photo mosaic of Naples, Florida pier, Bayfront, Bayside, dolphin jumping, magenta orchid, water birds silhouetted against the sunset
‘Coconut Coast Corridor’ emerges in SW Florida. What’s new and coming?

‘Coconut Coast Corridor’ emerges in SW Florida. What’s new and coming?

Phil Fernandez | Fort Myers News-Press & Naples Daily News

  • The Estero-Bonita Springs region, now dubbed the Coconut Coast Corridor, has grown to 100,000 residents.
  • A local realtors’ group has rebranded to the Coconut Coast Organization of Realtors to reflect the area’s distinct market identity
  • Major new construction includes a mixed-use development in Estero and the second luxury tower of The Ritz-Carlton Residences.

Time to say hello to Southwest Florida’s new Coconut Coast Corridor, suddenly home to 100,000 residents.

From luxury high-rises along Estero Bay to mixed-use developments, national retailers and family-focused businesses, the Estero-Bonita Springs region continues to emerge as one of Southwest Florida’s most active development fronts.

And the Coconut Coast Corridor kept bubbling through the record heat of summer as we enter September, which is slated to bring milestones of its own and the start of yet more new construction.

The stretch surrounding Bonita Beach Road and north into Estero toward Coconut Point and Florida Gulf Coast University continues to attract new investment, new businesses and major development activity reshaping the landscape: From a former Fortune 500 executive’s latest venture to the August unveilings of new enterprises and a luxury tower milestone this month.

To think that last century it largely served as a pass-through between Naples and Fort Myers, and now has increasingly become a destination in its own right as the years pile on and the growth story unfolds with new chapters. Here’s what to know. Read more on naplesnews.com.

There’s so much to do here, are you looking for a home in beautiful Southwest Florida? Contact David at David@DavidFlorida.com or 239-285-1086.

Florida’s new Coconut Coast Corridor. Shops, homes explosion underway

Florida’s new Coconut Coast Corridor. Shops, homes explosion underway

Phil Fernandez | Fort Myers News-Press & Naples Daily News

  • The Estero-Bonita Springs region in Southwest Florida is experiencing a major development boom as the “Coconut Coast Corridor.”
  • A local Realtors’ group has rebranded to the Coconut Coast Organization of Realtors to reflect the area’s distinct and growing market identity.
  • Major mixed-use developments, including luxury high-rises and retail spaces, are under construction or planned for the area.
  • New national and local businesses, such as J.Crew Factory, Yonutz and USA Ninja Challenge, are opening or expanding in the corridor.

Time to say hello to Southwest Florida’s new Coconut Coast Corridor, suddenly home to 100,000 residents.

From luxury high-rises along Estero Bay to mixed-use developments, national retailers and family-focused businesses, the Estero-Bonita Springs region continues to emerge as one of Southwest Florida’s most active development fronts.

And the Coconut Coast Corridor kept bubbling through the record heat of summer as we enter September, which is slated to bring milestones of its own and the start of yet more new construction.

The stretch surrounding Bonita Beach Road and north into Estero toward Coconut Point and Florida Gulf Coast University continues to attract new investment, new businesses and major development activity reshaping the landscape: From a former Fortune 500 executive’s latest venture to the August unveilings of new enterprises and a luxury tower milestone this month.

To think that last century it largely served as a pass-through between Naples and Fort Myers, and now has increasingly become a destination in its own right as the years pile on and the growth story unfolds with new chapters. Here’s what to know. Read more on naplesnews.com.

Explore the most exceptional properties of Southwest Florida with David. Contact me at David@DavidFlorida.com or 239-285-1086.

140 restaurant deals: Ultimate Collier guide to Sizzle Dining 2026

140 restaurant deals: Ultimate Collier guide to Sizzle Dining 2026

Kendall Little | Fort Myers News-Press & Naples Daily News

  • The 10th annual Sizzle Dining event will run throughout September in Southwest Florida.
  • One hundred forty restaurants will offer discounted, prix fixe menus to boost business during a typically slow month.
  • A dollar from every Sizzle Dining meal sold will be donated to Blessings in a Backpack SWFL.
  • The event aims to raise over $100,000 to help provide food for local children facing food insecurity.

For Southwest Florida foodies, September has become much more than the end of summer.

What was once one of the slowest months of the year for local restaurants is now one of the region’s biggest culinary celebrations, encouraging diners to discover new favorites, revisit beloved spots, and score a deal along the way.

Starting Tuesday, Sept. 1, 140 restaurants across Southwest Florida will take part in the 10th annual Sizzle Dining event, offering prix fixe menus and exclusive dining experiences throughout the entire month.

The annual promotion gives locals a chance to try everything from neighborhood gems to high-end destinations while supporting a local cause. Participating restaurants will offer prix fixe menus, then donate a dollar from every meal sold to Blessings in a Backpack SWFL, which helps provide food for children facing food insecurity during weekends.

With dozens of first-time participants and restaurants ranging from casual breakfast spots to upscale dining experiences, this year’s event is shaping up to be one of the largest in Sizzle’s history.

Read the full article and view delicious photos on naplesnews.com!

There’s so much to do here, are you looking for a home in beautiful Southwest Florida? Contact David at David@DavidFlorida.com or 239-285-1086.

New waterfront development gets green light in Naples

New waterfront development gets green light in Naples

Laura Layden | Fort Myers News-Press & Naples Daily News

City council approved a long-planned, mixed-use waterfront development in Naples.

On June 17, council voted 4-1 in favor of the development, with one council member abstaining, due to a potential conflict of interest.

Years in the making, the project, overlooking Naples Bay, has faced challenges as it has evolved.

Formerly known as The Prom and now as The Viceroy, the development is planned on 1.81 acres of long vacant land, near the intersection of River Point Drive and the Fifth Avenue South bridge downtown.

Plans for the three-story development include short-term lodging, along with other retail and commercial uses, supported by surface and underground parking, as well as street parking.

Read the full article on naplesnews.com.

Are you looking for a home in beautiful Southwest Florida? Contact David at David@DavidFlorida.com or 239-285-1086.

Mile of momentum. Old 41 rapid transformation reshapes downtown Bonita

Mile of momentum. Old 41 rapid transformation reshapes downtown Bonita

Phil Fernandez | Fort Myers News-Press & Naples Daily News

The In the Know questions from you about what’s become a one-mile expanse of monster construction along what at one time had been a lonely stretch of Southwest Florida highway are many, such as these.

“Hi Phil. I enjoy reading your column, and now I find myself writing to you about the developments going on in my backyard: Old 41 in downtown Bonita Springs. So much has been done over the years to restore and maintain the ‘downtown’ nature of the village,” said reader Barbara McMahon. “Can you tell us what the plan is for the area from Terry to Bonita Beach Road?

“Right now there is major construction of a luxury apartment complex − Imperial 41 − that spans both sides of the river. And just a block south, the area where the Lee Sheriff had a satellite station is fenced off for construction, and the park across the street is also fenced off. (The) city has developed Old 41 into a lovely walkable road with islands and great landscaping. Will it be overwhelmed?”

Read the full article on naplesnews.com to get answers to questions like “What’s behind Imperial 41 housing in Bonita Springs, Florida?, How did Lee County’s Imperial 41 come together in Bonita?,” and more.

Are you looking for a home in beautiful Southwest Florida? Contact David at David@DavidFlorida.com or 239-285-1086.

Recipe for success: 9 Naples restaurants withstanding the test of time

Recipe for success: 9 Naples restaurants withstanding the test of time

Kendall Little | Fort Myers News-Press & Naples Daily News

We’re nearly a month into the new year, but I’m here to reflect on the old.

The Naples restaurant scene is constantly evolving and growing, bringing new and unique spots to the area every season. But for every new restaurant that opens in Collier, two close. The restaurants that continue to endure deserve their flowers, and these nine spots have endured quite deliciously for decades.

So, what’s the recipe for success when it comes to maintaining a popular restaurant in Naples? These nine restaurants all have different owners, menus, and environments, but have a few things in common: great service, fresh local ingredients, and an authenticity you can’t buy.

While lots of new restaurants have chic modern interiors and flashy unique dishes, these Collier gems find the simplicity in good ingredients, classic dishes, and friendly service to be the pillars that keep them in business for decades.

Key points:

  • Several Naples-area restaurants have remained popular for decades by focusing on fresh local ingredients and friendly service.
  • Kelly’s Fish House Dining Room, founded in 1953, is the oldest restaurant highlighted and is known for its “Old Florida” feel.
  • Many of the enduring establishments, such as The Dock at Crayton Cove and Riverwalk at Tin City, specialize in fresh seafood.
  • Other long-standing favorites include The Pewter Mug steakhouse, Pastrami Dan’s sandwich shop, and the uniquely themed Spanky’s Speakeasy.

Read the full article with photos on naplesnews.com.

Be close to good food with a home in the area. Contact David at David@DavidFlorida.com or 239-285-1086.