NAPLES, Fla. — Businesses in Naples are gearing up for a significant influx of tourists as the new season unfolds in southwest Florida. This year, Collier County has nearly doubled its tourism budget, a bold move that signals the community’s intention to attract even more visitors and stimulate local commerce.
The arrival of snowbirds marks an unofficial kick-off for the season, and the streets of Naples are steadily filling with eager faces and adventurous spirits. The vibrant coastal town, known for its stunning sunsets and pristine beaches, welcomes these seasonal visitors with open arms.
“Our plan was to open Thanksgiving weekend,” said Captain Evan Kuperman of the Naples Bay Water Shuttle. “But we’ve received hundreds of calls in the past few weeks urging us to open sooner,” he reflected, embodying the excitement and anticipation of the season ahead. With the shuttle offering unique hop-on, hop-off water taxi services at several picturesque stops, they proudly hold the title of being the only such service in Collier County, charging a mere $20 for day access.
In the face of ongoing recovery from Hurricane Milton, Kuperman remains optimistic. “This season feels especially poignant,” he noted, as the community rallies together to ensure a warm welcome for everyone. The recent approval of a $5.45 million boost to the county’s tourism campaign, sanctioned by the commissioners on November 12, is expected to raise the total tourism expenditure to nearly $12 million. “The commitment here to our local businesses and environment speaks volumes,” Kuperman added, reflecting on the strength of the community.
Restaurants like Jane’s Café, a beloved Naples establishment since 2001, are also preparing for the busy surge. “We can serve up to 1,000 customers on weekends,” said Mario Figueroa, the café’s manager, as he surveyed the bustling kitchen. “Right now, we’re serving about 600, so we’re definitely bracing for more.” His eyes sparkled with energy, revealing the meticulous training and preparations underway. “While our regular crew is phenomenal, we always bring in extra hands during the season,” he expressed with gentle reassurance. “It’s a team effort that keeps us moving forward.”
December is anticipated to be Jane’s Café’s busiest month, a delightful challenge that the team embraces wholeheartedly. “When the guests arrive, it’s about them immersing in the Naples experience—the laughter, the flavors, and the memories we help create,” Figueroa said, hinting at a palpable connection between the business and the visitors it serves.
As the peak season approaches, the population of Collier County swells, almost dramatically, by around 100,000 people—an increase of about 20%. This surge is not merely a numeric statistic; it represents stories unfolding, connections being formed, and experiences being shared amidst the beautiful landscapes of Naples.
The hope for this season is not only to welcome more visitors but to create an enduring bond that extends beyond the sun-kissed days of winter. Local businesses are setting the stage for a vibrant experience, blending heartfelt service with the splendor of their surroundings as they step forward into a promising season.
