Naples Florida
The city of Naples is situated along Southwest Florida’s beautiful Gulf coast, just north of Marco Island and the Everglades. Now considered to be the “crown jewel” of the region and one of the most desirable locations in the United States, Naples was founded in the late 1800’s by Confederate General John Stuart Williams and Louisville businessman Walter N. Haldeman. The two men advertised the area in magazines and newspaper stories as a resort destination, boasting the region’s lush landscape and gorgeous ocean scenery. The city’s first developers were inspired by its bay, because its beauty likened to that of Naples, Italy, and thus they named the city Naples. Naples grew in popularity as a winter resort throughout the first decades of the 20th century, and the Naples Hotel was the social hub, hosting celebrities and intellectuals such as Rose Cleveland, Thomas Edison, Harvey Firestone, Greta Garbo, Hedy Lamarr, and Gary Cooper. When millionaire streetcar advertiser Barron Collier fell in love with the area and purchased over a million acres of land, including most of Naples, he saw a vision of a booming community. He invested a fortune in the development of the land, and in the construction of a railroad extension and the Tamiami Trail, which opened in 1926 as a paved highway linking Tampa and Miami. With these improvements, Naples began to attract multitudes of year-round residents in addition to its high-profile resort clientele. Today Naples is home to approximately 22,000 people, and the area continues to attract both the rich and famous, as well as the average Joe both young and old. Residents of Naples enjoy an exciting array of world-class entertainment to peak every interest. Shopping has never been more rewarding than at Naples’ Village on Venetian Bay, which includes an eclectic variety of unique shops and boutiques set along beautiful walkways with scenic waterfront views. Another local gem is Naples’ Fifth Avenue South, which contains upscale designer boutiques, delectable restaurants, and is home to the Naples Players at the Sugden Community Theater, who host year-round performances, as well as street shows, sidewalk sales, and other events. Naples is home to over 130 art galleries, as well as the Naples Philharmonic Orchestra, which has accompanied such greats as Luciano Pavarotti and Andrea Bocelli. Those who love to bask and play in the sun love Naples for its over 10 miles of award-winning, sugary white sand beaches and clear blue-green waters that beckon you to jump right in. All water and beach activities you can think of are enjoyed here, including boating of all kinds, saltwater fishing, water skiing, surfing, scuba diving, beach volleyball, seashell searching, or just plain lounging. Farther inland, Naples maintains lush green parks and recreation areas, including more than 80 championship golf courses. From pedestrian and bike friendly paths to tennis courts and baseball fields, Naples is a literal playground for people of all ages. From shopping, dining, and theater to fun in the sun, living in Naples, FL has never been better. For those who are interested in relocating to Naples, the real estate market is brimming with opportunities. In many ways, Naples is not just a place to live, it’s a lifestyle; Naples has a variety of tight-knit communities that cater to your passions, from boating and beachcombing to golf. One of Naples’ most desirable and exclusive communities is Port Royal, which is bordered by the Gulf of Mexico to the west, Naples Bay to the east, and Gordon Pass and Key Island to the south. Most homes in Port Royal are waterfront, having direct boating access to waterways that lead to the Gulf, and residents of Port Royal can apply to the prestigious Port Royal Beach Club. For more affordable waterfront living, the community of Aqualane Shores offers single family homes in a variety of styles and ages, all located on narrow canals, coves, or Naples Bay. Homes in Aqualane Shores tend to be older, but many homebuyers have found it profitable to either renovate the older homes, or tear them down and build anew since Aqualane lots are increasingly high in value. More up-close and personal waterfront living can be had at any one of Naples’ condominium towers that are situated right on the Gulf. These communities offer luxury at its finest, with high-class amenities and ownership perks. Gulf condominiums in Naples come in a variety of prices and sizes. Some of the most beautiful views of the ocean can be seen from the stylish high-rise condominiums in Pelican Bay beachfront. The residents of these condominiums can take full advantage of Pelican Bay’s commercial centers, cultural attractions, and recreational facilities that make the master planned community feel like a city on its own. These are just a few examples of the many communities you have to choose from when looking for real estate in Naples. The city has so much to offer its residents—gorgeous natural scenery, world-class recreation, and prime real estate opportunities—that it is no wonder why people of all ages are flocking here from all over the world. Come and see what everyone is raving about; with a wide selection of expert realtors waiting to help you, it is easier than ever to find your next dream home in Naples, FL.
