What to do in Naples, Florida while house and pet sitting

Silver sands, upscale stores and arguably the best sunsets in the States, there’s a lot to love about Naples, Florida. This chilled-out city will give you a warm welcome; and if you’re enthusiastic about art, watersports or good food, so much the better.

There are a lot of places to visit in Naples, Florida, so it's not surprising that it’s such a popular destination. It’s also a great place to be a dog, as there are plenty of parks and lovely green spaces. If you’re pet sitting here, you’re in for a real treat.

Want to find out more? Take a look at our guide to what to do in Naples, Florida.

Naples, Florida attractions

There are so many Naples attractions to visit: where do you start? These are a few of the most popular places to visit in Naples, Florida.

1. Naples Botanical Garden: this 170-acre paradise features plants from all over the world. Look out for its program of events, such as the stunning Night Lights evenings.

2. Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary: walk along the boardwalk in this incredible preserve and you’ll encounter wetlands, pine flatwoods and the largest North American Bald Cypress forest. It’s an extraordinary place, which helps you understand the landscape of Florida.

3. The Baker Museum: this world-class museum has 15 galleries, displaying a range of permanent and temporary exhibitions. The collections of modern and contemporary art are outstanding.

4. Naples Historical Society's Historic Palm Cottage: take a tour of the oldest house in town. Palm Cottage is a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past. The Palm Cottage docents also run tours of Naples’ Historic District.

Free things to do in Naples, Florida

Looking for free things to do in Naples? If you’re here on a budget, try these must-see places.

1. Naples Pier: originally built as a freight dock, the iconic pier has become one of the most visited Naples, Florida attractions. Folk gather here to watch the sunset or look out for dolphins.

2. Lowdermilk Beach Park: this popular beach has the most beautiful, fine white sand. There are plenty of picnic spots in the park beside the beach, as well as useful showers. Come here to catch the sunset.

3. Tin City: explore the unusual stores in Tin City, named after the roofs on its buildings. There’s so much to see and discover here, not least the Waterfront Market, which dates back to the 1920s and is now home to fabulous shops and cafes. 

4. Crayton Cove: take some time to wander around the older Naples. Crayton Cove was the first boat landing in Naples and it’s kept its historic charm. Again, it’s good for places to eat and shop. (“Free” is relative, right?).

Fun things to do in Naples, Florida

If you’re after unique things to do in Naples, FL, here are a few of our favorites. Don’t forget your camera…

1. Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park: this has to be one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Come here to snorkel in the incredibly clear waters, search for rare shells or simply to admire the views of the Gulf of Mexico.

2. Clam Pass Park: take a walk through this lovely park along the boardwalk (about three quarters of a mile) to the sandy beach. The wildlife is incredible.

3. The Village Shops on Venetian Bay: you must visit this luxe outdoor shopping mall at some point. The lively center has a fabulous choice of upscale shops as well as bars and restaurants.

4. Bird Rookery Swamp: there are 12 miles of biking, hiking and horseback riding trails in this protected swamp land. Look out for the native wildlife: white-tailed deer, bobcats, alligators and panthers. 

What to do in Naples, Florida with pets?

What are the best things to do in Naples with pets? Dogs can’t go on the main beaches in Naples; however, if you’re willing to venture a bit further, there are some great places to play in the sea with your pet. There are also lots of green spaces, including dedicated dog parks, in the city itself.

1. Lee County Dog Beach: it’s worth the half-hour drive to get to this off-leash dog beach. Honestly, it’s a canine paradise, and the dog will love it. For more tips on going to the beach with your dog, read our blog.

2. Keewaydin Island: Keewaydin is a barrier island just off the coast and is the closest pet-friendly beach to Naples, accessible only by boat. Your furry friend is welcome aboard, but must be leashed for the journey.

3. Sunburst Cafe: come here for brunch and bring your four-pawed companion with you. There’s a dog-friendly patio and the staff are definitely animal lovers.

4. Naples Dog Park: if your dog needs a run, this is the perfect place. The grassy dog park is separated into zones for large and small dogs and is well appointed with water fountains, shaded areas, dog washing stations and poop disposal facilities. 

5. Freedom Park: a favorite spot for a walk, Freedom Park has a 2-mile loop that’s ideal for leashed dogs. There are shaded areas near the lake, which are lovely on warmer days.

Best restaurants in Naples, Florida: Food and drink

If you like good food, you’ve struck it lucky in Naples. The city is known for its wonderful fresh seafood, and as you’d expect, there’s a great Italian food scene. Here are a few of the best restaurants in Naples. Prepare to feel hungry…

Best restaurants in Naples, Florida for lunch 

Naples is a great place for laid-back lunches and brunches that really set you up for the day. The warm climate and chilled atmosphere lend themselves perfectly to long, lazy lunches, either on the beach or in the atmospheric Old Town. These are some of the best restaurants in Naples, Florida during the day.

1. Jane’s Garden Cafe: delicious lunches and breakfasts, served in a pretty courtyard in Old Naples. There are all sorts of cuisines on the menu.

2. True Food Kitchen: a modern restaurant offering nutritional and seasonal food. Healthy has never tasted so good. Try the weekend brunch if you can.

3. The French Brasserie Rustique: it’s just like being in Paris, only warmer. This much-loved restaurant serves French classics.

4. HobNob Kitchen and Bar: this is a young and lively place, with a varied menu of delicious home-cooked American and European food.

5. Sea Salt: enjoy Italian food on Sea Salt’s patio that overlooks the street. The seafood is amazing.

Best restaurants in Naples, Florida for dinner

The evening food scene in Naples is chic and sophisticated. There’s a wide choice of cuisine, but of course, you can’t leave without sampling at least one Italian restaurant and trying some seafood.

1. The Continental: steaks and cocktails: what else do you need? This lovely restaurant also serves lunch, but we like the evening, as there’s often live entertainment. The courtyard is the perfect place on a warm summer’s night.

2. Sails Restaurant: this Mediterranean-style seafood restaurant is the place to come if you really want to treat yourself. Their seafood tower is out of this world.

3. Baleen: located by the beach in La Playa Beach & Golf Resort, you can even eat on the sand in this incredible restaurant. Again, it’s an excellent place for fresh fish.

4. Osteria Tula: rustic Italian food served in a lovely, restored old farmhouse. It’s based on the traditional Italian osteria, a relaxed village tavern serving homemade food and local wine.

5. The Turtle Club: this unique restaurant is right on the beach and is a wonderful place to watch the sun set. An evening here is quite an experience.

Has this made you want to visit Naples, Florida? This small resort city is packed full of activities, along with a beautiful coast that’s like nowhere else in the States. 

If you were wondering what to do in Naples, as you can see, there’s plenty. Whether you’re looking for beaches, parks or unusual shopping centers, you’ll find all of these (and more) in Naples.

House and pet sitting in Naples, Florida

Does this make you want a house and pet sitting assignment in Naples or Florida? Take a look at our current house and pet sitting opportunities, as you never know when the perfect assignment will become available.

If you’re new to pet sitting, visit our friendly TrustedHousesitters’ Community Forum, where you’ll pick up all sorts of tips and advice.