Part Two: Bayshore Arts District
See part one of our blog here.
Looking for a unique experience when you rent a vacation home in Naples, Florida? Consider calling the up-and-coming Bayshore Arts District your home away from home this winter! The Bayshore Arts District truly has it all – easy access to Fifth Avenue shopping and dining, close proximity to our famous beaches and ample opportunities for recreation.
You don’t even have to leave the conveniently-located Bayshore Arts District, however, to have an incredible vacation experience. In this blog we will some of the highlights of this unique neighborhood along with a list of hidden gems that are favorites of year-around locals like us.
Naples Botanical Garden
We’ve covered the Naples Botanical Garden in one of our previous blogs, but it’s worth overviewing this tremendous Naples asset again here. The Naples Botanical Garden is a sprawling garden paradise with plenty to see. You can stroll along the boardwalk and visit different parts of the gardens that represent different parts of the world and their varied flora. Many species of birds occupy the gardens, so it’s a great place to bring your binoculars their charming café offers excellent options for lunch and don’t forget to stop by the visitors center. Traveling with kids? Ask the friendly staff at the ticket guests to direct you towards the pick up area for free activity books. My kids had a great time coloring and following along with the guide.
Celebration Park
Celebration Park offers an experience you won’t find anywhere else in Naples: a large gathering of food trucks with an outdoor space to eat and look out on the water. A real departure from the Fifth Avenue dining that has made Naples a foodie destination, Celebration Park offers a more casual and varied dining experience. My family has a few favorite food trucks, so when you visit, be sure to check out GYROS2GO (excellent gyro salad) and Gigi’s Gourmet (Blues Burger). The park also has a central full liquor bar and frequent opportunities to dine with live music.
Dining Galore
The creator of Celebration Park has two other excellent dining options: Café 360 and Rebecca’s Wine Bar. Café 360 overlooks the water and offers a wide array of dine-in as well as to-go options. I think that their BLT is one of the best in town and certainly worth a try. Rebecca’s is a great spot for a drink and appetizers. My friends and I had a great time there recently designing a custom charcuterie spread.
Another new-comer to consider in the Bayshore Arts District is The Med, a modern Mediterranean spot with a wide selection of food and beverage. On a recent trip there I really enjoyed the charred Octopus A Modo Mio and Tuna Tartare.
Hidden Gems
Looking for some local hidden gems in the Bayshore District? Famous amongst locals is Taqueria San Julian (the place is so small that they don’t even have a website…check out it’s Facebook page here). The ambiance is extremely casual and rustic but the tacos are some of the best in the area. I recommend the Tacos de Pastor.
Staying on a Friday? Interested in cooking up some of the freshest seafood in town? Mike’s Bait House opens it’s doors to Dilly’s Fish Co., a local supplier. Dilly’s sells fish right off the boat from 12PM to 4PM. Bring cash and your appetite!
Where to Stay
As Naples locals that have carefully bought a portfolio of homes throughout Naples over the last 20 years, we would love to host you in the Bayshore Arts District at one of our newest properties: New Waterside Bungalow for 7/BBQ/Deck/Bring Pets! This new-construction home is located at the end of a quiet street next to a canal. The home is walking and biking distance from every location mentioned in this blog and perfect for families. Click here to check our availability and book today.
Want to learn more? Check out this helpful video of Bayshore Arts District.