Not long ago, I was at a neighborhood get together and chatted with a few “snowbirds.” After exchanging pleasantries, one (who has spent the winter season in Naples for fifteen years or so) leaned over and whispered, “So…what’s it like here in the summer?”
Maybe you’ve heard stories of Florida summers….but bear in mind that Florida is a large state! Summer in Naples is different from what you might discover in Orlando or Jacksonville.
So let’s take a more specific, real-life look at what you might experience in Naples during the summer months:
Temperatures? Summer days in Naples top out in the low to mid 90’s. It is rare that we reach the 100 degree heat waves that the midwest and eastern states experience almost every year. Evening temps drop to about 70 degrees. Yes, we do rely on our a/c to maintain comfortable temperatures indoors, just as our northern friends rely on heating systems in the winter time.
Humidity? The best time (and least humid time) to enjoy the outdoors during the summer is in the morning or early evening. You may find that an occasional day is particularly steamy, but those aren’t all that common. Again, a/c systems provide all the dehumidification we need for comfort indoors. In fact, most year-round residents keep a sweater or light jacket nearby “just in case.”
How’s the beach? Even on a warm day, the beach provides a breezy respite during the summer. You’ll want to aim for an early morning trip (8-11 am) or later afternoon (3 pm or later) to miss the strongest sun. (Yes, mid-day can get hot.) Gulf waters during the summer hover in the 80’s, so it’s great to lounge with your noodle or air mattress. And of course, the crowds dwindle even at the most popular beaches. You’ll have room to spread out and roam a bit more. Enjoy it!
Does it rain all the time? No. We do have rain almost every day during the summer, but those squalls come and go quickly and often are small, localized weather systems. It’s possible to leave downtown and drive through two or three short rain systems by the time you reach Immokalee Rd.! Most rainfall comes during the afternoon hours. Plan your day accordingly, and you’ll see that the sun comes right out again. A bonus? You’ll see more rainbows than anywhere else after Naples’ summer rains.
Aren’t the mosquitos terrible? The Greater Naples area is part of a mosquito abatement zone. So you won’t notice many of those biting pests as long as you are in the more populated or developed areas around town. Granted, if you head down toward the Everglades or out into Golden Gate Estates, you’ll want to bring a good repellant. (A little local trivia: even during summer, there is a minimal population of mosquitos at the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary. In this protected Audubon preserve, a naturally occurring “mosquito fish” feeds on mosquito larvae…so no issues with bites there!)
Do the stores close down? Not on a bet. A few small boutiques and galleries do indeed operate as seasonal businesses, but most of Naples keeps on going for year-round customers. Summer residents enjoy special sales and promotions from local businesses, and parking is a breeze.
Traffic? Local statistics on traffic tell us that Naples traffic drops in half during the summer. You’ll get to your destination faster, see fewer backups at busy intersections, and spend less time sitting at lights.
Restaurants? It’s no secret. Summer in Naples affords terrific access to our world-class dining establishments, often without a reservation. Keep an eye on the local newspapers and signboards in front of your favorites along Fifth Avenue South, in the Mercato, and in Waterside Shops for two-for-one specials and delicious summer menus. You’ll be spoiled quickly by how well our restauranteurs treat us during the off-season!
But is there anything to do during the summer? There sure is! I encourage all summer visitors and residents to take advantage of the Naples Players summer musical - it’s always a treat! 2014 will feature “Gypsy” on stage at the Sugden. Fourth of July weekend brings a parade, fireworks, and special celebrations all over town. The Von Leibig Art Center maintains its schedule of exhibits throughout the year. Museums and outdoor venues roll out the red carpet for summer guests, and it’s always a great time to catch new releases on one of Naples’ big screens. Pack your lawn chair for jazz on the lawn at the Naples Beach Resort, or stop in for the Friday champagne happy hour at the Waldorf Astoria. And many new residents are surprised to see the Third Street South Farmer’s Market operating year round - a Saturday tradition for many!
As you settle into your new Naples home, be sure to discover summer - the “off season season”!
