Top Agent Dennis Bowers Shares an Insider’s Guide to Naples, Florida

Top Agent Dennis Bowers Shares an Insider’s Guide to Naples, Florida

Dennis Bowers is Southwest Florida’s leader of luxury – with a background encompassing everything from construction to high-end sales. In 2021, The Bowers Group at Compass achieved a record year, closing in excess of $150 Million worth of deals in Naples. Ranked #1 by Wall Street Journal's Emerging Housing Market Index, the Naples area is on fire, and the real estate is a hot commodity. Recent data from The Naples Area Board of Realtors shows home prices increased by 39% YOY, while inventory dropped to historic lows, by 75% in January 2022. Having lived and serviced clientele in Naples for more than a decade, Bowers knows the area like no other. He takes us inside the burgeoning city and some of his favorite spots.

EAT & DRINK

One of my favorite ways to end a week’s worth of hard work is with a stop at the Turtle Club on Vanderbilt Beach – it’s one of the only places in the area to dine with your toes in the sugary soft sand that Naples is known for. Enjoying the food, drinks and views during Sunset is magical. My favorite is their ceviche and sea bass. I highly recommend booking a reservation in advance to avoid waiting. Bar Tulia is a staple if you are looking for craft cocktails with a great ambiance. They have two locations, one in Downtown Naples on 5th Ave and the other in Mercato. The caramelized  brussel sprouts are delicious and the Stanchez drink is a crowd favorite - Reposado, Montenegro, Peach, Lime, Habanero. Kunjani Craft Coffee is a hip little café started by a mother-daughter team from Zimbabwe with great coffee and a delightful atmosphere. It’s situated right in the middle of town beside Waterside Shops – the perfect spot for a quick and delicious pick me up.

NEIGHBORHOODS

Naples was one of Florida’s best kept secrets for many years but now the secret is out. The area appeals to all ages and demographics with things to do from boating and fishing, to golf and shopping, and an on-the-rise food and beverage scene. While most neighborhoods are very community-centric, Naples is quickly evolving and harboring a lifestyle that caters to younger crowds. Pelican Bay is a highly sought-after luxury community and one the largest exclusive enclaves in Naples. The community boasts an onslaught of amenities for residents – including two pristine white-sand beaches, wellness programing, nature-preserve kayaking, on-site art studio and more. Olde Naples is a historic neighborhood that attracts buyers for its walkability factor to shopping, dining and beaches at every corner. The quaint downtown feel and the perfect blend of city and beach is what gives this charming area its enchanting personality. It’s easy to fall in love with the curb appeal of the many picturesque cottages and stunning mansions. The vast range of real estate typically attracts wealthy families and retirees. A neighborhood attracting more young professionals and families  is Victoria Park, known for its Christmas light display and huge Halloween bash. Heavily documented in regional magazines for its over-the-top-dazzling light displays during the month of December, the highly desired neighborhood is perfect for families seeking to show off their creativity and immerse in a community that cares about its residents.

TO DO

The booming Florida city, much like its neighboring counterparts, is a boating and fishing wonderland. The waterways in Naples are smooth sailing off the Gulf and the fishing in the backwater is next level. People from all over the world travel to Naples for its surplus of catch including snook, redfish, tarpon and more. Keewaydin Island is a popular local hot spot for those looking to be social after a day spent on the boat. The calmer waters provide a perfect serene environment for kayaking and sailing. The golf in Naples is also recognized worldwide, with over 90 courses to choose from – some of which are the most well-manicured courses in the state. Most are private courses. Calusa Pines is the highest rated course, currently 74th in the country and 3rd in Florida. Other great courses are Olde Florida, Royal Poinciana, Naples National, Old Collier, Hideout and Hole in the Wall.

HIDDEN GEMS

Corkscrew Sanctuary is home to hundreds of alligators, otters, deer and turtles with miles of hiking, boardwalks, and beautiful photo opportunities. It’s a wonderful hidden gem for the adventurous type looking for a close-up of Florida’s wildlife. The Naples Botanical Garden is also a special place, flora and culture besiege every corner of the garden and it’s a beautiful spot to connect with the environment. Foodwise, I always tell my clients they can’t leave town without stopping by Pastrami Dans and Jimmy P's Butcher Shop.

Image credit: The Bowers Group, Compass