Naples Outfitters – Beyond an Outdoor Shop

Naples Outfitters is more than just an average outdoor shop. It transcends expectations, transforming into a vibrant community space that holds events both within its facility and beyond into the natural environment. It is evident that the owners, Ryan and Jeannine Young, and their partner Ashley Howe, are passionate about nature, education, and the Naples community. Not only does Naples Outfitters have all the gear an explorer could dream of, but they have a team of educated locals who can guide you to exclusive spots, prepare you for your goals, and give you the experience of a lifetime through their new tour arm Rising Tide Explorers.  

The Owners: A Passion for the Outdoors 

Jeannine and Ryan both earned their master’s degrees in environmental science at Florida Gulf Coast University channeling their calling into an informed entrepreneurial profession. Their story is a tapestry of personal and professional experiences that led them to create a community-centered outdoor hub. Ashley has been involved with Naples Outfitters for over a decade. Ryan and Jeannine joined the team two years ago, bringing fresh energy and perspective. Ryan, a biologist for the state until 2015, left to start Rising Tide Explorers, a venture that specializes in guided field trips with a team of highly qualified "nerd guides." The experience and qualifications brought in by Rising Tide Explorers have made Naples Outfitters one of the most unique retail stores in Naples offering biologist-led excursions and events. 

Guided Tours: Explore with Experts 

Their most popular tour paddles out from Isles of Capri leading guests on an unforgettable adventure exploring the backwaters of Rookery Bay Reserve. Guests can expect to learn about the living habitats covering the winding mangrove tunnels and mud flats. Oyster reefs dominate the area’s ecology while wildlife like dolphins, birds, and invertebrates are commonly spotted in the region. Ryan adds, “That excursion is like the rollercoaster of kayak tours with its twisting mangroves, while The Heart of Rookery Bay is like the lazy river. Each tour is a unique way to experience different parts of our own backyard. I’ve been on every one of them and it never gets old.” There are also five boat trips, each with its own area of concentration, ranging from shelling to birding to history. “What’s great about biologists leading the tours is that we can grab the wildlife to show guests and we know how to properly handle them,” said Ryan. 

Each tour is designed to offer an in-depth look at the local ecosystem, with guides sharing their expertise on the flora, fauna, and geological history of the area. They even offer private boat tours, with ADA-accessible options, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the beauty of Southwest Florida’s waterways. 

Community Involvement and Recognition 

Since Naples Outfitters has partnered with Rising Tide Explorers, they offer exclusive deals that no other tour company or outfitter shop has, including free admission to the Rookery Bay environmental learning center after booking a tour. “We have a larger mission here at Naples Outfitters to protect the local wildlife and habitat they live in. Rising Tide Explorers is partnered with Friends of Rookery Bay so that every tour donates to their cause. People can come out and have a great time with us and feel good about it because they’re making a positive impact on the community,” said Ryan. This partnership directly supports the Rookery Bay Reserve, ensuring that every adventure helps fund the care and preservation of this vital ecosystem. 

Their undying support for the environment and attention to customers have given Rising Tide Explorers the title of ‘Number One Kay Tour in the Country.’ “Every single trip is just as important as the first. We’re not in it to make a buck,” Ryan said.“We want to inspire others and get them hooked on the environment. People will only care about what they know and understand, so we try to help them understand the ecosystem.”  

Events and Workshops: Engaging the Community 

Naples Outfitters offers a variety of events and workshops that cater to outdoor enthusiasts of all levels. From beginner-friendly yoga sessions set to a nostalgic 90’s mixtape to educational programs like Frog Watch and Bioluminescence Tours, there is something for everyone. The Wild Women Series, spearheaded by Ashley, encourages women to explore and enjoy outdoor activities. Their events and lessons are not just about participation but about education. The team loves to demo equipment, ensuring that customers find the right gear to meet their goals. Whether it’s hiking socks or the latest in kayaking technology, Naples Outfitters is dedicated to sharing their love and knowledge of the outdoors. 

Rentals: Accessibility and Convenience  

In addition to their distinct experiences, Naples Outfitters provides the only online platform for renting kayaks, hobies, and paddleboards in Naples for pickup or free local delivery. With delivery access at Baker Park, Bayview Park, Shell Island Road, and Isles of Capri, anyone can choose a convenient location to paddle around islands, mangroves, mudflats, and more. As if those choices weren’t enough, they’ll even deliver to your private dock or rental home in Naples or Marco Island. Their goal is to make outdoor activities accessible to everyone, providing temporary soft racks, loading assistance, and detailed guidance on where to paddle.  

Naples Outfitters stands out as Southwest Florida’s premier outdoor resource, offering must-see and must-do activities while fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the environment. Whether you’re looking to rent gear, join a guided tour, or participate in community events, Naples Outfitters provides an enriching experience that goes beyond mere recreation – it’s about building a connection with nature and each other.