Friday, November 2, 2012

Key West Florida Vacation Rental: Your best Destination

 Florida reigns as the most popular holiday destination for its long stretches of sandy beaches, larger-than-life theme parks and near perfect climate all year round. Fringed by 1,200 miles of sugary white beaches and lapped by clear blue seas, the Gulf Coast of Florida offers a unique blend of tropical sunshine, modern Miami culture and warm Southern hospitality. The best way to experience the true spirit of Florida is through a vacation rental home and A1 Florida Vacation Rentals is just the destination for choosing an ideal vacation rental.

A beachfront condo on the Gulf Coast offers enthusiastic beach lovers the perfect sand and sea holiday. Whether it is enjoying a round of golf in the cosmopolitan city of Naples; canoeing through the waterways of Sarasota; fishing at Fort Myers Beach or savoring delicious seafood in Tarpon Springs; Florida Vacation Rentals ensures you have a good time both indoors and outdoors with its exclusive vacation homes.

Shopping buffs can loosen their purse strings in the fashionable city of Miami. Literally a melting pot of cultures, Miami has something for everyone and a beachfront condo or an apartment from Florida Vacation Rentals provides the perfect outlet to this vibrant city.

A vacation in Florida would be absolutely incomplete without paying a visit to Mickey's homeland, Orlando. Brimming with extravagant theme parks, shopping malls, late-night bars, restaurants and family catered entertainment; it's no surprise why Orlando is called America's theme capital. In this larger-than-life city, why confine yourself to a boring hotel room, instead opt for a spacious beachfront vacation home from Florida Vacation Rentals. Whatever region or activity you plan to choose in Florida, there's only one choice for vacation rentals and that is Florida Vacation Rentals.

Article Source: Ezine Articles

Vacation Homes In Naples, Florida: The Good Life

The beach community of Naples, Florida is awash in sophistication and charm, and has an atmosphere different from the more hectic vacation paces so characteristic of the Orlando area and the tourist beaches on Florida's eastern shores.

Naples, situated in southwest Florida between the Everglades and Fort Myers, has from its founding been one of Florida's more affluent towns. Vacation homes in Naples, Florida have always been in demand. In recent years, however, as the Baby Boomers have reached retirement age, the Naples area has become one of the fastest-growing in the entire state.

Golfing In Naples


Golf course vacation homes in Naples Florida are very popular among those who come to the area to enjoy Collier County's more than eighty golf courses, some designed by the likes of Jack Nicklaus and Tom Fazio. Naples, in fact, proclaims itself "The Golfing Capital of the World."

One of the most spectacular groups of golfing vacation homes in Naples, Florida is at the Fiddler's Creek four thousand acre nature park and gated community complete with a country club, spa, and 54 holes of championship golf.

Tennis lovers renting or buying vacation homes in Naples, Florida, will be delighted with the public courts--hard and soft--available in Cambier Park, where coin-operated lights will let them enjoy an evening match if they choose. Cambier Park is also the site of the annual Art in the Park exhibition and sale of works by local artists held each April, and the park's band shell hosts many a summer open-air concert.

Shopping In Naples

Those occupying modern vacation homes in Naples, Florida who want a taste of how the early townspeople lived have only to take a stroll down along the brick walkways and fountain-cooled plazas of Third Street South, where they can stop for a bite at one of the sidewalk cafes and enjoy the shade of century-old banyan trees and fragrance from the surrounding gardens. The upscale shopping on Third Street South is the equal of any in the US and it is only a small part of the Naples shopping scene.

One of the biggest attractions in Naples is the 1000- foot Naples Pier, where anyone with a rod and reel can try his or her luck--no fishing license required. Those with vacation homes in Naples, Florida, can also take advantage of the area's many deep-sea fishing charters.

Waterfront vacation homes in Naples, Florida are limited by the small amount of undeveloped land, so most of them are high-rise condominiums overlooking Pelican Bay. Some of the condos have private beaches and boat slips with easy access to the waters of the Gulf.

Perhaps the best way to get an idea of the character of Naples is to reflect on the fact that among its homeowners have been nearly two hundred CEOs of Fortune 500 companies; Steven Spielberg; Tom Cruise; Larry Bird; Judge Judy; Mike Ditka; and Jane Seymour. Anyone with a chance to stay in one of the vacation homes in Naples, Florida, will not only get a taste of how the rich and famous live; they might even bump into a few of the rich and famous in the flesh!

Article Source: Ezine Articles

Thursday, November 1, 2012

Naples, Florida Beaches - Get the Skinny

So, you're interested in Naples, Florida, Beaches? Listed below is a profile of most of the beaches in Collier County, the County in which Naples resides. The Paradise Coast, as this area is called, is famous for its sugar white sand beaches that stretch from Barefoot Beach Preserve at the northern tip of the County, throughout the city of Naples, along the four miles of Marco Island's crescent shoreline, and into the deserted Ten Thousand Island region of the Everglades. The beach parks range from those with full facilities to simple access points perfect for long beach walks on deserted sands. There are numerous beach access points in downtown Naples, as well as Tigertail Beach Park and the South Beach public access on Marco Island. You will find beautiful surroundings, warm sands and spectacular sunsets no matter where you choose to lose your shoes and dip your toes in the sand.


1. South Marco Beach
Location: South Collier Blvd., Marco Island
Phone: 239-252-4000 Collier County Parks & Recreation
Hours: 8 AM to sunset
Parking: $4/day, 70 space lot on Swallow Ave, a short walk across South Collier Blvd.
Amenities: 2 miles of beach, restroom at the parking lot
Activities: swimming, fishing, shelling, walking, sunbathing
Pets: no
Of Special Interest: Walk between two high rise condos to access the beach, but once there, the beautiful white beach is 150 feet wide and slopes gradually to the water.

2. Tigertail Beach County Park
Location: Hernando Drive, Marco Island
Phone: 239-252-4000 Collier County Parks & Recreation
Hours: 8 AM to sunset
Parking: $4/day
Amenities: ½ mile of beach, concessions for food & drinks and rentals, playground, restrooms, boardwalk, barbeque areas with picnic tables, butterfly garden, handicapped accessible and handicapped wheelchair
Activities: swimming, fishing, shelling, walking, sunbathing, birding
Pets: no
Of Special Interest: One of the most popular in the County and listed as a birding site by the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission. There are no condominiums or homes on Tigertail Beach.

3. Naples Beach Accesses
Location: west end of most numbered and named streets along S.Gulfshore Blvd., Naples
Phone: 239-213-7120 Naples Community Services
Hours: dawn to dusk
Parking: metered & limited
Amenities: 5.5 miles of mostly quiet residential beachfront. No restrooms. Handicapped accessible at 17th Ave S, 4th Ave S, 6th Ave S, 8th Ave S, Horizon Way, Vedado Way & Via Miramar. Showers at Vedado Way, Via Miramar & Horizon Way, 2nd, 3rd, 5th, 7th, 8th, 10th, 15th, 18th, 21st & 33rd Avenues South and 2nd, 6th and 7th Avenues North.
Activities: swimming, fishing, shelling, sunbathing, walking
Pets: no

4. North Gulf Shore Boulevard Beach
Location: between Seagate Condominiums & North Gulf Shore Blvd., Naples
Phone: 239-252-4000 Collier County Parks & Recreation
Hours: 8 AM to sunset
Parking: Metered at the end of Seagate Drive, beach is accessible at both the end of Seagate and North Gulf Shore Blvd via foot.
Amenities: none
Activities: swimming, shelling, fishing, sunbathing, walking
Pets: no
Of Special Interest: Located in a very upscale area of high rise condominiums and a bit difficult to find.

5. Naples Beach & Pier
Location: west end of 12th Avenue South, Naples
Phone: 239-213-3062 Naples Fishing Pier
Hours: Pier and Beach open 24 hours. Concessions: 9 AM to sunset on weekends, 10 AM to sunset on weekdays.
Parking: Metered on street parking and parking lot one block East with additional parking at beach ends of Avenues to the North & South.
Amenities: food concession, bait shop, restrooms, picnic tables, handicapped access, showers
Activities: pier fishing (no license required), volleyball, sunset watching, swimming, walking, sunbathing, surfing
Pets: no
Of Special Interest: The Naples Fishing Pier is one of the most popular attractions in Naples. Originally built in 1888 as a freight and passenger dock, the Naples Pier stands as a community landmark.

Article Source: Ezine Articles

Wednesday, October 31, 2012

Naples Vacation Rentals

When searching for a warm vacation destination that also has an abundance of opportunities for recreational excitement, consider the southwest coast of Florida. Naples is a stunningly beautiful area with unscathed beaches, lush and vibrant terrain, and sparkling green water that reflects the bright Florida sun. Throw in the fabulous shopping and dining that abounds along the water, and you have the makings of a refreshing and revitalizing winter retreat.

Naples is home to six white sandy beaches that allow for a variety of recreational opportunities such as swimming, kayaking, canoeing, hiking, or simply laying in the sand with your favorite book. In addition to the exciting activities near the water, there are numerous other ways to entertain yourself while ashore. An abundance of boutiques and upscale shopping opportunities make 5th Avenue South and Tin City popular with tourists while the Caribbean Gardens and the Conservancy of Southwest Florida allow visitors to get back to nature. With so much to see and do in this area, you simply cannot help but be swept away by all the fun and adventure.

While it is easy to consider everything you plan to participate in during your vacation, it is important to not overlook your accommodations since they will serve as your home base for the duration of your trip. A conveniently located vacation rental is an excellent option in the Naples area since the wide selection makes it easy to find the one that fits most comfortably into your plans. Whether you want to stay near the water or in a luxuriously appointed home near the upscale restaurants, there is bound to be a home that meets all your needs.

Naples vacation rentals that sit directly on the beach are a popular option not just for the convenience but also for the breathtaking views. Imagine waking up to the sound of the waves crashing ashore or sitting on your balcony as the sun begins to reflect brilliant colors when it sets for the day. You will never find a more serene or peaceful setting and when you are ready to begin the day, all you need to do is step outside and you can take a refreshing morning stroll along the soft sand.

Luxury is everywhere in Naples and for the best in elegant accommodations consider a Naples condo rental that sits in a private beachfront paradise. Enjoy the amenities of the complex, including a recreation room, gym, pool, Jacuzzi, and tennis courts, in addition to convenient and private access to a pristine and stunning beach. Close to shopping, golf, restaurants, and the marina, you can enjoy everything you love about the Naples area from your centrally located condo rental.

Article Source: Ezine Articles

Advantages of Vacation Rental Condominiums

Many people, when going on vacation, like to be waited on hand-and-foot, and therefore, enjoy the luxury of a hotel with maid service, food via room service and pools.

Though you may not realize it, there are people who, though they would love to afford a luxury hotel room, find they can enjoy a beautiful relaxing vacation without the necessity of being "hotel-bound."

If you are up for a change, then you should think about the Florida rentals of vacation condominiums. One of the items that a condominium will provide over a hotel is spaciousness in the condo. Yes, you can have hotel rooms that are sumptuous and very spacious, but along with that goes a "sumptuous" price-tag. Why not have it all and utilize the many vacation rental condos that are offered in the Sunshine State.

You will have your own full size kitchen where you can shop for groceries so that you have reasonably priced snacks and the kind of food that you enjoy right at your fingertips. If you perhaps are on a special type of diet or meal plan, you have the ability to have the food of your choice on hand. The condominiums also have their own gyms and swimming pools which you can utilize just as you would at a hotel.

You may also be privy to a great selection of video equipment, television and outdoor facilities in which you can cook on the grill.

You will find that these condominiums are not just located on the outskirts of the cities. Some are right in the heart of the hustle and bustle and will have close access to all the activities that you enjoy. If you search via the internet, you will find a great selection of Florida rentals and definitely one that can fit your price and the size of the group you need to accommodate. It is something different, but something that, if you try, you will probably never want to find a hotel room again.

Article Source: Ezine Articles

Tuesday, October 30, 2012

Naples, Florida: Laid-Back Luxury

Although Naples may be known for its 10 miles of pristine, white sandy beaches, a more accurate description might entail endless relaxation and a sophisticated atmosphere that is perfect for a romantic vacation. Away from the kids, basking in the warm Florida sun, everything moves at a much slower pace and you simply cannot help but escape the stress of daily life when you retreat to picturesque Naples.

While you might expect a stuffy atmosphere and an off-putting level of snobbery from this region of Florida, Naples is actually quite welcoming and charming compared to its east coast counterpart. There are certainly sprawling waterfront mansions and upscale boutiques and restaurants, but the locals offset any of that upper-crust feel with a laid-back atmosphere that feeds off the abundant sunshine and swaying palm trees. Rather than flaunting their riches and success, the people here prefer to showcase their lovely tans and create an environment that is inviting to all.
To head to Naples means you are in search of something a little less family-oriented, where adult activities reign and children's attractions are scant. Although there is the Teddy Bear Museum and the Naples Zoo, this is a place for adults, and particularly couples, who want to surround themselves with the finer things in life and not have to worry about endless entertainment. A day in Naples may simply be spent strolling along 3rd Street South, window shopping or picking up a few art pieces, and then resting at a nearby café for a little people-watching. While this is perfect for a couple who wants to enjoy each other's company, it is not so great for a child who wants to be constantly amused.

Well-known for its wide selection of fine dining options, no trip to Southwest Florida is complete without a stop by some of Naples' best restaurants. If you are looking for an excellent steakhouse, Chops City Grill features some of the finest meats along with an upbeat atmosphere. Seafood lovers can rejoice at either the Bay House Restaurant, which offers not only delicious cuisine but also stunning views of Osprey Bay and the Cocohatchee Wildlife Preserve, or the Bayside Seafood Grill, where the sautéed pistachio snapper and oak-grilled mahi mahi are top-notch.

The good life is never-ending in Naples where beyond the exquisite cuisine and stellar boutique shopping lies some of the most picturesque and challenging golf courses in Florida. The two best courses, Calusa Pine Golf Course and Naples National Golf Course, are both private, so it certainly helps if you have a local friend who is a member at either one of them. However, there are also several excellent semi-private and public options to fill your itinerary, including any of the Lely courses, Tiburon at the Ritz Carlton, and the LaPlaya Beach and Golf Resort.

Leaving quite possibly the best part for last, the soft white sands of Naples run all the way from Barefoot Beach in North Naples to the Municipal Pier located just south of downtown. You can access the shoreline from just about any east-west street that hits Gulf Shore Blvd. and participate in any waterfront pursuit you can imagine. Strolling the sand at sunset is always popular, while jet skiing, swimming, boating, fishing, and scuba diving are just a few of the ways to enjoy the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico in this waterfront paradise.

Article Source: Ezine Articles

Naples Beach Resorts: Luxury and More

Nestled on the Gulf of Mexico with seemingly endless expanses of white sand and calm seas, Naples Florida boasts some of the best beaches in the world as well as some of the finest luxury waterfront resorts. Attracting visitors from around the globe, these three acclaimed resorts feature top-notch service as well as special amenities designed for the discerning traveler.

Guests at the Ritz-Carlton, Naples for example, enjoy spacious suites, complete with a large balcony deck overlooking the water -- perfect for sipping cocktails while enjoying a tropical sunset. The European spa features more than 30 treatment rooms that combine relaxation and body therapies with wellness and nutrition programs and a complimentary fitness center. Guest can also choose from eight innovative dining experiences, or relax and enjoy the pools and beach activities, including a wide selection of water sports. The Ritz-Carlton Naples is located off Vanderbilt Beach Road between Bay Colony Drive and Gulf Shore Drive.


Situated between the Gulf of Mexico and Vanderbilt Bay, LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort provides its own version of paradise. Considered by many to be the best golf course in southwest Florida, the LaPlaya golf course offers 18-holes of lush fairways and meticulously manicured greens set against a backdrop of 14 lakes. As scenic as it is challenging, the course provides the perfect escape. Guests can also enjoy the gulf from a comfortable lounge chair with everything a guest could possibly desire -- umbrellas, towels, drinks, and lunch -- from the personalized beach butler service. The LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort is located on Gulf Shore Drive between Bluebill Avenue and Vanderbilt Beach Road.

Just minutes from trendy shopping, the Florida Everglades and other Naples attractions, the Waldorf Astoria Naples delivers an effortless level of hospitality for guests and families. Its eco-friendly design combines luxury with respect for the natural surroundings. The resort's 23 waterfront acres along the Gulf coast near miles of natural mangrove estuary provide the illusion of a private beach. Families and teens can also choose from a variety of water sports and pools with an "adults" pool and twisty, endless 100-foot water slide for all ages. In addition to its famed "Golden Door" spa, the Waldorf Astoria Naples provides world-class tennis facilities and an 18-hole, par 72 golf course on the premises. The Waldorf Astoria Naples is located at western-most end of Seagate Drive in Naples

Combining luxury and unmatched service with the energy and natural beauty of southwest Florida, these upscale resorts provide memorable vacations for years to come.

Mark Washburn is a real estate agent serving the Naples, Florida condo market. Mark and his team can assist clients in their search for a condo, villa or home in neighborhoods throughout Naples like Naples Cay. If you are in the market for a new home in Naples, we are here to provide a low-pressure, information-rich buying experience.

Article Source: Ezine Articles