Lely, FL
County: Collier
History
![Lely, Florida Lely, Florida](https://images.yallshometown.com/cities/main/lely-collier-fl.jpg)
Lely, Florida is an unincorporated community located in Collier County, Florida. It is situated in the southwestern part of the state, near the city of Naples. The history of Lely can be traced back to the development of the area in the mid-20th century.
Lely was named after a prominent Dutch engineer and inventor, Cornelis Lely. He is famous for his work in water management and land reclamation, particularly in the Netherlands. Lely's expertise in water management made him an influential figure in the planning and development of drainage systems in Florida.
In the 1960s, a developer by the name of George Yount purchased a significant amount of land in the area with the intention of building a planned golf community. Yount partnered with the Lely Investment Company, which acquiring additional land, and they began the development of Lely Resort.
Lely Resort was designed as a master-planned community built around a golf course. The first golf course, the Lely Flamingo Golf Course, was completed in 1970. It was followed by the completion of the adjacent Lely Mustang Golf Course a few years later.
Over the years, Lely Resort has expanded with the addition of more golf courses, luxurious residential communities, condominiums, and other amenities. The community has attracted retirees, vacation home buyers, and golf enthusiasts, all drawn by the beautiful natural surroundings and the well-designed golf courses.
Apart from the Lely Resort, the neighboring area of Lely has also seen its own development and growth. It has become a popular residential area with a mix of single-family homes, condos, and rental properties.
Today, Lely has a thriving community with various housing options, recreational facilities, and a range of services. It remains a sought-after destination for those seeking a golfing lifestyle or a peaceful retirement in the warm climate of Southwest Florida.
Attractions
![Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens](https://images.yallshometown.com/cities/attractions/0/lely-collier-fl.jpg)
Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens
A 43-acre zoo showcasing a variety of animals, including lions, giraffes, panthers, monkeys, and reptiles. It also features a botanical garden.
Naples Pier
A historic pier extending into the Gulf of Mexico, offering a great spot for fishing, sunset-watching, and strolling. It also provides access to the white sandy beaches of Naples.
Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park
A beautiful beach park that features swimming, fishing, picnicking, and nature trails. Visitors can enjoy the pristine beaches and observe local wildlife.
Tin City
A waterfront shopping and dining district located in Naples. It offers a variety of boutique shops, waterfront dining options, and boat tours along Naples Bay.
The Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve
A protected area comprising of mangrove forests, wildlife habitats, and waterways. Visitors can explore the reserve through guided kayak tours or nature trails.
Golisano Children's Museum of Naples
A family-friendly museum featuring interactive exhibits and educational programs for children. It offers hands-on learning experiences in science, arts, and culture.
Naples Botanical Garden
A tropical garden spanning over 170 acres, showcasing exotic plants, themed gardens, and a butterfly house. Visitors can also explore art installations and attend horticultural events.
Marco Island
Just a short drive from Lely, Marco Island offers beautiful beaches, water activities, boat cruises, and outdoor recreational opportunities. The island is known for its laid-back atmosphere and natural beauty.
Everglades National Park
Approximately an hour's drive from Lely, the Everglades National Park is a unique ecosystem filled with wetlands, wildlife, and diverse flora. Visitors can take airboat tours, go hiking, or simply enjoy the natural surroundings.
Naples Historical Society's Historic Palm Cottage
A restored historic cottage that serves as a museum, showcasing the history and heritage of Naples. Guided tours are available to learn about the city's past.
These are just a few attractions in and around Lely, FL. Visitors can also enjoy golfing, shopping, dining, and exploring the vibrant downtown district of Naples.
Climate
Lely, Florida, is located in the southwestern part of the state. It experiences a tropical climate characterized by hot and humid summers, and mild and dry winters.
Summer in Lely typically starts in May and lasts until October. During this time, temperatures can reach highs averaging in the low to mid-90s Fahrenheit (32-35°C), occasionally even exceeding 100°F (38°C). High levels of humidity are also common, making the heat feel more intense. Thunderstorms are frequent during the summer months, usually in the afternoon or evening, bringing heavy rainfall and occasional lightning.
Winter in Lely spans from November to April, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit (18-23°C). It is considered the dry season, with significantly lower humidity and limited rainfall. Cold fronts from the north can occasionally bring short-lived cool air and temperatures in the 40s-50s°F (4-15°C), but these extreme cold spells are rare.
Overall, Lely enjoys a subtropical climate characterized by warm temperatures throughout most of the year. The area is known to have abundant sunshine, with an average of over 260 sunny days annually. This makes it an appealing destination for outdoor activities and those seeking a warm climate year-round.
Neighborhoods
Lely is a community located in Collier County, Florida. It is primarily known for its beautiful golf courses, luxurious homes, and a range of amenities. Lely consists of several distinct neighborhoods, each offering its own unique characteristics and lifestyle options. Here are some of the main neighborhoods within Lely:
Lely Resort
This is the largest and most well-known neighborhood in Lely. It offers an extensive selection of single-family homes, condominiums, and townhouses. Lely Resort is filled with world-class amenities, including three championship golf courses, tennis courts, clubhouses, and resort-style pools. Residents can also enjoy access to various dining options and a spa.
Mustang Island
Situated within Lely Resort, Mustang Island is a gated community that features custom homes with stunning views of the golf courses or lakes. The properties in this neighborhood are known for their luxurious designs and spacious interiors.
Ole
This is a vibrant and popular neighborhood within Lely Resort. It offers a mix of attached villas and townhomes, with a unique Mediterranean-inspired architecture. Ole has its own village center that includes a resort-style pool, bistro, gym, theater, library, and a full-service concierge.
Classics Plantation Estates
Located adjacent to Lely Resort, Classics Plantation Estates is an exclusive neighborhood known for its larger estate homes and private lots. The properties here often feature upscale designs, extensive landscaping, and custom finishes.
Lakoya
A gated community within Lely Resort, Lakoya offers a selection of single-family homes with views of the golf courses, lakes, and natural preserves. The neighborhood features pavered streets, lush landscaping, and a large clubhouse with a pool, fitness center, and more.
The Majors
This neighborhood is located within Lely Resort and is known for its upscale estate homes overlooking the golf courses. It offers a peaceful and serene environment, with a variety of outdoor recreational options like walking trails and nearby lakes.
These are just a few examples of the neighborhoods within Lely, FL. Each offers its own unique characteristics, but all residents have access to the community's exceptional amenities, beautiful surroundings, and convenient location near shops, restaurants, and the stunning Gulf of Mexico beaches.