If you are planning a trip to Naples with littles, you are in the right spot to find all the best things to do with kids in Naples, Florida. As a mama of a toddler boy who lives in Naples, I am here to fill you in on all the hidden gems, the best Naples beaches, and kid-friendly (aka budget friendly) options for your Naples vacation. Steal my best tips and tricks to help you plan the best Naples vacation.
I tried to pack in as much as I could to one blog post. Here’s a few things I’ll be sharing with you.
- Things to do with kids in Naples, Florida
- Best Beaches in Naples
- Best Parks in Naples
- What to do when it rains (or is too hot)
- Best Ice Cream Shops
- Best Restaurants in Naples with Kids
Fun Activities in Naples to do with Kids
Naples Zoo
- Website: https://www.napleszoo.org/
- Address: 1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd, Naples, FL 34102
The Naples Zoo is where it’s at! Picture this: your little one’s face lighting up as they hand-feed a giraffe (instant photo op, am I right?). Then hop on a boat tour that cruises past islands full of monkeys living their best lives—seriously, it’s like Animal Planet IRL.
This zoo is the perfect size for a quick morning adventure. You’ll have plenty of time to grab a snack, let the kiddos tire themselves out, and still make it to the beach for some sandy fun (and maybe a nap—fingers crossed). Add in daily shows and feeding sessions, and you’ve got an experience the fam won’t stop talking about. I’d plan to spend about 2 hours here.
A Family Photoshoot
Let’s be real—getting the whole fam to look cute and have fun in one photo can be tricky! But guess what? I’ve got you covered! Hire a pro (hint, hint, that’s me) to capture your crew during your Naples vacay. Think of it as the ultimate souvenir, one that won’t end up collecting dust in the closet.
Whether it’s on a stunning Naples beach (I know all the secret spots), at your vacation rental, or a chill “day in the life” session, you’ll be so glad you took a little time to freeze this moment. Trust me, you’ll want these memories to hang on your walls, not just on your phone.
Ready to make some magic happen? Book your family session here! Oh, and mention you found me through this blog post for a little bonus surprise when you book. You deserve it, mama!
Mini Golf at the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema in Mercato
You NEED to check out the mini-golf course at Alamo Drafthouse Cinema in Mercato. It’s a total hidden gem! This isn’t your typical mini-golf experience—it’s inside a movie theater, which means you can double up on family fun with a movie AND a round of golf. Yes, please!
Here’s the lowdown:
- Cost: $7 for adults, $5 for kids 15 and under—super affordable for all the fun!
- Hours: Opens 30 minutes before the first movie and stays open until the last show ends. So, whether you’re looking for pre- or post-movie entertainment, they’ve got you covered.
The course is small but mighty, perfect for kids of all ages. Whether you want to relax while the little ones play with a cocktail or throw down for a friendly competition, it’s a blast. My fam loves hitting up Mercato for some tacos (or Italian, depending on the vibe) and wrapping up the night with some mini-golf action.
Bonus: Don’t leave without strolling through Mercato’s shops or grabbing some ice cream to end the night on a sweet note!
Boat Tour from Tin City
Want to see how the other half lives? Hop on a Port Royal boat tour from Tin City, and get ready for a cruise through Naples’ most jaw-dropping waterfront mansions. You’ll float past some seriously luxe homes (like Dick Portillo’s for my Chicago crew) while soaking up all the fun facts about the area—and maybe even spot dolphins playing in the waves.
It’s the perfect way to chill with the family while taking in the beauty of Naples from the water. We’re OBSESSED with the sunset tour. Bonus: There’s a bathroom on board (because, you know, kids), and they serve drinks, which means you can sip while you take in the views.
Tin City itself is a cute spot too, so be sure to leave a little time to wander the shops or grab a bite before or after your tour.
Kayak Tours
Jet Skis on Vanderbilt Beach
If your family is all about speed and excitement, jet skis at Vanderbilt Beach are a must-try. Rentals are available right on the beach near the Ritz Carlton. My advice? Book early in the day—it’s less crowded, and the water is usually calmer. Plus, if you time it right, you can enjoy lunch or ice cream nearby when you’re done. Turtle Club and Gumbo Limbo at the Ritz are great on the beach spots.
Best Beaches for Kids in Naples
Lowdermilk Beach
Address: 1301 Gulf Shore Blvd N, Naples, FL 34102
Lowdermilk Park has plenty of parking (including metered and permit options), clean restrooms, and outdoor showers to rinse off sandy little toes. There’s even a snack bar for when hunger strikes. The beach is wide and beautiful, with calm waves perfect for little swimmers. Plus, there’s a playground nearby if your kids need a break from the sand. Pro tip: Arrive early, especially on weekends—it’s a popular spot!
Clam Pass Beach Park
Address: 465 Seagate Dr, Naples, FL 34103
Clam Pass is an adventure from the moment you arrive! There’s a parking lot, but you’ll take a tram (or walk the scenic boardwalk) through a mangrove forest to reach the beach. Bathrooms and showers are available, and the beach itself is great for kids, with shallow waters and soft sand. Don’t forget to bring a beach cart for your gear—the walk from the tram drop-off is a little long but totally worth it.
Address: 100 Vanderbilt Beach Rd, Naples, FL 34108
Vanderbilt Beach is a family favorite for its easy access and great facilities. The parking garage is just a short walk to the beach, and you’ll find restrooms and showers to keep everyone comfortable. The sand is powdery soft, and the water is perfect for splashing or building sandcastles. Bonus: It’s close to restaurants at the Ritz Carlton and ice cream shops, so you can grab a treat after your beach day.
Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park
Address: 11135 Gulf Shore Dr, Naples, FL 34108
This state park feels like a hidden gem. It’s super clean, with plenty of parking, restrooms, and outdoor showers. The beach is calm and ideal for families, with lots of shells for little ones to collect. Parking is $8 per car. You can also rent paddleboards or kayaks here for extra fun. There are shaded picnic areas, so pack a lunch and make a day of it. This beach has more of a wild vibe but is a huge park to wander and explore.
Naples Pier Beach
Address: 25 12th Ave S, Naples, FL 34102
The iconic Naples Pier is a must-see (while still damaged from the hurricans), and the beach here is perfect for families. Parking can be tricky (there is resident parking spots nearby but only one nearby lot with meters for guests), so plan to arrive early. You will be a short walk from 3rd avenue with dining and shopping. The downtown beaches are some of my favorites because they are lined with beautiful homes and palm trees. Worth the drive and hunt for parking!
Best Parks in Naples, Florida with kids
Cambier Park
Address: 755 8th Ave S, Naples, FL 34102
Cambier Park is a downtown gem. It’s the perfect spot to let the kids burn off some energy before grabbing dinner on 5th Avenue or wandering through the nearby shops. The playground is partially shaded, which is such a lifesaver on those sunny Naples afternoons. The best part? It’s fully fenced in! You can actually relax while your little ones run wild without worrying about them darting into the street. My son loves the variety of play structures here—it’s got something for toddlers and older kids, so everyone has fun.
North Collier Regional Park + You Can Dig It Park
Address: 15000 Livingston Rd, Naples, FL 34109
This is hands-down our family’s favorite park. We’re here all the time! The park is massive, with paved paths perfect for biking, scootering, or just strolling. My son’s obsession, though, is the huge fenced-in playground and the You Can Dig It Park. Total game-changer! It’s a covered sand play area with “fossils” embedded in the ground for kids to dig up. My son has been coming here since he was a baby, and he’s still discovering new ways to play every time we go. Bring some shovels and buckets—it’s like a mini dig site!
Fleischmann Park
Address: 1600 Fleischmann Blvd, Naples, FL 34102
Located right across from Coastland Center Mall, Fleischmann Park is perfect for a play break during a shopping trip. It’s a playground paradise! There are two play areas—one for toddlers and one for bigger kids—and even a splash zone to cool off. My son is obsessed with the zip-line swing and the giant slides. It’s a park where you can easily spend hours. Bonus points for the picnic tables and shade trees that make it mom-friendly too!
Baker Park
Address: 50 Riverside Cir, Naples, FL 34102
Baker Park is stunning. It’s not just a playground—it’s a whole experience. There’s a fitness area for parents, scenic walking paths, and a massive climbing structure that’s perfect for older kids. For the little ones, there’s a small toddler playground and a splash pad to cool off on hot days. Heads up: this park isn’t fenced, and it backs up to a parking lot, so you’ll want to stay close to the kiddos. The views of the Gordon River from here are also worth taking a moment to enjoy.
Pro tip: pack swimsuits and towels because the splash area is a blast!
What to do in Naples, Florida when it rains or it is just too hot?
While Naples is paradise, the weather isn’t always perfect. On those days when it’s just too hot to be outside with kids all day or on a rainy season afternoon or the rare cold day (I’m talking below 65 degrees!), here are some places to kill some time with your kids.
CMON Children’s Museum
Website | Address: 15080 Livingston Rd, Naples, FL 34109
Fees: $25 per person non-resident, kids under 1 years old are free
If you need a break from the heat—or just want to keep little hands busy—CMON is the place to go. This hands-on museum is made just for kids. They can climb, build, explore, and imagine their way through all kinds of creative exhibits including shopping at Publix, creating art projects, reading in the library and playing outside. It’s a total lifesaver on a rainy day or when you just need a change of scenery. Plan to spend about 90 minutes here (but you can be here longer depending on your kids).
InPlay Family Fun
Website | Address: 2320 Tamiami Trail N, Naples, FL 34103
This destination is a fun choice to burn off some energy. Offering a range of activities including indoor slides and climbing and a little bounce house. They even offer a parents night once a month.
Mini Golf at the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema in Mercato
Best Ice Cream Shops in Naples
The best part of vacation is getting ice cream! Naples has no shortage of places to stop for ice cream. While there are your go-to chain locations like Dairy Queen, Häagen-Dazs, McDonald’s, Culver’s — try a local spot one night for a new experience. Here are a few of our favorites.
Seed to Table
Address: 4835 Immokalee Rd, Naples, FL 34110
If you are staying in North Naples, don’t miss this spot. Their homemade ice cream is rich and SO SO SO good. You can even get a pint to go to enjoy the whole week. They even have a kids climbing zone for children who are potty trained so your kids can play while you grab a cocktail or an appetizer child-free.
Royal Scoop Homemade Ice Cream
Address: 15 8th St, Naples, FL 34102
Royal Scoop offers a delightful array of homemade ice cream flavors, crafted with love and creativity. From classic favorites to unique specialties, it’s a sweet haven for ice cream enthusiasts.
Kilwins Naples + Mercato
Address: 1209 3rd St S, Naples, FL 34102 + 9106 Strada Place, Naples, FL 34108
Kilwins is a cute ice cream spot known for its handcrafted chocolates, fudges, and, of course, premium ice cream. In season, expect a line at the downtown location so get there early if you have little ones, but there are two locations in Naples, so you have two chances to grab this yummy treat.
Sweet Mama’s Ice Cream
Address: 9975 Tamiami Trail N, Naples, FL 34108
Sweet Mama’s Ice Cream serves up nostalgia with a modern twist. Indulge in their creamy delights and explore a variety of inventive flavors, making it a sweet escape for families and ice cream enthusiasts alike.
Best Restaurants for Kids in Naples, Florida
When it’s time to refuel, Naples has plenty of family-friendly dining options. While there are endless amazing restaurants throughout Naples, sometimes you just want something declious and simple when you have kiddos with ya.
Breakfast & Lunch:
- Skillets: Serving homemade breakfast and lunch options with premium ingredients.
- First Watch: A daytime café offering fresh breakfast, brunch, and lunch options.
- Trackside Donuts: Local donut bakery with the best homemade donuts. They DO sell out before 10 am. If you are staying in Naples, you can place an order online in advance or have an easier riser get there early to grab the donuts your family loves most.
Lunch:
- Lake Park Diner: An adorable spot with an outdoor patio, offering fun and healthy options. There are two locations. One in North Naples and one towards downtown Naples.
- Turco Taco: Turco Taco is a vibrant Mexican restaurant that caters to families with a flavorful menu. Enjoy fresh tacos, burritos, and more in a lively atmosphere. You can order a box of tacos online and pick it up to bring back to your rental or hotel for an easy lunch or dinner. We love their chicken tinga tacos and the elotes.
- Celebration Park: A waterfront destination featuring a variety of gourmet food trucks and live music. This is a great spot when you have a group who all wants different things. Everyone can order from the food truck they want most.
Dinner:
- Seed to Table: Part grocery store, part restaurant. This spot is a must-visit while in Naples. It offers an amazing culinary experience with endless options from tacos to pizza to sushi. Everyone can order their own food so its a great when you have a group. They don’t take reservations and this place on the weekends gets packed so sometimes finding a table can be tricky!
- Tacos & Tequila: A Mexican restaurant with an outdoor patio, perfect for family dinners.
- Sushi Thai Too: Offers a variety of sushi and Thai dishes in a family-friendly environment.
- Rocco’s Tacos: Enjoy authentic Mexican flavors; reservations are recommended.
- Bar Tulia: A delicious Italian restaurant located at Mercato – a huge restaurant and shopping center.
If I missed something that you LOVE about Naples, please leave a comment below. I am always on the hunt for new places, restaurants and things to do.
If you are planning a vacation to Naples, Florida and you are interested in hiring a photographer to document your time in Naples, I might be your girl! After living in Chicago most of my life, my husband, son and I ditched the Midwest for sunny + warm Naples. Now I photograph families on the beach in Florida (not a bad office, right?).
If you’d like to see more of my Naples family photography work, you can see my portfolio and what its like to work with me here.
Ready to book a session with me? You can grab a spot on my calendar here.
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