When it comes to coastal living in Naples, Florida, few communities offer the unique blend of history, waterfront access, and central location like The Moorings. One of the city’s most established and iconic neighborhoods, The Moorings is known for its private beach park, bayfront and Gulf-front homes, and mature tropical landscaping. But is it the right fit for your lifestyle?
If you're considering buying a home in Naples, here's a comprehensive look at the pros and cons of living in The Moorings, along with its rich history and timeless appeal.
A Brief History of The Moorings
The Moorings was one of the earliest planned communities in Naples, developed in the late 1950s by Milton Link and Clay Cone. At the time, it was a visionary concept: build a luxury waterfront neighborhood with man-made canals, single-family homes, and low-rise condominiums just steps from the beach.
Its central location between US-41 and the Gulf of Mexico set the tone for future growth in Naples. The developers designed The Moorings with a mix of homes along both wide, navigable bays and quiet interior streets, creating a community that could offer both waterfront living and walkability.
Over the decades, The Moorings has remained one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Naples, Florida, thanks to its proximity to the beach, downtown, and key lifestyle amenities. Learn more about The Moorings HERE
Pros of Living in The Moorings
1. Prime Central Location
The Moorings is perfectly situated just north of Old Naples and south of Park Shore, offering quick access to 5th Avenue South, Venetian Village, and Waterside Shops. Whether you’re heading downtown for dinner or to the beach for sunset, everything is within a 5-10 minute drive—or bike ride.
2. Private Beach Access
Residents of The Moorings have exclusive access to the Moorings Private Beach Park, located directly on the Gulf of Mexico. It features gated entry, shaded pavilions, picnic tables, restrooms, and a private parking lot—something rarely found in other Naples neighborhoods.
3. Diverse Real Estate Options
From original mid-century homes and remodeled ranch-style residences to luxury new construction and waterfront condos, The Moorings offers a wide range of price points and styles. Many of the bayfront homes include private docks with Gulf access, making it a popular choice for boaters.
4. Strong Community Feel
The Moorings Property Owners Association (MPOA) helps foster a sense of community through beach park access, neighborhood security patrols, and social events. While membership is optional, it’s widely appreciated by full-time and seasonal residents alike.
5. Mature Landscaping and Curb Appeal
Unlike newer developments, The Moorings has a well-established, picturesque setting with wide streets, tall palms, banyan trees, and lush tropical foliage. The overall aesthetic is classic Naples—elegant, relaxed, and upscale without being pretentious.
6. Boating and Waterfront Living
Many properties in The Moorings are on deep-water canals or bayfront lots with direct access to the Gulf of Mexico. Whether you have a yacht, a fishing boat, or a paddleboard, The Moorings offers one of the best boating lifestyles in Naples, Florida.
Learn more about The Moorings HERE
Cons of Living in The Moorings
1. Older Homes (Some Need Updating)
Because the neighborhood was developed in the 1950s and 1960s, many original homes still exist—some beautifully renovated, others in need of significant updates. Buyers should be prepared to either renovate or rebuild, depending on the condition and location of the property.
2. No Gated Entry
While The Moorings is a prestigious address, it is not a gated community. For those who prioritize the added security and exclusivity of gated access, this may be a consideration.
3. No Clubhouse or Community Amenities
Unlike other Naples communities such as Pelican Bay or Grey Oaks, The Moorings does not have a central clubhouse, golf course, or fitness center. If amenities and organized social events are a priority, other neighborhoods may offer more in that regard.
4. Limited Rental Flexibility in Condos
While single-family homes often have flexible rental policies, many of the waterfront condos in The Moorings have stricter rental rules (some allow only one or two rentals per year), which may not appeal to short-term investors.
5. Premium Pricing for Waterfront Lots
The most desirable bayfront and Gulf-access homes in The Moorings command premium prices. For those seeking direct water access, expect to pay well into the multi-millions, especially for newer or remodeled properties.
Learn more about The Moorings HERE
Is The Moorings Right for You?
If you’re looking for a centrally located coastal community with beach access, boating opportunities, and timeless charm, The Moorings in Naples, Florida is a standout. It appeals to both year-round residents and seasonal homeowners who want the convenience of city living paired with the relaxation of the beach.
However, if you're seeking newer construction in a gated, amenity-rich environment, you may want to explore alternative neighborhoods when buying a home in Naples.
Thinking about buying or selling in The Moorings?
As a local Naples real estate expert, I can help you navigate this historic and prestigious community—from evaluating teardown opportunities to identifying updated move-in-ready homes. Contact me today to schedule a private tour or learn more about The Moorings real estate market.
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