Crayton Cove is located on Naples Bay between 12th Ave South and 8th Street South and it incorporates the Naples Yacht Club and Naples City Dock. Shops and businesses of note include Naples Ships Store and a number of charter boats ready to set sail on a fun day of fishing and sailing in the Gulf of Mexico.
Photo credit Mary Carol Fitzgerald
You’ll be in for a big surprise when you discover the arts culture and events that are frequently hosted here. In between events, you can sip a Crayton Cove Classic Daiquiri and dine well at some of the amazing restaurants in this historic waterfront district. Easy to reach, Crayton Cove is on the Naples Trolley Route and is served by the Naples Water Shuttle.
History of Crayton Cove
Cast your eye over the historic plaque erected to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee (75 years) since the founding of the city of Naples. It tells visitors that this Back Bay area was first settled in 1915 and became an important sheltered mooring for the fishing boats and workers involved in the massive Tamiami Trail Project.
One of the earliest residents was Annie Rivers and her son Chiz. Life must have been tough for those early pioneers without modern supermarkets, air conditioning and mosquito spraying. Crayton Cove was the site of the first pharmacy, the first newspaper, The Naples Transcript, and the historic Swamp Buggy Ball held at the White Pelican (since demolished). The area has certainly seen quite a few changes over the past century.
Art After Dark
The area has five artist studios for visitors to browse inside and perhaps find a local scene to decorate their home or buy as a thoughtful gift for someone special. The galleries organize an “Art After Dark” studio walk event on the second Saturday of each month. These evening strolls include live music, drinks and snacks along with the opportunity to talk with local artists about their work.
Crayton Cove Events
There’s always something happening or being planned in this historic area, such as the Great Dock Canoe Race, one of Naples most popular events. Sponsored by the Dock Restaurant, it is held on the second Saturday of May each year.
The Christmas Boat Parade is another highly anticipated event that lights up the marina and cove with seasonal lights and decorated boats. The boat parade takes place annually on the second Saturday of December.
Photo credit Mary Carol Fitzgerald.
Shops and Businesses in Crayton Cove
Known as the “Original Old Naples”, Crayton Cove is home to some of Naples’ most charming independent shops and boutiques including Back of the Bay.
Photo credit Mary Carol Fitzgerald
Dine in style surrounded by the historic ambience at the historic Cove Inn or enjoy superb water views as you take a seat at the Dock Restaurant, another local landmark. Neighboring restaurants serve up everything from award-winning French country cuisine at Chez Boez and Bleu Provence to tasty steak and seafood.
Photo credit Jennifer Brinkman
If you enjoy a day on the water fishing for your dinner, book a charter with Tarpon Tamer, see a sunset from the deck of the catamaran Sweet Liberty, organize a floating party with Sailboats Unlimited or rent a boat, kayak or standup paddleboard for the day. Get out on the water with the pelicans and seabirds and enjoy the natural beauty of this bountiful area. Those with their own boat can make use of the City Dock moorings, which can accommodate vessels up to 120 feet in length.
Photo credit Jennifer Brinkman
Despite being one of the oldest areas of Naples, Crayton Cove has lush landscaping, plenty of parking and good access, making it an upbeat center that Naples residents are rightly proud of.
Next time you’re in Naples, Florida check it out and see for yourself.
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