Bon-Aire Resort
History
The Bon-Aire Resort has offered a relaxing getaway for travelers on St. Pete Beach since 1953. Over the years, buildings have been added and rooms have been updated, yet the 50’s style charm and character remains.
The Curotto Family has been there every step of the way, creating relationships with their customers; ensuring the heart of the Bon-Aire remains. They are grateful for a wonderful 70 years and hope for the Bon-Aire legacy to continue for many decades to come.
Explore the timeline below to discover the story of the Bon-Aire.
Timeline
William J. Curotto Sr. and his wife, Gladys, laid the foundation for what would become the Bon-Aire Motel by purchasing two lots on St. Pete Beach and beginning construction of their first building.
The Bon-Aire Motel welcomed its first guests with 16 rooms, located in what is now the Center Building.
An addition to the Center Building expanded the Bon-Aire to a total of 36 units.
A new building was added, introducing 18 additional units, now known as the North Building.
The Bon-Aire continued to grow with the addition of 6 more units to the North Building.
After the passing of William J. Curotto Sr., the Bon-Aire was inherited by his two children, William Curotto Jr. and Carol Ann Upham (Curotto), with William Jr. taking the lead in running the motel
William Curotto Jr. expanded the Bon-Aire by purchasing the El-Jomar Motel, adding what is now the South Building and the South Pool to the property.
The final building, featuring 8 units and situated between the Center and South Buildings, was constructed and is now known as the Gulf Building.
Sandbar Bill’s Bar & Grille opened its doors, ready to welcome guests for good food, drinks, and beachfront vibes.
Following the passing of William J. Curotto Jr., the Bon-Aire was passed down to his children: Billy, Cathy, Joey, Tony, and Missy.
The iconic ‘Bon-Aire’ neon sign was honored as a historic landmark, now officially recognized as a shining symbol of St. Pete Beach’s vibrant history.
The Bon-Aire Resort celebrated 70 years of welcoming guests. Today, it is proudly run by the 3rd and 4th generations of the Curotto Family, who hope to carry the Bon-Aire legacy forward for generations to come.