Secret Naples local spots

Good morning, Naples!

This is Naples Brief, your insider guide that wanders through hidden courtyards, discovers secret beach access points, and uncovers the true treasures of paradise.

The Digest: Hidden Treasures

Secret Beach Access 

• Discover Clam Pass Park's hidden gem status. It offers a secluded beach experience and free tram service through mangrove tunnels.

• Skip the tourist crowds and head to the quiet northern end of Vanderbilt Beach, where early birds can find free street parking before 9 AM.

Under-the-Radar Dining 

• The Local, Naples' first farm and sea-to-table restaurant, offers daily rotating blackboard specials in a casual atmosphere.

• For an exclusive experience, try USS Nemo's secret omakase menu or The Continental's hidden garden table on Third Street South.

Hidden Nature Spots 

• The Gordon River Greenway offers 2.5 miles of secluded trails through six native plant communities.

• Early morning visitors to Rookery Bay often spot manatees and dolphins in the quiet waterways.

A fresh meme for you.

What's Happening in Naples, FL (December 20-31, 2024)

Holiday Events

• Naples Philharmonic: Holiday Pops (Dec 20-22)
  Performances at Artis-Naples featuring festive music.

• Tiburón Holiday Market (Dec 20-27)
  European-style market with nightly snow, ice skating, and local artisans at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón.

• Candlelight Christmas Carols (Dec 20)
  Cambier Park Bandshell at 5:30 PM.

• Holiday Science Spectacular (Dec 21)
  Family-friendly science event at The Norris Center, 7 PM.

• A Cottage Christmas Exhibit (Dec 20-31)
  Explore mid-century holiday decor at Collier Museum.

• Christmas Grand Buffet (Dec 25)
  Lavish buffet at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón.

Live Entertainment

• Seed to Table Live Music Lineup:

  • Dec 20: Flashback Fridays with Extasy and DJ Mr. Mitch (8 PM - Close).

  • Dec 21: Winter Wonderland featuring DJs Gerardo Aragon and German Garcia (9 PM - Close).

  • Dec 22: Rhythm Kings at Hops & Vines (6 PM - 9 PM).

• Special Performances:

  • Robert & Wendy LIVE at Hops & Vines (Dec 17, 6 PM - 9 PM).

  • Girls Nite Out with DJ Messina (Dec 18, starting at 8 PM).

Family-Friendly Activities

• Holiday Meet & Greet with Santa Claus & The Grinch (Dec 21-22)
  Seed to Table, from 12 PM to 3 PM. Complimentary photo downloads available.

• Victoria Park Holiday Lights Tour (Ongoing through Dec)
  Enjoy a guided shuttle tour of the neighborhood's festive displays.

• Gingerbread House Decorating Class (Dec 22)
  At The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón.

Dining Experiences

• Christmas Eve Dinner
  Special menus at upscale restaurants like The Catch of the Pelican.

• Festive High Tea
  Afternoon tea with seasonal treats at The Ritz-Carlton Naples.

New Year’s Eve Celebrations

• Rebecca’s Wine Bar NYE Party (Dec 31)
  Celebrate with food, drinks, and music until midnight. Dinner seating available until 9 PM.

• Black-Tie NYE Gala ft. Stella Cole (Dec 31)
  Five-course champagne dinner and live music at The Ritz-Carlton Naples.

• Night of Opulence Party (Dec 31)
  Gourmet buffet dinner and fireworks at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón.

Other Highlights

• Naples Dixieland Jazz Concert (Dec 22)
  Cambier Park Bandshell at 2 PM.

• Holiday Lights Tour (Dec 27)
  Explore Naples' best light displays via guided tours.

Weather & Beach Report

Weekly Forecast

• December 20-31: 73-78°F, Ideal for outdoor activities

Water Conditions

• Water Temperature: 69°F

• Red Tide: None reported

• Best Shelling: Early morning at Vanderbilt Beach

Beach Tips

• Peak crowds expected 11 AM - 3 PM

• Holiday parking fills quickly

• Bring a light jacket for evening activities

• Sunset time: 5:40 PM

Tip: Make dinner reservations well in advance for holiday events, especially for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year's Eve celebrations.

Don't forget to tag @NaplesBrief in your holiday photos to be featured in our next newsletter.

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Regards,
Yar