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The restaurant scene in Naples is quite diverse, from flip flops, right on the beach casual, to fine dining with your toes in the sand. What’s unique about Naples is that many of the restaurants are locally owned, and 40 of those owners have organized to create Naples Originals. And many restaurants in the area feature locally-sourced ingredients, as well as fresh seafood from the Gulf of Mexico.

Several of the most popular restaurants in Naples are found in The Village on Venetian Bay, where all of the restaurants overlook the tranquil bay, and in downtown Naples along Fifth Avenue South and Third Street South.

No vacation would be complete without a proper food experience. Here’s our list for the five best in Naples:

1. Steak at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples. For a quintessential steak dinner, try the Grill at the Ritz-Carlton, Naples. The live piano music and working fireplace set just the right mood to linger over dinner, immersed in conversation with the company you keep.

2. Sale e Pepe. If you’re craving an Italian feast, try Sale e Pepe. The dining room features aged stone, marble floors and hand-painted frescoes, in addition to its sweeping view of the Gulf of Mexico. You’ll discover a Piemontese-oriented menu — a northern Italian cuisine with French influences — topped off with signature dishes from many of Italy’s distinctive regions.

3. Sea Salt. Gather eight or nine of your friends and reserve the Chef’s Table at Sea Salt. When you do, you’ll dine on a special menu created just for you, paired with the perfect wines selected by the sommelier. The restaurant is inspired by its location near the water, so expect to find plenty of seafood and its accompaniments.

4. Café Lurcat. Sophisticated American comfort food is on the menu at Café Lurcat, all created with fresh, seasonal, artisanal ingredients. Choose from dishes such as pappardelle with braised veal, shell peas and summer squash or seared Ahi with lemon confit and ponzu.

5. Stone crab claws. Stone crab claws are a delicacy, and are only available in season, October 15 through May 15. Many local restaurants offer the crab claws, which are delicious when served simply with drawn butter. Try Pincher’s Crab Shack.

Starting your day off in style is important, and there’s no better way than brunch. These Naples restaurants will have you ready, fork in hand with some of your brunch favorites:

1. The Ritz-Carlton, Naples. Lucky for you, brunch is offered every day of the week at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples. The extensive breakfast buffet has all the usual suspects — an omelet station, waffle bar, eggs prepared a number of ways, bagels and lox, breakfast meats, and fresh fruits and pastries.

2. M Waterfront Grill. Make your way to Venetian Bay and M Waterfront Grill — between 10:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Sundays — for creative brunch entrees made with fresh, organic ingredients. Try one of the restaurant’s classic dishes such as the signature organic vegetable omelet, made with aged cheddar cheese and green onions and topped with a four-cheese fondue.

3. The Dock at Crayton Cove. The Bloody Mary bar is one of the highlights at brunch at the Dock at Crayton Cove. Concoct your own creation using a selection of juices, flavorings and condiments. You are the mixologist here.

4. Naples Tomato. If you like to be in control, try the create-your-own pasta station during lunch at Naples Tomato. Of course, there’re also traditional breakfast favorites, including mouthwatering red velvet pancakes.

5. Le Lafayette. The brunch buffet (served November through May) features a French flair at Le Lafayette in the Third Street South neighborhood in downtown Naples. For $37, the menu changes every week but you can expect to be able to create your own omelet and choose from fresh seafood and delectable French pastries.

If you’re visiting Naples in March, you can certainly pay a visit to nearby Fort Myers for some spring training baseball games. If you plan ahead, you can catch the Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins before the real season starts. If the NFL or NHL is more your speed, a quick two-hour drive across the state will have you ready for a Miami Dolphins or Florida Panthers game, respectively.

Of course, if you’d rather sit back with a pint and watch the game on TV, there are plenty of bars in the area where you can cheer on your favorite team.

Romance is where you find it, and that can be nearly any restaurant in Naples. However, if you’re looking for tried and true romantic jaunts, be sure to make reservations at any of these five places, many of which overlook the Gulf of Mexico:

1. The Turtle Club. Bury your toes in the sand and watch the sun set over the Gulf from your fine dining, on-the-beach table at the Turtle Club on Vanderbilt Beach. Or, if you’re done with the sand for the day, reserve an indoor table, which still boasts a remarkable view of the beach.

2. Gumbo Limo. Another perfect beach spot is Gumbo Limo at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples. The casual, laid-back atmosphere is just what you need for a perfect, relaxing evening.

3. H.B.’s on the Gulf. This restaurant at the Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club overlooks Naples Beach; grab an outdoor table and watch the sun set, and wait for the stars to begin to shine overhead.

4. Baleen. Another place to try if you’re looking for a Gulf view is Baleen. Seafood entrees are served indoors and out, and the laid-back style will remind you why you’re in Florida.

5. Truluck’s Seafood, Steak & Crab House. For a restaurant away from the beach, try Truluck’s Seafood, Steak & Crab House on Fifth Avenue South. Music from the piano bar quietly wafts over you while you enjoy a glass of wine and fresh seafood.

When it’s time to head out to dinner and you’ve got the kids in tow, there are several restaurants in Naples that will meet all your needs� kid-friendly and food that will please everyone’s taste buds.

1. Trail Café & Grill. Come breakfast, it’s time to make a trip to the Trail Café & Grill for some Southern comfort food. The munchkins can order everything from chocolate chip or razzleberry pancakes to peach croissant French toast and egg breakfast sandwiches.

2. Pincher’s Crab Shack. For a laid back, casual lunch or dinner, head to Pincher’s Crab Shack on Fifth Avenue South. The menu is filled with fresh fish and crab entrees and a raw bar, as well as kid favorites such as chicken fingers and hamburgers.

3.Porky’s Last Stand. This place does barbeque right, and your little ones can get in on the finger lickin’ good food too, where the baby back ribs from the kids’ menu are a sure favorite.

4. Oyster House. After a day in the Everglades, stop by the Oyster House. Adventurous young diners may taste the gator bites or frog’s legs, while those who like what they like will probably stick to the chicken fingers and other traditional kids’ menu items.

5.Il Primo Pizza & Wings. Of course, there’s always pizza, and you can’t go wrong at Il Primo Pizza & Wings. Pizzas are available in mini sizes, perfect for those with smaller appetites.

When you’re planning your visit to Naples, there are plenty of hotels to choose from; it just depends on if you’re looking for — a resort, boutique hotel, or bed and breakfast.

Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star, The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, sits right on the Gulf of Mexico and boasts its own private beach complete with cabanas to enjoy, not to mention its onsite pools and luxurious amenities. In addition to the pool and beach, kids will love the high-tech entertainment lounge, which hosts Wii bowling tournaments. All but 11 of the 450 rooms in this resort have private balconies, so you can experience the sunset first hand from your own guest room.

Edgewater Beach Hotel, a Four-Star Waldorf Astoria Hotel, also sits on its private beach on the Gulf of Mexico. This contemporary beachfront hotel offers suites with a crisp, clean design and plenty of amenities, such as flat-screen TVs in the bedroom and living room; a kitchen with a refrigerator, toaster and microwave; and a sleeper sofa.

If you wish to stay in the middle of the downtown action, make reservations at the Three-Star, Inn on Fifth. Formerly a bank built in the 1950s, this elegant inn is done up in Mediterranean décor and features marble flooring, elaborate chandeliers and wrought-iron balconies. Situated in the heart of downtown Naples, this hotel is surrounded by boutiques and restaurants.

If you’re looking for live music during your visit to Naples, you’re in luck — you may just have to work a bit to find it. Pianists tickle the ivories nightly at a new piano bar inside Seasons 52 at the Mercato Center; or try Vergina’s off of Fifth Avenue South in downtown Naples, Little Bar in Goodland on Marco Island, or South Street City Oven (open mic night anyone?).

Each Thursday from November through May, and the third Thursday from June through October, music ranging from jazz to rock to folk to steel band floats through the air in the courtyards and plazas of Third Street South in downtown Naples.

When the sun sets, nightlife in Naples comes alive. The Mercato Center in North Naples is the hotbed of nightlife, with Burn by Rocky Patel, a signature cigar and fine spirits bar; PURE Urban Oasis, a local spot with fun cocktail concoctions and a small plate menu; or you can sit under the stars at The Pub and order your pint from a server in a kilt.

If you’d rather head to downtown Naples to check out the scene, you won’t be disappointed. A must-stop on Fifth Avenue South, around Sugden Plaza, is Yabba Island Grill and its “late night” island parties on Friday and Saturday nights. For something more comfy and lounge-like, take a seat at Café & Bar Lucrat.

A great way to explore the culture of any area is to visit its museums, and Naples is no exception.

The Naples Museum of Art is open seasonally (October through June), and boasts 30,000-square-feet of space spread over three stories and encompasses 15 galleries, and features a glass-dome conservatory. The entrance gates are by metal artist Albert Paley; look up once inside and you’ll find chandeliers by glass artist Dale Chihuly. Inside the galleries you’ll find world-class paintings, sculpture, drawings and other works of art.

Gallery Row, a part of Third Street South in Old Naples, flaunts more galleries than any other place in Southwest Florida, and is a go-to spot for collectors. From contemporary to modern to regional works of art, you’re sure to find something to adorn your walls at home.

The Holocaust Museum of Southwest Florida has a unique history. While it started as a middle school classroom exhibit created by students and teachers studying the Holocaust, the space eventually flourished into a museum with more than 1,000 World War II and Holocaust artifacts, many of which were donated or permanently loaned by local survivors and liberators.

If you’re thinking about planning a trip to Naples, you can be assured that it’s the right time to visit — whenever it is you’re thinking. When winter wears out its welcome up north, the warmer weather and sunnier Florida skies beckon. And if you call Florida home, summertime is the right time to plan your stay.

That being said, Naples does get hot during the summer — it’s Florida, after all — and the humidity is at a premium. If you wilt in the heat, summertime may not be the optimum time to plan your visit.

Of course, Florida also tends to be a hotspot for Spring Breakers, so be prepared for some crowds (and rowdy college students) if you visit during March.

If you have one day to spend in Naples, you may just want to stay on the beach and soak up the sun’s rays. But if you’re not keen on lounging by the pool and instead want to explore the area, you can get a good feel for all that Naples has to offer in one day’s time.

To start, tour downtown and Old Naples, either with the Naples Historical Society, or hop a Segway and go the two-wheeled route. Either way, you’ll get a good feel for Old Naples, as well as learn some things along the way — other than where the best shopping is!

After your tour, take time to walk along Fifth Avenue South and window shop the boutiques and galleries filled with one-of-a-kind items. You might even stop by a sidewalk café for lunch or a cup of coffee to tide you over ’til dinner.

When it’s time for the sun to set, head to the beach — any beach, really — and join the tradition of toasting another day as the sun melts into the Gulf. After all, you’ve just spent a day on the Paradise Coast.

When packing your bags for your trip to Naples — as with most tropical vacations — don’t overdo it. Stop. Take a breath. Relax. Sunny weather doesn’t require your entire wardrobe.

If you’re visiting in the summer, throw in a few pairs of your favorite shorts and tank tops, in addition to your walking shoes and sandals. You’ll also want to bring a few resort casual outfits for dinners out; bring a light sweater, too — restaurants tend to keep the air conditioning cranked to beat the heat, and those who chill easily will feel it. An umbrella is a good idea, as well; summer storms pop up in the afternoon and can put a damper on sightseeing if you get caught without covering.

In the spring and fall/winter, long pants and capris will get you through the day, and a light sweater or jacket will keep you warm during the cool evenings. As always, it’s always smart to check the weather just prior to your trip.

Of course, sunscreen is a given. The bright Florida sun can get you any time of year!

If you have two days to spend in Naples, there’s plenty to do to fill your time (and no, it’s not just lounging poolside).

To start day one, tour downtown and Old Naples, either with the Naples Historical Society, or hop a Segway and go the two-wheeled route. Either way, you’ll get a good feel for Old Naples, as well as learn some things along the way.

After your tour, spend some time along Fifth Avenue South and peruse the windows of the various boutiques and galleries, filled with original finds. If you feel the hunger pangs approaching or need a caffeine fix, you might even stop into a sidewalk café for lunch or a cup of coffee.

When it’s time for the sun to set, head to the beach and join in the tradition of toasting another day as the sun melts into the Gulf. There’s no better way to end a day spend on the Paradise Coast.

For day two in Naples, get up bright and early and head south towards the Everglades. A visit to Big Cypress National Park — the Everglades’ northern neighbor — is the perfect introduction to Mother Nature, Florida-style. Here you can canoe, kayak, hike, or go on a ranger-led program such as a hike, canoe trip, or boardwalk stroll.

After lunch on your way back to Naples — and after you’ve had a chance to freshen up a bit — visit the Naples Museum of Art (open seasonally October through June). The museum’s 30,000 square feet spread over three stories and encompasses 15 galleries as well as a glass-dome conservatory. The entrance gates are by metal artist Albert Paley, and be sure to look up once inside to discover chandeliers by glass artist Dale Chihuly. Inside the galleries you’ll find world-class paintings, sculpture, drawings and other works of art.

Once again, when it’s time for the sun to set, make your way over to the beach to watch it slip into the Gulf. You may even decide to dine overlooking the Gulf, and the sunset provides the perfect backdrop to your evening.

One of the quieter destinations in Florida, you’ll certainly find plenty of romantic ways to spend your time in Naples. Here are the five best things to do to spark some love:

1. Watch the sunset. Watching the sun set is romantic wherever you are. But watching the sun set over the Gulf of Mexico is particularly beautiful. Make an evening of it — pack a picnic, spread a blanket and take on the naturally beautiful tradition, topped off with a star-studded sky.

2. Take a catamaran cruise. Another way to watch the sun set, or to spend the day under the sun, is on a catamaran cruise. Sails billow overhead as you sip a cocktail and let the wind flow through your hair, while the boat glides over the water.

3. Visit the Naples Botanical Garden. Sure, giving your loved one a dozen roses is romantic; what if you could give her an entire garden? Well, you can essentially do that with a visit to the Naples Botanical Garden. Each of the seven gardens features distinct flora, all of which are beautiful and inspiring.

4. Get pampered at the spa. Gently melt the cares of the world away during a couples massage at The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Naples. Make your appointments so that the two of you can relax together, and then spend some time at the exclusive mineral pool on the Spa Terrace, just for spa guests. The 104 different minerals in the pool will envelop you.

5. Shop for some sparkle. Window shopping on Fifth Avenue South can be quite romantic, especially when you stop into a boutique and pick out just the right piece of jewelry, followed by dinner at one of the intimate cafés.

Though Naples sits on the Gulf of Mexico and is laid back by definition, you’ll find quite a cultural scene during your visit, from art and history museums peppered throughout the area to boutiques and galleries filled with unique trinkets and treasures.

The Naples Museum of Art, open seasonally (October through June), consists of 30,000-square-feet, which is spread over three stories, with 15 galleries and a glass-dome conservatory. The entrance gates are by metal artist Albert Paley; look up once inside and you’ll find chandeliers by glass artist Dale Chihuly. Inside the galleries you’ll find world-class paintings, sculpture, drawings and other works of art.

The Holocaust Museum of Southwest Florida has a unique beginning — it started as a middle school classroom exhibit created by students and teachers studying the Holocaust, and has flourished into a museum with more than 1,000 World War II and Holocaust artifacts, many of which were donated or permanently loaned by local survivors and liberators.

Gallery Row, a part of Third Street South in Old Naples, boasts more galleries than any place else in Southwest Florida, and is a go-to spot for collectors. From contemporary to modern to regional works of art, you’re sure to find something to adorn your walls at home.

Taking a vacation doesn’t always have to come with a price. If your wallet is starting to feel the pinch, there are plenty of free things to do in Naples. Here’s our list of the five best free things:

1. Explore the beach. One of Naples’ premier attractions is its miles of beaches. Throw down a towel or pull up a lounge chair and soak in the rays, or choose to explore the underwater world in the incredibly clear water.

2. Visit the Collier County Museum. A visit to the Collier County Museum will open your eyes to the history of the immediate area, including exhibits on Calusa Indians, Seminole warriors and Spanish explorers. On the museum’s grounds you’ll also find native Florida gardens, a working archaeology lab, a Seminole village and war fort, a tropical orchid house and wildlife displays.

3. See Big Cypress National Park. If you want to get out and explore nature, head a little ways south of Naples to Big Cypress National Park, the Everglades’ northern neighbor. Here you can canoe, kayak, hike, or go on a ranger-led program such as a hike, canoe trip, boardwalk stroll, or evening program.

4. Head over to Naples City Pier. For more than 100 years, visitors to the Naples area have made stops at the Naples City Pier for gorgeous views of the Gulf of Mexico and fishing without a license. This is the perfect place for a different perspective of Naples.

5. Check out the art. If you’re visiting Naples in March, be sure to check out the 260 local, regional and national artists who gather at the Downtown Naples Festival of the Arts, held on Fifth Avenue South. Admission is free, as are parking and shuttles to the festival.

During your stay in sunny Naples, it seems as if the possibilities for activities could be endless. Luckily, we’ve come up with a list of the five best things to see and do in Naples:

1. Go to the beach. Located on the west coast of Florida, one of the best things you’ll find in the area is the Gulf of Mexico beaches. Throw down a towel or pull up a lounge chair and soak in the rays, taking the occasional dip in the warm waters of the Gulf.

2. Take the trolley. If you’ve had your fill of fun in the sun and want to explore a bit more, hop aboard the open-air Naples Trolley and follow its route. When fancy strikes — say you happen upon a street filled with inviting boutiques — you can hop off, then hop back on to complete the outing.

3. Shop the boutiques. Perhaps you’ll take the trolley to downtown Naples, where you can window shop along Fifth Avenue South. Most of the boutiques are independent, but you’ll find fun shops here such as Fresh Produce, where you’ll find beachy sportswear for men, women and kids. Or, stop into Peach Tree Designs and get inspired to make a change in your home.

4. Naples Museum of Art. If you’re looking for something a bit more cultural, the Naples Museum of Art is open seasonally (October through June), and its 30,000 square feet is spread over three stories encompasses 15 galleries and a glass-dome conservatory. The entrance gates are by metal artist Albert Paley; look up once inside and you’ll find chandeliers by glass artist Dale Chihuly. Inside the galleries you’ll spot world-class paintings, sculpture, drawings and other works of art.

5. Visit the Everglades. Of course, the Everglades aren’t too far away, and an airboat ride is the best way to explore the storied swamplands. Stay on the water and grab a cooler to watch the sun set aboard a catamaran cruise.

No vacation would be complete without a bit of retail therapy, and fortunately for you, shopping is certainly a must-do in Naples.

Make your way to downtown Naples and window shop along Fifth Avenue South. Most of the boutiques are independent, but you’ll find fun shops such as Fresh Produce here. Or, stop into Peach Tree Designs, a chic home décor destination where you’ll discover everything from distressed wood frames to unique table lamps and coffee table books.

Third Street South, off of Fifth Avenue South, houses some more recognizable names such as Eileen Fisher and Tommy Bahama. Stop by the Beach House of Naples for a new swimsuit, or some fun accessories from your favorite designers.

A unique, almost Venetian, shopping experience can be found at the Village on Venetian Bay. Unique gift shops, one-of-a-kind accessories and kids’ apparel and resort-wear can all be found here.

If you’re looking for Nordstrom or Saks Fifth Avenue, you’ll want to visit Waterside Shops. Browse the racks at Ann Taylor and Ann Taylor Loft, Brooks Brothers, Anthropologie, J. Crew, Talbots, Banana Republic and more.

Of course, there’s always outlet shopping at Miromar Outlets, just north on I-75.With all the possibilities, the only question you’ll ask is, “Do you have this in my size?”?

Florida provides the perfect spot for family-filled vacations, and Naples is no exception. Here’s our list of the five best things to do with your youngest companions:

1. Hit the beach. Located on the west coast of Florida, one of the best things you’ll find in the area to do with kids is hit the beaches of the Gulf of Mexico. Throw down a towel or pull up a lounge chair and soak in the rays, or don a mask and snorkel to explore the underwater world —the water is ultra-clear!

2. Visit the Naples Zoo. If you’ve had your fill of fun in the sun, why not hit the Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens, a zoo and historic garden in one. If your timing is right, try and take the Night Vision After Hours tour.

3. Check out the Shy Wolf Sanctuary. Walk on the wildlife side and visit the Shy Wolf Sanctuary for a truly unique opportunity to get up-close-and-personal and learn about wolves, wolfdogs, big cats, foxes, and prairie dogs, all in their natural habitats.

4. Explore Sun-N-Fun Lagoon. Make a splash in the one million gallons of water-filled fun at Sun-N-Fun Lagoon. Your kids can speed down any and all of the five water slides or in the interactive water feature while you make your way down the lazy river, and the entire family will enjoy any of the park’s four pools.

5. Visit the Children’s Museum of Naples. Be one of the first to visit the C’mon! Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples when it opens in February 2012. Naples’ first museum designed especially for kids, the museum will feature 13 exhibits that encourage families to play and learn together, regardless of physical or learning abilities.

No vacation would be complete without a proper food experience. Here’s our list for the five best in Naples:

1. Steak at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples. For a quintessential steak dinner, try the Grill at the Ritz-Carlton, Naples. The live piano music and working fireplace set just the right mood to linger over dinner, immersed in conversation with the company you keep.

2. Sale e Pepe. If you’re craving an Italian feast, try Sale e Pepe. The dining room features aged stone, marble floors and hand-painted frescoes, in addition to its sweeping view of the Gulf of Mexico. You’ll discover a Piemontese-oriented menu — a northern Italian cuisine with French influences — topped off with signature dishes from many of Italy’s distinctive regions.

3. Sea Salt. Gather eight or nine of your friends and reserve the Chef’s Table at Sea Salt. When you do, you’ll dine on a special menu created just for you, paired with the perfect wines selected by the sommelier. The restaurant is inspired by its location near the water, so expect to find plenty of seafood and its accompaniments.

4. Café Lurcat. Sophisticated American comfort food is on the menu at Café Lurcat, all created with fresh, seasonal, artisanal ingredients. Choose from dishes such as pappardelle with braised veal, shell peas and summer squash or seared Ahi with lemon confit and ponzu.

5. Stone crab claws. Stone crab claws are a delicacy, and are only available in season, October 15 through May 15. Many local restaurants offer the crab claws, which are delicious when served simply with drawn butter. Try Pincher’s Crab Shack.

The restaurant scene in Naples is quite diverse, from flip flops, right on the beach casual, to fine dining with your toes in the sand. What’s unique about Naples is that many of the restaurants are locally owned, and 40 of those owners have organized to create Naples Originals. And many restaurants in the area feature locally-sourced ingredients, as well as fresh seafood from the Gulf of Mexico.

Several of the most popular restaurants in Naples are found in The Village on Venetian Bay, where all of the restaurants overlook the tranquil bay, and in downtown Naples along Fifth Avenue South and Third Street South.

Starting your day off in style is important, and there’s no better way than brunch. These Naples restaurants will have you ready, fork in hand with some of your brunch favorites:

1. The Ritz-Carlton, Naples. Lucky for you, brunch is offered every day of the week at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples. The extensive breakfast buffet has all the usual suspects — an omelet station, waffle bar, eggs prepared a number of ways, bagels and lox, breakfast meats, and fresh fruits and pastries.

2. M Waterfront Grill. Make your way to Venetian Bay and M Waterfront Grill — between 10:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Sundays — for creative brunch entrees made with fresh, organic ingredients. Try one of the restaurant’s classic dishes such as the signature organic vegetable omelet, made with aged cheddar cheese and green onions and topped with a four-cheese fondue.

3. The Dock at Crayton Cove. The Bloody Mary bar is one of the highlights at brunch at the Dock at Crayton Cove. Concoct your own creation using a selection of juices, flavorings and condiments. You are the mixologist here.

4. Naples Tomato. If you like to be in control, try the create-your-own pasta station during lunch at Naples Tomato. Of course, there’re also traditional breakfast favorites, including mouthwatering red velvet pancakes.

5. Le Lafayette. The brunch buffet (served November through May) features a French flair at Le Lafayette in the Third Street South neighborhood in downtown Naples. For $37, the menu changes every week but you can expect to be able to create your own omelet and choose from fresh seafood and delectable French pastries.

When it’s time to head out to dinner and you’ve got the kids in tow, there are several restaurants in Naples that will meet all your needs� kid-friendly and food that will please everyone’s taste buds.

1. Trail Café & Grill. Come breakfast, it’s time to make a trip to the Trail Café & Grill for some Southern comfort food. The munchkins can order everything from chocolate chip or razzleberry pancakes to peach croissant French toast and egg breakfast sandwiches.

2. Pincher’s Crab Shack. For a laid back, casual lunch or dinner, head to Pincher’s Crab Shack on Fifth Avenue South. The menu is filled with fresh fish and crab entrees and a raw bar, as well as kid favorites such as chicken fingers and hamburgers.

3.Porky’s Last Stand. This place does barbeque right, and your little ones can get in on the finger lickin’ good food too, where the baby back ribs from the kids’ menu are a sure favorite.

4. Oyster House. After a day in the Everglades, stop by the Oyster House. Adventurous young diners may taste the gator bites or frog’s legs, while those who like what they like will probably stick to the chicken fingers and other traditional kids’ menu items.

5.Il Primo Pizza & Wings. Of course, there’s always pizza, and you can’t go wrong at Il Primo Pizza & Wings. Pizzas are available in mini sizes, perfect for those with smaller appetites.

If you’re visiting Naples in March, you can certainly pay a visit to nearby Fort Myers for some spring training baseball games. If you plan ahead, you can catch the Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins before the real season starts. If the NFL or NHL is more your speed, a quick two-hour drive across the state will have you ready for a Miami Dolphins or Florida Panthers game, respectively.

Of course, if you’d rather sit back with a pint and watch the game on TV, there are plenty of bars in the area where you can cheer on your favorite team.

Romance is where you find it, and that can be nearly any restaurant in Naples. However, if you’re looking for tried and true romantic jaunts, be sure to make reservations at any of these five places, many of which overlook the Gulf of Mexico:

1. The Turtle Club. Bury your toes in the sand and watch the sun set over the Gulf from your fine dining, on-the-beach table at the Turtle Club on Vanderbilt Beach. Or, if you’re done with the sand for the day, reserve an indoor table, which still boasts a remarkable view of the beach.

2. Gumbo Limo. Another perfect beach spot is Gumbo Limo at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples. The casual, laid-back atmosphere is just what you need for a perfect, relaxing evening.

3. H.B.’s on the Gulf. This restaurant at the Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club overlooks Naples Beach; grab an outdoor table and watch the sun set, and wait for the stars to begin to shine overhead.

4. Baleen. Another place to try if you’re looking for a Gulf view is Baleen. Seafood entrees are served indoors and out, and the laid-back style will remind you why you’re in Florida.

5. Truluck’s Seafood, Steak & Crab House. For a restaurant away from the beach, try Truluck’s Seafood, Steak & Crab House on Fifth Avenue South. Music from the piano bar quietly wafts over you while you enjoy a glass of wine and fresh seafood.

When the sun sets, nightlife in Naples comes alive. The Mercato Center in North Naples is the hotbed of nightlife, with Burn by Rocky Patel, a signature cigar and fine spirits bar; PURE Urban Oasis, a local spot with fun cocktail concoctions and a small plate menu; or you can sit under the stars at The Pub and order your pint from a server in a kilt.

If you’d rather head to downtown Naples to check out the scene, you won’t be disappointed. A must-stop on Fifth Avenue South, around Sugden Plaza, is Yabba Island Grill and its “late night” island parties on Friday and Saturday nights. For something more comfy and lounge-like, take a seat at Café & Bar Lucrat.

If you’re looking for live music during your visit to Naples, you’re in luck — you may just have to work a bit to find it. Pianists tickle the ivories nightly at a new piano bar inside Seasons 52 at the Mercato Center; or try Vergina’s off of Fifth Avenue South in downtown Naples, Little Bar in Goodland on Marco Island, or South Street City Oven (open mic night anyone?).

Each Thursday from November through May, and the third Thursday from June through October, music ranging from jazz to rock to folk to steel band floats through the air in the courtyards and plazas of Third Street South in downtown Naples.

When you’re planning your visit to Naples, there are plenty of hotels to choose from; it just depends on if you’re looking for — a resort, boutique hotel, or bed and breakfast.

Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star, The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, sits right on the Gulf of Mexico and boasts its own private beach complete with cabanas to enjoy, not to mention its onsite pools and luxurious amenities. In addition to the pool and beach, kids will love the high-tech entertainment lounge, which hosts Wii bowling tournaments. All but 11 of the 450 rooms in this resort have private balconies, so you can experience the sunset first hand from your own guest room.

Edgewater Beach Hotel, a Four-Star Waldorf Astoria Hotel, also sits on its private beach on the Gulf of Mexico. This contemporary beachfront hotel offers suites with a crisp, clean design and plenty of amenities, such as flat-screen TVs in the bedroom and living room; a kitchen with a refrigerator, toaster and microwave; and a sleeper sofa.

If you wish to stay in the middle of the downtown action, make reservations at the Three-Star, Inn on Fifth. Formerly a bank built in the 1950s, this elegant inn is done up in Mediterranean décor and features marble flooring, elaborate chandeliers and wrought-iron balconies. Situated in the heart of downtown Naples, this hotel is surrounded by boutiques and restaurants.

A great way to explore the culture of any area is to visit its museums, and Naples is no exception.

The Naples Museum of Art is open seasonally (October through June), and boasts 30,000-square-feet of space spread over three stories and encompasses 15 galleries, and features a glass-dome conservatory. The entrance gates are by metal artist Albert Paley; look up once inside and you’ll find chandeliers by glass artist Dale Chihuly. Inside the galleries you’ll find world-class paintings, sculpture, drawings and other works of art.

Gallery Row, a part of Third Street South in Old Naples, flaunts more galleries than any other place in Southwest Florida, and is a go-to spot for collectors. From contemporary to modern to regional works of art, you’re sure to find something to adorn your walls at home.

The Holocaust Museum of Southwest Florida has a unique history. While it started as a middle school classroom exhibit created by students and teachers studying the Holocaust, the space eventually flourished into a museum with more than 1,000 World War II and Holocaust artifacts, many of which were donated or permanently loaned by local survivors and liberators.

If you have two days to spend in Naples, there’s plenty to do to fill your time (and no, it’s not just lounging poolside).

To start day one, tour downtown and Old Naples, either with the Naples Historical Society, or hop a Segway and go the two-wheeled route. Either way, you’ll get a good feel for Old Naples, as well as learn some things along the way.

After your tour, spend some time along Fifth Avenue South and peruse the windows of the various boutiques and galleries, filled with original finds. If you feel the hunger pangs approaching or need a caffeine fix, you might even stop into a sidewalk café for lunch or a cup of coffee.

When it’s time for the sun to set, head to the beach and join in the tradition of toasting another day as the sun melts into the Gulf. There’s no better way to end a day spend on the Paradise Coast.

For day two in Naples, get up bright and early and head south towards the Everglades. A visit to Big Cypress National Park — the Everglades’ northern neighbor — is the perfect introduction to Mother Nature, Florida-style. Here you can canoe, kayak, hike, or go on a ranger-led program such as a hike, canoe trip, or boardwalk stroll.

After lunch on your way back to Naples — and after you’ve had a chance to freshen up a bit — visit the Naples Museum of Art (open seasonally October through June). The museum’s 30,000 square feet spread over three stories and encompasses 15 galleries as well as a glass-dome conservatory. The entrance gates are by metal artist Albert Paley, and be sure to look up once inside to discover chandeliers by glass artist Dale Chihuly. Inside the galleries you’ll find world-class paintings, sculpture, drawings and other works of art.

Once again, when it’s time for the sun to set, make your way over to the beach to watch it slip into the Gulf. You may even decide to dine overlooking the Gulf, and the sunset provides the perfect backdrop to your evening.

When packing your bags for your trip to Naples — as with most tropical vacations — don’t overdo it. Stop. Take a breath. Relax. Sunny weather doesn’t require your entire wardrobe.

If you’re visiting in the summer, throw in a few pairs of your favorite shorts and tank tops, in addition to your walking shoes and sandals. You’ll also want to bring a few resort casual outfits for dinners out; bring a light sweater, too — restaurants tend to keep the air conditioning cranked to beat the heat, and those who chill easily will feel it. An umbrella is a good idea, as well; summer storms pop up in the afternoon and can put a damper on sightseeing if you get caught without covering.

In the spring and fall/winter, long pants and capris will get you through the day, and a light sweater or jacket will keep you warm during the cool evenings. As always, it’s always smart to check the weather just prior to your trip.

Of course, sunscreen is a given. The bright Florida sun can get you any time of year!

If you have one day to spend in Naples, you may just want to stay on the beach and soak up the sun’s rays. But if you’re not keen on lounging by the pool and instead want to explore the area, you can get a good feel for all that Naples has to offer in one day’s time.

To start, tour downtown and Old Naples, either with the Naples Historical Society, or hop a Segway and go the two-wheeled route. Either way, you’ll get a good feel for Old Naples, as well as learn some things along the way — other than where the best shopping is!

After your tour, take time to walk along Fifth Avenue South and window shop the boutiques and galleries filled with one-of-a-kind items. You might even stop by a sidewalk café for lunch or a cup of coffee to tide you over ’til dinner.

When it’s time for the sun to set, head to the beach — any beach, really — and join the tradition of toasting another day as the sun melts into the Gulf. After all, you’ve just spent a day on the Paradise Coast.

Though Naples sits on the Gulf of Mexico and is laid back by definition, you’ll find quite a cultural scene during your visit, from art and history museums peppered throughout the area to boutiques and galleries filled with unique trinkets and treasures.

The Naples Museum of Art, open seasonally (October through June), consists of 30,000-square-feet, which is spread over three stories, with 15 galleries and a glass-dome conservatory. The entrance gates are by metal artist Albert Paley; look up once inside and you’ll find chandeliers by glass artist Dale Chihuly. Inside the galleries you’ll find world-class paintings, sculpture, drawings and other works of art.

The Holocaust Museum of Southwest Florida has a unique beginning — it started as a middle school classroom exhibit created by students and teachers studying the Holocaust, and has flourished into a museum with more than 1,000 World War II and Holocaust artifacts, many of which were donated or permanently loaned by local survivors and liberators.

Gallery Row, a part of Third Street South in Old Naples, boasts more galleries than any place else in Southwest Florida, and is a go-to spot for collectors. From contemporary to modern to regional works of art, you’re sure to find something to adorn your walls at home.

Taking a vacation doesn’t always have to come with a price. If your wallet is starting to feel the pinch, there are plenty of free things to do in Naples. Here’s our list of the five best free things:

1. Explore the beach. One of Naples’ premier attractions is its miles of beaches. Throw down a towel or pull up a lounge chair and soak in the rays, or choose to explore the underwater world in the incredibly clear water.

2. Visit the Collier County Museum. A visit to the Collier County Museum will open your eyes to the history of the immediate area, including exhibits on Calusa Indians, Seminole warriors and Spanish explorers. On the museum’s grounds you’ll also find native Florida gardens, a working archaeology lab, a Seminole village and war fort, a tropical orchid house and wildlife displays.

3. See Big Cypress National Park. If you want to get out and explore nature, head a little ways south of Naples to Big Cypress National Park, the Everglades’ northern neighbor. Here you can canoe, kayak, hike, or go on a ranger-led program such as a hike, canoe trip, boardwalk stroll, or evening program.

4. Head over to Naples City Pier. For more than 100 years, visitors to the Naples area have made stops at the Naples City Pier for gorgeous views of the Gulf of Mexico and fishing without a license. This is the perfect place for a different perspective of Naples.

5. Check out the art. If you’re visiting Naples in March, be sure to check out the 260 local, regional and national artists who gather at the Downtown Naples Festival of the Arts, held on Fifth Avenue South. Admission is free, as are parking and shuttles to the festival.

If you’re thinking about planning a trip to Naples, you can be assured that it’s the right time to visit — whenever it is you’re thinking. When winter wears out its welcome up north, the warmer weather and sunnier Florida skies beckon. And if you call Florida home, summertime is the right time to plan your stay.

That being said, Naples does get hot during the summer — it’s Florida, after all — and the humidity is at a premium. If you wilt in the heat, summertime may not be the optimum time to plan your visit.

Of course, Florida also tends to be a hotspot for Spring Breakers, so be prepared for some crowds (and rowdy college students) if you visit during March.

One of the quieter destinations in Florida, you’ll certainly find plenty of romantic ways to spend your time in Naples. Here are the five best things to do to spark some love:

1. Watch the sunset. Watching the sun set is romantic wherever you are. But watching the sun set over the Gulf of Mexico is particularly beautiful. Make an evening of it — pack a picnic, spread a blanket and take on the naturally beautiful tradition, topped off with a star-studded sky.

2. Take a catamaran cruise. Another way to watch the sun set, or to spend the day under the sun, is on a catamaran cruise. Sails billow overhead as you sip a cocktail and let the wind flow through your hair, while the boat glides over the water.

3. Visit the Naples Botanical Garden. Sure, giving your loved one a dozen roses is romantic; what if you could give her an entire garden? Well, you can essentially do that with a visit to the Naples Botanical Garden. Each of the seven gardens features distinct flora, all of which are beautiful and inspiring.

4. Get pampered at the spa. Gently melt the cares of the world away during a couples massage at The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Naples. Make your appointments so that the two of you can relax together, and then spend some time at the exclusive mineral pool on the Spa Terrace, just for spa guests. The 104 different minerals in the pool will envelop you.

5. Shop for some sparkle. Window shopping on Fifth Avenue South can be quite romantic, especially when you stop into a boutique and pick out just the right piece of jewelry, followed by dinner at one of the intimate cafés.

Florida provides the perfect spot for family-filled vacations, and Naples is no exception. Here’s our list of the five best things to do with your youngest companions:

1. Hit the beach. Located on the west coast of Florida, one of the best things you’ll find in the area to do with kids is hit the beaches of the Gulf of Mexico. Throw down a towel or pull up a lounge chair and soak in the rays, or don a mask and snorkel to explore the underwater world —the water is ultra-clear!

2. Visit the Naples Zoo. If you’ve had your fill of fun in the sun, why not hit the Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens, a zoo and historic garden in one. If your timing is right, try and take the Night Vision After Hours tour.

3. Check out the Shy Wolf Sanctuary. Walk on the wildlife side and visit the Shy Wolf Sanctuary for a truly unique opportunity to get up-close-and-personal and learn about wolves, wolfdogs, big cats, foxes, and prairie dogs, all in their natural habitats.

4. Explore Sun-N-Fun Lagoon. Make a splash in the one million gallons of water-filled fun at Sun-N-Fun Lagoon. Your kids can speed down any and all of the five water slides or in the interactive water feature while you make your way down the lazy river, and the entire family will enjoy any of the park’s four pools.

5. Visit the Children’s Museum of Naples. Be one of the first to visit the C’mon! Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples when it opens in February 2012. Naples’ first museum designed especially for kids, the museum will feature 13 exhibits that encourage families to play and learn together, regardless of physical or learning abilities.

During your stay in sunny Naples, it seems as if the possibilities for activities could be endless. Luckily, we’ve come up with a list of the five best things to see and do in Naples:

1. Go to the beach. Located on the west coast of Florida, one of the best things you’ll find in the area is the Gulf of Mexico beaches. Throw down a towel or pull up a lounge chair and soak in the rays, taking the occasional dip in the warm waters of the Gulf.

2. Take the trolley. If you’ve had your fill of fun in the sun and want to explore a bit more, hop aboard the open-air Naples Trolley and follow its route. When fancy strikes — say you happen upon a street filled with inviting boutiques — you can hop off, then hop back on to complete the outing.

3. Shop the boutiques. Perhaps you’ll take the trolley to downtown Naples, where you can window shop along Fifth Avenue South. Most of the boutiques are independent, but you’ll find fun shops here such as Fresh Produce, where you’ll find beachy sportswear for men, women and kids. Or, stop into Peach Tree Designs and get inspired to make a change in your home.

4. Naples Museum of Art. If you’re looking for something a bit more cultural, the Naples Museum of Art is open seasonally (October through June), and its 30,000 square feet is spread over three stories encompasses 15 galleries and a glass-dome conservatory. The entrance gates are by metal artist Albert Paley; look up once inside and you’ll find chandeliers by glass artist Dale Chihuly. Inside the galleries you’ll spot world-class paintings, sculpture, drawings and other works of art.

5. Visit the Everglades. Of course, the Everglades aren’t too far away, and an airboat ride is the best way to explore the storied swamplands. Stay on the water and grab a cooler to watch the sun set aboard a catamaran cruise.

No vacation would be complete without a bit of retail therapy, and fortunately for you, shopping is certainly a must-do in Naples.

Make your way to downtown Naples and window shop along Fifth Avenue South. Most of the boutiques are independent, but you’ll find fun shops such as Fresh Produce here. Or, stop into Peach Tree Designs, a chic home décor destination where you’ll discover everything from distressed wood frames to unique table lamps and coffee table books.

Third Street South, off of Fifth Avenue South, houses some more recognizable names such as Eileen Fisher and Tommy Bahama. Stop by the Beach House of Naples for a new swimsuit, or some fun accessories from your favorite designers.

A unique, almost Venetian, shopping experience can be found at the Village on Venetian Bay. Unique gift shops, one-of-a-kind accessories and kids’ apparel and resort-wear can all be found here.

If you’re looking for Nordstrom or Saks Fifth Avenue, you’ll want to visit Waterside Shops. Browse the racks at Ann Taylor and Ann Taylor Loft, Brooks Brothers, Anthropologie, J. Crew, Talbots, Banana Republic and more.

Of course, there’s always outlet shopping at Miromar Outlets, just north on I-75.With all the possibilities, the only question you’ll ask is, “Do you have this in my size?”?