14 Awesome Things to Do in Naples, FL with Kids
Naples, Florida is a fantastic destination for families; you can find so many things to do in Naples, FL with kids. We spent time in Naples and loved all of the fun things we found to do together.
Naples has all sorts of things to enjoy. If you want to spend your days beach hoping, you can do that, or enjoy other water activities like kayaking or dolphin cruises. Search for seashells on the beach, explore local parks, and make sure you check out some of the awesome shopping centers in the area.
You may decide that Naples is truly one of the best getaways for families, especially when you see all of these awesome things to do in Naples, FL with kids.
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Related: Best Winter Vacations for Families: 16 Fun Ideas
14 Things to Do in Naples, FL with Kids
1. Explore Naples Beaches
Naples is a beach town, so it’s not surprising that beaching is one of the top things that families do together. These beaches are known as some of the best in the state with soft, white sand and warm water.
Plus, kids love how many sea shells you’ll find along the beaches.
It’s hard to pick just one or even two favorite beaches in Naples, but the Naples Beach at Naples Pier is iconic. This is a landmark in town, and visitors gather here to fish, swim, and watch dolphins.
Another favorite beach in Naples is Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park. Not only is this a great place to swim, but it also has shady spots for picnics and rental stations for bikes, paddle boards, kayaks, and more.
2. Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens
Our kids love going to different zoos, and the Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens will be a highlight for your family. The zoo was a tropical garden before animals were added, so you will see all the exciting animals along with different flora and fauna.
Naples Zoo features a wide range of animals like mammals, reptiles, and birds. Make sure you take time for the Alligator Bay Feeding to watch trainers hand-feed alligators.
3. Take an Adventure to the Everglades National Park
Does your family love all things nature? If so, you have to check out the Everglades National Park with visiting Naples with kids. It’s only an hour away from Naples, and it gives families the opportunity to kayak or canoe through the mangroves, watching the birds, manatees, and alligators.
Believe it or not, the Everglades National park is the only place in the world were alligators and crocodiles coexist together!
One of the most popular activities in the Everglades is to take an airboat tour; these are quite the adventure. You’ll experience all of the natural wonder and see some of the local animals like alligators from a safe place. Captain Mitch’s Airboat Tours is a popular airboat tour provider.
4. Naples Botanical Garden
Naples has a different climate than you may have at home, so check out the Naples Botanical Garden, featuring all sorts of sub-tropical plants and flora. This world-class botanical garden is newer compared to other ones throughout the United States, but they have created a paradise for families to enjoy.
Your kids will get to enjoy all sorts of beauty here. They have treehouses, water fountains for splashing, and all sorts of learning areas for kids. Kids learn about the cypress swamps and different Florida ecosystems. Plus, their daily program has different activities and lessons for kids.
5. River Park Aquatic Center
The River Park Aquatic Center is a unique water park, managed by the City of Naples. It’s open to the public and totally FREE – who doesn’t love that?
This water center has a large, heated lap pool, a teaching pool, a beach entry pool with interactive water features. There is a children’s splash play area as well with a zero entry area.
It’s awesome for families!
6. Naples Train Museum
Naples, Florida is home to various interesting museums, and their Naples Train Museum features interactive gadgets and several running train displays. Kids and adults alike are fascinate with this museum, especially the multi-level train display with buttons that let you see what happens next.
However, this museum is only open on the weekends!
7. Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples
If you’re looking for a rainy day activity, consider going to the Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples. This is an interactive museum with hands-on activities for kids to enjoy. They add new daily activities all the time, which is why this always makes the list of things to do in Naples, FL with kids.
No matter the ages of your kids, they have exhibits for your kids to enjoy. Kids 8-14 love the Curious Kids area, and babies play in the ABC Tot Lot. They have exhibits for all ages, and they even have a beach environment.
8. Sun-N-Fun Lagoon
If your kids want to hit up a waterpark instead of the beach, Sun-N-Fun Lagoon is just the place to go together. This waterpark features five water slides, a long lazy river, the cove with floating lily pads, and more.
Sun-N-Fun underwent major renovations in 2021, so you can expect an upgraded waterpark, full of attractions your family will love. They have spaces for everyone in your family from toddlers to adults.
9. Go on a Cruise with the Dolphin Explorer
If you head to Marco Island, the Dolphin Explorer is a three-hour boat ride that is truly a must-do experience with kids. The explorers and scientists are surveying dolphins as part of the Dolphin Project, and kids get to collect shells while splashing around the beach.
10. Explore Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary
Another one of things you can do in Naples, FL with kids is Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary. This is a 2.25 mile boardwalk, taking you through local marshals, cypress forests, and wetlands. Make sure you watch for alligators and turtles, along with other wildlife living in the swamp.
11. Go Kayaking in the Mangrove Forests
Kayaking is a beloved activity for families, and this definitely is on the list of fun things to do in Naples, FL with kids. With so many waterways, you can head out on your own after renting a kayak or pay for a guided tour.
Eco Endeavors offers guided tours or rental shops near Marco Island and Naples. You’ll love to learn about the local animals and ecosystem.
12. Pick a Naples City Park to Play
Naples, Florida features quite a variety of parks and playgrounds to enjoy with your kids, and if you’re looking for a free, low-key activity, this is just that. Sometimes, all you want to do is sit with an iced coffee and a book and your kids have endless energy to run off.
That’s why parks are awesome.
Cambier Park is close to all the shops and restaurants in Downtown Naples, and kids go crazy over the castle-like playground. The park has designated areas for younger and older kids along with shady picnic areas.
Another favorite is the Baker Park with boardwalks and playgrounds; you’ll spend hours here. Several of the beaches have playgrounds as well.
13. Enjoy Coral Cay Adventure Golf
After all the beaching and adventure seeking, sometimes, you need something simple to do with your kids, and everyone loves miniature golf.
Coral Cay Adventure Golf features 36 holes for mini golf, and kids will love the decor, featuring tropical flowers, waterfalls, and palm trees. It has two separate courses, so you can spend the entire afternoon or only after dinner for a special activity.
14. Talk a Walk at Clam Pass Beach Park
Head to Clam Pass Beach Park and enjoy the white sand. Whether you want to play in the water, walk the beach, or walk the nearly one mile long boardwalk through the mangroves, you’ll find this beach park a gorgeous time with your family.
They hose free nature walks throughout the winter and spring as well if you visit during the off season.
These are some of our favorite things to do in Naples, FL with kids; this area is full of awesome activities! You’ll find even more if you spend time in the area.
