Naples essentials

Entry: visas and ESTA

Citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries, including the UK and most EU countries, can visit the United States for up to 90 days without a visa but must have an approved ESTA before they travel. Apply only on the official site, esta.cbp.dhs.gov; other sites charge extra. Everyone else needs a visa. Rules change, so check the US government’s official pages before you book.

Money, prices and tipping

The currency is the US dollar. Cards, including contactless and phone payments, are accepted almost everywhere. Prices in shops and restaurants usually exclude sales tax, which is added at the till. Tipping is expected: 18–20% of the bill at table-service restaurants, a dollar or two per drink at bars, and something for hotel staff and drivers.

Arriving and getting around

Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers is about 30 miles north of downtown, 35 to 50 minutes by car. Naples is spread out, so most visitors hire a car; Uber and Lyft are widely available, and Collier Area Transit runs local buses. Drive on the right; turning right on red after a full stop is allowed unless signs say otherwise.

When to go

The winter season, from about November to April, is dry and sunny with warm days, and it is the busiest and most expensive time to visit. Summer, from June to September, is hot and humid with near-daily afternoon thunderstorms, warm sea and lower prices. May and October are often the sweet spot.

Hurricane season

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from 1 June to 30 November, with the greatest risk usually from August to October. If you travel then, buy travel insurance that covers storms, follow the National Hurricane Center’s forecasts and the instructions of Collier County Emergency Management, and leave if an evacuation is ordered for your area.

Beach safety

Swim near lifeguards where available, obey the warning flags and watch for rip currents. Shuffle your feet in shallow water to avoid stingrays, use plenty of reef-friendly sun protection and drink water. Check the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for red tide reports. Between May and October, leave sea turtle nests alone and keep lights off the beach at night.

Health and insurance

Medical care in the US is excellent but expensive: make sure your travel insurance covers medical treatment. NCH and Physicians Regional run hospitals with emergency departments in Naples; for an emergency, call 911.

Questions and answers