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NAPLES ZOO AT CARIBBEAN GARDENS
Primate Cruise | Giraffe Feeding | Family Day Trip
Naples Zoo sits inside Caribbean Gardens, a lush old botanical garden in the middle of Naples, so a day here feels more like a walk through the jungle than a trip to the city. Paths wind under huge trees past lions, cheetahs, giraffes, and Florida panthers, and one of the best parts is a boat ride past islands where monkeys and lemurs live.
It’s about 35 minutes south of our condos at the south end of Fort Myers Beach, a little longer from the north end of the island. It makes a great family day, especially paired with lunch and a stroll along Fifth Avenue South in downtown Naples.
know before you go
At a Glance
Address
1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd
Naples, FL 34102
Hours
9am – 4:30pm daily
Last entry 3:30pm
Closed
Thanksgiving & Christmas
Shorter hours some holidays
Drive from our rentals
About 35 min
From our south-end condos
Time Needed
Half a day
Allow 3 – 4 hours
Best for
Families
Easy, shaded paths
find it on the map
Where It Is
Head south off the island past Lovers Key into Bonita Springs, then take US-41 or I-75 south into Naples. The zoo is on Goodlette-Frank Road, a few minutes from downtown Naples and Fifth Avenue South.
What to expect
- Ride the Primate Expedition Cruise, a guided boat trip past islands of monkeys, lemurs, and apes
- Hand-feed the giraffes at the feeding station
- See lions, cheetahs, bears, and Florida panthers along shaded garden paths
- Catch a keeper talk, an animal show, or an alligator feeding
- Meet lesser-known animals like fossas, giant anteaters, capybaras, and honey badgers
- Book a behind-the-scenes encounter for a close-up visit with a favorite animal
Good to know
- Arrive when the gates open, when the animals are most active and the paths are cooler
- Head to the boat cruise early; lines grow by late morning
- The giraffe feeding station closes before the zoo does, so plan it in the morning or early afternoon
- Bring sunscreen, water, and a stroller for little ones
- Check the daily schedule for keeper talks and shows as soon as you arrive
pick your season
When to Go
Peak
Winter: December – April
Comfortable weather for a full day outdoors. Busiest season, so go early and on weekdays if you can.
Shoulder
Spring & Fall
Warm days, fewer crowds, and active animals in the mornings.
Quiet
Summer Mornings
Hot afternoons and storms, so arrive at opening and leave by lunch. Hours can shift in the hottest months.
stay close by
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while you're here
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common questions
NAPLES ZOO AT CARIBBEAN GARDENS FAQ
How far is Naples Zoo from Fort Myers Beach?
About 35 minutes by car from the south end of the island, a bit more from the north end. Winter traffic on US-41 can add time, so leave early.
What are Naples Zoo hours?
The zoo is open daily from 9am to 4:30pm, with last entry at 3:30pm. It's closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas, and hours can change in the hottest summer months or for weather, so check before you go.
How long does it take to see Naples Zoo?
Most families spend three to four hours, enough time for the boat cruise, the giraffes, a show or two, and the main animal areas.
What is the Primate Expedition Cruise?
It's a short guided boat ride around the zoo's lake, past islands where monkeys, lemurs, and apes live. It's one of the zoo's highlights and a favorite with kids.
What is there to do near Naples Zoo?
Downtown Naples and Fifth Avenue South are just a few minutes away for lunch and a stroll. Waterside Shops is close by for shopping, and you can stop at Lovers Key on the drive home.
stay with us
Stay With Coast & Range
At Coast & Range, we specialize in vacation homes that feel just right — whether you’re gathering by the beach or unwinding in the mountains. Every property is carefully chosen and curated for families and friends who want a stay that’s as comfortable as it is memorable.
