Old Naples Beach Day Playbook: Best Access Points + Eat & Sip Stops

Park near an Old Naples beach end (try 8th Ave S or 14th Ave S), stroll to the sand, and grab a bite or cocktail on Third Street South or Fifth Avenue South on your way. Note: the Naples Pier area is active with a rebuild, but the adjacent beach access remains a classic sunset spot. 

Why Old Naples?

Old Naples blends sugar-white beaches with tree-canopied streets, historic cottages, and two vibrant dining districts a few walkable blocks from the Gulf: Third Street South (near the Pier/12th Ave S) and Fifth Avenue South (near 1st–3rd Ave S). It’s the rare place where beach bags and dinner plans share the same parking spot. 

Best Beach Access Points (South to North)

These “beach ends” are quiet, neighborhood walk-ups to the sand. Arrive early in peak season; some ends have permit-only parking. Use public lots or metered options when needed. Check the City’s page for current parking rules and any restoration work at certain accesses. (Contact me to learn how to get a beach parking permit!)

• 14th Ave S Beach Access – Intimate, great for golden hour; closest dining: Crayton Cove (see The Dock below).

• 12th Ave S / Naples Pier Area – Iconic shoreline; Pier itself is under reconstruction, but the beach here is still a favorite for sunsets. 

• 8th Ave S Beach Access – Photogenic dunes, easy stroll to Third Street South.

• 1st–3rd Ave S – Handy if you’re pairing the beach with Fifth Avenue South dining. (Check parking/permits.)

Eat & Sip: Stops Within a Short Walk

Near the Pier & 12th Ave S (Third Street South / Crayton Cove)

• The Dock at Crayton Cove – Classic waterside spot for fish tacos, salads, and sunset cocktails by the City Dock (10–15 min walk from 12th Ave S). 

• Campiello – Stylish courtyard for wood-fired pizzas and Negronis on Third. 

• The Continental – Craft bar + steakhouse energy; great martinis after the beach. 

• Barbatella – Relaxed Italian with gelato for a post-beach cool-down.

• Jane’s Cafe on Third – Breakfast/brunch in a leafy garden (think pre-beach omelets). 

Near 1st–3rd Ave S (Fifth Avenue South)

• Del Mar – Breezy coastal vibe; seafood + rooftop-feel terrace. Pro-tip - best for drinks and apps.  

• Chops City Grill – Iconic steaks; celebratory option after a long beach day.  More swank than casual.

• Bha! Bha! Persian Bistro – Lively flavors and cocktails; a local favorite. 

• Sails – An upscale choice for date-night sunsets to table. Splurge for the caviar service - the best in town.  Their brunch is famous and Instagram worthy

Simple Beach Loop Walks (No Guesswork)

• “Pier & Third Street” Loop (60–90 mins): Park near 12th Ave S → beach stroll toward the Pier area → back up to Third Street South for a late lunch or cocktail → wander galleries → return for sunset. 

• “Fifth to First” Loop (60 mins): Park near Fifth Ave S → walk west to 1st–3rd Ave S beach ends → quick swim → back to Fifth for aperitivo and small plates. 

What to Bring (and What to Skip)

• Bring: Lightweight towel, hat/sunnies, reef-safe sunscreen, sandals, water bottle, small beach bag.

• Skip: Heavy coolers and chair schlepping. Old Naples is all about light, easy, walkable beach time. You can order beach service here: naplesbeachdelivery.com

Timing Tips

• Sunrise: Quietest, cooler, great seashell hunting.

• Late Afternoon: Softer light + easier parking; plan a sunset-to-supper glide into Third or Fifth.

• Seasonal Note: During peak months, arrive early and use dining-district garages/lots to avoid circling.

Quick FAQ

Is the Pier open? The Naples Pier is being rebuilt post-hurricane Ian; the surrounding beach is accessible. Check City updates for progress. 
Where do I park? City pages list permit-only beach ends and visitor options; use garages/lots near Third or Fifth for a beach-plus-dining day. 
Family-friendly picks? 8th Ave S and 14th Ave S are mellow; finish with gelato on Third. 

Live the Old Naples Lifestyle

If you dream of walking from your front door to the beach, then straight to dinner under twinkle lights, Old Naples is your scene. I can help you compare cottage streets, condo buildings, and new-construction options close to your favorite beach ends and dining blocks.

Call/text: 239-250-5151 • Instagram: @Jake.NaplesAgent