There are many attractions around the Naples area to have fun with; from zoos, swamp buggy rides, alligator farms and casinos. Here are a few excursions that I believe merit special mention.

Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary

If you are at all into tree-hugging then Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is a must. Corkscrew is a preserve in the Big Cypress Swamp area consisting of pine uplands, wet prairie, cypress forest and marshes. A 2-mile interpretive trail consisting of a boardwalk meanders through the area with benches and shelters along the way. Birds, reptiles, mammals, insects, and a variety of native plants including wild orchids can be seen from the boardwalk. Naturalists are available to answer questions and to provide tours.

The sanctuary is located in an area northeast of Naples. Take the Immokalee Road exit off of I-75 (Exit 111) Rd and head east on Highway 856 for about 15 miles, signs mark the way.

Everglades National Park - Boat Tours

Boat tours leave hourly from the Everglades National Park's ranger station in Everglade City. The boats take waterway routes through heart of Ten Thousand Island everglade areas. The tours range from 1-1/2 to 2 hours. A sunset tour is also available at times. The larger boats have restroom facilities and are handicap assessable. There's also canoes for rent, but they rent out early in the mornings. The hours and number of departures change between season. Call for exact times. 239.695.2591

The ranger station is located in Everglades City at the end of State Route 29. Approximately 1/2 hour drive south of Naples on Hwy 41. In Everglade City, you will also find a collection of airboat and other tour operators.

Chickee Campsite
Everglades National Park

Ferries to Key West

In you are in the area for a period a time then you might want to check into a short day or overnight trip to Key West. Ferries leave each morning in the season and return in the evening. It takes about 4 hours each way and the trips run around $120. If you like spending time on the water then this is a pretty good value. Plus you can enjoy the sights and activities of Key West for a day or more. For current prices, reservations and departure times you can call:

Key West Ferry - 239.765.0808
Key West Shuttle - 239.394.9700

Naples Bay Cruise

Several companies provide cruise of the Naples bay. You can go for sightseeing and dolphin watching opportunities or grab a lunch or dinner cruise. For more information check out:

Naples Bay Tour: 2 hours, multiple times daily, approx $25. 239.263.4949
Daily dinner, lunch and sight seeing tours. 649.2275