The diverse and vibrant region of Southwest Florida is home to some incredible natural beauty. Many different things have defined the area over the decades. Its picturesque beaches and tropical weather help draw an annual influx of over 10 million visitors making the southwestern region the most popular tourist destination in Florida. Defined differently by many, the central counties representing Southwest Florida generally include Charlotte, Collier, Lee, Manatee, and Sarasota.
Historical Background
The history of Southwest Florida is one filled with great intrigue. 14,000 to 15,000 years ago, during the earliest period of human occupation in the Western Hemisphere, the indigenous Indian-Americans were considered the first to inhabit the territories of the Everglades region. From roughly 500 to 1650 AD, the Native American people of the Caloosahatchee culture dominated the gulf coast region before the emergence of European settlers in the 16th and 17th centuries. During the 18th and 19th centuries, land prospectors had primarily overlooked southwestern Florida as land developers struggled to build communities without a major central destination to work around. It wasn’t until the latter half of the 19th century that land developers started constructing the foundations that would later become the backbone of this region. The region’s early days gave way to a real estate boom focused on land in downtown Fort Myers, southern Lee County, and eastern Collier County, the home of Naples, FL. These areas continue to grow today with ever-increasing population growth. There are now numerous options and availabilities for those interested in living or simply touring this beautiful part of America!
The inland counties of DeSoto, Hendry, and Glades are notable for their rural nature. Agriculture is the primary economic driver in this area, with tomatoes being grown alongside other products such as oranges and sugarcane. Plantation workers from nearby states would flock to Florida during harvest seasons due to the exploding rise in development and growth. The newfound work currently employs approximately 16,000 seasonal workers every year. Some 90% of these migrants make their living farming in southwest Florida and return to their respective homes after unsuccessful attempts at finding work elsewhere! Thanks to their hard work, those living or visiting this beautiful part of America have more to appreciate!
Visit The Naples Pier Beach
The iconic Naples Florida Pier has withstood the onslaught of six hurricanes since its inception in 1888! The historic landmark even disappeared for a few months in 2015 when the City of Naples carried out renovation work on their Pier to make it safer and more attractive. Today, the rebuilt structure serves as a favorite destination for anglers who seek out fish along this picturesque coastline and sightseers who want to take in all the beauty from above.
When you think of Naples, the Pier is an iconic symbol. The brand has been there for decades, and it shows in all its glory with new renovations to keep up with trends while also remaining true to history’s charm! Whether your family enjoys sightseeing by foot or embarking on one of the many adventures or activities available year-round, the fun will be easy to find along this landmark waterfront walkway.
Go Fishing
The Naples Pier is a popular spot for fishing and has plenty of spaces available to hook your target. Anglers should use non-treble 5/0 sized hooks when catching saltwater species like sharks, stingrays, or groupers. This area is an incredible angler’s paradise with all sorts of fish residing!
With 1000 feet, the Naples Pier is one of Florida’s most appreciated piers for catching the sunset. The structure itself makes an excellent photo backdrop. Visitors find the best time to arrive is at least half an hour before the main event to take in those beautiful colors as they fade away into darkness!
Take A Deep Dive into The Sea
The best way to enjoy a day at the beach is by swimming in Naples Pier Beach, one of Florida’s most popular beaches. The water here can be divine, and there are many spots for skimboarding or surfing during days when the surf is choppy. As storms approach and depart, conditions emerge that make these beaches paradise for those who enjoy playing in the rain!
Watch The Fireworks
The 4th of July and New Year’s Eve are two holidays where visitors can enjoy a fireworks show at the Naples Pier. The presentation includes 20 minutes’ worth of special effects that will make your eyes pop out in delight! You’ll want to bring blankets or chairs for this one since it starts on a colossal scale right near the shoreline, up over 1,000 feet skywards, and finally back down to Earth. Elevated seating helps avoid missing any parts of the show. The Naples Pier is the perfect place to be during these events. This ideal area keeps you involved during each moment of the show, which has been known to include musical instrument solos and orchestrated band sounds from time to time.
The Pier is one of Naples’ most famous landmarks, and it’s no wonder why! With its beautiful scenery and many options for fishing, swimming, and watching fireworks, there’s something for everyone! If you find yourself in Collier County, FL, pay a visit and check out the Naples Pier!
