The elegant style of Naples and all of the trappings of this privileged playground—flawless beaches, outstanding golf courses, posh resorts, and a thriving arts environment. And yet, this bastion of culture is just minutes from Florida’s most untamed resource, the Everglades.

THE NAPLES BEACH HOTEL & GOLF CLUB
As a teenager Michael Watkins spent his summers washing dishes and busing tables at The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club. Such is the nature of a family-run business; everyone young and old has a role.

Today, Michael serves as president of the venerable Gulf Coast landmark, following in the footsteps of his grandfather and father. The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club has grown dramatically since Henry Broadwell Watkins Sr. bought the old Naples Hotel in 1946. What hasn’t changed is the Watkins family’s attention to detail and dedication to guest service, a 60-year standard that has never wavered.

Indeed, the family’s investment runs deep in this beachfront landmark. Millions of dollars have been spent to enhance the resort. A six-year, $40 million enhancement and expansion was completed in 2006. Today, the Naples Beach Hotel reflects the ambiance of a relaxed, yet refined Florida beach house. And it’s the only beachfront Southwest Florida resort with its own on-site 18-hole golf course, spa and tennis center.

It’s no surprise that many guests who vacationed here as children often return with their own kids, greeted by some of the same employees. At The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club, they’re all part of the family.

where  Beachfront, in the heart of Olde Naples

amenities  18-hole championship golf course; tennis center; spa; miles of white sand beaches and beachfront swimming pool; fitness center; supervised children’s activity program; an Orchid House; seven restaurants and lounges.

accommodations  318 rooms and suites

contact  888-271-1456, 239-261-2222; naplesbeachhotel.com

WILDCAT RUN GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB
Every January, a special legion of men gather to take up a long-standing fight in the name of its legendary leader. It’s far from a military action, but for the gentlemen golfers of Wildcat Run Golf & Country Club, the cause is just as noble.

Banding together as Arnie’s Army, the collective holds its annual fund-raising tournament in the fight against prostate cancer. As for Arnold Palmer himself, the cause and the host site are both near and dear. Palmer has rallied his “Armies” nationwide to raise millions of dollars for prostate cancer research and prevention. And Wildcat Run is Palmer’s first Southwest Florida design and one of his finest courses in the state, a parkland-style beauty immersed in majestic palms and tall pines, cypress preserves and sparkling lakes.

You don’t have to be a golf legend to fall in love with Wildcat Run. Nestled within a gated community of just 514 acres, Wildcat Run epitomizes the ambiance and style of a traditional country club. In addition to great golf, the member-owned club offers outstanding tennis and fitness programs, fine and casual dining under the direction of Executive Chef Greg Grattarola, and a warm, embracing environment that’s fit for, and in celebration of, a King.

where  Estero, between Naples and Fort Myers

amenities 18-hole golf course designed by Arnold Palmer; full-service clubhouse with dining, tennis and fitness. 

real estate  Homesites, villas, carriage homes and estate homes are available beginning in the $300s.

contact 239-947-6066; wildcatruncc.com