Old Naples might be the only stretch of Southwest Florida coastline where a genuinely good beach day and a genuinely good meal are a five-minute walk apart. Here is how to make the most of it.
Why this stretch works so well
The numbered-avenue beach accesses south of Central put you within walking distance of two of the city’s best-known districts — 5th Avenue South and Third Street South — both dense with dining and shopping that needs no car ride. That combination is rare: a real, uncrowded beach within walking distance of an actual downtown.
Parking, and one trap to avoid
City meters run $5 per hour with a $2.50 minimum, payable by coin or card at the pay station or by phone on 844-838-5165. No parking between 11:00 PM and 5:00 AM. Drivers with a valid disability placard or plate park free in any metered space, with no time limit.
The trap: 1st through 4th Avenue North are resident-permit parking only and are not available to visitors. It catches people out constantly. We steer you away from those when you book.
Facilities
Most numbered-avenue accesses have outdoor showers but no restroom. If that matters for your group, Lowdermilk Park is the nearby full-facility option, with restrooms, showers and free beach wheelchairs. Broad Avenue South and 13th Avenue South are the nearer restroom-equipped accesses.
With the Naples Pier closed for its rebuild, this area has become an even more natural starting point for a Naples beach day than it already was.
Making a full day of it
A private setup means you are not carrying chairs and umbrellas past storefronts and restaurant patios. Everything is standing when you arrive and gone after you leave, which frees the rest of the day for what Old Naples does best — a long lunch on 5th Avenue South, an hour on Third Street South, or an easy happy hour as the sun drops. Our Naples happy hour guide has the shortlist.
Good to know before you go
- $5 per hour meters, $2.50 minimum; free in metered spaces with a valid disability placard
- 1st–4th Avenue North are resident-permit only — not available to visitors
- Most numbered-avenue accesses: showers, no restroom
- Lowdermilk Park nearby for full facilities and free beach wheelchairs
- Naples Pier closed for its rebuild — this area is the strong alternative
