Naples Municipal Airport is just a few minutes by car from downtown. The crossed runways make landing easier and the FBO’s fantastic service takes care of the rest. If you refuel here, you can park your plane free of charge and are offered a courtesy car for 1.5 hours. Otherwise, the parking fee is $21.
Even if Naples doesn’t have Vesuvius, this city on the Gulf of Mexico still exudes a Mediterranean feel. Skyscrapers are huddled together at the north end of town, while the downtown has low rises and a long white sandy beach. The city has 22,000 inhabitants, though this number rises considerably in the winter. Naples is frequently called the Palm Beach’s little sister on the Gulf. You have to have a good income to live here. Either during the approach or the take-off, you shouldn’t miss flying along the coast at a lower elevation to enjoy a fantastic view of the mansions and gardens.
If you drive into town using the crew car and have limited time, it’s best to drive to Naples pier. Like most port cities, life centers around the water. For eating and shopping, I recommend Tin City (1200 5th Avenue South Naples, FL 34102). Here, right on the water, you will find a large selection of shops and several good restaurants that leave nothing to be desired. My favorites are Riverwalk and Pinchers Crab Shack.
Right near Naples Municipal Airport and popular among pilots is Michelbobs, a BBQ restaurant famous for its spare ribs. However, it is only open seasonally and even opening hours can be a bit unpredictable. It’s best to ask at the FBO or to check their website (see below). Alice Sweetwater an Joes Diner are good alternatives.
If the crew car is not available or you want more time, car rental companies enterprise, Hertz und AVIS have offices in the FBO.