Things To Do
in Collier
Collier County sits on Florida’s southwest Gulf coast and includes coastal towns such as Naples and Marco Island, plus large stretches of wetlands and protected reserves. It’s known for upscale resort communities, abundant wildlife, and easy access to the Everglades and Ten Thousand Islands. The area blends beach culture, world-class fishing and boating, and rich subtropical ecosystems teeming with birds and reptiles.
Visitors can expect warm weather most of the year, seasonal crowds in winter, and outdoor-focused activities from shelling to eco-tours.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your adventure in Collier with a visit to the serene Collier-Seminole State Park. Enjoy a leisurely morning hike along the trails, surrounded by the lush greenery and captivating wildlife of the area. Don’t forget to bring your camera, as you may spot some unique birds and plants along the way.
In the afternoon, take a guided eco-tour in the mangroves to learn about the delicate ecosystem and the history of the area. You might also get the chance to see manatees and dolphins playing in the water. After your tour, relax at a local café while enjoying a light lunch made from fresh ingredients.
As twilight approaches, head back to the park for a peaceful evening picnic on the banks of the river. The sunset over the water is a breathtaking sight, perfect for winding down your day. Later, you can explore local dining options that serve authentic Floridian cuisine.
Begin your second day in Collier with an energizing breakfast at a family-owned diner downtown. Afterward, embark on a fascinating guided kayak tour through the mangroves, which allows you to truly immerse yourself in nature. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife like alligators and herons during your unobstructed exploration.
After your morning on the water, visit the Museum of the Everglades to learn about the rich history and ecology of the area. The museum features fascinating exhibits and is a great place to gain a deeper understanding of the Everglades' importance. Take your time exploring, and ask the knowledgeable staff any questions you have.
In the evening, enjoy a laid-back dinner at a waterfront seafood restaurant. The ambiance is relaxing as you savor the fresh catch of the day while looking out over the serene waters. Conclude your day with a stroll along the water’s edge, listening to the soft sounds of nature.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-20 |
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $3-5 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $60-120 |
| 🏨Hotel (mid-range per night) | $120-300 |
| 🚗Short rideshare (10–15 miles) | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful Gulf beaches and shelling opportunities
- Outstanding wildlife and access to Everglades ecosystems
- High-quality dining and resort amenities
- Mild winters attractive to seasonal visitors
- Can be expensive, especially in high season
- Seasonal crowds and limited nightlife compared with larger cities
- Hot, humid summers and hurricane risk in late summer/fall
- Limited public transit; a car is often required to explore broadly
Places to Visit in Collier
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic Gulf-facing pier ideal for sunrise and sunset shots, pier silhouettes, and birdlife photography—especially pleasing for long-exposure water shots.
Boardwalk through ancient cypress and wetland habitats—excellent for close-up wildlife, wading birds, and atmospheric swamp landscapes during golden hour.
Expansive tidal lagoon and sandbars that reveal unique shapes at low tide—great for shelling, reflections, and wide coastal panoramas.
Vast wetlands with cypress strands and open prairies—prime for capturing Everglades ecosystems, sunrise mist, and alligator sightings from safe distances.
Estuarine reserve with mangrove shorelines and paddling routes offering intimate wildlife and sunset shots over the bay.
Food in Collier
Collier Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Florida specialty available seasonally (typically mid-October through mid-May); served chilled with mustard sauce and common at waterfront seafood markets and higher-end restaurants.
Must-Try!
Fresh Gulf grouper prepared simply—grilled, fried, or blackened—found at casual beachside cafes and seafood restaurants across Collier.
Caribbean-influenced fried seafood snacks common at beach bars and casual seafood spots, great as an appetizer or light lunch.
Citrus-forward dessert made with local limes; a must-try sweet treat at bakeries and restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, citrus, baked goods, and prepared foods—perfect for sampling local ingredients and casual bites.
Smaller market with local vendors, seafood sellers and artisanal snacks; good for breakfast fare and grab-and-go options.
Neighborhood fish markets and roadside stands sell fresh catches and prepared seafood—ideal for picking up stone crab, shrimp or fish sandwiches to enjoy on the beach.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Do not disturb wildlife, nests, or plants; keep a safe distance from alligators and marine life. Follow posted rules at preserves and beaches.
Dress is generally casual, but bring smart-casual attire for nicer restaurants; sunscreen and hats are practical outdoors.
Many locals prioritize conservation—dispose of trash, avoid single-use plastics where possible, and follow 'leave no trace' on trails and beaches.
English is the primary language; Spanish is also common—greetings and polite small talk are appreciated. Tipping and courteous service interactions are expected.
Safety
Tipping in Collier
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard U.S. tipping norms apply: 15–20% at full-service restaurants, $1–2 per drink at bars or 15–20% for bartenders on larger tabs, $1–2 per bag for bellhops, and 10–15% for taxi or rideshare fares if not included. For exceptional service or tours, tip guides and crew.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common. Small cash is useful for markets, tips, and some beachside vendors. ATMs are available in towns, but remote areas may have limited access.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid and wet—frequent afternoon thunderstorms and high heat; ideal for water activities but bring sun protection and plan outdoor activities for mornings or late afternoons. Hurricane season runs June through November, with peak system risk late summer to early fall.
Gradually drier and slightly cooler; still warm in early fall with fewer tourists and lower hotel rates. Keep an eye on tropical weather forecasts during hurricane season.
Mild, dry and popular with seasonal visitors ('snowbirds'); daytime temperatures are comfortable for outdoor activities but expect higher accommodation prices and busier beaches.
Pleasant temperatures and lower humidity—excellent for wildlife viewing, boating and festivals. Peak shelling seasons vary, and migrating birds are active in spring.
Collier at Night
Hiking in Collier
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A 2.25-mile elevated boardwalk through diverse wetland habitats with excellent birding and unique cypress forest photography opportunities.
Several hiking and scenic driving opportunities through cypress strands and prairies—early mornings offer wildlife viewing and dramatic light.
Trails through pine flatwoods and mangrove-edge habitats with interpretive signs and opportunities for kayaking and picnicking.
Remote strand swamp with ranger-led hikes and opportunities to see rare orchids, ghost orchids (in season) and diverse wildlife on guided tours.
Coastal trails and boardwalks exploring estuarine habitats, with guided paddles and nature programs offered seasonally.
Airports
How to reach Collier by plane.
Located near Fort Myers, about 35–50 miles north of many parts of Collier County depending on destination; largest regional airport with national flights and rental car services—approximately 45–75 minutes by drive.
Smaller airport mainly for general aviation and some regional flights; convenient for private plane travel and quick access to Naples and nearby resorts.
Major international hub about 2 hours or more to the southeast depending on traffic—useful for international connections and more frequent flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Collier County attracts many retirees and seasonal residents who spend winters in the area, contributing to an older median age and seasonal population spikes.
Upscale communities and resort areas draw wealthy full-time residents and second-home owners, influencing local services and real estate markets.
A significant Hispanic population contributes to the cultural fabric, cuisine and bilingual services in many neighborhoods.
Indigenous communities and families with deep regional ties are part of the area’s history and cultural landscape, particularly in relation to Everglades stewardship.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Golf is a major recreational and tourist activity with numerous private and public courses catering to all skill levels.
Sportfishing, inshore and offshore charters, and recreational boating are extremely popular year-round.
Many clubs and community centers offer tennis and an expanding number of pickleball courts, popular among residents and seasonal guests.
Beach volleyball, paddleboarding and kayaking are common leisure sports along the coast and islands.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Collier.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options have expanded—many cafes and restaurants offer salads, grain bowls, and vegetable-forward plates. Ask staff about vegetable substitutions for seafood or meat dishes.
Vegan choices are available but more limited outside Naples; look for specialty cafes, health-food-focused spots, and farmers’ market vendors for prepared vegan items.
Many restaurants can accommodate gluten-free requests—seafood, grilled proteins, salads and rice-based sides are commonly safe. Always inform servers of celiac or severe allergies to verify preparation.