How to Spend 3 Perfect Days in Vanderbilt Beach

Located in North Naples on Florida’s Paradise Coast, Vanderbilt Beach offers visitors the best of both worlds: the comforts of a beach resort community and easy access to nearby nature, dining, and day-trip opportunities. This stretch of coastline is best known for its white sand, walkable beachfront, and proximity to both upscale accommodations and natural preserves. Whether you're here for a weekend or adding a few days to a longer Florida trip, this itinerary helps make the most of your stay, with Vanderbilt Beach as your base.

Day One: Check In, Unpack, and Head for the Sand

Start your trip by settling into one of our beach resorts directly along the Gulf of America. For example, Vanderbilt Beach Resort offers a low-rise, Old Florida feel with direct access to the sand and a favorite restaurant among visitors: The Turtle Club.

Just north of here, LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort offers views of both the Gulf and Vanderbilt Bay, along with four different pools, beachfront dining at BALEEN Naples, and access to a championship golf course. And, of course, for a classic, elevated stay, The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, is a popular choice, offering private bungalows, easy access to Vanderbilt Beach via a private path, family-friendly programs, and a 51,000-square-foot spa.

Once you’ve checked in, head down to Vanderbilt Beach for an afternoon of sun and sand. Rentals are available along the public access points, or your resort may offer chairs and umbrellas. The calm waters are ideal for a swim, and you might spot pelicans diving offshore or dolphins moving along the coastline. It’s a great place to feel like you’re genuinely on vacation: walk along the shore, collect shells, and let the day unfold naturally.

For dinner, make a reservation at The Turtle Club. Located directly on the beach, it’s one of the area’s most popular spots for good reason. Arrive a little early if you want to catch the sunset while you eat—tables in the sand fill up quickly. If you're up for one more stop afterward, DUSK at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples has a fantastic cocktail menu.

Day Two: Beach-Hopping and Waterfront Dining

Start the morning with a short drive north to Barefoot Beach Preserve County Park. It spans over 340 acres and is one of the last undeveloped barrier islands along Florida’s southwest coast. If you’re looking for a quieter beach experience or a spot to appreciate the natural surroundings, this is the place. You may even spot a gopher tortoise!

After a few hours basking in the sunshine, head back to Vanderbilt Beach for lunch. BALEEN Naples at LaPlaya offers high-end coastal fare with a patio that opens directly to the sand. Or, for something a bit more casual, consider stopping by Buzz’s Lighthouse Restaurant.

In the afternoon, consider a short trip to Naples Beach to see another side of the coast. The Naples Pier offers a broader view of the Gulf, making it one of the most photographed places in town. If you’d rather stay closer to your hotel, take some time by the pool—Vanderbilt Beach Resort, LaPlaya, and The Ritz-Carlton, Naples offer dedicated beach and poolside food and drink service, as well as shaded loungers.

For dinner, Gumbo Limbo at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples offers casual seafood just steps from the sand. Alternatively, if you're seeking a fine dining experience, consider The Grill for its dry-aged steaks and extensive wine list. Sofra is another excellent option, serving up high-quality Eastern Mediterranean cuisine. In fact, it was recently ranked #6 on USA TODAY’s 10Best Hotel Restaurants list.

Day Three: Pool and Spa Time

Spend your last morning enjoying the beach with no agenda. Whether it’s shell collecting or simply sitting in the sand with a coffee, Vanderbilt Beach tends to be quietest in the early hours. If your hotel offers paddleboard or kayak rentals, the water is often calm enough in the morning to go for a short float before breakfast.

Later, treat yourself to a spa appointment. SpaTerre at LaPlaya offers a range of services, including massage, facials, and body treatments. In-room massages are also now available for an additional fee. Just a few minutes away, The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Naples features treatment rooms with private terraces and offers options such as hot stone massages, custom facials, and aromatherapy rituals. Booking a service in the late morning can be a welcome way to pause before wrapping up your trip!

Before checking out, grab lunch nearby—either poolside at your resort or back at Buzz’s Lighthouse Restaurant for a last chance to enjoy seafood with a waterfront view. If you’re interested in a final outing, the shops and cafés at Mercato are less than ten minutes away and make a nice stop before heading out.

From quiet mornings on the sand to seafood dinners just a few steps from the Gulf, you can expect an exceptional vacation in Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades. For the perfect beach escape, ONLY Paradise will do.