On Thursday, June 11th, I had the privilege of joining residents, community leaders, guests, and friends to celebrate the grand opening of the Olde Naples Hotel, a milestone that represents both a new beginning and a meaningful tribute to our city’s rich history.
This remarkable project reflects the vision, dedication, and hard work of many people. I extend special appreciation to the Walsh family and the Camalier family for their commitment to preserving and celebrating the history and character of Naples through this extraordinary endeavor. Their investment in our community reflects a deep respect for the traditions that have helped define Naples for generations.
I would also like to recognize Tim McCarthy with Hart Howerton as well as Nichols Architects, whose thoughtful design helped bring this vision to life while honoring the timeless architectural character of Old Naples. I am also grateful to our city staff, whose professionalism, diligence, and collaboration helped guide this project from concept to completion, along with the many contractors, craftsmen, consultants, and community partners whose expertise helped make this special achievement possible.
The occasion was about far more than opening the doors to a beautiful new destination. It was an opportunity to reflect on the people, places, and values that helped shape Naples into the community we know and cherish today.
The story of Naples hospitality began in 1889, when the original Naples Hotel opened as the first hotel in our community. At the time, Naples was little more than a small settlement along the Gulf, but the hotel quickly became the center of civic and social life. Visitors came to enjoy our beaches, fish from the pier, collect shells along the shoreline, and experience the natural beauty and warmth that would become hallmarks of Naples.
Originally, the hotel featured just 16 guest rooms, a far cry from the 109 rooms that welcome visitors at the newly reopened Olde Naples Hotel today. Despite its modest size, the hotel quickly became a centerpiece of community life and a destination for travelers seeking an authentic Florida experience. The hotel was known for its fresh, locally sourced cuisine, serving fruits, vegetables, and other ingredients grown in the area or obtained from nearby farms. In an era before modern supply chains, it was said that canned vegetables were never served, a point of pride that reflected both the abundance of Southwest Florida and the commitment to providing guests with the freshest possible fare. These simple but meaningful details offer a glimpse into the hospitality, self-reliance, and sense of community that helped establish Naples’ reputation as a welcoming destination more than a century ago.
For generations, residents and visitors alike have gathered along the beach and at the Pier to watch the sun dip below the horizon, a tradition that remains as timeless today as it was more than a century ago. From the hotel’s elevated vantage point, guests can experience that same sense of wonder while overlooking the shoreline that has long defined Naples’ character. The view serves as a reminder that while Naples continues to grow and evolve, the natural beauty, sense of place, and cherished traditions that first drew people here remain unchanged.
In many ways, the original Naples Hotel helped introduce Naples to the world. It welcomed early visitors, encouraged connection, and contributed to the character of a growing community. Its legacy reminds us that the Naples we enjoy today was not built by chance. It was shaped over generations by vision, careful stewardship, and the hard work of people who believed in this city’s future.
That is what made the grand opening of the Olde Naples Hotel especially meaningful. The project honors the spirit of the original hotel while thoughtfully welcoming a new chapter. Its design reflects the scale, charm, and timeless architectural character of historic Old Naples. A project of this caliber is made possible through the contributions of many talented individuals and organizations. I would like to extend special appreciation to Unique Wood Floor Co. for providing the beautiful flooring featured throughout the hotel, adding warmth, craftsmanship, and timeless character to the guest experience. I would also like to recognize Gardner Colby Gallery for curating and providing artwork that celebrates the beauty, culture, and spirit of Naples. Every detail feels intentional, creating a welcoming space that is deeply connected to the identity of our community.
This celebration also reflected an important principle that continues to guide the City of Naples: honoring the past, celebrating the present, and responsibly shaping the future.
Good governance is not only about the decisions made today. It is about understanding what came before us, protecting what makes our community special, and ensuring that progress strengthens rather than diminishes the character of Naples. Projects like this remind us that preservation and progress can work together when guided by respect, collaboration, and a shared commitment to place.
As part of the ceremony, I was honored to present a copy of Naples: A Second Paradise by Lila Zuck. The book is a beautiful tribute to the people, places, and stories that helped shape Naples into the remarkable community it is today. It was a fitting way to recognize the history surrounding us and the importance of preserving those stories for future generations.
As we move forward, may we continue to honor our history, support thoughtful investment, and work together to preserve the beauty, character, and spirit of Naples for generations to come.
God bless Naples, and God bless America.
Teresa Lee Heitmann, Mayor
