When it comes to golfing getaways, Florida is hardly remiss for resorts. Some offer rooms and suites with pristine golf course views while others boast lots of luxury amenities. There is only one though on Florida’s Paradise Coast that combines both to offer an unforgettable stay.
The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón (formerly The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples) features a host of luxury amenities, including a new outdoor experience known as The Reservoir, and two 18-hole courses designed by Greg Norman. There are plenty of things to do even if you are not a professional golfer. Designed for the entire family (dogs included), there is something fun for everyone to do here.
When we arrived, the super friendly front desk attendants greeted us at check in with a glass of champagne. We were quickly shown to our pet friendly accommodation on the main level, which was a much-appreciated short walk from the front door. When the Ritz-Carlton says it is pet friendly, they actually roll out the red carpet for four-legged friends. Our English bulldog was welcomed with an enormous dog bone emblazoned with the Ritz-Carlton logo, a plush squeaky toy, pet bowl, and cleanup bags.
We stayed in a king bedroom corner unit that featured sliding glass doors that led out to an enormous wraparound outdoor terrace overlooking the pristine golf course. Chaise lounges, patio chairs and a table with umbrella and chairs offered a perfect excuse to stay outside and soak in the views all day long.
There are 295 rooms available to choose from at this Mediterranean-style resort. Whichever room you select, we recommend enhancing your stay with access to the Club Level. There are five presentations held daily here that include a continental breakfast, midday snacks, light snacks, hors d’oeuvres, and desserts and cordials. Access to the Club Lounge is available for an additional $250 per person per night for guests over the age of 18, and $100 per person per night for young adults ages 12 to 17.
Being from Massachusetts, we were thrilled to see Gerald Small, Food & Beverage Operations Manager from Boston, overseeing the dining experience at the Club Lounge. Families with young children enjoyed having breakfast here before heading off to The Reservoir, a new outdoor experience featuring three exciting waterslides, and a spectacular 600-foot lazy river.
There is also a splash area for little kids and a main swimming pool for adults as well dotted with luxury cabanas offering some respite from the hot Florida sun.
When it comes to relaxation, enjoy a leisurely ride on a complimentary resort bike, play a round of tennis on one of four courts, or book a massage or facial at the on-site Massage Center.
For dinner, we visited their signature restaurant, RIA. Offering modern, authentic Latin American cuisine and creative cocktails, this popular spot is ideal for lunch, dinner or a quick snack.
Get started with one of their specialty cocktails like the spiced-up Arriba made with Don Julio blanco tequila, Ancho Reyes chili lime juice, orange oleo foam solution and Hella bitters. Another favorite cocktail was their Mai Tai served in a fun tiki mug.
For shareable dishes and snacks, don’t miss the Choripan, grilled Argentinian chorizo and confit pepper “escabeche” served on mini baguettes. Other favorites include the Provoleta, an addicting cheesy dish topped with tomato and confit garlic served with a side of chimichurri for dipping. The Mexican street corn topped with cotija cheese was also a standout.
For main events, be sure to try the sirloin steak, cooked to our medium rare liking, served with a side of charred broccolini and a grilled tomato. The chili rubbed grilled skirt steak tacos also sounded delicious.
Later on this year, The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón will also be debuting a new American brasserie concept. Keep an eye out in 2024 as they plan to unveil some newly renovated guest rooms and suites.
The Ritz-Carlton, Naples is currently closed, but will be reopening later this summer after undergoing extensive renovations that include a new lobby and Lobby Bar, expanded Club Lounge, three new restaurants, a redesigned pool experience, and newly designed guest rooms.
The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón is located at 2600 Tiburon Drive in Naples.
