What to do in Naples? Head out to Keeywadin Island

A regular question I get from friends, family as well as people looking to move to the area is "What is there to do in Naples?". As I revealed in my last post - LOTS! This past Friday, we took advantage of our friends boat rental, and took a day trip out to Keeywadin Island.

Even if you do not have a boat or know someone with access to one, it is very simple in this area to rent a boat. If you decide that you want to be living down here for an extended period of time during the year, you can also join one of the several boat clubs in the area. That day, we were using a boat from Naples Bay Resort.

The boat was a simple deck boat and was very clean and maintained. Before leaving we were informed of all rules and proper procedure expected while on the boat. (Also informing us that we could not go past a certain point out into the Gulf of Mexico)

Once out of the marina, you are still going at a very slow pace (no wake, especially this time of year because of our treasured manatees), however, this gives you time to take in all of the amazing homes that are built in our area. With different architecture styles, you can see everything from an old Florida ranch style to very popular contemporary homes to a Mediterranean masterpiece.

Once you are done marveling at the amazing homes, you are finally on your way, and if the beautiful surroundings that nature offers you aren't enough to get you excited about Naples, I don't know what is! It does take about 45 minutes from the marina to Keeywadin, so you definitely have time to smell that amazing Gulf Breeze and take in the beauty that isn't found until you get on a boat.

After we pulled up to Keeywadin and anchored, you can't help but notice the food vendors that are anchored there as well...since we only packed snacks, it was a GREAT surprise to see them!

When you visit us here in Naples, I would highly recommend taking a day (or just a morning) and venturing down to this amazing island, to take in some sights not able to be seen on land.

What to do in Naples?? Visit the Naples Botanical Gardens!

One question I often get when people are trying to make the decision to move to Naples is "What is there to do in Naples other than golf or go to the beach"? The answer is LOTS! This blog will be devoted to the beautiful Naples Botanical Gardens.

Of course the fabulous beaches and the world class golf courses in the Southwest Florida are what draw many people to our area, but we have so much more to offer if you look around. 

One of our favorite places to go is the spectacular Naples Botanical Gardens is open year round, but really any time is a great time to visit. The Garden usually has a few events planned during the week, including weekly times for the dogs to come and visit the Garden! They also have children's programs, concerts, and healthy living series. Click here to visit their calendar.

The Gardens are tucked away, but just minutes from downtown Naples, and some of the most desirable real estate in the area. As soon as you walk in, a calm washes over you as you step away from the hustle and bustle of the area. The various gardens inside include Caribbean, Florida, Brazilian, and Asian Gardens. The "artwork" that is scattered around the Gardens in the form of mosaics, pots, buildings and water features makes you want to keep exploring and finding more - which you will always see something new with each visit. And as an added bonus there is a wonderful Children's Garden that provides an endless stream of entertainment for the younger guests (don't forget the bathing suits since there is a splash pad!).

Here is a link to our video so you can see a bit more of the Gardens...until then enjoy these beautiful stills from our visit! 

Naples Golf and Real Estate off to a furious start in 2013

Seems like 2012 was a blur and you have to stop and remember the moments and wonder if that was really 2012 or maybe even 2011?  Each of our lives held different experiences that we encountered over this past year.  Some of these were personal or professional successes, failures (or appeared failures on the surface), and learning experiences.  And since there is no substitute for experience, all of these show positive results.

2013, I feel will be a great year to put that experience into play and pay it forward.  Learn from your mistakes and strengthen your resolve. Share your experiences with those who can learn and take comfort from what wisdom you've been blessed with.  You never know who might gain from your prospective.

So that is my quick quip for starting out the New Year and I wish the best to you and yours for 2013.  A New Year is a great time to start fresh, learn from previous years, and improve your life and those around you.  As it's been said, "I forget the past and strain toward the future".  Good words to live by.  

Looking forward to knowing you better in 2013, and drop a line anytime. Whether it's about real estate, golf, the weather, or your bet on if Punxsutawney Phil will see his shadow on Groundhog Day, who care? Would love to hear what's going on around the world and in Naples!

Check out my Google+ business page and website at the links below.
+Naples Golf and Real Estate - Phillip M. Rigsby 
Naples Golf and Real Estate's website
Stuff About Me