Naples Bay in Naples Florida
Are you thinking of moving to Southwest Florida? Maybe retiring here? Well, better save up. One Naples, Florida neighborhood was just crowned the second most expensive neighborhood in the country. And a different Naples neighborhood ranked 9th. Two of the most expensive neighborhoods in the country are here in Southwest Florida. So like I said, if you're thinking of coming here you better save up.
According to data compiled by Bloomberg News, Florida has 7 of the most expensive neighborhoods when measured by housing prices. Ranking as the most expensive in the country is no surprise. The Coral Gables section of Miami. If you want A-Rod to be your neighbor, you'll need to come with deep pockets. Here's what $69 million will get you.
The Naples neighborhood of Port Royal is second.
Checking home prices on Zillow shows the Port Royal neighborhood of Naples as the second most expensive neighborhood in the United States. If you're not familiar with the location, those are the big houses you see when you take one of those sightseeing cruises out of Tin City. And I really believe with listings like this, Port Royal will soon overtake Coral Gables as the most expensive neighborhood in the country. You could win the Powerball and still not be able to afford to live there.
Yes, that's 295 million.
And just to give you an idea of how expensive these two South Florida neighborhoods are, the Beverly Hills section of Los Angeles is third. Just 5 years ago Beverly Hills topped this ranking. No New York neighborhoods made the top 10.
And now for our Southwest Florida up and comer.
The Naples neighborhood of Aqualane Shores.
Aqualane Shores in Naples is the 9th most expensive neighborhood in the country. This is basically the neighborhood up the dunes behind the Naples pier. If the price tag is too much for you ($175 million), this estate can be split into 3 parcels. So find 2 friends and you're in!
A vacant lot in this neighborhood tops 6 million!
Two of the nine most expensive neighborhoods in the entire country are right here in Southwest Florida. Overall, 7 of them are in Florida. If the trend continues, I'd expect at least one more Naples neighborhood to move into the top 10. But which one?
All eyes are turned to all things romantic as the weekend approaches.. Naples has so many beautiful and romantic restaurants that it is almost hard to narrow them down. However, I've come up with a few that have stood out to me over the years. Expect and enjoy romantic dining in Naples at these 5 gorgeous spots.
Fist of all, the word romance means different things to different people. Perhaps for you, romance is sitting at a beach restaurant with your toes in and under the sand. For others, it could be a waterfront view or even a dimly lit restaurant.
I tend to like great service too. When a waiter goes the extra mile and pays attention to every detail, it makes you feel special and helps to set the mood. I also like music for ambiance but I know that is not everyone's cup of tea, or should I say glass of Champagne in this instance.
More Romantic Dining In Naples Ideas
If European accents and cuisine inspire romance for you, there are restaurants like The French on 5th Avenue South and Bleu Provence in Old Naples. In addition, they have a welcoming ambiance, good hospitality and great food. Put both on your short list.
One more, The Bay House. See, I get started on additional places and it is hard to stop. The Bay House is on the water and it has several different indoor and outdoor dining areas, each with its own vibe. There is even a fireplace to have drinks by.
In addition, if you are going to be in the Fort Myers area and still looking for a place that screams romance, check out this list. For now, enjoy romantic dining in Naples at these spots whether it is for Valentine's Day or any day of the year.
Baleen
We are surrounded by water in Collier County but there are few places where you can find upscale beach front dining. Baleen is one of them and it is spectacular. The space is chic with views of the water from almost every seat. Much of the seating is al fresco with tikki torches on the lawn for ambiance. If you arrange in advance, they can set up private dining on the beach. Find Baleen at La Playa Beach Resort on Gulf Shore Drive in Naples. 239-598-5707. More info here.
Pazzo
When translated from Italian, Pazzo means crazy. As you might guess, the cuisine is Italian and the dishes look as good as they taste. The sign above the door is colorful and wacky but it does not represent what you find once you step through the doors. A couple of years ago Pazzo underwent a major facelift and the results were stunning. There is red velvet seating, intimate booths and ornate planters. The restaurant is on 5th Ave S. closer to U.S. 41. 239-434-8494. More info here
Sails
One of the most romantic things about this restaurant is the attention to detail. You get white glove service here in every way. The food preparations are not just unique, they are also artful and delicious. The wine list is outstanding and the cocktails are too. Dine under bistro lights on the patio. as well as intimate tables inside. 301 5th Ave S., 239-360-2000 More info here
Nosh On Naples Bay
Nosh is a chic restaurant with picturesque waterfront view. Award winning chef and owner Todd Johnson, is creative and thoughtful with his dishes and it shows. Another thing that is cool about this location is the Gondola docked outside. It takes you and your beloved on a ride through the bay that is complete with a serenade. Order some things to nosh on from Nosh and enjoy the ride. It's pretty cool. 239-384-9208, 1490 5th Ave S suite 101. More info here.
Sale e Pepe
This restaurant is actually on Marco Island but I had to include it. When you walk through the doors close your eyes for a moment. It kind of feels like you're in Italy, not Florida. Frescoes cover the walls also giving the impression that you are in a historic place, but with an element of chicness. The outdoor terrace is huge with unobstructed views of the beach. The food is fresh, made in house and presented exquisitely. There is a dress code so be sure to inquire when you make your reservations 480 S Collier Blvd. 239-393-1600. More info here.
