Location Suggestion

Question

Hi, we have visited a few times to Naples and we love it there.

Thinking about coming over next year June or July is there any recommendations for an area to stay in (kind of like Naples) where there’s shopping/bars/restaurant area near the beach where we would hire a villa? Thanks

Answer

Hi! Since you love Naples and are looking for a similar vibe—beach access, shopping, bars, and restaurants within walking distance, plus the option to rent a villa—there are a few areas in Florida that might suit your needs for a June or July stay.

1. Marco Island

Located just south of Naples, Marco Island offers beautiful white-sand beaches, a relaxed coastal atmosphere, and plenty of villa rental options. While smaller than Naples, it has a nice mix of restaurants, casual bars, and boutique shops along the main corridor near the beach. It’s quieter than Naples but still offers a range of activities.

Great beach villas with direct access to the Gulf.
Good mix of casual and upscale dining along Collier Boulevard.
Family-friendly and walkable areas near the beach.

2. Sarasota / Siesta Key

Siesta Key, near Sarasota, is famous for its powdery white sand and clear waters. The village area has a lively strip with bars, restaurants, and shops within walking distance. Renting a villa here gives you both proximity to the beach and a more active local scene.

Siesta Key Village has a walkable shopping and dining area.
Variety of villas, from luxury to moderately priced options.
Good for paddleboarding and other water activities.

3. Fort Myers Beach / Sanibel Island

Fort Myers Beach offers a more casual, tourist-friendly scene with bars, casual dining, and beachfront villas. Sanibel Island is quieter, more residential, and known for shelling and natural beauty. Both are within reasonable driving distance from each other, giving flexibility for exploring.

Fort Myers Beach has a main strip with restaurants and bars close to the sand.
Sanibel Island offers more secluded villa options with beach access and a laid-back atmosphere.
Good for families, paddleboarding, and biking.

4. Destin / Miramar Beach (Florida Panhandle)

This area is a bit farther from Naples but offers lively beach towns with shopping, restaurants, and plenty of villa options. The beaches are wide, and the Gulf waters are calm, perfect for paddleboarding or swimming.

Destin Harbor area and Miramar Beach have vibrant dining and shopping.
Villa rentals often include beachfront access or pools.
Great for families and groups seeking more activity near the beach.

Recommendation

If your priority is a Naples-like experience with upscale yet relaxed beaches, easy beach access, and a variety of dining and shopping options, Marco Island or Siesta Key are the closest in feel. Fort Myers Beach and Destin are also excellent but lean more toward a tourist-friendly and lively atmosphere, especially in summer. Renting a villa near the main village or beach area will give you both convenience and the privacy you want.

For June or July, keep in mind that South and Southwest Florida can be hot and humid, with occasional afternoon showers, so a villa with AC and a pool can make your stay more comfortable.