Nearly seven years after the ferocious Hurricane Irma laid waste to the landmark Pier Sixty-Six Resort in Fort Lauderdale, the storied establishment has risen anew, officially reopening on January 10. This iconic resort has stood as a tourism beacon since its inception in 1965, making its restoration a significant milestone for the local hospitality industry. Much to the delight of loyal patrons, the hotel has succeeded in preserving its defining midcentury modern architectural style, particularly its remarkable tower topped with a space-age roof, while offering a fresh, revitalized experience that reflects contemporary luxury and sophistication.
The road leading to this reopening was anything but smooth. Plans for redevelopment were initially scheduled for the spring of 2020 but were derailed due to the global pandemic. Rather than hastily continuing with the original vision, the owners—the Tavistock Group of Orlando—took the opportunity to elevate their plans and create an even more luxurious resort. This thoughtful approach demonstrates a commitment to quality and guest experience, enhancing the allure of Pier Sixty-Six for both returning visitors and newcomers alike.
A Transformation Beyond Recognition
The expansive 32-acre property has been meticulously redesigned, offering an array of upscale amenities and accommodations that may leave past guests amazed—and perhaps nostalgic for the original resort. The revamped hotel features 325 guest rooms and also introduces a private club complete with its own pool area, alongside luxurious condominiums that enter a vacation rental pool with prices ranging from $3.65 million to $12 million.
In a bold move to position the resort as a multifaceted destination, owners have promised a culinary explosion with 12 restaurants and lounges that cater to diverse palates, offering cuisines inspired by France, Spain, Italy, Greece, and the Eastern Mediterranean. Particular highlights include the showcase restaurant Calusso, featuring an exhibition kitchen and a chef’s table that invites an interactive dining experience. Meanwhile, Garni Cafe aims to become a favored brunch spot with its airy, atrium-like design.
Yet it’s more than just a gastronomic affair; this revitalized Pier Sixty-Six is making infrastructural improvements, with extensive foundation fortifications designed to withstand future storms.
Luxury with a Coastal Twist
Brett Boreing, the executive director of sales and marketing for Pier Sixty-Six, has articulated the brand’s vision quite clearly: a blend of relaxed luxury while embracing the enchanting coastal environment. The management, under CoralTree Hospitality, has carefully curated the resort’s ambiance, integrating elements of midcentury modernism and Mediterranean styles. The result is an elegant aesthetic anchored in neutral colors and airy spaces that promise to captivate guests.
An emphasis on openness and spaciousness is apparent from the high ceilings and wide, floor-to-ceiling windows that blur the lines between indoors and outdoors. Thoughtful planning extends to the logistics of arrivals and departures, ensuring a streamlined approach for guests in both residence and event spaces. Whether lounging by the pool, enjoying a meal at a restaurant, or soaking in panoramic views from the original tower, the focus remains on audience engagement within a serene atmosphere.
The Return of the Iconic Pier Top Lounge
One of the most anticipated features of the renovated resort is the return of the iconic Pier Top, a revolving lounge situated atop the original tower. When it first opened in 1965, the lounge provided a mesmerizing 360-degree view of Fort Lauderdale, rotating every 66 minutes. The question on everyone’s lips is whether this nostalgic experience will return, and Boreing has assured enthusiasts that the final touches on this emblematic destination will be completed by March.
Guests are not only drawn to the luxurious experience; the resort is ideally located to attract a range of visitors, including those attending upscale conventions, high-profile events, and the ever-popular Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. This strategic positioning promises to infuse the resort with a steady stream of clientele drawn to both business and pleasure.
While beachfront access remains a small hurdle—the sand is merely a stone’s throw away—Boreing reassures guests that transportation options will carry them to the shoreline seamlessly, allowing guests to bask in the sun without sacrificing the resort’s unique charms.
Hoping to revitalize the tourism sector post-pandemic, Pier Sixty-Six is capitalizing on partnerships with travel agents and hosting events to spread the word. The excitement surrounding the reopening is palpable, inciting nostalgia and anticipation among long-time fans of the establishment, and setting the stage for a new era in Fort Lauderdale’s rich hospitality landscape. The sleek modernization paired with historical reverence positions Pier Sixty-Six not only as a luxurious getaway but also as a landmark revived for generations to come.
Leave a Reply