You’re probably doing a ton of research into Naples’ hot spots, events, where to go, and what to see. Planning a vacation is full of surprising new information, and we believe that’s half the fun of the trip. Before you head out to the sunny paradise of Florida, here’s a few fun facts that will make you so knowledgeable you may just pass for a local.

1. Preserves aren’t just for berries

Here Naples resides in Collier County – the largest in Florida. But interestingly enough almost 80 percent of that land is set aside as preserve land, including the Big Cypress National Preserve and Everglades National Park. It also encompasses two national wildlife refuges, a natural research reserve, three state parks, a state forest, and Audubon’s Swamp Sanctuary. It’s no wonder the area is known for its beauty.

2. We Boast the Best Beach in America

The Travel Channel designated Naples as having the best all-around beach in America, due to the diversity of things to do and see. With calming white sand and crystal waters all around, this area has been lauded on list after list of the best beaches to visit for relaxation, families, and fun. Let’s be honest – if you’re visiting Florida you’re definitely hitting the beach at some point, so you may as well get the best.

3. It’s the Most Artsy Town Around

Named by John Villani as the #1 Small Art Town in America, visitors marvel at the talent and array of art that can be found in little old Naples. With over 100 art galleries, art fairs galore, and the Philharmonic Center for the Arts, you can barely turn a corner without coming into contact with talent – both local and international.

4. We Imbibe to Help

Named by Wine Spectator as the most successful charity wine festival in America, the Naples Winter Wine Festival is dedicated to making a profound and sustainable difference in the lives of underprivileged and at-risk children in Collier County Florida. Plus, it’s the perfect time for snowbirds to fly away to warmer climates. Tickets aren’t cheap – they run $8,500 per couple for the three-day festival. Such a great cause, we’ll certainly drink to that.

5. We’re Super Crabby

Seafood lovers from around the world flock to the annual Everglades Seafood Festival in Everglades City. It’s no wonder, since the city hails as the stone crab capital of the world. Harvested from October 15 to May 15, people come from far and wide to sample this delicacy. Only claws are harvested from this species, and farmers are required to throw back their catch after harvest so the claws can regenerate.