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Overview of the Naples Area

Naples Area Populations and Data

The City of Naples has 20,976 residents (year 2000 US census). Its borders are one mile wide and nine miles long, and stretch along the Gulf of Mexico. The area surrounding the city consists of unincorporated areas of Collier County. This area is also referred to as Naples, and whose residents have Naples mailing addresses.

Collier County covers a territory that is over 50 miles wide in areas. County officials estimated the population of the county in 2003 to be 290,000 (a growth of 16% since the year 2000 US census of 251,377). The overwhelming majority of the county's population resides within a short drive to the gulf.

The number of people residing in the county varies greatly throughout the year. During February and March, the population is estimated to exceed 390,000 at times. This is the most popular time of year, when winter residents and short-term visitors are in the area. The county's population is at its lowest point during the summer months.

Arriving in Naples

If you are arriving by way of Interstate 75, then the three main exits into the Naples area will be Exit 111 at Immokalee Rd, Exit 107 at Pine Ridge Rd, or Exit 101 at Collier Blvd. Since these are the only Interstate exits into and out of the area, traffic will be heavy at times getting to these points. A new exit at I-75 and Golden Gate Rd is planned for the future and should help the flow of traffic.

The Old Naples Area

It's about 8 miles into downtown Naples from Interstate Exit 107, or Exit 101 at Collier Blvd. City blocks near downtown Naples are based on a north-south, east-west grid. Once you're in the downtown section of Naples, it's easy to find your way. The main entrance into downtown is west on Fifth Avenue South, off of Tamiami (US 41). Road signs clearly mark the way onto Fifth Avenue South.

Fifth Avenue South

Fifth Avenue South is main streets of downtown Naples. The area offers a range of daytime and nighttime activities. In addition to the many excellent restaurants and pubs, Fifth Avenue has many shops, art galleries, live entertainment and hotels. Fifth Avenue comes alive at night with various activities. Many of the restaurants in the area offer outdoor seating, complete with great people watching opportunities.

Third Street South

The Third Street South area also has shops, art galleries, boutiques, restaurants and pubs. Plus, the area is only three blocks away from the Naples pier.  You get to the Third Street South area by heading west on Fifth Avenue South, then left at Third Street for one mile.

Naples Pier and Beach

Beaches are very accessible in the City of Naples. Head west off of US 41 on any side street south of 7th Avenue North, and you'll be at the Naples beach in minutes. Beach parking (metered) and access is available at the western end of most avenues. The Naples Pier, which is always bustling with activity, is located at 12th Avenue South.

Tin City

Restaurants and more than 32 local shops with mementos, t-shirts and Chotzkies. In addition to regularly scheduled sightseeing cruises throughout the day, half day bay fishing and deep sea fishing boats depart twice daily. Call 239.263.4949 for information. Tin City is located on Naples Bay just three blocks down Tamiami from Fifth Avenue South