One of the biggest challenges of planning any Florida vacation is deciding which part of the state to visit. Removing golf from the picture and simply focusing on a great family experience that will entertain everyone in your clan, well, it’s much easier said than done. If you’re road tripping in from out of state, Amelia Island and the Panhandle have plenty of perks, but they also have crowds. Making the trek within the state, the theme parks have ride waits longer than Zack Snyder’s director’s cuts, while South Florida’s most popular spots involve heavy traffic and even more crowds.
That’s why I’ve always been fond of Naples as a lowkey getaway that, while immensely popular, never feels like it’s being overrun the same way some of Florida’s other coastal cities are. Now, insert golf back into the plans and this is a phenomenal destination for everything from family-focused outdoor adventure to playing some of the most underrated courses in the Sunshine State. And a great place to start is Naples Grande Beach Resort, as it not only has the right deal, but also a hell of a perk for traveling players.
The “Dad’s on Duty” experience sets your squad up at this property for four nights (book three and get the fourth free), and it also includes plenty of action that will keep the kids’ eyes off their devices while creating memories that will last a lifetime. For starters, Naples Fishing Charters will lead you on a half-day excursion — perhaps to catch that night’s dinner — and much of the remaining time can be spent exploring the area on free-use kayaks, paddleboards, and bicycles.

When it’s time to relax by the water, you can spend another half-day in a beachside cabana, which will feature a cooler loaded with lunch from the Spressi Marketplace. Kids will especially love the free daily ice cream cones for two from there as well, but dad will likely be too busy planning his 60-minute spa retreat, also included in the package.
As for golf, Naples Grande Beach Resort offers guests exclusive access to the Naples Grande Golf Club, which is a quick Uber ride from the property. Designed by Rees Jones, the course has a stellar reputation and is undoubtedly one of the best in the region, but no one would blame you if you also added TPC Treviso Bay and The Links of Naples to your itinerary.


