The Ritz-Carlton, Naples.
If you think you know Florida’s upscale coastal enclave of Naples, think again. Yes, it’s still got the crisp white sand, the golf carts that cost more than your car and a seafood tower on every corner. But these days, Naples is loosening its collar. It’s gone from country-club buttoned-up to casually cool, with just the right amount of old-school polish and new-school energy. And spoiler alert: It wears it well.
Let’s start with the beach. You could park yourself under an umbrella at Lowdermilk Park or score a private cabana at the Ritz-Carlton, Naples (complete with butler, because of course). Either way, this sand is the real deal, it’s sugar-soft, never too crowded and blessedly low on the spring break chaos scale. Bonus points for dolphins that show up unannounced like minor celebrities.
Naples doesn’t try to be a party town. What it does well is ritual. Locals head to Naples Pier at sunset like it’s church. Strangers chat about cloud shapes. Someone’s playing acoustic guitar. You sip your wine, and just like that, you’re in the moment.
And while you’re here to unplug, there’s plenty to keep you pleasantly overstimulated.
The Naples Botanical Garden is more than a pretty place to stroll, it’s a 170-acre master class in landscape design and global flora. If you’re traveling with kids, the Golisano Children’s Museum earns you parent-of-the-year status in under an hour. And the Naples Zoo? Surprisingly wild, in the best way.
If you’d rather shop your way through town, welcome to the fashion parade. Fifth Avenue South and Third Street South are where resort wear and espresso go to mingle. Think breezy dresses, coastal art galleries, gourmet pet boutiques (yes, plural) and a respectable amount of bling. Just be warned: You might start justifying purchases with, “Well, I am on vacation.”
Now, let’s talk wellness. The spa scene in Naples is thriving, featuring mud masks, mineral pools and meditation, among other treatments. You can go full zen at the newly refreshed Ritz-Carlton Spa, Naples or find your flow at a boutique studio downtown. Either way, you’ll leave with less tension and better posture.
And yes, The Ritz-Carlton, Naples has undergone a complete makeover. After a top-to-bottom renovation, the resort feels fresher, sleeker and somehow even more indulgent. Imagine reconditioned suites with sweeping Gulf views, a breezy new lobby bar perfect for pre-dinner champagne and an expanded spa that practically begs you to cancel your plans. It’s still the Ritz-Carlton, but with better lighting and way more Instagram potential.
Hungry? If you’re staying at The Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge, don’t be surprised if you cancel your dinner reservations altogether. This is not just a lounge, it’s the second largest Club Lounge in the entire Ritz-Carlton portfolio, and it’s designed to impress. The space itself is stunning: airy and artful, with intimate seating and Gulf views that steal focus. But it’s the food that keeps guests lingering. Four to five chef-curated presentations roll out daily, each more elegant than the last. Mornings begin with flaky croissants, fresh berries and made-to-order omelets. Midday brings sushi, salads and globally inspired small plates. Come afternoon, it’s cappuccinos and tea cakes. And by evening? Elevated hors d’oeuvres, expertly plated desserts and wine service that feels like fine dining without the reservations. The staff somehow remembers your name, your drink and your preferred view. It’s that kind of service that ruins you for anywhere else.
Sure, The Ritz-Carlton, Naples is turning 40 this year, but don’t think this place is coasting on its past. Naples is leaning in to what makes it special, and suddenly, it’s a lot more fun.
And truthfully? It doesn’t need an anniversary to prove it still has it. The charm lies in the contrasts: polish without pretense, sunsets without filters and luxury that still allows you to wear flip-flops to dinner.
So, if you haven’t been here lately, maybe it’s time. Trade Atlantic waves for Gulf calm. Skip the chaos and find the quiet. Naples is still Naples, it’s just a little cooler now.
