From the Ground Up: Bayshore' s Freshest Idea Yet

Bayshore Drive - the side of town your parents once told you to stay away from - has unarguably transformed into the bohemian art center of Naples. Today, it’s one of the last corners of Collier County where Ma and Pa shops still line the streets instead of big chain stores, and much of its success can be traced back to the tireless efforts of Diane Sullivan, founder of the Bayshore District Nonprofit. 

Now, Sullivan is excited to announce Bayshore’s next big step forward. Last year, she opened The Warehouse and The Matt, an artistic venue complete with a bar and the grooviest laundromat you’ve ever seen. But Sullivan admits her newest project has stirred the most excitement yet. “I think out of all the things we've done in Bayshore, this is definitely the most excited the community has been,” she said. 

On May 4, 2025, Bayshore will launch its first-ever weekly farmers’ market. Every Sunday from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, local businesses, vendors, artists, and musicians will line the streets to showcase their work and celebrate the spirit of the neighborhood. "Locals serving locals - that has always been our goal in Bayshore," Sullivan added. 

The market will take place outdoors at 3200 and 3270 Bayshore Drive, beginning with 52 vendors offering everything from farm-fresh produce to handmade art, clothing, and live music. Sullivan envisions it as more than just a shopping trip - she imagines a place to gather. “In places where I used to live, everybody knew everybody at the farmers market," she said. "We’d stop for a coffee, have a bite of something delicious, listen to music, and watch the artists’ work. That’s what I picture for Bayshore - a social experience with your friends.” 

The market is designed to be familyand pet-friendly, welcoming visitors of all ages (and their four-legged companions) to join the fun. With further permitting, organizers hope to eventually offer an indoor market space as well, expanding both comfort and opportunities for vendors year-round. 

Those interested in becoming a vendor are encouraged to reach out. Applications are still open, and the Bayshore District is actively looking to grow its vibrant roster. For inquiries, contact hello@bayshoredistrict.com or call 239-273-2848. 

Sullivan’s vision for Bayshore isn’t new. Before starting the Bayshore District Nonprofit, she worked as a Naples real estate agent, spotting the potential in the waterfront property and eclectic vibe long before others caught on. Transforming the district has been a continuous, sometimes demanding effort by the people who call it home, but the roots of creativity and community have always been there. 

“The farmers market alone took three months to receive permits," Sullivan said. "But we have them now, and we can't wait for it to grow.” With five key locations set aside for vendor spaces, the possibilities feel endless. “I envision all of Bayshore being peppered with vendors,” she said. 

At the heart of the Bayshore District’s mission is building a stronger community by supporting small businesses, artists, and dreamers. “Somebody once asked me why I do these things,” Sullivan said. “I do them because they're fun, and because I want to give back to the community. Sure, sometimes you think about monetary reasons. But I have something bigger in mind - it’ll be good for the business owners, it’ll be good for the vendors, it’ll be good for the neighborhood. And of course," she added with a laugh, "it’ll be a lot of fun, too.” 

In a world where connection feels harder to come by and supporting local is more important than ever, Bayshore’s new farmers market is a reminder that there are still a few places that feel like home.