Naples Manor - Naples, FL

Before the first American settlement in the area, the Calusa tribe held a strong presence all throughout the Everglades region. While the first Americans came to the area around the 1860s, modern development of Naples did not begin until after World War II.

The area of Naples has a long history of tourism that stretches back to the late 19th century when early settlers of the city began to spread wild tales about the place's beauty and elegance. Its weather, beaches, waves and other summer activities have been bringing people to the area since the beginning of the 20th century. Today, the area bases most of its industry on a broad range of tourist attractions. With a local proximity to such natural features as the Everglades, Ten Thousand Islands and the Corkscrew Swamp, ecotourism has become one of the biggest businesses for the Naples area.

Whether you walk or drive to your meal from Naples Manor, the area provides many quality options for food.

While many local restaurants specialize in authentic Mexican fare, El Tapatio Restaurante lives up to high standards. For less than $10, customers can fill themselves with fresh guacamole, enchiladas, gorditas and much more. Both the interior and exterior are kept casual and inviting, and still uphold an authentic ambiance. Employees serve customers in a fast and friendly manner. The restaurant sits just outside of Naples Manor on Tamiami Trail East.

Further down the road, the Garibaldi restaurant and bakery specializes in more elegant fare, yet clearly takes their inspiration from Mexican cuisine. It serves everything from breakfast to dinner to dessert, and might be one of the few local places where customers can buy a beef taco that's just as good as the sugar pastries. The menu includes several dynamic vegetarian options.

If you're looking for a more lively nightlife, along with some changes from the local cuisine, check out The Real Macaw restaurant, north of Naples Manor on Bayshore Drive. Enjoy live music every night of the week, whether sitting inside at the bar or outside in the airy patio seating area. Along with an eclectic choice of local seafood, each meal comes with complimentary light appetizers. The beer selection here is limited; however, the wine and cocktails are extensive, and the dinner menu offers many gluten-free options.

Route 41 runs just along the border of Naples Manor, and Interstate 75 runs further to the north. Collier Area Transit maintains bus routes in and around Naples; their Route 24 bus runs directly through Naples Manor. The Greyhound station in East Naples also provides intercity transit. While Naples Manor has no local public parking, lots can be found further north in the city.

Residents can walk easily around Naples Manor and to other neighboring communities. The neighborhood does not maintain bike paths; however, cyclists should be safe on the local streets. Uber also serves as a viable means of transportation around the Fort Myers-Naples area.

A variety of small parks adorn the Naples Manor area, such as the Eagle Lakes Community Park that sits just south of the neighborhood. This park maintains a variety of green areas and facilities for children of different ages, such as baseball and basketball courts, a soccer field, and several playgrounds. The park opens at 8 a.m. and charges no usage fee. Dogs and pets are welcome.

If you're into adventure and own a boat, or don't mind renting one, the serene beauty of Keewaydin Island may be the perfect opportunity. The island lies southwest of Naples Manor, and stretches from Gordon Pass near Naples all the way down to Gordon Island. Far removed from most of civilization, the island has very few facilities or amenities for visitors. Sue's Beach can be found on the top half of the island. Residents and visitors come out to this spot for natural relaxation, boating, swimming and fishing.

The Rockin' on the Bay concert series in Naples attracts residents from all of its communities and hosts many live music acts completely free of admission. This is a massive event that draws food vendors, performers and big crowds every Saturday of the month in Bayfront Naples.

An average rental rate in Naples Manor costs $1,090, while in the general Naples area rent comes closer to $1,100. The cost of living in Naples Manor stands eight percent higher than the national average, while the average living costs in Florida falls one percent lower than the national average.

Gas prices in the Naples area stay at about eight percent lower than the national average. A one-way ticket on a bus through Collier Area Transit cost $1.50 and $0.75 for transfers. At a local pub, customers expect to pay around $5 for a beer.

A range of small supply stores can be found nearby Naples Manor, while boutiques and other shopping centers operate largely in the downtown Naples area.

At the Island Company boutique in downtown Naples, customers find the perfect "island wear" suited for the sunny Naples weather: swimsuits, sun dresses, shorts and more. The store maintains a high-class vibe with its elaborate decor. The prices are on the higher side; however, the clothing and accessories are always high quality and upscale.

If you're in the area for the fishing and boating opportunities offered by the local environment, you can check out Captain Bill's Bait and & Tackle shop. The store keeps the atmosphere upfront and basic, while providing customers with all of their needs with knowledgeable and friendly service.

The Publix supermarket serves the local area to the north of Naples Manor, while a Walmart Supercenter can be found to the south. Residents enjoy many options for fresh produce, such as The Fresh Market that stands to the south on Route 41. Many locals find The Fresh Market to be a viable, healthy alternative to other large chain supermarkets. While the prices are higher, the produce, coffee, meats and baked goods cannot be beat.