Shark Valley - Everglades
Shark Valley is the northern entrance to the Everglades. It is about 90 minutes east of Naples. There is a tram that takes you to an observatory tower 7 miles away. Get the first tram of the day if possible (9 am). You can also bike along the road. You should see Snail Kites. The trails near the headquarters and the ditch along the western part of the loop can be good for Purple Gallinule. If you miss either bird here, go toward Miami a mile or so until you get to the Indian reservation. Look along the north side of the road.
To truly experience the Everglades, you should go to the Homestead entrance and drive down to Flamingo. This would be an all-day trip from Naples, assuming you left about 5am. The entrance is about 2 1/2 hours from Naples.
