Third Street South is Naples' original downtown—a charming, tree-canopied collection of courtyards, fountains, and pastel Mediterranean buildings that predates the modern city's development. Where Fifth Avenue delivers glamour and energy, Third Street offers intimacy and character. The Saturday morning farmers market, world-class galleries, locally-owned boutiques, and some of Naples' finest restaurants make this historic district an essential experience. This guide explores everything that makes Third Street South special.
Quick Navigation: Dining | Shopping | Galleries | Farmers Market | Parking
The Character of Third Street South
Third Street South occupies a unique place in Naples' geography and culture. The district stretches roughly from 12th Avenue South to 14th Avenue South, encompassing interconnected courtyards, shaded walkways, and hidden gems tucked behind storefronts.
What Sets It Apart
- Architecture: True Mediterranean Revival with mature landscaping
- Scale: Intimate courtyards vs. broad sidewalks
- Pace: Slower, more contemplative than Fifth Avenue
- Shops: Predominantly locally-owned, individually curated
- History: Naples' original downtown shopping district
The Layout
Unlike the linear Fifth Avenue experience, Third Street rewards exploration:
- Main Street: Shops and restaurants along Third Street itself
- Courtyards: Hidden plazas behind storefronts with fountains, sculpture, and seating
- Connecting Paths: Walkways linking to parking and beach access
- The Avenues: Cross streets (12th, 13th, 14th) with additional businesses
The courtyards are the secret—step through seemingly ordinary storefronts to discover lush gardens, trickling fountains, and peaceful retreats.
Dining Guide
Third Street South dining ranges from casual breakfast spots to destination restaurants, with outdoor courtyard seating a defining feature.
Fine Dining
Campiello
Northern Italian cuisine in one of Naples' most beautiful courtyard settings. The handmade pasta and extensive wine list draw regulars and visitors alike. Weekend brunch is legendary.
- Setting: Stunning courtyard with fountain
- Reservations: Essential, especially weekends
- Price: $$$-$$$$
- Don't Miss: Handmade pasta, courtyard seating, Sunday brunch
Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar
More than a clothing store restaurant, this location delivers solid tropical-inspired cuisine with excellent cocktails. The upstairs patio offers privacy and charm.
- Setting: Upstairs restaurant with balcony
- Reservations: Recommended
- Price: $$-$$$
- Best for: Island-inspired seafood, signature cocktails
Ridgway Bar & Grill
Contemporary American cuisine with Mediterranean influences. Chef Tony Ridgway's cooking draws serious food lovers. The covered patio is a local favorite.
- Setting: Courtyard and covered patio
- Reservations: Recommended
- Price: $$-$$$
- Don't Miss: Daily specials, wine selection
Sea Salt
Venice-inspired seafood with theatrical presentation. The towers of seafood and tableside preparations create memorable dining experiences.
- Setting: Sophisticated indoor/outdoor
- Reservations: Essential during season
- Price: $$$$
- Best for: Seafood lovers, special occasions
Casual Dining
Jane's Garden Cafe
Beloved breakfast and lunch spot hidden in a courtyard garden. The setting alone justifies a visit, and the food delivers.
- Setting: Garden courtyard
- Price: $-$$
- Best for: Brunch, light lunch
Old Naples Pub
Genuine neighborhood pub with cold beer, solid pub fare, and a decidedly un-fancy atmosphere. A welcome contrast to surrounding elegance.
- Setting: Indoor pub
- Price: $-$$
- Best for: Casual lunch, sports viewing
The Grill on Third
Classic American fare with outdoor seating. Burgers, salads, and people-watching.
- Setting: Sidewalk seating
- Price: $$
- Best for: Families, casual meals
Coffee & Sweets
Tony's Off Third
Gourmet grocery, deli, and cafe rolled into one. The prepared foods, wine selection, and bakery items make this a destination. Grab lunch or provisions for a beach picnic.
Kilwins
Hand-dipped ice cream, fudge, and chocolates. The aroma alone draws visitors through the door.
Shopping Guide
Third Street South shopping emphasizes locally-owned boutiques and specialty shops over national chains. The emphasis on personal service and unique merchandise creates a shopping experience distinct from malls or outlet centers.
Women's Fashion
Marissa Collections
Multi-designer boutique carrying European and American designer fashion. One of Naples' most prestigious addresses for women's clothing.
Gattle's
Designer women's fashion with personalized service. The staff knows their inventory and their customers.
Priscilla's
Contemporary women's fashion with a boutique feel. Accessible price points alongside higher-end pieces.
Signé
French-inspired women's clothing and accessories. Romantic, feminine pieces.
Men's Fashion
Mondo Uomo
European menswear with impeccable tailoring. Suits, sport coats, and accessories for the discerning gentleman.
Island Pursuit
Resort casual for men, including Tommy Bahama and similar brands. The Naples casual uniform.
Home & Lifestyle
Golden Rule
Eclectic home goods, gifts, and accessories. Colorful, playful items you didn't know you needed.
The Englishman Fine Art & Antiques
European antiques, fine art, and objets d'art. Museum-quality pieces in a gallery setting.
Dutchess Designs
Interior design studio and retail with carefully curated furniture and accessories.
Specialty Shops
Tony's Off Third
Gourmet grocery with exceptional cheese, charcuterie, wine, and prepared foods. Essential for picnic provisions or bringing Naples flavors home.
Pucci & Catana
High-end pet boutique. If your pet deserves Naples-level luxury.
The Garden District
Plants, planters, and garden accessories with Florida-appropriate selections.
Jewelry
Yamron Jewelers
Fine jewelry and luxury timepieces in an elegant setting.
Various estate jewelry shops throughout the district.
Art Galleries
Third Street South's gallery scene rivals Fifth Avenue's, with spaces representing major international artists alongside regional talent.
Major Galleries
Harmon-Meek Gallery
One of Naples' most respected contemporary galleries, representing nationally significant artists. The space itself is worth visiting.
Galerie Béatrice
French-influenced gallery featuring painting, sculpture, and objets d'art. Sophisticated European aesthetic.
LeMieux Galleries
Contemporary art with emphasis on accessible pricing. Strong roster of emerging artists.
Studio E Gallery
Local and regional artists in an inviting space. More casual atmosphere than some larger galleries.
Gallery Events
Galleries participate in Naples' First Friday evening events, though the scene is typically quieter than Fifth Avenue's festivities.
Saturday Farmers Market
The Third Street South Farmers Market is a Naples institution—and one of Florida's finest farmers markets. Every Saturday morning (November through April), the streets fill with vendors, shoppers, and the aromas of fresh bread, produce, and flowers.
Market Details
- When: Saturdays, 7:30am-11:30am (approximately November-April)
- Where: Third Street South between Broad Avenue and 13th Avenue
- Parking: Challenging—arrive early or park remotely
- Cost: Free to browse
What You'll Find
Produce: Florida-grown fruits and vegetables, including seasonal specialties like tomatoes, citrus, and tropicals
Prepared Foods: Baked goods, jams, sauces, and ready-to-eat items
Plants: Orchids, tropicals, and landscape plants suited to Florida
Artisan Products: Soaps, candles, crafts from local makers
Food Trucks/Stands: Coffee, breakfast items, lunch options
Market Tips
- Arrive by 8am for best parking and first choice of goods
- Bring cash for smaller vendors
- Bring bags for purchases
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking
- Stop for coffee and people-watch from a courtyard bench
- Combine with brunch at Jane's Garden Cafe or Campiello
Market Atmosphere
The market draws a cross-section of Naples—longtime locals, seasonal residents, families, tourists, and serious food shoppers. The vibe is social and relaxed, with many visitors treating it as much as a Saturday morning gathering as a shopping trip.
Parking Tips
Third Street South parking is the district's biggest challenge, particularly during season and on market Saturdays.
Street Parking
Limited metered parking along Third Street and cross streets:
- Rates: Vary, typically $2-3/hour
- Limits: 2-3 hours typical
- Availability: Difficult during peak times
Parking Lots
13th Avenue South Lot: Closest to the action, fills quickly
12th Avenue South Lot: Slightly easier, short walk
Remote lots: Consider lots further from Third Street and walking
Market Day Strategy
For Saturday Farmers Market visits:
- Arrive before 8am for any chance at close parking
- Park remotely and enjoy the walk through Old Naples
- Use bike if staying nearby—bike racks available
- Consider ride-sharing for hassle-free access
Valet
Some restaurants offer valet service—check when making reservations.
The Courtyards
Third Street's hidden courtyards distinguish it from any other shopping district. Step through unassuming doorways to discover:
What to Expect
- Fountains: Trickling water creates peaceful ambiance
- Landscaping: Mature trees, tropical plants, seasonal flowers
- Sculpture: Art installations throughout
- Seating: Benches and chairs for resting
- Hidden Shops: Businesses accessible only through courtyards
- Restaurant Patios: Some of Naples' best outdoor dining
Courtyard Exploration Tips
- Step through doorways that seem to lead only to stores
- Look for connecting pathways between buildings
- Take your time to discover hidden corners
- Visit at different times for different atmospheres (quiet mornings vs. lively evenings)
Events & Special Occasions
Regular Events
Saturday Farmers Market (November-April)
The weekly highlight that transforms the district
Art Festivals
Various art shows and festivals throughout the season
Holiday Events
Tree lighting, carolers, and festive decorations during December
Private Events
Many Third Street venues accommodate private events:
- Corporate dinners at restaurants
- Gallery receptions for special occasions
- Wedding rehearsal dinners in courtyard settings
Beach Access
Third Street South's western end connects to Naples Beach:
- Walking distance: 5-10 minutes to beach access
- Beach access points along Gulf Shore Boulevard
- Beach-to-dinner option: Morning beach, afternoon shopping, evening dining
Day Trip Strategy
Morning: Beach time (arrive early for parking)
Midday: Lunch at Third Street
Afternoon: Shopping and gallery browsing
Evening: Dinner reservation (Campiello courtyard is magical at dusk)
Combining with Fifth Avenue
Third Street South and Fifth Avenue are a 10-minute walk apart, making combined visits easy:
Suggested Route
Start at Third Street for morning shopping and coffee
Walk to Fifth Avenue via connecting streets
Lunch on Fifth Avenue
Return to Third Street for dinner in a quieter setting
Or reverse—begin with Fifth Avenue energy and end with Third Street tranquility.
The Walk
The connecting walk passes through residential Old Naples, offering glimpses of historic cottages and Mediterranean mansions. It's pleasant and interesting, not simply a transfer between destinations.
Insider Tips
Best Times to Visit
- Saturday morning: Farmers market energy (arrive early)
- Weekday mornings: Quiet shopping, easy parking
- Sunset hour: Magical light in the courtyards
- Off-season: May-October offers easier reservations and parking
Local Knowledge
- Tony's Off Third for picnic provisions before beach
- Jane's Garden Cafe requires no reservation for breakfast
- The courtyards are cooler in summer heat
- Holiday decorations appear the week after Thanksgiving
- Ask shopkeepers for recommendations—they know Naples
What to Wear
Third Street is slightly more casual than Fifth Avenue:
- Daytime: Resort casual, comfortable walking shoes
- Evening: Smart casual (no jackets required)
- Market day: Very casual, practical shoes
- Dinner: Elevated casual at most restaurants
Planning Your Visit
Morning Visit (2-3 hours)
8am: Arrive early for parking
8:15am: Browse farmers market (if Saturday)
9:30am: Breakfast at Jane's Garden Cafe
10:30am: Shopping and courtyard exploration
12pm: Depart or continue to Fifth Avenue
Afternoon Visit (2-3 hours)
2pm: Arrive, park in remote lot
2:15pm: Gallery browsing
3:30pm: Shopping
4:30pm: Afternoon drink in a courtyard
5pm: Continue evening on Third Street or transfer to Fifth Avenue
Evening Visit (3-4 hours)
5pm: Arrive for dinner, use valet if available
5:30pm: Pre-dinner cocktails
6:30pm: Dinner at Campiello, Sea Salt, or Ridgway
8:30pm: After-dinner stroll through lit courtyards
9pm: Nightcap or dessert
9:30pm: Depart
Final Thoughts
Third Street South represents Naples at its most charming—the Naples that existed before the high-rises and mega-developments, when a small fishing village began dreaming of European elegance. The result, decades later, is a district that feels both authentically Floridian and romantically Mediterranean.
The Saturday farmers market is worth the parking hassle. The courtyards reward patient exploration. The dining rivals anywhere in Southwest Florida. And the pace—slower, more contemplative than bustling Fifth Avenue—offers a different kind of Naples experience.
Take your time here. Step through doorways. Sit by a fountain. This is Naples as it was meant to be experienced.
