Naples, Florida

Newlywed Escape: Falling for Naples’ Luxury and Coastal Charm

BY CHANELLE HAYES-SESSIONS

Traveling more was something I added to my bucket list for 2025, and getting married was on there too; both came true. When my husband, then fiancé, set our wedding date, the first thing we started dreaming about was where we’d go for our honeymoon. We tossed around ideas — Disneyland for childlike wonder, New York for its city lights and Cancun for its beaches — but Naples, Florida, quietly stole our hearts. When I was offered the opportunity to visit, I couldn’t pass it up. The best part was that my husband would be by my side, and Naples would become the backdrop to the beginning of our life together.

We decided on late July for the trip, making it our honeymoon getaway. Experiencing a new city as newlyweds felt special and symbolic of everything ahead. Honestly, I didn’t know much about Naples before we went. A quick search described it as a charming city with upscale shopping, world-class dining and a slower pace, exactly the kind of destination we didn’t know we needed.

For our stay, we split our time between two of Naples’ standout properties: LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort for a beachfront escape and the chic Inn on Fifth, nestled in downtown Naples. Both, part of the Noble House Hotels & Resorts collection, promised the best of both worlds: sun-soaked relaxation by the Gulf of Mexico and vibrant city-side charm.

Exploring Naples: Local Insights and Hidden Gems

After an early morning flight from Las Vegas with a layover in Atlanta, on Thursday, July 31, we landed at Southwest Florida International Airport in Fort Myers around noon. Our friendly driver greeted us and shared some insight into the area and what makes Naples so special.

He explained the region’s proximity to other Florida destinations: roughly an hour and 45 minutes from Miami, a little more than three hours and 30 minutes to Orlando, about two hours and 45 minutes to Tampa, and around three hours to St. Petersburg. “Naples is kind of in the center of all of it,” he said, noting how much calmer it is compared with the busier nearby cities.

Having lived here since 2010, he shared that the slower pace and peaceful surroundings are a welcome change for anyone coming from a fast-paced city. “The water is calmer, people are calmer, and it just gives you a real sense of peace of mind,” he said.

He also suggested a few notable things to do near LaPlaya, including the beach and The Mercato, a destination known for its blend of shopping, dining and entertainment, and reminded us to stay hydrated during midday strolls.

From Gulf Tower Comfort to Waterfront Dining at BALEEN

As our driver turned onto Gulf Shore Drive, we were immediately surrounded by elegant homes and lush landscaping. When we arrived at LaPlaya, attendants were ready to grab our bags and guide us to the check-in area. The lobby is on the smaller side but felt bright, airy and welcoming, with a tropical vibe.

LaPlaya is home to 189 guest rooms and suites across three distinct areas of the property, with accommodations ranging from 450 to 950 square feet. Checking in was quick and easy, and soon we were heading up to our room in the Gulf Tower, which had a private balcony with an incredible view of the Gulf of Mexico, a comfortable sitting area, a dining space perfect for the two of us, a king-size bed and a spa-like bathroom, as well as close access to the nearby South Beach.

The Bay Tower, on the other hand, overlooks Vanderbilt Bay and features accommodations ranging from junior suites to spacious king suites, many with living areas, sleeper sofas, balconies and coastal-inspired decor, with close proximity to North Beach.

For those who want to be closest to the sand at Vanderbilt Beach, LaPlaya’s Beach House rooms are just steps from the shoreline. Some include private fire pits, while others overlook the resort’s lush gardens and tiered pools. Details like walk-in showers, upgraded patio furniture and fully stocked refreshment centers make the rooms throughout the property feel both modern and luxurious. The Beach House area also houses LaPlaya’s full-service fitness center, SpaTerre and Boutique Aqua.

After settling into our room, we slipped out onto the balcony with a charcuterie platter of fine meats and cheeses. Below us, the resort grounds unfolded like a private garden, and beyond, the Gulf of Mexico shimmered in the late afternoon light. Sitting side by side, we clinked glasses and let the salty breeze wash over us. It wasn’t just a view; it was a reminder that our horizon was wide open, waiting to be discovered together.

That evening, we dined at BALEEN, the resort’s signature waterfront restaurant. With tables overlooking the beach and a menu designed for indulgence, it was the perfect spot for our first night in Naples. My lobster bucatini was decadent; his filet mignon was perfectly tender.

We shared sides of crispy Brussels sprouts with grain mustard, fresh herbs and pomegranate seeds, along with a generous helping of truffle fries. The night was crowned when our server surprised us with a rich chocolate mousse cake. Afterward, we strolled along the beach, the first of many sunsets we’d greet as husband and wife.

Exploring The Mercato and LaPlaya’s Beachside Bliss

The next day, we took some time to rest before heading to The Mercato, a recommendation from our driver. With wide walkways lined with shops, restaurants and cafés, it had a charming, leisurely vibe that reminded me of Town Square Las Vegas, just south of the Strip.

After a short stroll, we stopped at Tap 42 Craft Kitchen & Bar for a casual lunch. The atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming, and the menu offered a mix of elevated American classics that made for a satisfying midday break.

We spent a few hours wandering before heading back to LaPlaya to relax on the beach. The sand was soft and warm under our feet, and the gentle waves rolled in with a soothing rhythm. The water was a clear, inviting turquoise, stretching out as far as we could see, perfect for sinking into the moment and just being together.

Beyond the shoreline, the resort offers multiple pools with private cabanas, each featuring HDTVs, chaise lounges, stocked refrigerators and fresh fruit platters. Later, we enjoyed light fare and handcrafted cocktails at Tiki Bar & Grill before retreating to Elements Bar, a sleek indoor space adjacent to BALEEN.

From LaPlaya’s Shores to Fifth Avenue’s Charm

The next morning, before checking out, we returned to BALEEN for brunch. We tried the Del Sol, a twist on an all-American breakfast, and a build-your-own omelet with ham, mushrooms and onions. Afterward, we traveled about 20 minutes to downtown Naples and checked in at the Forbes-rated Inn on Fifth. The atmosphere was different from LaPlaya’s beachside setting but equally captivating. Nestled among high-end shops, eclectic galleries and acclaimed restaurants, the Inn on Fifth felt like a secluded boutique escape in the heart of the city.

The hotel has 87 deluxe rooms and suites, but we were upgraded to one of the 32 luxury club-level suites located across the street from the main building. It was beyond anything we expected. The 550-square-foot suite featured stylish decor, an expansive marble bathroom, a plush king-size bed, a spacious living room and dining area, and a private balcony. The overall look and feel reminded me of the hotel rooms at The Venetian and The Palazzo in Las Vegas, just with the bonus of a balcony.

Other amenities included access to a private rooftop with a hot tub and a concierge lounge that served hors d’oeuvres, cocktails and desserts nightly, as well as a continental breakfast every morning, exclusive to club-level guests. We first hit the rooftop pool within the main hotel, where we were served a welcome cocktail at the bar. The space had a relaxed vibe with lounge chairs, umbrellas, a lush garden and even a fire pit. Within the main hotel, there’s also a spa and a fitness center.

That evening, we walked to Truluck’s, located just across from the main hotel. The room glowed with dim light, rose petals were scattered across our table, and live piano notes drifted through the air as though Naples itself wanted to serenade us. Over filet mignon and Parmesan mashed potatoes, we toasted to our marriage, savoring not just the flavors but the moment. When the staff surprised us with a flaming baked Alaska, its sparks reflected in my husband’s eyes, and I realized this wasn’t just dinner. It was Naples raising a glass to our love story.

A Honeymoon to Remember

Our four days in Naples showed us that the trip was more than just a honeymoon. It gave us moments wrapped in sunsets, laughter and quiet time together. From mornings on the beach to evenings wandering downtown, every moment reminded us that love grows strongest where beauty and calm come together.

When our plane lifted into the sky, we knew this wouldn’t be goodbye. Naples had become our place, a spot we hope to return to year after year, a place to keep falling in love all over again.

For more information about both properties, visit laplayaresort.com and innonfifth.com.