With the echoes of Hurricane Irma’s devastation still fresh, Fort Lauderdale’s iconic Pier Sixty-Six has staged a remarkable comeback, reopening its doors on January 10, 2023. Originally launched in 1965, this landmark resort has long been a symbol of luxury and allure in the heart of South Florida. Over the last seven years, the property has undergone a metamorphosis, transforming it into a modern retreat while preserving its unique mid-century character. In this ambitious redevelopment, its owners, the Tavistock Group of Orlando, navigated the turbulent waters of the pandemic and harnessed the opportunity—resulting in a hotel that will surely redefine luxury tourism in Fort Lauderdale.
A New Era of Elevated Hospitality
The updated Pier Sixty-Six, now boasting 325 rooms, is not simply a restoration; it’s an evolution into a world of unparalleled luxury. Brett Boreing, the executive director of sales and marketing, guided a recent tour of the extensive 32-acre property. He explained how the pandemic-induced pause allowed them to elevate their initial plans, enhancing the experience beyond the previous structure. The reimagined resort features an exclusive private club with its own pool, upscale condos, and new residential buildings that can participate in the vacation rental market, with prices climbing up to an eye-watering $12 million.
As if that weren’t enough, Pier Sixty-Six will eventually host twelve unique restaurants and lounges, three sumptuous pools, three expansive ballrooms, a lavish spa, and 164 marina slips. Such wealth of offerings suggests the resort will cater not only to the casual vacationer but also to discerning clientele seeking a first-class experience. With structures fortified against future hurricanes, Pier Sixty-Six is prepared to withstand whatever nature might unleash in the years to come.
Designing for Spacious Splendor
The design ethos of Pier Sixty-Six embodies a luxurious yet unpretentious vibe that honors its history. Boreing champions a “marina lifestyle” approach, influenced by midcentury modern and Mediterranean motifs. Guests will be welcomed by light, airy spaces defined by high ceilings and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that blur the lines between indoors and outdoors. The layout emphasizes spaciousness, with dedicated access points for incoming and departing guests, clearly a thought-out tactic to ease congestion and enhance the experience.
The accommodations offer both nostalgia and modern convenience. Guests can expect to find comfortably appointed rooms equipped with curved furnishings and high-tech features like smart toilets and smartphone-controlled amenities. Terraces with oversized balconies encourage guests to soak in the stunning views, while culinary enthusiasts will delight in fare from various culturally rich cuisines, including French, Italian, and Greek options. Dining will not merely cater to guests but aims to capture the attention of locals, ensuring that the resort integrates seamlessly into the vibrant Fort Lauderdale community.
The Allure of the Pier Top
Among the various features, the revival of the Pier Top revolving lounge stands out as a highlight. This rooftop gem, which was once decommissioned under previous ownership, promises to deliver breathtaking 360-degree views of the city skyline and surrounding waters. As the first guests ask if it will indeed rotate again—just as it did when it first opened in 1965—Boreing assures them that the culinary experience will return with a flourish, slated for a March launch.
The original Pier Sixty-Six resonates deeply with nostalgia for many longtime visitors, with some hopefuls already keen to book rooms they once frequented for special occasions. However, the redesign did not come without its challenges; reconfiguring the tower to accommodate modern amenities has made fulfilling these requests a complex but exciting endeavor.
Setting the Stage for Future Events
In addition to appealing to the upscale traveler, Pier Sixty-Six positions itself as a prime destination for significant events, such as the annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. With an impressive 42,000 square feet of versatile meeting and event space, the property boasts three ballrooms capable of accommodating a variety of gatherings, from intimate meetings to elaborate celebrations.
Although the resort does not boast direct beach access, Boreing guarantees convenient transport options for guests wishing to bask on the sandy shores of Fort Lauderdale. With an extensive marketing strategy that includes partnerships with travel consultants, the new Pier Sixty-Six is on track to redefine luxury travel experiences in Fort Lauderdale.
This vibrant resurgence encapsulates a balance of nostalgia, innovation, and luxury that Fort Lauderdale’s visitors will undoubtedly embrace.