Experience Fresh Local Flavor: Farmers Markets & Pick-Your-Own Farms in Naples, Florida

Experience Fresh Local Flavor: Farmers Markets & Pick-Your-Own Farms in Naples, Florida

U-Pick Farms: A Fun, Family-Friendly Naples Activity

Looking for a fun hands-on activity for the whole family? Head to Farmer Mike’s U-Pick in Bonita Springs (just a short drive from Naples) for a day of harvesting your own fruits and vegetables straight from the source. Depending on the season, you might find strawberries, peppers, tomatoes, sunflowers, and even pumpkins. It’s an engaging outing for kids and also a great photo op. 

Visit a Farmers Market in Naples, FL

There are several vibrant farmers markets throughout Naples, especially on weekends. These markets are perfect for browsing fresh fruits and vegetables, organic honey, fresh-baked breads, and handcrafted goods. They’re also a great way to support local farmers and artisans while getting a taste of Naples' seasonal offerings.

Popular farmers markets:

• Third Street South Farmers Market (Saturdays, 7:30 AM–11:30 AM)
• Vanderbilt Farmers Market (Saturdays, 8 AM–1 PM)
• Marco Island Farmers Market (Wednesdays, seasonal)

Why Shop Local in Naples?

While Naples is known for its incredible dining scene, picking up local produce is a smart and satisfying way to nourish yourself during your stay. It’s also a great way to connect with the community, enjoy fresh flavors, and maybe even save a little money on snacks and meals. Whether you’re filling a picnic basket or just browsing, taking time to explore the farmers markets and local farms in Naples adds something special to your vacation.

Want a full list of where to shop local? Check out The Naples Florida Review’s Guide to Buying Local Produce below for detailed listings, seasonal produce tips, and U-pick schedules.

Photo Credit: Farmer Mike's

🥬 Local Produce That Actually Tastes Like Something

Let’s talk real vegetables. Not the waxy, tired stuff that’s been trucked across the country. We’re in the middle of peak Florida produce season—greens, citrus, tomatoes, herbs, and more.

🔹 Immokalee State Farmers Market

I’ve been there with the whole family. It’s colorful, vibrant, and truly local—run by and for the people who actually grow the food that ends up on your plate. Go early, bring cash, and talk to people. They’ll tell you what’s good this week and what’s coming next.

🔹 Jimmy’s Collard Greens

Right now, Jimmy (yes, same Jimmy from the seafood) is harvesting collard greens that will be gone by Easter. He’s already prepping to grow over 12 varieties of vegetables next season. Whether you’re a home cook or a restaurant owner, it’s worth getting on his list.
🛒 Order via his Facebook page or call/text 239-776-2770

🔹 Farmer Mike’s U-Pick

This is your hands-on, dirt-under-the-fingernails produce experience. Check their site to see what’s in season. It changes weekly, and there’s something super satisfying about pulling your own strawberries or greens right out of the ground.

🔹 Southern Fresh Farms (Fort Myers)

Also great for U-pick, and a hit with families. Feed the rescue animals, grab a local brew from Crazy Dingo Brewing, and take home something fresh. It’s one of those only-in-Florida experiences.

🌿 HERBS — KITCHEN GARDENS & FRESH FLAVOR

🔹 Kitchen Gardens

If you want local herbs that go beyond the shrink-wrapped supermarket plastic, this is your move. Kitchen Gardens is owned by the Maxwell family, a generational Naples family with deep roots. They’ve been growing and supplying herbs to homes and restaurants for decades.

“It started with just a few herbs in our backyard. Today, we grow over 30 varieties and supply some of the top restaurants and home cooks in Southwest Florida.”
— Read their full story here

They sell to Publix, but you can buy from them directly. Support the source. Basil, mint, thyme, lemongrass—whatever you’re looking for, they’re probably growing it right now. Originally published on The Naples Florida Review.