We know we are fortunate to have wonderful beaches in our backyard, but sometimes an afternoon in the sun is just not enough. Luckily, when seeking a postcard perfect beach vacation that will leave you refreshed and replenished, Naples Grande Beach Resort on Florida’s West Coast awaits.
Photo By J. Kevin Foltz
Elevated Walking Path
Whether you travel with the family in tow, crave a romantic getaway for two or are simply in dire need of some “me” time, this luxury property set on 23 waterfront acres overlooking the Gulf of Mexico — an area aptly referred to as Florida’s Paradise Coast — does not disappoint.
Beach Lounge Beds
There are 474 guestrooms (including 29 Tower Suites and 50 Garden Villa Suites) on the resort. Opt for one of the tower suites and you’ll be privy to a private balcony with stunning waterfront views. The Garden Villa Suites, found within the lushly landscaped village, offer privacy and, at over 700 square feet, spacious and comfortable rooms. Garden suites come with either two patios or balconies facing a tranquil reflecting pool — an ideal spot to unwind with a glass of wine.
Photo By Jorge Ramirez
The Catch Of The Pelican
Naples Grande Beach Resort is situated on a 200-acre mangrove estuary. Guests can explore the trails of elevated walking paths and bridges leading to the beach. There’s also a tram transporting guests to and from the long boardwalk running through the mangrove made from recycled wood — a nod to the resort’s commitment to sustainability. As the closest luxury resort to downtown Naples, guests have the unique advantage of having the best of both worlds: enjoying the three miles of sugar-white sand beaches or taking a short stroll or bike ride to one of the many quaint shops, art galleries or restaurants. Beachgoers can catch some sun while relaxing on plush lounge beds and enjoy a full array of watersports including jet skiing, sailing, parasailing and deep-sea fishing, all of which will be happily arranged by the Concierge team.
The Spa
If it’s exercise you crave, start with the 18-hole golf course just a short drive from the hotel. The Rees Jones-designed private course set among the native Florida pine hammocks, live oak and grand cypress trees was crowned one of North America’s “Top 100 Resort Courses” by Golfweek Magazine and one of the “Top 50 Courses in Florida” with a 4.5 out of 5 stars ranking by Golf Magazine. For those wanting to perfect their backhand stroke, there are 15 Har-Tru clay tennis courts managed by Naples Tennis Academy. Offering daily clinics, group and private lessons and complete professional services — it’s the ideal way to improve upon the game. Five courts come equipped with LED lighting for nighttime playing. Gym rats will be happy to explore the fully equipped Fitness Center offering 24/7 access to a myriad of the latest exercise machines.
If you’re more of a pool person, Naples Grande Beach Resort has got you covered. Families will love the Mangrove Pool. It features a 100-foot twisting waterslide along with beach style entry, making it the hotspot for kids of all ages. For a quieter destination, head to the adults-only Palm Terrace Pool, boasting a whirlpool and private cabanas with butler services. There’s also the Hibiscus Hideaway Pool with lap lanes for those wanting to get their Michael Phelps butterfly stroke on.
No vacation is complete without a luxurious spa treatment. The Spa at Naples Grande takes this very seriously, with an indoor-outdoor spa village that includes 12 private treatment rooms, whirlpool, baths, sauna, steam rooms, rain showers and even a meditation labyrinth.
Inspired by the Japanese tradition, architecture, landscaping and water features are interwoven to create harmony, beauty and tranquility. In addition to the extensive array of traditional spa treatments, The Spa at Naples Grande features non-traditional experiences like the Salt Floatation Bath Therapy and an Infrared Sauna. It is also the only spa in Naples/Southwest Florida to provide guests with touchless, self-guided services like Nucalm, a neuroscience technology addressing brain circuitry to reduce stress levels.
All this relaxing can build up an appetite and with the extensive dining options available, you may have to tweak your schedule to include them all. Head to Mantra at the lobby bar for a handcrafted cocktail paired with dishes with global influences. There’s also an impressive selection of sushi after 4 p.m. The Catch of the Pelican is where to go for local seafood and premium steaks and offers a phenomenal weekend brunch with an over-the-top Bloody Mary bar. For hearty breakfasts head to Aura Restaurant and when in need of a quick caffeine boost, Spressi awaits. Rhode’s End Beachside Taverna is the place for Greek food cravings (herb hummus and grilled pita are divine) and the ideal spot to enjoy an exotic signature cocktail while watching a glorious Naples beach sunset.
We are lucky, indeed. Lucky to call South Florida home and lucky to have a dreamy destination like Naples Grande Beach Resort a short drive away. Between the luxe accommodations, delightful dining, a pampering spa and a plethora of activities, it’s the obvious destination when in need of a break. Factor in the stunning west coast sunsets (and the cocktails that await while watching it) and you’ll be glad you did.
Phot By J. Kevin Foltz
Mangrove Pool
Naples Grande Beach Resort is located at 475 Seagate Dr., Naples. For more information, call 844-489-9663 or visit naplesgrande.com.