Newcomer’s Primer to Pelican Bay’s Beach Clubs & Nature Trails

Two private beach clubs (North & South) with dining + chair/umbrella service, tram access through the mangroves, miles of crushed-shell and boardwalk trails, and daily sunsets that never get old. Start with the tram, pack light (your membership covers the setup), and try the berm trail at sunrise.

Why Pelican Bay’s Beach Life Is Different

Pelican Bay offers an effortless, resort-style beach experience for residents: private beach access, on-site dining, chair and umbrella setup, and a car-free tram system gliding through mangrove preserves. Add in miles of walking/biking trails and you’ve got the ultimate coastal-nature lifestyle. No logistics drama, just beach time.

The Two Private Beach Clubs (What to Expect)

North Beach Club

• Vibe: Laid-back, panoramic Gulf views, easy for morning walkers and sunset regulars.

• Access: Tram or boardwalk through the mangroves; bike racks available near tram stops.

• On-site comforts: Restaurant/bar service, restrooms, showers, chair/umbrella setup.

• Pro tip: Morning coffee + a quick stroll north along the shoreline feels like your own private beach.

South Beach Club

• Vibe: Social, lively, great for long lunches and golden-hour cocktails.

• Access: Tram or boardwalk; convenient if you live on the southern end of Pelican Bay.

• On-site comforts: Restaurant/bar service, restrooms, showers, chair/umbrella setup.

• Pro tip: Plan a late-afternoon arrival. You'll find shade from the umbrellas + an easy transition into sunset.

Good to know: Both clubs offer seasonal menus and hours that adjust throughout the year. Check your resident portal before heading out, especially during shoulder seasons and holidays.

Getting There: Trams, Boardwalks & Bikes

• Tram system: Hop on at neighborhood tram stations; trams run frequently and drop you right at each beach club.

• Boardwalks: Beautiful elevated paths through mangroves. Great for wildlife spotting on foot.

• Biking: Bike to a tram stop, lock up, then walk or ride the tram the rest of the way (the easiest hybrid plan).

• Parking: Limited near tram stations during peak times; biking or walking keeps it stress-free.

Chair, Umbrella & Beach Services 101

• Setup: Attendants will set up chairs and umbrellas for you with no schlepping required.

• Towels: Bring your own beach towel (policies vary; keep a “beach kit” in your bag).

• Food & drinks: Enjoy on-site dining or order to your chair. Many residents do lunch at the club and wander back for sunset.

• Guests: Policies exist for hosting friends/family; review current guest allowances on your member portal.

The Trails: Your Daily Nature Fix

The Berm Trail (Crushed Shell/Hardpack)

• Best for: Sunrise power walks, easy bike rides, jogs with Gulf breezes.

• Experience: Long, mostly flat stretches with peek-a-boo water and preserve views.

• Tip: Start early to catch birds feeding and cooler temps.

Boardwalks Through the Mangroves

• Best for: Mid-day shaded strolls, nature photography, kids who love “finding things.”

• Experience: Elevated wooden paths with interpretive signage in some areas.

• Tip: Bring a small pair of binoculars and you'll see osprey, herons, and dolphins just offshore.

Favorite Newcomer Loops

• Easy (30–40 mins): Neighborhood → Tram station → Boardwalk look-out → Back.

• Moderate (45–60 mins): Berm trail out-and-back with a detour onto a boardwalk.

• Sunset stroll (30 mins): Arrive ~30 minutes before sunset; walk shoreline between clubs and tram back.

Etiquette & safety: Keep right, announce passes when biking, yield on narrow boardwalks, and respect wildlife nesting areas.

What to Bring (and What to Skip)

• Bring: Hat, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen, water bottle, sandals you can kick off, small towel, member card/ID.

• Nice-to-have: Light sweater or wrap for breezy evenings, binoculars for wildlife, phone for tram timetable.

• Skip: Coolers the size of a yacht, heavy beach gear - your attendants have you covered.

Seasonal Rhythm & Best Times to Go

• Peak season (winter/spring): Arrive earlier for the tram; mid-week is quieter than weekends.

• Summer: Blissfully low-key. Early mornings and late afternoons are magic.

• Storm days: Check updates before heading out; boardwalks may close for safety.

Accessibility Notes

• Trams accommodate a range of mobility needs.

• Boardwalk grades are gentle; ask attendants for the closest drop-off point to minimize walking on soft sand.

• Beach mats are often in place seasonally to ease sand access.

7-Day Newcomer Starter Plan

• Day 1: North Beach Club coffee + shoreline stroll.

• Day 2: Sunrise berm walk, quick dip, tram back.

• Day 3: South Beach Club lunch + chairs/umbrella afternoon.

• Day 4: Mangrove boardwalk nature walk (bring binoculars).

• Day 5: Bike to the tram, sunset happy hour on the sand.

• Day 6: Longer berm loop, finish with a casual beach dinner.

• Day 7: Do-nothing beach day. Let the attendants spoil you.

Quick FAQ

Can I host guests at the beach clubs? Yes. Guest policies apply; check your portal for the current limits and fees.
Do I need cash for tipping? It’s appreciated; some services may allow card. Keep a little cash handy.
Are pets allowed? There are no pets allowed on the beach
Is alcohol permitted on the sand? Follow posted guidelines and club policies when ordering.
Are there water sports? Availability varies; check the clubs for current offerings and sign-ups.

Living the Pelican Bay Lifestyle

The best part of Pelican Bay isn’t just private beach access. It’s how effortlessly it all fits into your daily routine. Tram, toes-in-the-sand, sunset. Repeat.

Thinking About a Move Within Pelican Bay (or Your First Home Here)?

I’m Melinda Gunther with Premier Sotheby’s in Naples. I live, work, and play in here and I’d love to show you the neighborhoods and buildings that match the lifestyle you want.

Let’s explore: Beachfront towers • Bay-view condos • Villa communities close to the tram • New-construction and renovated options.

Call/text: 239-297-2155
Instagram: @NaplesAgent