Oldie But Goodie

We may have stunning sunrises here on the east coast of Florida, but the Gulf Coast has us beat when it comes to sunsets.

Over there, it’s an evening ritual to watch the sun set over the water with a drink in hand, surrounded by good company.

That tradition is alive and well in Naples, and one of the most popular spots for a sunset tipple is HB’s on the Gulf at The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club, the only restaurant in town directly on the beach. While sipping handcrafted cocktails and noshing on fresh seafood, guests toast to the good life while trying to spot the elusive green flash – a meteorological phenomenon that sometimes occurs right after sunset. But the conditions have to be juuust right.

“Just right” is also the way loyal patrons of The Naples Beach Hotel – many of whom are Midwesterners, returning season after season – describe the AAA Four Diamond venue, located on 125 tropical acres. It’s upscale yet welcoming, exuding a “barefoot luxury” vibe that’s ideal for a relaxing beach getaway in this tony resort town.

In a sense, the hotel and the city have grown up together. The former was founded in the 1880s about a mile and a half from its current location. In 1929, the owners bought a nearby golf course and waterfront property for a beach club – which eventually became the main hotel building.

The Watkins family purchased the hotel in 1946 and has run it ever since, with a commitment to local philanthropy and environmental stewardship. The Naples Beach Hotel is a member of Florida’s Green Lodging Program, certified by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, and employs eco-friendly practices property-wide.

With 319 guest rooms and suites spread across six buildings, there’s an accommodation for everyone. All rooms comprise a patio or balcony, modern amenities and local art. Many offer Gulf views, and some ground-floor rooms lead directly outside, so you can walk to the beach or pool in seconds.

You’ll want to spend ample time at both. Enjoy shelling on the white sand beach, or rent a paddleboard or kayak to cruise the calm waters. The pool complex has a large recreational pool, an adult-only pool, two whirlpools, locker rooms and the Poolside bar and grill.

Those who want to keep the activity going should check out the Mary C. Watkins Tennis Center, complete with six hydro-grid courts and a pro shop. Take a private lesson with a USPTA teaching professional, or have the staff set up a game for you.

The property’s championship golf course – which was renovated by golf legend Jack Nicklaus in collaboration with architect John Sanford – is a major draw. The new par-71 routing plan features five tees, ranging from 4,800 yards to more than 6,900 yards. Plus, there’s a 300-yard practice and teaching range and a pro shop.

In the same building as the shop, you’ll find the spa, which takes a natural approach to relaxation and healing. For example, you’ll spot orchids placed throughout the facility. They’re fresh from the property’s orchid nursery, home to more than 3,000 varieties.

The spa offers a full range of body and facial treatments as well as salon services. A popular choice is the Hydrafacial, which is performed with a machine that provides effective cleansing; exfoliation; and hydration, with antioxidants, peptides and hyaluronic acid. And, believe it or not, the extractions are painless!

After a day jam-packed with activities (or pampering), it’s time to eat. The aforementioned HB’s on the Gulf, the hotel’s signature restaurant, is a must. Those seeking romance can arrange a sunset dinner for toes-in-the-sand dining. A more casual option is the beachfront Sunset Beach Bar & Grill, serving sandwiches and salads alongside live entertainment.

For breakfast, indulge in the “all-American” buffet at Broadwell’s, overlooking the golf course. And, for grab-and-go fare all day long, The Seminole Store is a convenient option (which also makes a mean almond milk latte).

While staying at The Naples Beach Hotel, you might notice young staffers tending the grounds or working at the restaurants. That’s because the property partners with the L.I.F.E. (Learning Independent Functional Employment) Program with Barron Collier High School to provide students with disabilities practical work experience via internships.

It’s yet another way that the Watkins family’s personal touch is evident throughout the resort – and that feels just right to us.

The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club is located at 851 Gulf Shore Blvd. N. For more information, call 844-735-2022 or visit naplesbeachhotel.com.