The History of Lely Resort

Southwest Florida has long been known as one of the world’s premier holiday destinations. With its peaceful, hot beaches, exceptional shopping, world-class dining, and some much more, it’s easy to see why people flock to the area. If you’re looking for a luxurious place to stay, filled with amenities and activities, Lely Resort might be the ideal spot for you. Keep reading to find out more about this amazing resort and its fascinating history.

About

Lely Resort is a world-class community known for its golfing, private events and other luxurious amenities. For a bit of Lely Resort history — it was first conceived in the early 1970s by Cornelius van der Lely, a Dutch inventor. Lely bought 25,000 acres of land in 1972 with the plan to build over 10,500 new homes. 

Three golf courses in Lely Resort were planned, and they were built in 1990, 1991, and 1997. However, the majority of the plans didn’t really take off. However, in 2001, the building project was taken over by the Stock family, who helped to create the flourishing community center and golf resort we have today. 

Today

Today, Lely Resort is one of the most coveted, luxurious communities in the area, known for its exceptional amenities and modern, state of the art facilities. The resort sits on 2,900 acres of land and includes:

  • Three world-class Championship golf courses
  • The Players Club, a hotel for golfers
  • Many luxurious residential homes

The Players Club itself has plenty of amazing amenities that residents and guests to Lely Resort vacation rentals can choose to use, sometimes for a small one-off fee. These include:

  • Tennis courts
  • Basketball court
  • Fitness center
  • Spa
  • Community pool
  • Nail salon
  • Restaurant
  • Outdoor tiki bar
  • And more!

One of Lely Resort’s best qualities is that it can also serve as a premium corporate event or wedding venue. The stunning reception area features new-Renaissance style architecture with stunning panoramic views of the golf course. The Players Club will arrange everything from catering to staffing so that your event goes off without a hitch. 

aerial resort view

The resort is in a prime location. It is bordered by the Florida South College campus, the South Regional Library, Lely Elementary School, and an emergency building. It’s also very close to several upscale grocery stores, restaurants, Walmarts, and a Lowes store. You’ll even be close to the Waterside Shopping Mall, a shopping center filled with luxury brands and department stores.

Not only is Lely Resort close to many amenities, but it’s also very close to downtown Naples, with its famous beaches, shopping, restaurants, and bars. In this incredible location, you and your family will want for nothing during your time at Lely Resort.

Fun Facts

  • Each clubhouse on the resort is inspired by a different type of architectural design, from the Mediterranean to classic Roman.
  • The on-site Sam Snead’s Restaurant features some amazing golf memorabilia in its decor.
  • The golf courses have hosted some of the world’s most famous golfing professionals. 
  • There are over 4,600 people living in the community as of 2017 — that’s up from 1,400 in 2000!

Places to Stay 

Here at Rent Lely Resort, we are your go-to destination for the best vacation homes in the area. Our wide range of Lely Resort condo rentals has something to suit everyone’s needs and tastes. 

Whether you’re looking for a quiet home for you and your partner in this luxurious golf course community, or you, your kids, and your pet are looking for Lely Resort pet-friendly rentals, we have you covered.