Everyone is familiar with Miami, Palm Beach, Key West and Orlando’s theme parks, but Florida also has gems farther west. Part of the Paradise Coast, tranquil Marco Island and Naples hug the Gulf of Mexico. The area is famous for its beautiful white sand beaches, golf courses, fishing, boating and spectacular sunsets.Naples has the feel of a New England fishing village and the warmth and charm of old Key West. Marco Island’s beach and sand bars offer some of the best shelling in the world.
Naples is one of the best places in Florida for a scenic stroll, beautiful architecture meeting window shopping and trendy cafes and restaurants. Alfresco and waterfront dining range from casual to elegant. Click here to see the rest of this column  Click on this link (March 6 post) to see the recipes from this columnhttp://sfrecipes.tumblr.com/ 
Click here to see my food and travel column archived in the New Haven Register