About Naples, FL

History of Naples, FL

Naples was founded by Kentucky Sen. John Stuart Williams and publisher of the Louisville Courier-Journal Walter N. Haldeman in 1886. The two were sailing along the Florida coast looking for land to develop when they came across miles of beach and a pristine bay just behind it, the future home of Naples.

In the autumn of that same year, the Naples Town Improvement Company was founded with the intent of developing the region into a winter retreat. It purchased 3,712 acres of land at $3 per acre for a total cost of $11,136.

Over the next few years, Williams and Haldeman both built homes on their newly acquired land, commissioned a firm from Fort Myers to construct a new pier, and employed survey teams to begin planning out the city. In 1889, the first hotel in Naples opened. It featured 16 rooms and was located only two blocks from the newly erected pier.

The numerous construction projects undertaken left the Naples Town Improvement Company in a dire financial situation, however. The company was eventually sold off at a public auction on Jan. 10, 1890, and the sole bidder was Haldeman. He purchased the company and its assets, including 8,600 acres of land, the pier, the hotel, and a steamship, for a total of $50,000.

A few years later, in the early 1900s, a land developer from St. Petersburg named Ed Crayton came to Naples. There, he met, fell in love with, and married Haldeman's son's secretary. During this same time, Crayton also purchased all of the property Haldeman owned except his home. Crayton set about further developing the area by introducing electricity to the area in 1926, a rail system in 1927, and many other improvements over the following years until his death in 1938.

In 1943, with World War II underway, Naples saw a population boost when a new U.S. Army Air Field was opened to train military members. Hundreds of trainees poured into Naples, and many returned after the war to make Naples their new home.

Location of Naples, FL

Naples is located in the southwest region of Florida, with Fort Myers to the north and Miami to the east. It's situated right on the coast of the Gulf of Mexico and features miles of warm and welcoming beaches. The city spans an area of 16.4 square miles, 4.1 square miles of which is water.

Naples, FL, Weather

Naples exists within a tropical savanna climate, which makes its viable growing season last the entire 365 days of the year. Like other tropical climate areas, Naples experiences both a wet season with frequent rains and a dry season. The wet season lasts from June through September, and the dry season is from October through May.

The temperature in Naples, FL, fluctuates throughout the year. In summer months, the temperature has an average high of about 85°F and an average low of 69°F. Winter months, on the other hand, see an average high of 61°F and an average low of 43°F.

Attractions in Naples, FL

There's no shortage of fun activities and things to do in Naples, FL. Visitors and residents alike can spend a sunny day at one of the numerous beaches in the area, like the one by Naples Pier. Those who aren't fans of sand but still enjoy the outdoors can also head over to Naples Botanical Garden for a lovely stroll through a wide variety of exotic flora or go to the Naples Zoo, home to several animal species.

Naples is also home to the famed Revs Institute, a car museum and educational institution where visitors can observe automobiles from all throughout history.

And of course, no collection of attractions in Naples, FL, would be complete without Third Street South. Located in the historic heart of Naples, Third Street South is home to several local shops, restaurants, and courtyards.

• Naples Botanical Garden
• Naples Pier
• Revs Institute
• Naples Zoo
• Third Street South

Where to Eat in Naples, FL

Those searching for food in Naples, FL, might have a tough time choosing from the extensive selection of eateries available. Whether you're looking for a restaurant or bar in Naples, FL, you can rest assured that you'll find an establishment suited to your taste.

Among the best restaurants in Naples, FL, is The French Brasserie Rustique, also simply known as The French. The Parisian-style cuisine available at this bistro is delicious and perfect for both a late dinner or Sunday afternoon brunch.

Naples is also home to BALEEN. It's situated at La Playa Beach & Golf Resort and serves up an elegant fine dining experience right by the water.

Another restaurant located right on the water is M Waterfront Grille. M Waterfront Grille is known for its continental fare, including steaks and seafood, as well as its welcoming outdoor seating.

If you're in the mood for something spicier, be sure to visit 21 Spices by Chef Asif, where you can find an amazing selection of contemporary Indian dishes.

There's also Osteria Tulia for Italian food-lovers. Its rustic Italian cuisine pairs perfectly with the restored Italian farmhouse setting, and it boasts a large selection of wines and homemade dishes.

• The French Brasserie Rustique
• BALEEN
• M Waterfront Grille
• 21 Spices by Chef Asif
• Osteria Tulia

Where to Stay in Naples, FL

Whether you're looking for a boutique inn or lavish resort, there are plenty of hotels in Naples, FL, to choose from. The hotels near Naples, FL, include several luxurious resorts, like the Naples Grande, the Vanderbilt Beach Resort, and the Naples Bay Resort and Marina, all of which include on-site dining, beach access, private pools, tennis courts, and more. There's also the Inn on Fifth and the Inn at Pelican Bay, which both provide amazing service and amenities. The Inn at Pelican Bay offers a heated outdoor pool, hot tub, and fitness center. The Inn on Fifth is located right in the center of Naples and includes club-level suites, a spa and wellness center, and multiple on-site dining options.

• Naples Grande
• Vanderbilt Beach Resort
• Inn on Fifth
• Naples Bay Resort and Marina
• Inn at Pelican Bay

Dental Care Services in Naples, FL

If you're in need of a pediatric dentist in Naples, make sure to contact the team at Main Street Children's Dentistry and Orthodontics. We offer a wide range of dental and orthodontic services, including exams and teeth cleanings, fillings, crowns, and braces. We're also available for emergency services when urgent issues arise. Give us a call and your child is sure to leave our office smiling!