Pelican Bay: Naples' Premier Gated Resort Community

Why Choose Pelican Bay?

Pelican Bay is Naples' premier master-planned community—a gated oasis offering resort-style living with private beach access and manicured grounds.

Here's what makes it special:

Private beach access – tram service to uncrowded Gulf beaches
Gated and peaceful – residential feel, away from tourists
Nature preserve – 88-acre preserve with walking trails
Artis—Naples access – world-class performing arts center

If you value privacy, quiet, and a "living like a local" experience over downtown energy, Pelican Bay delivers.

The Vibe

Think country club meets nature preserve.

Manicured landscaping and quiet streets
Tram to private beach areas
Residents walking dogs and biking
Art lovers heading to performances
A distinctly non-touristy atmosphere

Who loves it here: Return visitors, retirees, extended-stay travelers, anyone seeking peace over activity.

Location & Getting Around

Pelican Bay is in North Naples, positioned between Park Shore and Vanderbilt Beach.

Walkability: ⭐⭐

The community is spread out; you'll want a car for most needs.

Within Pelican Bay:

Beach tram (residents/guests)
Walking and biking paths
Nature preserve trails

Nearby by car:

Waterside Shops (5 min)
Artis—Naples (adjacent)
Mercato (10 min)
Old Naples (15-20 min)

Staying in Pelican Bay

Hotel Option

The Inn at Pelican Bay ★★★★

Boutique hotel within the community
Access to beach and amenities
More intimate than large resorts
Good value for Pelican Bay access

Vacation Rentals

Many visitors rent condos in Pelican Bay:

Full kitchen and living space
Community amenities access
Weekly rates often available
Book through VRBO or local property managers

Ask for a quote while you are here

Hotel pages on this site are guides. They do not send you to a booking site. A boat day, photos, an airport ride, or a private chef can be quoted by a local business.

All quote types. A quote is a request, not a reservation.

Pelican Bay Amenities

The Beach

Two private beach facilities:

North Beach – casual, tiki bar
Sandpiper – restaurant, bar, more formal

Both accessible via:

Tram from community parking
Boardwalk walk through preserve

The beaches are significantly less crowded than public beaches.

Nature Preserve

88 acres of protected habitat:

Walking and biking trails
Bird watching opportunities
Mangrove boardwalks
Connects to Clam Pass

Artis—Naples

World-class performing arts center:

Naples Philharmonic
Broadway shows
Jazz and classical performances
Baker Museum (visual arts)

What's Nearby

Waterside Shops (5 min)

Naples' premier upscale mall:

Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue
High-end boutiques
Brio, Seasons 52 dining

Dining Options

You'll need to drive for restaurants:

Nearby favorites:

Barbatella at Mercato (10 min)
USS Nemo (10 min)
Old Naples (15-20 min)

Pros & Cons

✅ Pros

Private, uncrowded beach access
Peaceful, gated environment
Beautiful nature preserve
Less tourist traffic
Excellent for extended stays

⚠️ Cons

Need car for almost everything
Limited on-site dining
Less "vacation energy"
Can feel isolated
Not ideal for first-time visitors

Best For

Traveler Type	Rating	Notes
Peace seekers	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	The quietest Naples experience
Return visitors	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	Great for those who know the area
Extended stays	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	Condo rentals ideal for weeks+
Nature lovers	⭐⭐⭐⭐	Preserve access is excellent
First-timers	⭐⭐	Too isolated—try Old Naples
Foodies	⭐⭐	Very limited walkable dining

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! The Inn at Pelican Bay is a hotel open to all visitors. You can also rent vacation condos through VRBO, Airbnb, or local property managers which grant access to community amenities.

We generally recommend Old Naples for first-timers. Pelican Bay is more isolated and requires a car for everything. It's better suited for return visitors who already know the area and value peace over convenience.

Beautiful and uncrowded! The private beach facilities have restaurants, bars, and sun loungers. Access is via tram or boardwalk walk. It's a more peaceful experience than public beaches.

Other Neighborhoods to Consider

Old Naples – Walkable charm (best for first-timers)
Vanderbilt Beach – Direct beach access, more energy
Park Shore – Venetian Village shopping