Guest Hook Travel Guides Insider Guide to Naples | Page 5

3 experiences not to miss... Legendary Sunsets... It's hard to a describe a Naples sunset, but here's a few words that come to mind: breathtaking, awe-inspiring, otherworldly. Grab a camera to capture Mother Nature's nightly display of color at one of the city's best sunset-watching spots, or just sit back and watch as deep oranges and pinks dance across the sky. Our favorite way to watch the sun go down is with a drink in hand at The Naples Beach & Golf Hotel. 1 Upscale, Downtown... They're chic. They're swanky. They're the upscale downtown districts of Naples. Reminiscent of iconic California beach towns, these luxuryladen neighborhoods boast world-class shopping and top-of-the-line style. Experience a day in the life of the rich and famous by popping into the boutiques on 5th Avenue and 3rd Street South, then drive immediately south for a tour of Port Royal's mansions. 2 Barefoot Beach... Voted #2 beach in the USA, this 342-acre preserve boasts picturesque shorelines and a diverse population of animal species, including the land-dwelling gopher tortoise and a variety of sea turtles. After dipping your toes in the crystal blue waters, we recommend getting up close and personal with wildlife on nature trails and canoe tours through the estuary waters. 3 Our 3 hidden gems... Corkscrew Sanctuary... Just 30 minutes east of Naples is a rugged wonderland off Corkscrew's famed boardwalk where white-tailed deer frolic, alligators slide through the mud and otters play in the marsh. Venture 2.5 miles through pine flatwoods and wet prairie to the largest old growth Bald Cypress forest in North America. No nature lover should skip it. Cayo Costa... Accessible only by private boat or ferry, camping at Cayo Costa is only for the true adventurer at heart. Catch sight of hundreds of bird species and, if you're lucky, a pod of dolphin or manatees as you traverse the nature trails through oak-palms, pines and mangroves. Be sure to bring your snorkeling and fishing gear to this paradise off the beaten path. The Bay House... The Bay House serves up shellfish towers, cold water lobster and a heaping selection of mouthwatering seafood in upscale digs with floor-to-ceiling views of the Cochatchee River. Check out the live entertainment schedule for a night out at the adjoining Claw Bar, where you can boogie after having your fill of fresh shellfish dishes.