Tony Lapi Inducted into Florida Tourism Hall of Fame
Wednesday September 6, at the annual Visit Florida Governor’s Conference on Tourism, SIA Member, Tony Lapi of Sanibel Captiva Beach Resorts received among the highest awards of anyone in tourism, in Florida, as he was inducted into the Florida Tourism Hall of Fame.
As General Manager and later as President/CEO, Tony was involved in extensive expansion of the property. In 2011, Tony was instrumental in having Tween Waters Inn placed on the National Register of Historic Places. During this period of growth, the operation went from six employees to 230 and rebranded itself as Sanibel Captiva Beach Resorts. In the beginning of 2022, Tony stepped down from President and CEO and is now Chairman of the Board. After the impact of Hurricane Ian which devastated the barrier islands of Southwest Florida and destroyed three of the four properties, Tony will remain involved in the rebuilding of these three properties along with his continued involvement in the hospitality industry.
“With his unwavering dedication, visionary leadership, and tireless commitment to promoting the beauty and culture of Florida, Tony has not only transformed the tourism industry but has also inspired countless individuals to explore and appreciate the beauty of our state. His legacy as a true industry pioneer will forever shine as a beacon of inspiration for generations to come,” said Dana Young, Visit Florida’s President and CEO.