By Dara Whitaker, Owner of Navigate Naples
October 8, 2025
There’s nothing quite like Southwest Florida. The sugar-white sands, endless Gulf views, and colorful sunsets are just the beginning.
Whether you’re dreaming of a family beach vacation, a romantic beach getaway, or a seasonal escape, the beaches of Naples, Bonita Springs, and Marco Island are calling.
And when you stay with Navigate Naples, you don’t just get a rental — you get a perfectly curated experience.
From vacation rentals with pools to concierge-style support, I’m here to make sure your trip feels effortless, personal, and unforgettable.
Here’s my guide to the area’s top beaches — and why booking your stay with Navigate Naples makes them even better
🏖️ Naples Beaches
- Lowdermilk Park – Perfect for families with playgrounds, picnic tables, and calm surf. Grab ice cream from the snack bar and let the kids play while you enjoy the view.
- Clam Pass Park – Start with a tram ride through mangroves, then step into wide stretches of sand. Rent a paddleboard or just relax under the sun. Don’t miss a meal or drink at Rhode’s End Restaurant, open right on the beach!
- Vanderbilt Beach – Steps from Mercato dining and nightlife, Vanderbilt is vibrant and lively. It’s also just minutes from many Navigate Naples homes, making it easy to walk or bike. It is home to the luxurious Ritz-Carlton Beach Resort and the popular Gumbo Limbo Tiki Bar Restaurant, perfect for sunset dining by the water.
- Delnor-Wiggins Pass Park – A sheller’s paradise and one of the best places to spot dolphins at play. Bring your cooler and plan for a full day of nature.
🌊 Bonita Springs Beaches
- Barefoot Beach Preserve – Wide, untouched sands and nature trails. Perfect if you’re looking for peace and beauty.
- Bonita Beach Park – Amenities, picnic shelters, and rentals make this a great spot for groups and families.
- Dog Beach – Off-leash fun in shallow Gulf waters. If you’re bringing your pup along for your vacation, this is the place to go—and most Navigate Naples homes are pet-friendly, making it easy to bring your furry friend along for the adventure.
(Note: Naples and Marco Island beaches do not allow dogs, so for pet-friendly fun, Bonita Dog Beach is your best choice.)
🏝 Marco Island Beaches
- Tigertail Beach – A unique mix of lagoon, mangroves, and Gulf shoreline. Wade across to discover incredible shelling.
- South Marco Beach Access– A classic Gulf beach with wide sands and a sunset you’ll never forget.
💕 Why Guests Love
Navigate Naples
I’m Dara Whitaker, the founder of Navigate Naples, a wife, and mom of three. My family lives right here in Naples, and I’ve built my business around sharing the lifestyle we love.
Guests tell me they choose Navigate Naples because:
- Every home is spotless and thoughtfully designed
- I provide insider recommendations you won’t find online
- Beach gear, local tips, and concierge-level support are always included
- With over 1,200 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ reviews, they feel confident booking with us again and again
When you stay with Navigate Naples, you’re not just renting a property — you’re being welcomed like family.
✨ Book Your Beach Vacation
From sunrise shelling at Delnor-Wiggins to sunset cocktails after a day at Vanderbilt, your dream vacation starts here. Let Navigate Naples help you plan the perfect trip.
We specialize in short-term stays to help you truly settle in and soak up everything Naples has to offer.
👉 Visit NavigateNaples.com to explore our homes and get started.
👉 Prefer to talk first? Contact me directly:
📧 Email: [email protected]
📞 Phone: (239) 207-8710
👉Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/navigatenaples