If you’re dreaming of a sun-soaked getaway with pristine beaches, amazing restaurants, and plenty of family-friendly activities, Naples, Florida, should be at the top of your travel list. Our family loves exploring new destinations, and after learning that the Inn at Pelican Bay was named Tripadvisor’s No. 1 Hotel in Florida, we’ve added Naples to our must-visit locations for our next vacation. Whether you’re planning a spring break escape or a summer vacation, now is the perfect time to start booking your trip.
Why Naples is Perfect for Families
Naples offers a little bit of everything for families who love the beach, outdoor adventures, and trying new foods. Located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Naples boasts beautiful white-sand beaches, top-rated attractions, and a welcoming atmosphere for travelers of all ages. Here’s why we can’t wait to visit:
1. Beautiful Beaches
Naples is known for its stunning Gulf Coast beaches. Whether your family enjoys building sandcastles, playing in the waves, or just relaxing under the sun, Vanderbilt Beach, Clam Pass Park, and Lowdermilk Park are some of the best spots to visit. With calm waters and plenty of space to spread out, Naples’ beaches are perfect for families with kids of all ages.
2. Amazing Local Restaurants
Food lovers will appreciate Naples’ vibrant dining scene. From fresh seafood to kid-friendly eateries, there’s something for everyone. A few spots that have caught our eye include:
- The Turtle Club – A beachfront restaurant where you can dine with your toes in the sand while enjoying fresh seafood.
- Gumbo Limbo – Located at The Ritz-Carlton, this restaurant offers a laid-back atmosphere with stunning sunset views.
- Brooks Burgers – A fun, casual spot with some of the best burgers in town—perfect for families!
3. Exciting Outdoor Attractions
Beyond the beach, Naples is home to plenty of family-friendly outdoor activities:
- Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens – A fantastic zoo featuring animal encounters and lush botanical gardens.
- Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary – A great place for nature walks, where you can see alligators, birds, and other wildlife.
- Sun-N-Fun Lagoon – A water park with slides, lazy rivers, and splash zones, perfect for cooling off on a hot Florida day. This is a must for any vacation in the heat of summer for families!
- Dolphin Tours and Sunset Cruises – Naples is one of the best places to take a dolphin-watching cruise or a relaxing boat tour at sunset. We try to do this on every vacation, the best dolphin sightings we’ve seen so far was on a whale-watching tour in Plymouth, MA.
Stay at the Award-Winning Inn at Pelican Bay
When planning a family vacation, finding the right place to stay is just as important as choosing the destination. The Inn at Pelican Bay has been recognized as the No. 1 Hotel in Florida and ranked among the top 25 hotels in the U.S. by Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best for 2024. Located just minutes from Vanderbilt Beach, this boutique hotel offers a luxurious yet family-friendly experience.

Some standout features of the Inn at Pelican Bay include:
- Complimentary breakfast
- Free shuttle service to the beach
- Spacious, beautifully decorated rooms
- A heated lakeside pool
- AAA Four Diamond award-winning service

With its prime location, top-tier amenities, and exceptional reviews, it’s easy to see why the Inn at Pelican Bay is a fantastic choice for families looking to experience the best of Naples.
Book Your Naples Vacation Now
If Naples wasn’t already on your travel radar, it should be now! With its mix of beautiful beaches, delicious dining, exciting outdoor activities, and an award-winning hotel, it’s the perfect spot for your next family getaway. Don’t wait too long—spring break and summer vacations book up fast, and Naples is one of Florida’s most sought-after destinations.
Start planning your trip today, and get ready for a family vacation filled with sunshine, adventure, and unforgettable memories in Naples, Florida!

