WHERE TO RIDE IN THE PARKSHORE AREA OF NAPLES
Cruising the streets of Parkshore & Midtown by bicycle is the perfect way to see the charm Naples is known for. From various luxury neighborhoods, local beach paths, nice beach hotels, and even open air restaurants for boutique shopping and dining, it makes for the perfect bike ride in Naples for people of all ages and interests.
GULF SHORE BLVD N
Gulf Shore Blvd N is the perfect place to bike due to its nicely paved road and sidewalks. Palm trees line the street, making for a beautiful ride as you pass the multitude of luxury beachfront condominiums and hotels. Riding on this road is a great way to head North while avoiding the busy traffic on US 41 (also known as Tamiami Trail).
Venetian Village is a beautiful shopping and dining center located right at the corner of Gulf Shore Blvd N and Parkshore Drive. The Village Shops on Venetian Bay is an open air, walkable plaza featuring over 50 unique art galleries, boutique shops, and waterfront dining. It is known for its excellent architectural style with a mediterranean feel. Park your bike at one of the bike racks and take a stroll through the meandering courtyards, brick paths, or stop for a bite at one of the waterfront restaurants with a view of the bay.
Clam Pass is one of my favorite places in Naples. It is located just beyond the Naples Grande Hotel and is a unique hidden gem that many visitors overlook. It is easily accessible by bicycle as there are bike racks at the entrance of the boardwalk. Take the 5 minute golf cart ride to the beach or take the 15 minute scenic walk. Either way, you will be transported through a protected Mangrove Estuary featuring vast wildlife. It is truly serene. You will then reach the entrance of the beach where there are bathroom facilities, concession, paddle board and kayak rentals, and a restaurant part of the Naples Grande. Hotel guests have access through the resort to the beach making it popular in the busy season, but it is definitely a spot you shouldn't miss exploring.
Waterside Shops is one of two shopping centers in Naples featuring popular name brand retailers. It is home to more luxury designers such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Cartier, Lululemon, and Saks Fifth Avenue catering to shoppers with larger budgets. Regardless if you are interested in shopping, it is a beautiful center to walk around due to its water and fountain features, pristine landscaping, and grand displays. There are also a few great restaurants such as True Food Kitchen, Bricktops, and Brio. Stop for a bite to eat or a cold drink on the outside terrace at Brio - just park your bikes at one of the many bike racks scattered throughout the parking lots and you will not be disappointed!
Pelican Bay is a haven for cyclists as it is the perfect place in Naples to go for a bike ride. It encompasses long roads with nice turns and side streets to venture down for a leisurely ride. It is a large development with several different luxury residential communities, smooth roads and sidewalks, and beautiful landscaping. It is located just to the north of Waterside Shops, Clam Pass, and the Naples Grande Hotel. It has beautiful wide roads with bike lanes and large sidewalks, making it the ideal passageway to continue your bike ride through Naples without having to brace US 41.
Crayton Road is the perfect passageway to get from one place to the other between the Park Shore area of Naples and the Downtown. It is a very scenic ride with beautiful homes, nicely paved streets and sidewalks, and is easy to make a few stops along the way. While cruising down this street, stop at Venetian Village or one of the hotels. There are designated bike lanes on this road, however there are spots where it is inconsistent. This is not something to worry about, however, as it is a bike-friendly road and keeps you off of US 41!
NAPLES BEACH HOTEL & GOLF CLUB
(Currently Closed - Will Reopen in 2024 as a Four Seasons)
Naples Beach Hotel is a favorite hotel of visitors and locals alike. It is situated in the perfect location on the beach overlooking the Gulf of Mexico throughout its property. Locals enjoy coming to their restaurant here to grab dinner and drinks, but the main attraction is their amazing sunset view and live music. This spot makes for a great afternoon lunch or place to watch the sunset while on your bike ride.
Lowdermilk Beach Park is one of Naples' most popular beachfront parks. It is located right in Park Shore and is the top beach to go to if you are looking for somewhere with more facilities than just one of the quaint side street beach entrances. It has bathroom facilities, sand volleyball nets, two children's playgrounds, picnic tables, gazebos for rent, and a concession stand. It is great to check out if you are looking to get out on the beach and stretch your legs during your bike ride through Naples!
