Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary
The crown jewel in the National Audubon Society's sanctuary collection, the
Corkscrew
ary Rd W; adult/child 6-18yr $12/4; 7am-5:30pm Oct-mid-Apr)
provides an intimate explora-
tion of six pristine native habitats, including sawgrass, slash pine and marsh, along a shady
2.25-mile boardwalk trail. The centerpiece is North America's oldest virgin bald-cypress
forest, with majestic specimens more than 600 years old and 130ft tall. Abundant wildlife
includes nesting alligators, night herons, endangered wood storks and trees full of ibis.
However, two rare species, when spotted, make the news: the famed ghost orchid and the
elusive Florida panther. Volunteers help point out wildlife, and signage is excellent; the
visitor center rents binoculars ($3). Corkscrew is as good as the Everglades.
The preserve is southeast of Fort Myers and northeast of Naples; take I-75 exit 111 and
head east on Hwy 846/Imokalee Rd to Sanctuary Rd; follow signs. Bring repellent for deer
flies in late spring.
Naples
For upscale romance and the prettiest, most serene city beach in southwest Florida, come
to Naples, the Gulf Coast's answer to Palm Beach. As on Sanibel and Captiva Islands, de-
velopment along the shoreline has been kept residential. The soft white sand is backed
only by narrow dunes and half-hidden mansions. More than that, though, Naples is a cul-
tured, sophisticated town, unabashedly stylish and privileged, but also welcoming and fun-
loving. Families, teens, couture-wearing matrons, middle-aged executives and smartly
dressed young couples all mix and mingle as they stroll downtown's 5th Ave on a balmy
evening. Travelers sometimes complain that Naples is expensive, but it's equally true that
you can spend as much elsewhere for a whole lot less.
Sights
Downtown Naples is laid out on a grid. There are two primary retail corridors: the main
one is 5th Ave between 9th St S/US 41 and W Lake Dr. Pretty, picnic-friendly
Cambier
Park
(cnr 8th St S & 6th Ave S)
is here. The other retail district runs along 3rd St S between
