A destination favored by families and groups for generations, the Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club will finish its last season this year. The Southwest Florida resort will be ending a 75-year run when its doors close on May 23, 2021. With roots that reach back to the Great Depression, this popular beach getaway has a rich history as a landmark in Naples, Florida.
The 125-acre property has been owned and operated by the Watkins family since the end of WWII. The original building, called The Naples Hotel, was built in the 1880s just over one mile south of where the Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club currently stands. In 1929, Allen Joslin and his wife, Lois, built the first 18-hole golf course in the region and created The Beach Club along the shoreline nearby. When Henry B. Watkins, Sr., a retired toy manufacturer, arrived from Ohio in 1946, he bought the original hotel, the club, and the golf course. Collectively, this became the resort that sits between US-41 and the sparkling Gulf of Mexico today. Watkins, Sr. continued to operate the site for many years before passing it to his son Henry B Watkins, Jr. The family tradition continued with Michael Watkins becoming the President of the hotel and his brother Henry Watkins III becoming executive Vice President.
Since its modest beginnings, the Beach Club has undergone extensive upgrades while maintaining its classic old Florida charm. Today, the 319-room resort boasts a wonderful spread of on-site amenities including a championship golf course, a European-style spa, the Mary C. Watkins Tennis Center, two beachfront pools and hot tubs, recreational beach rentals, retail shops, 34,000 square feet of function space, and many scenic outdoor and beachfront venues. There is something to entertain any visitor. Redesigned by Jack Nicklaus in 2016, the 18-hole golf course makes for a fun yet challenging round for any player. Plus, guests can enjoy multiple on-site restaurants and bars, including Naples’ only restaurant on the beach, HB’s on the Gulf, and the popular Sunset Beach Bar & Grill, one of the best places to view a stunning Southwest Florida sunset. Topping it all off, the resort overlooks the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico and has unhindered access to seven miles of pristine beaches.
This slew of amenities, a picturesque beachfront setting, and an unparalleled level of customer service combine to create an atmosphere that keeps families and guests coming back year after year. Many loyal guests have been coming for generations, bringing children and grandchildren back to make their own memories at the hotel.
Whether you have been a regular guest over the years or you have not yet had the chance to visit, now is the time to finally make plans to experience this historic beachfront resort. The Watkins family encourages you to remember and celebrate this iconic piece of Naples and its relaxing, friendly atmosphere before it closes. “Our family has had the privilege of welcoming guests to The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club for 75 wonderful years,” said Michael Watkins. “Our hotel is an incredible family tradition and we’re grateful for every valued guest and each incredible staff member who has made it all possible.” The resort’s General Manager, Jason Parsons added, “We’ve provided outstanding hospitality to guests far and wide, and we look forward to continuing it as we celebrate our final season this spring.”
The beautiful Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club is where so many people – locals and tourists alike – have fond memories from years past. You don’t want to miss this resort’s season finale. The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club is located at 851 Gulf Shore Blvd. North in Naples, Florida. For more information, visit NaplesBeachHotel.com
