From the hustle of Fifth Avenue South, it’s an easy day trip to Florida’s “River of Grass,” The Everglades.
Whether you’re visiting or moving to Naples, you’ll want to plan a day to explore this one-of-a-kind National Park.
So pack your sunscreen, insect repellant, binoculars, and water bottles and head east! The Everglades are calling!
Begin your visit with a drive east on I-75 to Exit 25 A, which leads you to the Shark Valley Visitor’s Center. (That’s about a 75 mile drive. Shark Valley is actually closer to Miami than to Naples, just to help with the geography a bit.)
Call ahead to reserve a seat on the Shark Valley Tram, or load up the bikes. The 14 mile Shark Valley Loop is open to bikers and trams, encircling this northernmost region of the park. Tram tours take about 2 hours, and well-trained guides give terrific information about the area.
Two hiking trails originate near the Visitor’s Center: the Bobcat Trail, which is a short 1.4 mile walk, and the Otter Cave trail, about a mile in length. Scheduled ranger programs originate from the Visitor’s Center as well.
Either way, you’ll spot plenty of alligators and a variety of birds that call the unique ecosystem of the Everglades home. You’ll spot anhingas, ibis, cranes, herons, hawks, and even wood storks. Turtles meander along the side of the trail, and you’ll learn to spot baby gators in the shallow waters. Actually, you may meet up with your first gators alongside the parking lot! At the halfway point, you’ll be able to head up the observation tower to take in the panoramic vista of the grasslands that make up the Everglades.
One side note: If you’re headed to Shark Valley, concessions and snacks are available at the Visitor’s Center. However, I’d recommend packing a cooler with water, snacks, and a light lunch. From this point in the Everglades, it’s a good drive back to….well, to almost anything!
Another popular way to explore the Everglades is by airboat tour. Take the scenic drive out US 41 (Tamiami Trail) east to Everglades City, where you will find Everglades City Airboat Tours. This locally owned company will provide you with a licensed local captain on your six-passenger airboat. You’ll come away with a great understanding of the mangroves, native animals, and the entire Everglades region. Although there are a number of airboat ride companies serving the Everglades, Everglades City Airboat Tours remains committed to environmental protection and receives high ratings on TripAdvisor.
After your tour, try the Camellia Street Grill for made-to-order lunches or dinners. And of course, drive around Everglades City itself for a glimpse of a “real” southwest Florida small town. Check out the Museum of the Everglades to round out your knowledge of the area.
A final tip: Many veteran visitors to the Everglades prefer to make their visits during fall or winter seasons. The reason? The population of biting insects is much lower than in spring or summer. At any time of year, though, come prepared with your choice of insect repellant, and wear loose clothing. Long sleeves and pants help, too. Remember, in the protected areas that are our National Parks, mosquito abatement programs just don’t exist.
So many Naples attractions center on dining, shopping, and shows that a day in the Everglades gives a great balance to your view of the entire South Florida region. It’s a great escape for you and your guests!
