The Ritz-Carlton, Naples

The Ritz-Carlton, Naples stands as a beacon of luxury on Florida's Gulf Coast, recently undergoing a multi-million dollar renovation that has further elevated its appeal. This Michelin Key Selected property consistently garners high praise for its exceptional service, stunning beachfront location, and extensive amenities, making it a top choice for discerning travelers and families alike.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for The Ritz-Carlton, Naples is overwhelmingly positive, with guests frequently describing their stays as "exceptional," "perfect," and "extraordinary." It is considered a true luxury resort offering VIP service and a top-notch array of amenities. Many consider it one of the best Ritz-Carlton properties in the U.S. following its extensive 2023 renovation.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently laud several aspects of the resort:

• Service: The "excellent level of service" is immediately evident, with welcome drinks upon arrival and a staff that is frequently described as friendly, helpful, accommodating, and going "above and beyond."
• Location: Its quiet, secluded, and spectacular private beachfront setting directly on the Gulf of Mexico is a major draw, offering beautiful sunsets and a tranquil atmosphere.
• Amenities: The resort boasts an impressive array of amenities, including two heated saltwater pools (one adults-only), a massive 50,000-square-foot spa, a top-notch fitness center, four tennis courts, and access to championship golf courses at its sister property, The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón, accessible via a complimentary shuttle. The private beach offers service, free towels, and chairs, along with water sports. The redesigned Club Lounge is also highlighted as a standout, offering dedicated check-in, expansive space, and fantastic food and drink offerings.
• Design: The post-renovation design is frequently praised as sophisticated, luxurious, and visually appealing, with elegant guest rooms featuring light color palettes and high-quality furnishings.

3. Room Quality

The 474 guest rooms and suites, including a new Vanderbilt Tower that added over 70 Club Level rooms, have been fully transformed and are described as elegant, stylish, calm, and luxuriously appointed. They feature modern and spacious designs with thoughtful touches, though some note they are "not overly luxurious or opulent." Rooms include 42-inch flat-screen TVs, minibars, iPod docking stations, coffeemakers, terrycloth robes, and safes. Bathrooms are generously sized with white marble tiling, Asprey bath products, and shower/tub combos. Many units, particularly Coastal and Gulf View rooms, offer private balconies with panoramic or partial water views. Guests have particularly praised the comfortable beds and pillows.

4. Dining Experience

The Ritz-Carlton, Naples offers seven on-site dining options, providing a diverse culinary journey. Highlights include:

• Gumbo Limbo: A casual beachfront seafood restaurant known for its waterfront views, warm Gulf breezes, and an ever-changing menu of expertly prepared dishes and innovative cocktails.
• The Grill: An elegant, formal steakhouse with a private club feel, offering aged prime steaks, seafood, and a romantic atmosphere with nightly piano or guitar music.
• Other options: Include a sushi restaurant, a casual beachfront grill, and a coffee/dessert place with ice cream and gelato. There's also 24-hour room service. Guests have generally found the food quality to be excellent. The breakfast buffet and poolside lunches are also well-regarded.

5. Service & Staff

The service and staff are consistently highlighted as a strong point of the resort. Guests frequently experience "five-star service" with staff members being described as courteous, helpful, and accommodating. Numerous reviews praise individual staff members by name for going "above and beyond." The "excellent level of service" is a distinguishing factor of this luxury property.

6. Location & Accessibility

The resort is situated in a quiet and somewhat secluded area directly on the Gulf of Mexico, providing a beautiful private beach. It's approximately a 25-minute drive from downtown Naples and its shopping and dining options. Mercato, offering plenty of shopping and dining, is a six-minute drive away. Vanderbilt Beach and South Bay Marina are within a 10-minute walk or less. Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) is roughly a 38-minute drive. A complimentary shuttle service is available to its sister property, The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón, which features golf courses and a water park.

7. Value & Pricing

As a five-pearl luxury resort, The Ritz-Carlton, Naples commands "steep rates" and is considered an expensive property. Prices for a 1-night stay can range from approximately $706 to over $2,600, depending on the room type and booking date. While the cost is significant, many guests feel it is "worth the extra price point" for the quality of the experience, amenities, and service received. A refreshing perk noted by some is the absence of a resort fee, despite the numerous amenities.

8. Common Complaints

Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, a few recurring criticisms have been noted:

• Crowding: The pools and beach areas can get crowded, especially during peak seasons or when corporate meetings and group events are in full swing.
• Valet Parking: Valet-only parking is available and is considered expensive, costing around $40 per day.
• Room Views: Not all rooms offer balconies or direct Gulf of Mexico views. Some guests with "partial views" from higher floors found the view less enjoyable due to the hotel's setback from the immediate beach.
• Minor Issues: Isolated complaints include occasional musky smells in certain areas of the hotel, low water pressure on higher floors, and in-room breakfast being excessively priced. Some older reviews also mentioned that rooms were previously dated before the renovation.

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