A Local’s Guide to What’s New on Florida’s Paradise Coast Near Naples

While the events of last summer were challenging for Southwest Florida, the greater Naples area has rebounded with fury. From stunningly beautiful natural landscapes to its world-class shopping and dining, residents within this coveted section of Florida’s Paradise Coast enjoy a warm and relaxed seaside lifestyle filled with refined comforts. Consistently ranked as one of Florida’s best places to live, Naples’ popularity has led to the continuous growth of entertainment opportunities throughout the region. Here’s a local’s guide to the newest hotspots waiting to be discovered.

Best New Naples Restaurants

As a mecca for foodies from around the world, the greater Naples area and Southwest Florida enjoy new restaurants joining the culinary scene daily. In Downtown Naples, Fifth Avenue South has seen the addition of numerous restaurants, including Del Mar Naples’ Mediterranean-inspired coastal cuisines, and Ichi Togarashi’s authentic Thai flavors. Fuji Sushi Bar & Asian Bistro opened its second location in The Pointe at Founders Square. In Bonita Springs, The Bohemian embraces a melting pot of global cuisines, with locally sourced ingredients and a hardwood oak grill providing a depth of flavors.

Favored State Parks Reopen

After four months of closing for rehabilitation, one of Naples’ premier beachfront accesses reopened to the public in February. Lowdermilk Park is renowned for its powder-soft white sand, refreshing Gulf of Mexico waters, and warm coastal breezes. Just a short stroll away, Sanibel and Captiva Islands provide even more options for gathering seashells, surfing, snorkeling, and relishing in the area’s breathtaking sunsets. The greater Naples area is also known for its lush nature preserves popular for hiking, biking, and birdwatching adventures. The Rookery Bay Preserve is a favored choice, where visitors can explore over 110,000 acres of pristine mangrove forest and protected waters, or visit the two-story, hands-on Environmental Learning Center. In January, Rookery Bay also announced the addition of a Farmer’s Market every Sunday morning, providing local goods, arts and crafts, and live music from more than three dozen vendors.

Naples Botanical Gardens

Only closed for a month for restoration, the Naples Botanical Garden reopened in November to rave reviews. This 170-acre garden features cultivated gardens reflecting the plants and cultures of Florida, Brazil, Asia, and the Caribbean. More than 60,000 square feet of water features throughout the grounds are filled with hundreds of species of waterlilies, with lotus and papyrus as well. The Naples Botanical Garden also features a 90-acre preserve, where hundreds of animal species and more than 250 native plant species thrive.

New Luxury Residential Opportunities Unveiled

With a premier location near Bonita Springs just north of Naples, The Island at West Bay is the final neighborhood to be developed within the master-planned gated community of West Bay. This 24-story tower will feature 86 luxurious 3- to 4-bedroom residences, each indulging in spectacular views of the Gulf of Mexico, and exquisite designer touches.

The Island’s wide array of signature amenities will create inviting social spaces and provide services that elevate everyday experiences into meaningful moments. A dramatic porte-cochere entrance and exemplary on-site staff ensure a memorable arrival experience. Atop The Island’s 24th floor, the Rooftop Amenity Deck creates a breathtaking backdrop for morning yoga in the shaded Fitness & Yoga space, refreshing dips in the adult Relaxation Pool, and sunset celebrations overlooking the expansive Gulf of Mexico vistas. The ground-level amenities include a Resident Club Room, a heated lap pool, a state-of-the-art Fitness Center, private guest suites, refrigerated storage for deliveries, a Kid’s Club Room, and an indoor golf simulator.

Golf Memberships and Beach Club Amenities Are Hard to Find

Future residents of The Island are in luck. Not only will they enjoy their own private sanctuary, but they will also appreciate the championship golf and active lifestyle of the West Bay community. A state-of-the-art fitness center, resort-style pool, and al fresco dining can be found at The Bay House, a luxurious multipurpose activity center. The Sports Complex, complete with eight tennis courts and six pickleball courts, is a great place for pick-up games with fellow West Bay members. The private Beach Club offers direct access to the Gulf of Mexico’s powder-soft sand beaches and is currently being expanded to include an exceptional oceanfront dining venue. Golf Members can also enjoy West Bay Club’s championship golf course, designed by luminaries Pete and P.B. Dye to challenge both beginners and avid golfers alike.These memberships are expected to go quickly.

With a prime location and an unmatched set of amenities, The Island at West Bay provides world-class living within the comforts of a close-knit community. For more information on this exciting new residential offering, please contact (239) 399-5009 or visit IslandWestBay.com to schedule a private appointment with the sales team.