Boat the Everglades and Discover Natural Wonders in Paradise

Experience the wild side of Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades! While our destination is renowned for its upscale resorts, fine dining, and luxurious experiences, don't miss out on our greatest hidden gem: a wealth of eco-tourism activities waiting to be explored. With 80 percent of Collier County designated as parkland or nature preserves, adventure awaits at every turn.

The most convenient way for vacationers to take in the wide array of natural wonders on Florida’s Paradise Coast is to call upon one of the many eco-tourism operators who offer guided experiences. Whether you're hiking through lush landscapes, boating through the Everglades, jet skiing, kayaking, or paddling through serene waters, there's an adventure for every nature enthusiast.

Of course, guides aren’t mandatory! Many visitors explore at their own pace by hiking or taking leisurely strolls along one of our many scenic trails or boardwalks.

Here are a handful of our favorite places for eco-tourism activities on Florida’s Paradise Coast:

The Everglades: World-renowned Wetlands

Any discussion of eco-tourism on Florida’s Paradise Coast begins with the Everglades.
These world-famous tropical wetlands are just a stone's throw away from Naples or Marco Island. Hop in your car, head southeast from downtown Naples on U.S. 41, and in just 25 miles, you'll catch your first glimpse of the enchanting swamplands. Drive another 15 miles, and you'll be immersed in the heart of it all.

Searching for the biggest and best parts of the Everglades in Collier County? Look no further than Big Cypress National Preserve–the first national preserve in the U.S.–and Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park–often called “the Amazon of North America.”

Guided swamp walks are available at both of these preserves during the winter tourist season when the water levels are at their lowest. These ranger-led walks are one of the best ways to learn about the unique wildlife and plants that make their home in the swamp. Just make sure to wear sturdy shoes and long pants!

As you journey down U.S. 41, countless turnoffs beckon you to experience the serene wilderness of the Everglades. Whether you choose a peaceful picnic or a hair-raising airboat ride out of Everglades City to spot alligators, the adventures are endless. Glide through the waters in a kayak or canoe, or elevate your experience with a guided poleboat excursion, where you’ll travel gondola-style on a private tour.

“The best way I can describe it is, it’s primeval out here in the Everglades,” says Trish Elzer, who guides swamp walk tours behind the gallery of renowned nature photographer Clyde Butcher. “Some people may think of palm trees and the beach as their paradise, but I think about cypress trees and freshwater—as well as alligators and snakes.”
 

THE TEN THOUSAND ISLANDS: TOO MANY TO COUNT

A quick boat ride from Marco Island transports you to another Paradise Coast marvel: the Ten Thousand Islands. This stunning chain of mangrove islets offers unparalleled beauty and tranquility, and the fishing here is simply extraordinary. Although the actual number of islands here is in the hundreds, local lore claims that decades ago, people got tired of counting them and settled on the number 10,000.

A boat captain can guide you through this vast system (fishing optional). After a short ride from the dock, you’ll be immersed in a picturesque wilderness, where only wildlife sounds hold court. You can find numerous access points to the Ten Thousand Islands, ranging from Marco Island to Goodland and Everglades City.
 

GORDON RIVER GREENWAY: A TRAIL RUNS THROUGH IT

Discover this hidden gem right within the Naples city limits! The Gordon River Greenway features a network of boardwalks and paved pathways that wind through rich greenery, offering a perfect escape for birding, hiking, jogging, biking, and rollerblading. It’s equipped with playgrounds, restrooms, scenic viewing areas, and even a kayak launch. With convenient access from major roadways, including one entrance next to the Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens, you can easily hop from nature to nearby restaurants, art galleries, or boutiques.

“The Gordon River Greenway is a slice of natural paradise in the heart of Naples, and a lot of people don’t know it exists,” says Melissa Hennick, a senior environmental specialist with Conservation Collier. “It’s a great way to see the southwest Florida environment without necessarily getting your feet dirty.”
 

THE CONSERVANCY OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA NATURE CENTER: FUN AND EDUCATION

Centrally located just south of the Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens, the Conservancy of Southwest Florida Nature Center features an array of animal and plant exhibits and interactive experiences showcasing the region’s unique ecosystem. It’s also listed as site #69 on the Great Florida Birding Trail!

Don’t miss the chance to attend one of the daily talks led by the Education Team on topics like reptiles, birds of prey, and climate change. Kids will also love watching the weekly live feedings that staff members put on with alligators, toads, and in the touch tank.

Of course, for a more immersive experience, you can always take kayak tours here or opt for the most popular option: a guided electric boat tour through a winding waterway. Enjoy a leisurely 45-minute cruise along the scenic Gordon River, spotting local flora and fauna along the way. No reservations are required, and boat tours are included with your Nature Center admission fee.

AUDUBON’S CORKSCREW SWAMP SANCTUARY: A BIRDWATCHER’S PARADISE

Home to the world's largest virgin bald cypress forest and a significant nesting colony of endangered wood storks, Audubon’s Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is famous for its 2.25-mile boardwalk. This leisurely walk will take you through diverse habitats, like pine flatwood and marsh, where you can attempt to spot over 200 species of birds.

Of course, you might also see other mammals or reptiles, like gray squirrels, bobcats, white-tailed deer, alligators, or gopher tortoises. If you get particularly lucky, you’ll witness Corkscrew’s rare Super Ghost Orchid in bloom!

Uncover the breathtaking natural wonders and thrilling adventures that await in Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades. When it comes to the best of eco-tourism, Only Paradise will do.