Need advice for Naples FL
 

Considering trip to Naples FL in the last half of April. How is the weather at that time? Considering staying at Hotel Escalante. I hear it is three blocks from the beach. Are there beach chairs for rental, food/drink service, and restrooms available at this beach? Is parking at the hotel or at the beach a problem? I am planning a week alone of relaxing, reading, eating, drinking and a little shopping. Although I have been to Naples several years ago, I would appreciate any advice. Thanks.

Escalante is a wonderful, small, quiet upscale place. Depending how you count them it is either two or three short blocks to the beach -- best to walk. There is some parking there, metered -- take lots of quarters, but you should just walk if possible. No problem with parking at the Escalante. Unfortunately, (or perhaps fortunately, depending upon your point of view) the beach is not set up for a lot. The only public restrooms are at the Pier -- 9 blocks to the south of 5th Avenue (where Escalante is located). That is also the only place for refreshments -- very minimal. You can also walk about 13 blocks north on the beach to the pool bar at the Naples Beach Hotel and Golf Club for hamburgers, etc. That is also the nearest place for beach chair rentals -- although I have always assumed those are only for their hotel guests.<BR>If the Escalante doesn't provide any beach chairs you can carry, I'd suggest splurging at the nearby Sunshine Hardware and getting a cheap folding beach chair -- maybe 5 or 6 dollars.<BR><BR>The end of April is guaranteed to be warm, and as close to a guarantee as you can get for really fine, clear weather. In fact, it may become too hot for some. I have known it to reach into the 90's by the end of April, and of course, Florida humidity is very high, so 90 can be uncomfortable, but you should enjoy perfect beach weather.

Hey, Ann, more current information. On my walk past Escalante this morning I stopped in and asked. They offer a "beach service" for $10, they provide you with a beach chair, and umbrella (good point as there is no shade at the beach), and a beach towel. They also take you up to the beach and set it up for you. This service is available from 10 till 4. Can't help you with the restroom problem however.

Dear Patick,<BR> Thanks so much for checking with the Escalante, and thanks for all of the great information you have provided on the Naples area. I enjoy your contributions to this board.

Previous post was to thank "Patrick". Sorry about the typo.