Known for its pristine beaches, lush golf courses, upscale shopping, epic nightlife, exquisite architecture, the best hotels and rich culture, you’ll love. Naples is one to add to your Florida hit list.
Naples is a vibrant city in Florida that’s packed with energy and excitement. Nature lovers, foodies and golfers rejoice: you’ve found your place in the world. As long as you have a few solid blocks of gold to pay your way – I joke… kind of.
Naples is a city that offers luxurious and comfortable accommodations that can be difficult to organise on a budget. Digs in Naples don’t come cheap.
There’s also a huge variety of different areas in the city, each offering something different to travellers. As a result, figuring out exactly where to stay in Naples can be tricky.
But never fear! That’s where I come in.
In this article, I’ve broken down the five best places to stay in Naples to suit every travel style. Whether you’re looking to party, relax, sightsee, or all of the above – I’ve got you covered.
So, without further ado – let’s find you a place to stay in Naples!
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- Where is the Best Place to Stay in Naples?
- Naples Neighborhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Naples
- Naples’ Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
- FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Naples
- What To Pack For Naples
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Naples
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Naples
- Buy Us a Coffee!
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are my highest recommendations for accommodation in Naples.
Best Western Naples Inn & Suites | Best Budget Hotel in Naples
If you’re looking for cheap accommodation in Naples, we recommend Best Western. This hotel is great value for money and has a range of top features, including two swimming pools and family rooms. Top attractions are close by, and there’s even a free shuttle to Lowdermilk Beach, make the most of the free parking and leave your car behind.
Naples Bay Resort Charter Club | Best Hotel in Naples
The Charter Club Resort is our favourite hotel in Naples thanks to its great location and luxurious features. Rooms are spacious and come with convenient amenities.
Ideally situated in Old Naples, the Charter Club Resort is within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and the beach.
White Sands Resort Club | Best Airbnb in Naples
This private room is situated in a vintage motel turned Florida Airbnb just a few blocks from the beach. Each room comes with a private bathroom and kitchenette, and guests have access to a shared garden, swimming pool, bar, hot tub, and laundry facilities. When you envisage that this Airbnb can sleep up to four guests, this room is like having your very own hostel, just without strangers.
There is a sun deck on the roof available to all guests and outside gas grills and tables in the courtyard. The hosts provide beach equipment, including towels, umbrellas, and bikes! Drive into the free parking and forget about sitting in traffic.
Old Naples
Old Naples is located at the heart of the city and the best place to stay in Naples for first-time visitors. It is one of the most popular neighbourhoods in Naples thank to its stunning architecture, delicious restaurants, and upscale shops.
East Naples
The East Naples neighbourhood is our best recommendation for where to stay in Naples for one night. This large and lush district is located next to the city centre and is close to the airport.
Fifth Avenue South
Fifth Avenue South runs through the centre of Old Naples. It is a lively and vibrant area that is packed with restaurants, cafes, and a variety of high-end and high street shops, making it the best place to stay in Naples for those who want to party.
Pelican Bay
Pelican Bay is one of the coolest places to stay in Naples. This massive neighbourhood is located north of the city centre and it offers visitors an excellent mix of modern amenities and access to nature.
Coquina Sands
Coquina Sands is situated in central Naples and our recommendation for where to stay in Naples for families. It sits sandwiched between the Old Naples and Pelican Bay neighbourhoods and offers easy access throughout the region.
Located in southwestern Florida, Naples is best known for its incredible beaches and its excellent selection of world-class golf courses. Not your typical USA backpacking stop but…
There’s so much more to this vibrant city than meets the eye. Naples is bursting with history and culture, as well as great cuisine and family-friendly activities.
Old Naples is the best area to stay in if you’re visiting for the first time. It’s packed with great attractions and landmarks, ideal for anyone looking to get to know the area. It’s also home to some of the best restaurants and shops in the city.
Photo: @amandaadraper
At the heart of the Old Naples neighborhoods is lively and vibrant Fifth Avenue South. My top pick for where to stay in Naples for nightlife, Fifth Avenue South is bursting with bistros, bars, and pubs where you can enjoy an unforgettable night out.
East Naples is located next to the city center. It’s the best area to stay in Naples for one night or if you’re traveling on a budget because it has great value accommodation options.
North of the city center is Coquina Sands. This is the best area to stay in Naples for families because it’s close to the beach and has plenty of things to see and do.
Finally, Pelican Bay is the coolest place to stay in Naples. This buzzing neighborhood is home to great shops, restaurants, and bars, as well as hiking trails, natural attractions, and pristine beaches.
Naples’ Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Now, take a look at where to stay in Naples, Florida in more detail. Each neighborhood has something slightly different on offer, so make sure to pick the one that’s right for you!
1. Old Naples – Where to Stay in Naples for Your First Time
Old Naples is one of the most popular neighborhoods in the city. Here, you’ll find stunning architecture, top-class restaurants, and upscale shops. There’s so much to see and do here, making it ideal for anyone visiting Naples for the first time.
Originally built in the late 19th century, Old Naples is also a dream destination for history buffs. Simply go for a stroll through the city streets and you’ll find plenty of remnants of the past. I usually base myself here when I visit and in my experience, it’s the perfect location for taking in everything that Naples has to offer.
Cove Inn on Naples Bay | Best Hotel in Old Naples
This Old Naples hotel is close to popular attractions and is a short walk from the beach, bars, and bistros. Rooms are bright, spacious, and comfortable and each has a small kitchenette.
Charter Club Resort Of Naples Bay | Best Resort in Old Naples
This Old Naples Bay Resort has a great location and luxurious features, offering anything you could want from a resort-style stay. There are lots of restaurants, galleries, and boutiques to explore nearby, as well as beaches and the docks.
White Sands Resort Club | Best Airbnb in Old Naples
This private room is situated in a vintage motel turned Florida Airbnb just a few blocks from the beach. Each room comes with a private bathroom and kitchenette, and guests have access to a shared garden, swimming pool, bar, hot tub, and laundry facilities. When you envisage that this Airbnb can sleep up to four guests, this room is like having your very own hostel, just without strangers.
There is a sun deck on the roof available to all guests and outside gas grills and tables in the courtyard. The hosts provide beach equipment, including towels, umbrellas, and bikes! Drive up to the free parking and forget sitting in traffic.
Things to See and Do in Old Naples:
Photo: @amandaadraper
- Delve deep into history by visiting the Naples Historical Society.
- Enjoy a relaxing afternoon in Cambier Park.
- Explore the streets, shops, and bars of Naples Downtown.
- Go for a stroll and watch the sunset from the iconic Naples Pier.
- See an incredible performance at Gulfshore Playhouse.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. East Naples – Best Place to Stay in Naples on a Budget
The East Naples neighborhood is a large and lush district, conveniently located right next to the city center and close to the airport. It boasts an excellent array of attractions and is also home to a variety of golf courses, parks, shops, and restaurants.
This is also where you’ll find the best budget options for Naples accommodation. Although there aren’t any hostels in the city, backpackers and cost-conscious travelers can still find great deals and good value by staying in this neighborhood.
Red Roof Inn Plus & Suites Naples | Best Budget Hotel in East Naples
If you’re traveling on a budget, check out this charming two-star hotel. Rooms here are modern and come with excellent amenities, and the hotel is ideally situated a short walk from Old Naples and the city center.
La Quinta Inn & Suites Naples Downtown | Best Hotel in East Naples
La Quinta Inn & Suites offers comfortable and spacious rooms at an excellent price. The property is ideally located for exploring both Old and East Naples, so you can save yourself money on public transport. Gulf of Mexico beach is just two miles away, but there’s an onsite swimming pool for when you just fancy a quick dip.
Waterfront Home | Best Holiday Home in East Naples
This Airbnb provides affordable, chic, and clean accommodation with your very own jungle swimming pool! Sleeping up to 6 homies, this should appeal to budget travelers too.
There is a full kitchen to make use of if you’re pinching your pennies, otherwise, drive downtown or to Fifth Ave. If you are traveling in your own car, there are two spaces on the driveway. Free parking hurrah!
Things to See and Do in East Naples:
Photo: @amandaadraper
- Enjoy a fun afternoon of mini-golf at Coral Cay Adventure Golf.
- Excite your senses at the bustling and buzzing Three60 Market.
- Go for a stroll through Bayview Park.
- Stop and smell the roses at the Naples Botanical Gardens.
- Head out on a Sunset Boat Tour with Snacks and Drinks
3. Fifth Avenue South – Best Area to Stay in Naples For Nightlife
Fifth Avenue South runs through the center of Old Naples. It’s a lively and vibrant area packed with restaurants, cafes, and a variety of high-end and high-street shops.
This is the best area to stay in Naples for nightlife. Lining Fifth Avenue South is an abundance of bars, pubs, and clubs where you can enjoy a night of partying and rubbing elbows with locals (and a few backpackers).
You’ll also find Naples Beach at the end of Fifth Avenue South. This is one of the best places to sit back, relax, and enjoy a few rays and some stunning ocean views.
Base yourself here if you love to party; the proximity of the beach makes it a perfect spot to nurse your hangovers!
Trianon Old Naples | Best Hotel in Fifth Avenue South
This three-star property is bursting with charm. It provides an elegant setting in central Naples and offers easy access to the city’s most popular bars, clubs, and restaurants.
The property boasts an outdoor swimming pool and a gym – which can both be useful in curing a hangover and staying fit. They’ve got free parking too.
Hotel Escalante | Best Luxury Hotel in Fifth Avenue South
Hotel Escalante is situated in one of Naples’ best neighborhoods. It is close to the city’s most famous beaches and landmarks, and there are many restaurants and shops nearby.
This hotel has 10 comfortable rooms with modern amenities. There’s also free wifi and an outdoor swimming pool.
Downtown Naples Condo | Best Airbnb in Fifth Avenue South
This is definitely the best choice you can make when wanting to explore the nightlife of the area. This Naples downtown vacation rental is central to the main bars, pubs, and clubs, so you can be sure to have a great night out. The modern room is cozy and stylishly decorated and features a full kitchen with free parking outside.
Things to See and Do in Fifth Avenue South:
Photo: @amandaadraper
- Join this narrated cruise through Naples Bay and the canals of Port Royal
- Work on your tan at Naples Beach.
- Explore Naples in a fun way on this family-friendly electric trike tour.
- Take a trip up to Pelican Bay to explore more clubs when you’ve clocked Fifth Ave
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Grab an eSIM!4. Pelican Bay – Coolest Place to Stay in Naples
Pelican Bay is one of the coolest places to stay in Naples. This massive neighborhood is located north of the city center and offers visitors an excellent combination of modern amenities and access to nature.
Love to shop? Well, Pelican Bay is the place for you! This sprawling neighborhood is home to excellent shopping, including brands like Louis Vuitton and Pottery Barn, as well as local boutiques and independent designers.
Ok, so most of the Broke Backpacker crew ain’t rocking it in designer shops, but you never know when you need to find a fresh pair of undies 😉
Pelican Beach is also a great place to stay if you’re looking to get back to nature. This district is packed with lush landscapes and green parks where you can enjoy a break from the hustle and bustle of the city center. Adventure lovers can take a mini-trip to nearby Sanibel Island, which has even more wilderness on offer.
Hilton Naples | Best Hotel in Pelican Bay
You can’t go wrong with the Hilton Naples! This stunning four-star hotel is stylishly decorated throughout and includes an onsite pool, bar, and award-winning dining.
One of the coolest things about staying at the Hilton Naples is the free bicycle hire. You easily explore the city without paying a penny, plus stay fit while you travel. That’s cool!
Naples Grande Beach Resort | Best Resort in Pelican Bay
One of the best hotels in Naples, the Naples Grande Beach Resort property boasts everything you could imagine for a four-star accommodation option. Modern rooms, a heated outdoor pool (x3 of them, one with a 100ft water slide!), free wifi of course, and (15!!) tennis courts.
Most importantly, the staff at the Naples Grande Beach Resort are lovely, helpful, and just the right amount of attentive. Extra bits I love are the buffet breakfast and the trolley to the beach.
Super cute Tiny House | Best Airbnb in Pelican Bay
This charming and unique little home has to be one of the coolest in Naples. The house sleeps two guests and is decorated in bright colors, and has everything you could want for a comfortable stay. The beach-themed home is just one mile from the shore itself and sits within walking distance of shops, markets, and much more!
Things to See and Do in Pelican Bay:
Photo: @hautju
- Explore the incredible exhibits at Artis-Naples.
- Go for a stroll through Clam Pass Park to Clam Pass Beach.
- Relax on the golden sands of Vanderbilt Beach.
- Shop until you drop at Waterside Shops where you’ll find brands like Saks Fifth Avenue, Louis Vuitton, and Lululemon.
5. Coquina Sands – Best Neighborhood in Naples for Families to Stay In
Coquina Sands is situated in central Naples, sandwiched between Old Naples and Pelican Bay. Staying here you’ll have easy access to other destinations throughout the region.
This neighborhood is my number one pick for where to stay in Naples with kids, there’s so much to see and do around the area. Not only is it close to two of Naples’ best neighborhoods, but it’s a stone’s throw from the beach and family-friendly activities.
Families will also get the chance to get back to nature and enjoy a breath of fresh air, thanks to the many parks and green spaces Coquina Sands has to offer.
Naples Park Central Hotel | Best Budget Hotel in Coquina Sands
Just a 15-minute walk from the beach, this sweet hotel packs a punch for its price, there’s a swimming pool and a tennis court. When you’re home, enjoy the modern rooms and the sun terrace. You’re only a five-minute walk to the Naples city center and the Tin City shops are 900m away.
Best Western Naples Inn & Suites | Best Hotel in Coquina Sands
This is one of my favorite places to stay because it offers comfortable and spacious rooms at an incredibly reasonable price. The Best Western Naples Inn also offers an onsite swimming pool to make the most of when you’re not exploring.
The Best Western Naples Inn runs a shuttle to Lowdermilk Beach so you can get there easy as pie!
Relaxing Retreat | Best Airbnb in Coquina Sands
Vichy’s home is inviting and in a perfect location to walk around town with your car safe in the free parking. This apartment is a guest house and you’ll have use of the heated outdoor pool and the barbeque while you stay. The beach is a mere mile away, perfect for strolls any time of day but make sure you catch a sunset on the stunning beach.
Things to See and Do in Coquina Sands:
- Build sandcastles and catch a few rays on Naples Beach.
- Run, jump, splash, and play at Lowdermilk Beach.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Naples
Here’s what people usually ask me about the areas of Naples and where to stay.
What To Pack For Naples
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
How Many Days Do I Need to See Naples, Florida?
I’d say at least three days. You’ll get to bop in the bars, bake at the beach, and splash in the sea. This much time should make you feel recharged and ready to get back on the road.
Are There Unsafe Areas of Naples?
You’ve always got to keep your wits about you when you travel, especially as a solo traveler. Everyone I met in Naples was divine but you never know eh. Some of the areas you should avoid include the Bayshore Arts District and Sun Terrace. These are places where you might encounter a large homeless population which sadly often means higher rates of street crime.
Where to Stay For Couples?
The Hilton! As Paris says, “That’s hot!”. Make the most of room service and all the glitz and glam and pash your lover.
You Thought Naples was in Italy?
Same, Buddy, same. In prehistoric times (c.1880s), when America was a colonial baby, the media (newspapers) wouldn’t shut up about the mild climate and abundance of fish. Likening it to the sunny Italian peninsula, one guy reckoned it was “surpassing the bay in Naples, Italy” and it stuck.
It’s pretty stunning though, move over Italy, there’s a new Naples in town.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Naples
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Naples
Naples is one of America’s best-kept secrets. It has great architecture, a rich culture, lively nightlife, and some of the best beaches in the world. No matter your interests or budget, I can guarantee you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for – and much more – in this vivacious city. I’ve sure had some great vacations there over the years and we know you will too!
In this neighborhood guide, I’ve looked at the five best neighborhoods to stay in. Although there aren’t any hostels in the city, I’ve done my best to include affordable and good-value hotels.
If you’re still unsure, check out Best Western Naples Inn & Suites. It’s got great features, a central location, and a price that’s pretty hard to beat!
Another fantastic option is the Charter Club Resort Of Naples Bay It is conveniently located near the best bars, restaurants, and shops in the city. It also provides easy access to the beach.
I hope this guide has helped you figure out where to stay in Naples. All that’s left to do now is prepare yourself for an epic vacation!
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Naples.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Florida instead.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for USA.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
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