Let’s Celebrate Naples – Past, Present and Future

by Karen Coney Coplin

As a long-term resident of Naples (31 years), I’ve learned to take the city’s growth and associated changes in stride. While much has changed, some constants remain, such as the ever-growing traffic problem, which has always been an annoyance. (Anyone else remember when Exit 105 on 75 didn’t even exist?)

Similarly, fully booked restaurant tables during season continue to be a “first world” problem, given the many excellent dining choices we have.

It helps to keep a sense of humor (and ongoing appreciation for our consistently beautiful sunsets) as we begin the new year. So, here is my countdown resolving to make the best of 2026:

10. Do you remember when “season” meant you might wait 10-15 minutes for a table? Those days are gone forever! Thanks to social media posts and the always vibrant word-of-mouth, there are precious few hidden gems about dining options in Naples, or, frankly, Naples in general! Resolve to treasure that Naples once felt like a best kept secret.

9. Support the local spots which may be yet to be discovered, ready to breathe fresh life to our days, adventures, and meals. Andre solve to dine, shop and linger in those places which have stood the test of time.

8. Appreciate the charm of Old Naples: especially the parts that survived Ian redevelopment. There are survivors among cottages and courtyards and blazing blooms. It’s a small-town feeling. Resolve to hold on to that spirit even as Naples evolves at a record clip.

7. Take in nature. Whether at the beach on a favorite path or park, pick up a piece of litter or two. Be mindful of the sea turtle nests a little later this year. And for the love of all things coastal, please don’t feed the seagulls.

6. Be mindful. Gulf Shore Blvd., Central Ave. (and all the other avenues downtown) are not the place to exercise any Formula One ambitions. Nor are these the places to catch up on texts. Let’s all resolve to admire the banyan trees and energetic people on the bike paths, rather than drive into them!

5. Spark a better conversation. With so many art, film, and music festivals, gallery openings, and world-class live performances at Artis, playhouses and elsewhere, let’s inspire each other to see & discuss the best of what’s around us, and within us.

4. Resolve to hit the beach more often. Vitamin “Sea” is the real deal. The sunsets, shoreline, and salt air are free and offer an unmatched benefit to living in a coastal area. An instant mood boostfor most!

3. Embrace a gentler start to the day and keep that pace throughout. Perhaps it’s time to venture to Baker Park and take in a sunrise. What better way to bookend the day, as you can then plan to catch the sunset later.

2. Be a better neighbor. Whether it is someone who is a lifelong local, or a newcomer arriving on the heels of a wonderful first visit last season, it never hurts to extend some hospitality. With any luck, something wonderful might come of it.

1. Take it all in, with patience. Most of us were new to this wonderful community at some point, and we understand the excitement and fresh perspectives that newcomers bring. Their enthusiasm can be a welcome and contagious reminder for the love of our community. And, they in turn might appreciate our reminiscences about our favorite spots and memories from years gone by.

It’s a balance: let’s see it unfold this year.

Let’s shine together!

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 onInstagram @Naplesbythenumbers

I’m abundantly thankful to call Naples my home and to connect with you here.