Things to Do
in Naples & Southwest Florida with Kids
Your Naples Adventures Start Here
Southwest Florida is built for family vacations — wide white-sand beaches, calm Gulf waters, easy boat trips, nature trails, and hands-on attractions for kids of all ages. Use this page to pick a mix of beach time, wildlife, and one or two organized tours so every day has a highlight.
Beaches & Shelling
The beaches here are the main event. Naples beaches are soft, white sand and kid-friendly surf for paddling and sandcastles. For serious shell hunting, take a day trip to Sanibel and Captiva — the islands are famous worldwide for shells and are a hit with kids who love collecting treasures. Plan shelling walks at low tide for the best finds.
Quick picks:
- Naples Pier and nearby public beach access points for classic beach days.
- Sanibel Island and Lighthouse Beach for shelling and relaxed island vibes.
Boat Tours, Dolphin Cruises, and Island Hopping
A short boat trip is a must. Family-friendly dolphin cruises around Marco Island and Naples offer up-close wildlife viewing and a chance to visit small, remote beaches where kids can try shelling and spotting shorebirds. Half-day trips are common and suitable for families with younger children.
Tip: Bring sunscreen, a light jacket for boat spray, and a small cooler with water and snacks.
Everglades and Airboat Adventures
For an adventurous day out, visit an Everglades tour operator for an airboat ride and wildlife viewing. Tours mix education and excitement, and many operators tailor trips for families so kids can safely see alligators and birds while learning about the ecosystem. Book a vetted operator with good safety reviews.
Naples Zoo and Botanical Garden
Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens is a compact, kid-friendly zoo with animal encounters and shaded pathways. It’s an easy half-day outing that pairs well with a picnic. Nearby Naples Botanical Garden offers stroller-friendly paths, interactive family programs, kid-focused trails, and a calm place to explore native plants and butterflies. Both spots are great when you want a break from the beach.
Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary and Nature Walks
For older kids and families who enjoy hiking and birding, Audubon’s Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is unforgettable. The boardwalk takes you through a rare bald cypress forest and offers excellent opportunities for wildlife and bird viewing. Plan morning visits for cooler temperatures and more active wildlife.
State Parks, Preserves, and Family Beaches
- Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park is a favorite for swimming, snorkeling, and picnics. It’s a good spot for families who want amenities plus beach time.
- Clam Pass Park and Barefoot Beach Preserve are other family-friendly options with boardwalks and shaded spots for toddlers.
Family-Friendly Indoor and Rainy-Day Options
When weather or nap schedules demand indoor plans, consider:
- Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples (C’MON) — hands-on exhibits for young kids and scheduled programs.
- Local aquariums, small museums, and indoor play centers in the area — perfect for a half-day when the heat is high or storms roll in.
Active Options: Kayaking, Paddleboarding, and Bike Rental
Rent kayaks or paddleboards for calm estuary paddles where kids can spot birds and manatees from a safe distance. Many rental companies and guided tours offer family-size kayaks and safe routes for beginners.
Food, Markets, and Simple Local Outings
Finish a day with an easy local outing. Naples and Marco Island have family-friendly seafood restaurants, casual cafes, and weekend farmers markets where kids can pick local fruit and try ice cream. For sunset, bring a blanket to Naples Pier for one of the area’s famous Gulf sunsets.
Practical Tips for Families
Timing
Aim for early mornings on beaches and nature trails to avoid midday heat and crowds.
Sun Safety
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, hats, and a sun shelter for toddlers.
Reservations
Book popular boat tours, airboat rides, and zoo or garden time in advance during high season (November through March).
Shelling Rules
Follow local rules on collecting shells—remove only empty shells and be cautious around live wildlife.
Make Your Trip Easy
Want help planning a family itinerary? Ask us to build a custom day-by-day plan with kid-friendly timing, recommended operators, and local dining that fits your travel style.