Explore Everglades National Park While Staying in Our Naples Vacation Rentals 

When it comes to planning the perfect vacation, few places can offer the combination of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and dynamic wildlife that the Everglades National Park can. Located in proximity to the vibrant city of Naples, Florida, this park provides a unique and enchanting landscape that’s a far cry from the typical beachfront experience. For those staying in beachfront Naples vacation rentals, this magical ecosystem is a must-visit destination, offering a fantastic array of activities and sights just a short drive away. When you are staying in a luxury Naples, Florida rental, exploring the Everglades National Park will undoubtedly be one of the highlights of your trip.

Let’s dive deeper into the plethora of activities and experiences awaiting you in the beauty of the Everglades!

Things To Do in the Everglades

Biking

One of the most invigorating ways to explore the Everglades is by bike. The Shark Valley offers a unique opportunity with a 15-mile loop trail that’s both challenging and rewarding. Along this path, you’ll immerse yourself in the heart of the Florida wilderness while potentially spotting alligators, a variety of birds, and other local wildlife. If you don’t have your own bike, there are rental options available at the Visitor Center. They offer a variety of bikes to suit different preferences and needs. Approximately halfway along the loop, an observation tower offers panoramic views of the Everglades. It’s the perfect spot to take a break, enjoy a picnic, and soak in the breathtaking landscape. This activity is perfect for individuals or families looking to mix exercise with exploration. The smooth, paved path makes it accessible for bikers of all levels.

Boating

Navigate the watery pathways of the Everglades by taking a boating tour—an adventure that provides a completely different perspective of this expansive wetland.  Known for their speed and ability to navigate shallow waters, airboat rides are a thrilling way to explore the Everglades. These tours often whip through mangrove tunnels and across open marshes, providing bursts of excitement while also offering moments to pause and observe wildlife. For a more relaxed and informative experience, guided boat tours led by knowledgeable captains offer insights into the ecology, history, and conservation efforts within the Everglades. These tours are perfect for all ages and provide ample opportunities for photography and wildlife spotting. For those opting for self-guided canoeing, the Nine Mile Pond Canoe Trail offers a marked route through a series of interconnected ponds and marshes, ideal for naturalists and adventurers.  Boating tours, especially those in sensitive areas like the Everglades, should be conducted with a deep respect for the natural environment. Choose tour operators who prioritize conservation and adhere to eco-friendly practices. Avoid disturbing wildlife and follow guidelines to leave no trace.

Hiking

The Everglades is a hiker’s dream. The park has numerous trails catering to all levels of experience and preferences, from short, scenic boardwalks to more strenuous, immersive treks through unpaved paths. The Anhinga Trail, stretching 0.8 miles in a loop, is an easy and accessible trek offering a captivating introduction to the Everglades wetlands. Its boardwalk and paved paths lead through a sawgrass marsh, where hikers can see alligators, turtles, and a wide variety of bird species up close. Another popular option, the Gumbo Limbo Trail, is a 0.4-mile loop that ranges from easy to moderate difficulty. Named after the distinctive gumbo limbo trees found along the route, this shaded trail winds through a tropical hardwood hammock, making it a favorite among birdwatchers and botanists.

Fishing

Anglers will find the Everglades to be a fishing paradise. There are both freshwater and saltwater fishing opportunities across this vast ecosystem. Whether you choose to fish from a boat, shore, or a designated fishing pier, you’ll have the chance to catch various species including tarpon, bass, and snapper. The park’s various habitats—from sawgrass marshes to mangrove swamps—provide diverse and plentiful fishing spots that make every trip different from the last. Anglers must obtain the necessary fishing permits before setting out. These permits help regulate fishing activities and ensure that fish populations remain healthy and sustainable for future generations. Whether you are targeting freshwater bass or saltwater tarpon, the Everglades promises a diverse and rewarding adventure. Always remember to fish responsibly, respecting both park regulations and the delicate environmental balance that makes this such a special place to cast a line. 

Bird Watching

Home to over 350 species of birds, the Everglades is a haven for bird watchers. Birding enthusiasts will be delighted to spot iconic species like the roseate spoonbill, the sleek great blue heron, and the colorful painted bunting. The park is recognized as a globally significant bird area, and its varied habitats support a high diversity of bird life. Key bird-watching spots include Eco Pond, Mahogany Hammock, and Paurotis Pond. Bring your binoculars and prepare to be mesmerized by the avian residents of this unparalleled bird-watching destination.

Guided Tours

For a deeper understanding and richer appreciation of the Everglades, consider joining a guided tour. Knowledgeable rangers and local experts will lead you through the park, providing fascinating insights into its ecology, history, and wildlife. A popular choice is the Shark Valley Tram Tour, a guided two-hour narrated experience that covers a 15-mile loop trail into the “river of grass,” offering an immersive way to explore the landscape. For those seeking more in-depth exploration, the Everglades Institute offers educational and adventure tours that delve deeper into the park’s complexities. Numerous tour services are available, including fishing, photography, paddling, birdwatching, and eco tours, each providing a unique perspective on this diverse ecosystem. Some tours even allow for nighttime explorations, giving you a chance to experience the nocturnal side of the Everglades. Tour guides are required to have authorization from the park, ensuring that they are licensed and insured businesses. These commercial use authorizations are issued by the National Park Service, providing visitors with additional options for exploring this wonderful resource.

Directions & Location

The Everglades National Park is easily accessible for travelers staying in our Naples, Florida vacation rentals. The park’s main entrance is located at the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center, south of Homestead. If you’re in Naples, a scenic drive along U.S. Highway 41 will take you to the Gulf Coast Visitor Center in Everglades City, which serves as another gateway to the park. This route brings you through beautiful sections of the Big Cypress National Preserve and the Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park, adding to the adventure. No matter where you’re coming from, clear signage will guide you to the park. Make sure to carry a park map and confirm entrance fees and timings ahead of your visit. The journey itself offers scenic views and ensures your adventure begins long before you reach the park’s boundaries.

Stay With William Raveis Florida Rentals

William Raveis Florida Rentals offers a wide selection of lodging options and homes for rent in Naples, FL. From luxurious Naples Florida beach rentals to charming homes for rent in Naples, FL, William Raveis ensures top-notch accommodations. Imagine returning from an exhilarating day of exploration in the Everglades to unwind at a beautiful vacation rental. Whether you crave the sound of the ocean waves from a beachfront property or the tranquility of a secluded home base, William Raveis Rentals provides the perfect retreat. Moreover, being based in Naples opens up a world of additional activities. There are countless things to do near Naples, Florida, such as visiting botanical gardens, exploring the Naples Zoo, enjoying local dining and shopping experiences, or simply lounging on the pristine beaches. Book your stay with William Raveis Rentals and make your adventure in the Everglades and beyond truly unforgettable.