…and then there was Naples.

Our last night in Clearwater beach was fraught with thunderstorms long into the night and early morning. The wind was howling off the water and whistling through a crack in the patio doors causing the curtains to dance to the rhythm of the wind. The morning brought fog and rain which quickly cleared as the morning progressed. The temperatures were warm and the sun gradually tried to peak out.

We headed down coast toward Fort Myers, but settled on Naples instead as our final destination. It is a beautiful little place about half the size of Brandon. It is one of the more expensive resort areas to stay in, but very well kept and manicured with a great harbour filled with big yachts. There is a wonderful stretch of beach that is accessible from every street and a very lively main avenue filled with shops and small cafes. People filled the outside patio tables and music could be heard from the local eateries as the evening came to life.

On the recommendation of the desk clerk we headed down to the beach for the sunset.  After a stroll along the shore we put up our chairs and watched the amazing Florida sun dip its head below the horizon.  It seems to be a popular pastime as there were many people lined up on the pier and along the beach to take pictures or perhaps catch a glimpse of the dolphins that frequent the area as the sun goes down. Tonight we did not see any, but we will try again tomorrow.

I think we will spend a couple of days here before heading to the Keys. Goodnight and stay warm.