Naples, Florida, may have a reputation as a sleepy retirement community in southwest Florida, but it has some great bars in its downtown 5th Avenue district, the "Tin City" area along Naples Bay, and at some of the golf and beach resorts. Retirees may comprise many of Naples' residents (especially in winter), but there are plenty of people vacationing there for golf and the Gulf who want to have a good time at the end of the day.
Foxboro Sports Tavern
As the name suggests, Naples' Foxboro Sports Tavern is dedicated to the team that plays in Foxboro, Massachusetts, the New England Patriots. And, yes, they have "wicked awesome" food and drink specials, but it's not just about the Pats and Boston-area sports teams. Foxboro's is one of the best sports bars in the Naples area, no matter who you're rooting for or what game you're watching.
Foxboro Sports Tavern
4420 Thomasson Drive
Naples, FL 34113
(239) 530-2337
foxborotavern.com
Paddy Murphy's Irish Pub
Naples is a relatively quiet, laid-back Gulf Coast town, but Paddy Murphy's keeps things pleasantly rowdy with live music most nights, indoor and outdoor seating, fun-loving regulars, and a hearty welcome for visitors. Along with plenty of imported beers (served over a bar with imported brass rails and mahogany from Ireland), Paddy Murphy's offers domestic brews and a menu that features traditional Irish pub food and familiar American fare. And if you're in the area around St. Patrick's Day, there's no place more fun for the "wearin' of the green." In keeping with the green theme, start your day with a round at Greenlinks at Lely Resort Golf and Country Club, which features two beautiful courses just 10 miles from downtown Naples.
Paddy Murphy's
457 5th Avenue South
Naples, FL 34102
Phone: (239) 649-5140
paddymurphys.com
Tiki Bar at LaPlaya Beach and Golf Resort
If you're visiting Naples and you want the whole golf/beach/tennis/relaxation experience, then check out the LaPlaya Golf and Beach Resort. It's right on the white sandy beachfront, with easy access to the LaPlaya golf course. You just can't go wrong catching a Gulf Coast sunset with a cold drink in your hand and your toes in the sand. If you want to lay out on a nearby cabana, the Tiki Bar's "beach butlers" will take your order without you having to move an inch. You can also satisfy your appetite with huge shrimp or a grouper sandwich or just a nice serving of chilled fresh chopped fruit.
LaPlaya Beach and Golf Resort
9891 Gulf Shore Drive
Naples, FL 34108
(239) 597-3123
laplayaresort.com/laplaya_tikibar.aspx
About The Author
James Roland is the editor of a monthly health publication that has approximately 75,000 subscribers in the United States and Canada. Previously, he worked as a newspaper reporter and editor, covering issues ranging from the environment and government to family matters and education. He earned a bachelor's degree in journalism from the University of Oregon.
