When I tell friends I’m heading to Naples, their first question is usually about the beaches. And while the pristine, white-sand coastline is certainly a major draw, I always find myself equally excited about the shopping. The shopping in Naples, Florida, is, in a word, exceptional. It’s a place where you can wander from a historic, sun-drenched avenue lined with art galleries to a glamorous open-air mall with the world’s most coveted luxury brands, all in a single afternoon. It’s this unique blend of sophisticated, high-end retail and charming, locally-owned boutiques that makes Naples a true shopper’s paradise.
In this guide, I’ll share my personal favorite spots to shop in Naples, from the iconic Fifth Avenue South to the luxurious Waterside Shops. We’ll explore the best places to find everything from designer fashion and fine jewelry to unique souvenirs and local art. So, whether you’re a serious fashionista or just looking for a special memento of your trip, you’ll find it here.
The Shopping Scene: What to Expect
Naples has a reputation for being an upscale destination, and its shopping scene certainly reflects that. The overall vibe is one of relaxed luxury, with a focus on high-quality goods and personalized service. You’ll find a mix of internationally renowned designer brands and one-of-a-kind local boutiques, often set in beautifully landscaped, open-air environments. It’s a shopping experience that feels both indulgent and inviting.
Main Shopping Destinations
Naples is home to several world-class shopping destinations, each with its own unique character. The two most famous are Fifth Avenue South and Third Street South, both located in the heart of Old Naples. These historic avenues are lined with a mix of high-end boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants, and they offer a truly special shopping experience. For a more traditional mall experience, head to Waterside Shops or Coastland Center, both of which offer a wide selection of popular brands.
Shopping Malls in Naples
While much of Naples’ shopping is centered around its charming downtown districts, the city also boasts several impressive shopping malls that cater to a variety of tastes and budgets.
Waterside Shops
For a truly luxurious shopping experience, look no further than Waterside Shops. This upscale, open-air mall is home to over 60 specialty stores, including some of the world’s most prestigious brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Saks Fifth Avenue. The mall itself is stunning, with beautiful landscaping, cascading waterfalls, and a relaxed, elegant atmosphere.
Coastland Center
If you’re looking for a more traditional mall experience, Coastland Center is the place to go. This is the largest indoor mall in Naples, and it’s home to over 100 stores, including popular department stores like Macy’s and JCPenney. You’ll also find a wide variety of specialty stores, a food court, and a movie theater.
The Village Shops on Venetian Bay
For a shopping experience with a view, head to The Village Shops on Venetian Bay. This beautiful waterfront shopping center has over 45 luxury boutiques and restaurants, all set in a picturesque Venetian-style village. It’s the perfect place to spend a leisurely afternoon browsing the shops and enjoying the beautiful scenery.
Shopping Areas & Markets in Naples
Beyond the malls, Naples is home to several unique shopping districts and markets that are not to be missed.
Fifth Avenue South
Fifth Avenue South is the heart and soul of Naples. This historic avenue is lined with a mix of high-end boutiques, art galleries, and world-class restaurants. It’s a vibrant and sophisticated shopping district with a charming, Old Florida feel. I love spending an evening strolling down the avenue, window shopping, and enjoying the lively atmosphere.
Third Street South
Just a few blocks from Fifth Avenue South, you’ll find Third Street South, another one of Naples’ premier shopping destinations. This charming, historic district is known for its upscale boutiques, fine art galleries, and beautiful courtyards. It’s a bit more relaxed than Fifth Avenue South, with a more intimate, European feel.
Tin City Waterfront Shops
For a more casual and eclectic shopping experience, head to Tin City Waterfront Shops. This rustic, waterfront marketplace is housed in a collection of historic tin-roofed buildings, and it’s home to a variety of unique shops and restaurants. It’s a great place to find souvenirs, local crafts, and casual beachwear.
Shop by Category: Finding Your Perfect Treasure
Luxury Fashion & Designer Brands
Naples is a haven for luxury shoppers. You’ll find all the top designer brands at Waterside Shops, including Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Tiffany & Co. For a more curated selection of high-end fashion, check out Marissa Collections on Third Street South.
Art Galleries & Antiques
Naples has a thriving arts scene, with dozens of galleries showcasing the work of local, national, and international artists. You’ll find a high concentration of galleries on Fifth Avenue South and Third Street South. For antiques, head to the Naples Design District.
Resort Wear & Coastal Style
With its sunny climate and coastal location, it’s no surprise that Naples is a great place to shop for resort wear. You’ll find a wide selection of stylish and comfortable clothing at boutiques like Gretchen Scott and Lilly Pulitzer.
What to Buy in Naples
- A Piece of Local Art: With so many great galleries, it’s the perfect place to find a unique piece of art to remember your trip.
- Designer Handbag: Treat yourself to a new handbag from one of the luxury brands at Waterside Shops.
- A Statement Piece of Jewelry: Naples has many fine jewelers, so it’s a great place to find a special piece of jewelry.
- Stylish Resort Wear: Stock up on breezy sundresses, linen pants, and colorful tops.
- A Unique Antique: Browse the shops in the Naples Design District to find a one-of-a-kind treasure.
Insider Shopping Tips
- Take the Trolley: The Naples Trolley Tour is a great way to get an overview of the city’s main shopping areas.
- Visit the Farmers Market: The Third Street South Farmers Market is a must-visit on Saturday mornings.
- Look for Sales: Many of the boutiques have seasonal sales, so be sure to ask about any current promotions.
- Explore the Side Streets: Some of the best shops are tucked away on the side streets off of Fifth Avenue South and Third Street South.
- Combine Shopping with Dining: All of the main shopping areas have a great selection of restaurants, so plan to take a break for lunch or dinner.
Dining & Entertainment
Naples is as much a dining destination as it is a shopping one. You’ll find a wide variety of restaurants in all of the main shopping areas, from casual cafes to fine dining. After a day of shopping, you can catch a show at the Sugden Community Theatre on Fifth Avenue South or enjoy a cocktail at one of the many waterfront bars.
Seasonal Shopping Guide
The winter months are the peak season in Naples, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. The summer is the off-season, so you’ll find fewer crowds and better deals. The shoulder seasons (spring and fall) are a great time to visit, with pleasant weather and a good mix of locals and tourists.
Practical Information
- Parking: Parking can be a challenge in the downtown area, especially during peak season. There are several parking garages and lots available, but they can fill up quickly. Consider using a ride-sharing service or taking the trolley.
- Hours: Most shops are open from 10am to 6pm, with some of the restaurants and bars staying open later.
- Payment Methods: All shops accept major credit cards.
FAQs
What is the main shopping street in Naples?
Fifth Avenue South is the main shopping street in Naples, but Third Street South is also a very popular shopping destination.
Are there any outlet malls in Naples?
Yes, the Naples Outlet Center is located between Naples and Marco Island. Miromar Outlets, a large designer outlet mall, is located in nearby Estero.
What is the best time of year to shop in Naples?
The best time to shop is during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall), when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller.
Conclusion
Shopping in Naples, Florida, is an experience that is as luxurious and sophisticated as the city itself. From the high-end designer boutiques of Waterside Shops to the charming, locally owned shops of Third Street South, there is something for every shopper in this beautiful coastal city. So, on your next trip to Naples, be sure to leave some extra room in your suitcase. You’re going to need it. And for a broader look at shopping across the state, be sure to check out our main Shopping in Florida guide.
