Before the Platinum Coast grew into the golf mecca that many appreciate today, certain clubs were born which established the foundation for the game in the area. One of those clubs, Bear’s Paw in Naples, was a trailblazer in quaint member connections and artistic design. Unlike many courses in the area, Bear’s Paw is not accented with palms recently plucked from their native grounds and propped up with lumber. This rich Naples gem flourishes with native growth that provide a taste of old Florida. This setting frames an 18-hole design that has provided years of playing enjoyment.
That design has been the trademark of this classic Naples course. Golf legend Jack Nicklaus designed Bear’s Paw, his first course on Florida’s west coast. In February of 2005, Bear’s Paw celebrated its 25th Anniversary, an event providing lasting memories, much like the club and course for which the festivities were held. More than the course, the gathering provided a salute to the many friendships formed there and the impact they have made. This point was iterated in a quote by course designer Nicklaus in connection with the anniversary: “The kinship felt by golfers around the world springs from our shared passion for the game, our reverence for its history, and our commitment to its preservation.”
In 1980, Nicklaus was able to foresee the impact the course would have on Naples community and southwest Florida: "I am delighted to have an association with Bear’s Paw as designer of the golf course and apartment owner. The course has a lot to offer the enthusiastic golfer and should provide a challenge for golfers of all levels…and is one of the unique golfing communities in the nation.”
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In many ways, Bear’s Paw served as a cornerstone for the fast-growing Naples community. When Bear’s Paw first opened its gates, little development could be seen, a calm before the storm of the area’s bustling and growing economy. It was assumed at its beginning that Bear’s Paw was ‘so far out in the country:’ a misconception, considering its location now at the heart of the area.“Our world has endured many changes in that time,” Nicklaus said, looking back on the advancement Naples has seen in the past 25 years, “but the great game of golf remains steadfast in providing enjoyment, challenge and camaraderie for its players.”
In the construction of Bear’s Paw, much care was taken to protect the natural beauty that encompassed the land. Much of the natural vegetation was preserved to fit with the street and building development plans.
On March 26, 1980, the Articles of Incorporation were established for the club. Click here to read more...
Created: 09/21/2009 Updated: 10/19/2009