Into the Heart of Naples

Today the highest outside temperature was 72 degrees.  Although warm compared to the Northeast, it was too overcast (with sprinkles) to enjoy the beach.   Also, a big factor in abandoning our beach plans was the riptide warning at all the gulf-coast beaches.  Oh, well...at least it wasn't a hot day with shark warnings!

The decision was made to drive south of Vanderbilt Beach Road...heading into the real heart of the city of Naples.  Whoa.  The wealth down there is almost indescribable.  I have never ever seen such huge, ornate homes.  In fact, homes on and near the gulf coast looked as fancy as some of the mansions in Newport, RI.  Interspersed here and there were old developments from the 1960s; however, most of them have been replaced with mini-mansions squeezed into the lots.  Most mansions directly on the gulf coast were difficult to see driving by due to the manicured shrubs, trees, and gates in the way.  When we take a boat tour, I will get photos of them.

Amidst these mansion properties are numerous small beach alleys where one can park (if one has a City of Naples beach sticker; we opted instead for the state beach pass).  Russ stopped the car in one alley so Hannah and I could run down to the beach to take pictures of the gulf.  Fishermen and a few walkers were the only humans on this long stretch of beach.

Loved the birds all sitting on the posts!

Looking towards the famous Naples Pier

The birds are amazing down here; I was within feet of this one taking his picture.

The next two photos are of a relatively new ritzy condo and shopping area near 5th Avenue.  The place was void of people.

We relaxed back at our condo for the rest of the day.  I end today's blog with a picture of Paul in the oversized chair in the living room.  None of us will sit in it because it is so low and uncomfortable; Paul looks like a little kid sitting in it!