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.
Timeline
William J. Curotto Sr. & his wife, Gladys Curotto, purchased two lots of land on St. Pete Beach and began their initial build of the Bon-Aire Motel.
The Bon-Aire Motel opened for business with 16 rooms located in what is now known as our Center Building.
An addition was added to the Center Building, bringing a total number of units at the Bon-Aire to 36.
A new building was added with 18 units, now known as the North Building.
Continuing the growth of the Bon-Aire, 6 more units were added to the North Building.
William J. Curotto Sr. passed away, leaving the Bon-Aire to his two children, William Curotto Jr. & Carol Ann Upham (Curotto.)
William Curotto Jr. purchased the El-Jomar Motel, now known as the South Building.
The last building, with 8 units, was built. This is the only building with central AC. This is now known as the Gulf Building.
Sandbar Bill’s Bar & Grille was opened for business.
William J. Curotto Jr. passed away, leaving the Bon-Aire to his children: Billy, Cathy, Joey, Tony and Missy.
The iconic “Bon-Aire” neon sign was designated a historical landmark on St. Pete Beach.
The Bon-Aire Resort celebrated 70 years of business. It is currently being run by the 3rd & 4th generation of the Curotto Family. They are hoping to keep the Bon-Aire legacy in the family for generations to come.