’s the kind of fun that makes you feel like a kid again.
- You can visit the Railroad Museum of South Florida in Lakes Regional Park. I always enjoy the hiking and nature trails there when I want a break from the beach but still stay outside.
- You’ll want to discover even more local gems like Manatee Park (perfect during cooler months), the IMAG History and Science Center for hands-on learning, and of course, the iconic Edison and Ford Winter Estates if you love a bit of history with your sunshine.
Distance from Naples:
You’ll get there in about 45 minutes driving north. I usually leave mid-morning to beat the traffic and catch a late lunch by the water.
How to Get to Fort Myers:
If you’re starting in Naples, take I-75 North and exit at either Daniels Parkway or Colonial Blvd. You’ll follow the signs right into downtown or to whichever park or attraction you’ve got in mind. I always find it an easy, stress-free drive.
Best Time for Day Trips from Naples, Florida
- November to April – I always recommend this time if you love mild weather. You’ll enjoy peaceful beach days and get to explore nature without the heat.
- March to May – I think you’ll really appreciate the warm temps and smaller crowds. I usually plan my trips then to beat the summer rush.
- June to August – If you love the water, this is your time. I go for kayaking, boat tours, and even Everglades airboat rides, though I know it gets hot.
- September to October – I’ve found this period quieter. You’ll still get sunshine, but I’d pack a light rain jacket for those afternoon showers.
- December – I love the festive vibe this month. You can stroll the beach in cooler weather, hop on a boat tour, and take in the holiday lights.
Map:
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