Meet in Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades
When a destination terms itself “paradise,” you can guarantee that attendee ears perk up. Destination matters—and Florida’s Paradise Coast delivers. The dynamic Southwest Florida region of Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades blends natural beauty, luxurious hospitality and authentic cultural experiences.
Distinct Personality
Florida’s Paradise Coast offers three unique personalities in one extraordinary location, with luxurious resorts, upscale boutiques, world-class dining and a thriving arts community, serving as a gateway to one of the most pristine ecosystems in the U.S.
As Lisa Chamberlain, group sales manager at Naples, Marco Island, Everglades Convention & Visitors Bureau, puts it, “It’s a rare blend of refinement and natural wonder, [with] the sophistication of Naples, the charm of Marco Island and the authentic, rural beauty of Everglades City.”
The region is a recognized Blue Zone Community. Drawing inspiration from the world’s “Blue Zones”—areas with a population of people who, more often than not, surpass the age of 100—the destination has taken part in the Blue Zone Project, under which it implements the practices of Blue Zones into daily life: promoting a sense of purpose, mindfulness, healthy diets, community, social connection and more. With this culture, attendees go home refreshed and invigorated with inspiration—and likely planning their swift return.
With 30 miles of white-sand beaches along the Gulf of Mexico, it’s no surprise that the area is the perfect place to emphasize healthy, mindful living. It’s the kind of destination where attendees can go from a polished conference room (or even a think tank with their toes in the sand) to an airboat ride through the Everglades in a single day.
Beyond the Beach
As home to over 90 public and private golf courses, visitors can discover championship events like the PGA and LPGA, while the Paradise Coast Sports Complex welcomes national and regional tournaments year-round, including the U.S. Open Pickleball Championships.
The Everglades are world-famous, Chamberlain says, with “the only subtropical mangrove wilderness in the U.S. that features endangered and rare wildlife species in their natural habitat, including the elusive Florida panther, alligators, bobcats, Florida black bear and over 350 species of birds.”
Read More: Notes the from Road: The Palm Beaches
The destination celebrated major milestones in 2024, including the fiftieth anniversary of Big Cypress National Preserve, a 730,000-acre protected sanctuary known for wildlife and ecoadventures.
For culture seekers, Paradise Coast’s Hispanic community, which comprises nearly 30% of the population, takes center stage with the ¡ARTE VIVA! Festival, a celebration of Hispanic arts, cuisine and culture presented through events and exhibitions throughout the year.
The beloved Everglades Seafood Festival continues to draw crowds with fresh seafood, live music and a warm community atmosphere. The annual event will take place in 2026 from February 13-15, if you just so happen to plan your meeting around those dates—and who could blame you?
High Life Meets Wildlife
“This is where the high life meets the wildlife,” says Chamberlain. From sunset receptions on white-sand beaches to Everglades excursions and culinary experiences at award-winning spots like The Turtle Club, which offers can’t-get-anywhere-else beachfront dining, there’s no shortage of opportunities for authentic, unforgettable programs.
“When you arrive, you will be awed by the authentic and sophisticated community in Naples, Chamberlain says. “And then, just a 30-minute drive south, experience some of the most pristine landscapes and ecosystems in the world.”
Easy to Reach, Impossible to Forget
Despite its tropical, exclusive vibe, the Paradise Coast is easily accessible, located just a short drive from Miami, Tampa and Orlando, with several nearby airports, including RSW and PGD. Named the No. 1 Best Place to Live in the U.S. for 2024-2025 by US News & World Report, Naples continues to shine as a destination of choice.
For business event planners seeking sophistication, adventure, and true local character, Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades are ready to deliver.
This article appears in the May 2025 issue. Subscribe to the magazine here.
