Heart to Heart Heartfelt Moments: A Naples Summer

By Karen Coney Coplin

Quieter streets, traditions that linger, and simple pleasures define our summertime. As the end of our busy season approaches, things grow a little quieter as summer settles into Naples. For many of us who live here year round, life softens in the most welcome way. And for those of you that don’t, please consider a weekend trip back to enjoy some of these simple pleasures.

With the sun moving south, mornings seem brighter and afternoons stretch longer. Our favorite familiar places take on a more relaxed rhythm and pace.

These months are often overlooked, yet, this gem of a town offers all of us an opportunity to slow down, reconnect, and savor the summer season.

I know from personal experience that the early summer hours feel like a gift. It’s infinitely cooler early in the day, quieter, and unhurried. Time to get a beach walk in before the summer rains appear!

At midday, warmer and often humid weather encourages us all to pause. It’s a welcome invitation to enjoy a break. Then, as evening arrives, it’s time for a favorite ritual: the sunset seemingly melting into the Gulf.

Whether there or over a shared meal, easy conversation can bring the perfect summer day in Naples to a close.

Other traditions anchor our calendars this time of year.

Although our snowbirds are staying later and later, Mother’s Day becomes less about securing the perfect reservation and more about lingering at the table, whether at home or at your favorite local brunch spot.

When the summer season officially arrives, Father’s Day will often unfold outdoors. Maybe dear old dad or grandad will enjoy an early tee time or an afternoon on the water.

And in between, the graduation season will bring its own meaning in the celebration of milestones and accomplishments of loved ones. Then, time for plenty of conversation about what lies ahead for our local and “locally grown” graduates awaits.

For every day, the summer season offers little luxuries. These include the ease of finding the perfect parking spot and stepping into a favorite restaurant without cajoling or weeks of advance planning.

It might even include an unhurried afternoon at the beach or by the pool, or a walk along historic Third St. South, long known for its remarkable potted gardens and flowery byways.

For seasonal residents, this is a chance to experience Naples less as a resort town or destination, and more as a community.

It’s also a time to go deeper and enjoy the places and experiences which make Naples so special, minus the rush and crowds.

After many decades here, I truly believe this is the time when Naples feels most like home. Any one or all of these small luxuries can be elusive during peak season, yet can be a part of everyday summer life in Naples.

Our town has long been defined by a gracious spirit and a strong sense of community, which is shaped by all of our residents, year rounders and snowbirds.

I wish all readers the best for this summer as you enjoy an ordinary evening, gather for a holiday, or toast a celebratory milestone, and everything in between.

A summer well spent is often a reflection of what matters most, as we have the time to be still and soak in life’s simplest pleasures. All of which are in abundance, here in summertime Naples.

Please contact Karen at NaplesKCC@gmail.com with suggestions for future article coverage, which is often centered on charitable organizations in Naples and the programs/services these groups offer.

Additionally, for more vignettes about life in Naples, give her a follow on Instagram @Naplesbythenumbers