The reopening of Pier Sixty-Six in Fort Lauderdale marks not just the return of a beloved landmark, but a profound transformation that reinvents the essence of luxury hospitality in the region. After nearly seven years in limbo following the devastation of Hurricane Irma, the resort unveiled its revamped facade on January 10, 2024. Originally opened in 1965, this storied refuge of the Fort Lauderdale tourism scene carries a legacy that transcends generations. Tourists and locals alike have watched with keen interest as the property converted itself from a post-hurricane shell into a modern paradise that integrates contemporary luxury with its historical significance.
The remarkable rebirth includes 325 elegantly designed rooms, of which many guests will instinctively seek to reserve their familiar quarters. Renovations have paid particular homage to the iconic mid-century modern tower whose distinctive, hat-like structure remains a recognizable silhouette against the Fort Lauderdale skyline. However, the resort’s aesthetic evolution is anything but superficial; it reflects a deliberate choice to weave sophisticated luxury throughout the extensive 32-acre property.
Elevated Experiences and Casual Elegance
At the helm of this rejuvenation is Brett Boreing, the resort’s executive director of sales and marketing, who passionately articulates the vision behind Pier Sixty-Six: an embrace of relaxed luxury that invites guests to genuinely unwind. The management company, CoralTree Hospitality, emphasizes a concept defined by “marina lifestyle,” presenting an environment where guests can truly reconnect with nature, right on the water’s edge.
The design showcases a seamless blend of mid-century modern and Mediterranean influences, executed with a palette of light cream, soft browns, and tranquil blues. High ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows create an open ambiance that brings the outside in, reinforcing the notion that this resort is a harmonious extension of the natural beauty surrounding it. With ample space thoughtfully allocated for arrivals and departures, the flow of the space mirrors the waterway lifestyle that embodies Fort Lauderdale.
The accommodations include smart technology features that appeal to the modern traveler, including app-controlled room settings and chic, curvilinear furniture. Notably, the 8-foot deep balconies invite visitors to soak in the stunning views, while the well-appointed rooms display elegance and comfortm akin to a private haven away from home.
Culinary Delights and Social Spaces
Situated amidst the scenic backdrop of Fort Lauderdale, Pier Sixty-Six offers an impressive gastronomic journey, boasting a diverse array of dining options that range from contemporary Mediterranean to classic European cuisines. The resort’s flagship restaurant, Calusso, mesmerizes with an exhibition kitchen where culinary creations come to life, while Garni Café serves as a cozy all-day brunch destination framed by a striking atrium.
What truly sets this resort apart is the much-anticipated return of the Pier Top revolving lounge, a nostalgic nod to its storied past. Located atop the original tower, the lounge promises panoramic vistas of the skyline while serving sophisticated cocktails and light bites. The rotating experience, which was reset by new ownership, adds a unique charm that many guests are eagerly awaiting.
Boreing proudly mentions that the reopening comes with an expansive array of facilities that includes three pools, twelve diverse dining venues, a full-service spa, and expansive event spaces offering up to 42,000 square feet for meetings and celebrations. This scale positions Pier Sixty-Six as an ideal choice for upscale gatherings, from intimate weddings to grand conventions.
Resilience Through Redesign
The owners, Orlando’s Tavistock Group, undertook a comprehensive assessment to fortify the resort’s infrastructure, ensuring resilience against future hurricanes that may threaten the coastline. In an era where climate resilience has become paramount, Pier Sixty-Six stands ready to weather the storms while providing a luxe escape for its guests. The thoughtfulness behind its redesign speaks to a larger trend in the hospitality industry that prioritizes both safety and aesthetics.
Despite its many offerings, one notable absence persists: a beach. Yet, Boreing exudes confidence, assuring potential guests that alternative transportation options to nearby beaches are readily available. This commitment to guest satisfaction harmonizes perfectly with Pier Sixty-Six’s overarching mission—to provide an unmatched blend of service, luxury, and natural beauty.
In a climate where consumer preferences continue to shift toward experiential travel, Pier Sixty-Six’s revival stands out as a hallmark of transformative potential in the hospitality sector—a luxurious yet welcoming destination that urges guests to savor the simple pleasures of life by the sea.
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