10th Avenue South Beach derives its name from its location at the western terminus of 10th Avenue South in Old Naples, representing one of 40 public beach access points maintained by the City of Naples along nearly nine miles of Gulf of Mexico shoreline in Collier County. The city's name honors the Bay of Naples in Italy, selected in the 1880s by founders Walter N. Haldeman and Roger Gordon who observed the striking similarity between the two scenic bays, establishing Italian-Mediterranean aesthetic persisting throughout Naples' architecture and culture. The transformative January 7, 1927 arrival of the Orange Blossom Special train at the Seaboard Air Line Passenger Station connected Naples to the national rail network, catalyzing the city's evolution from remote Gulf Coast settlement into fashionable winter resort attracting wealthy northeastern visitors seeking subtropical paradise. The democratic avenue grid system providing public beach access at western street termini between 7th Avenue North and 19th Avenue South ensures Gulf access despite Old Naples' transformation into one of Southwest Florida's most exclusive and expensive residential neighborhoods with multimillion-dollar beachfront estates. The city's ongoing commitment to beach access preservation maintains public shoreline entry for residents and visitors along Collier County's pristine Gulf Coast.
Swimming in gentle Gulf waves provides safe recreation on soft white sand beaches characteristic of Naples' internationally recognized coastline celebrated for exceptional beauty and water quality throughout the year. Sunbathing attracts visitors seeking relaxation accompanied by spectacular Gulf sunsets painting western horizons in vibrant oranges, pinks, and purples each evening. Shelling draws collectors exploring tidelines for fighting conchs, olive shells, lightning whelks, sand dollars, and occasional rare specimens carried ashore by Gulf currents during optimal collecting conditions. Beach walking connects the 10th Avenue South access to neighboring public entry points in both directions, enabling extended waterfront exploration through Old Naples' prestigious beachfront residential areas. Surf fishing accommodates anglers targeting pompano, whiting, redfish, Spanish mackerel, and seasonal tarpon from sandy shores. The residential beach access maintains quieter character compared to commercial zones near Naples Pier, appealing to beachgoers preferring peaceful Gulf experiences. Year-round warm Southwest Florida climate supports beach activities throughout winter months when northern beaches close seasonally, establishing Naples as a premier year-round coastal destination attracting seasonal residents and tourists.
Rhodes End specializes in Mediterranean beachfront dining with Greek island ambiance, serving grilled dishes with stunning Gulf sunset panoramas from outdoor seating. Gumbo Limbo at The Ritz-Carlton Beach Resort offers casual open-air beachside dining with panoramic Gulf views and fresh local seafood preparations. T-Michaels provides sophisticated Venetian Bay waterfront dining featuring prime steaks and fresh Gulf catches with bay vistas. M Waterfront Grille serves contemporary American cuisine overlooking Venetian Bay's marina. USS Nemo Restaurant on 5th Avenue South delivers contemporary American cuisine with Asian influences and acclaimed wine list. Cafe Lurcat on 5th Avenue South provides French-inspired American bistro fare. The Turtle Club Restaurant at Vanderbilt Beach Resort serves beachfront dining with feet-in-sand seating under stars. These establishments showcase Naples' culinary excellence complementing world-class shopping on 5th Avenue South, cultural venues including Naples Philharmonic and Baker Museum, championship golf courses, and natural beauty establishing Naples as Southwest Florida's premier luxury Gulf Coast destination.
