Marco Island and Naples, Florida are home to some of the most stunning beaches in the world with watersports, mangrove tunnels, and wildlife habitats situated alongside the Gulf of Mexico. Come explore the area just before sunset and leave with glorious views of the Florida sunset. Here’s where to go.
The Naples Pier
Stretching 1,000 feet into the Gulf of Mexico, the historic Naples Pier was built in 1888 at the end of 12th Avenue South in Naples, Florida. Guests gather to enjoy the sunshine, fish right off The Pier and watch for dolphins. The Pier is also a prime spot for sunset views. Come early and grab a snack or treat from the concessions before vendors close up shop around 5 p.m.
Clam Pass Beach Park
Clam Pass Beach Park boasts beautiful shoreline, along with 35 acres of coastal habitat and preserves. Take the free tram to the beach, bike, or park in one of the public spaces to enjoy sunset views. Before the sun sets, enjoy a stroll through the shady mangrove tunnel draping over the boardwalk and reconnect with nature. Then stretch out on the white sand and watch the sun sink over the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
Vanderbilt Beach
Vanderbilt Beach in North Naples is known for its laid-back atmosphere where locals and visitors picnic, ride waverunners, paddleboard, and splash in clear Gulf of Mexico water. Birds play along the waterfront while dolphins play in the distance. Take a stroll and stop in one of the hotels for an early dinner and cocktails before making your way out to the beach for sunset views.
South Marco Island Beach
As one of the two public beach access points on Marco Island, the South Marco Island Beach Access offers a quiet escape. Visitors come for the day to play in the surf, try their hand at beach fishing, and enjoy some dolphin watching. Shelling is also plentiful along South Marco Beach where visitors are sure to leave with a few new treasures. After an afternoon of fun, settle in for Marco Island sunset views that inspire the imagination.
Sunset Cruises
Marco Island and Naples’ embrace of the Gulf of Mexico makes it the perfect spot for a sunset cruise. There are a few great options to choose from in the area. Hop aboard Cool Beans Cruises for a sunset sailing cruise. Bring a big group of up to 20 guests or just 6 for their smaller Cool Beans II vessel. Or make a reservation with the award-winning Sweet Liberty 53′ sailing Catamaran. Bring your own picnic, beer, and wine and watch the pink and orange sunset dance across the sails.
Pure Florida’s motto is to “seas the day” with a sightseeing sunset cruise lead by a knowledgeable staff with insights to the wildlife and history of the area.
Perfect for a romantic date, watch the sun dazzle over the Gulf, leaving behind trails of vibrant color while eating dinner onboard the Naples Princess Cruises or Marco Island Princess luxury yachts.
Naples and Marco Island, Florida sunsets are vibrant, memorable, and easy to enjoy. Turn your vacation into an adventure and explore what the watersports, shelling, and fun the area has to offer before ending the day blanketed in oranges and pinks.
More things to do in Naples and Marco Island, Florida!