While news of the monumental $500 million redevelopment plans for TradeWinds Island Resorts in St. Pete Beach dominates headlines, a less heralded but equally compelling transformation has been revealed just up the coast and is now ready for you to visit!

An extreme makeover for 30+ year old property

With a 30 plus year history on the coastline, the DoubleTree Beach Resort by Hilton located at 17120 Gulf Blvd, North Redington Beach has been recognized on TripAdvisor for great beach access and “delightful” breakfasts, while also being a bit dated. 

As TradeWinds maps out a multi-year vision, the DoubleTree’s newest owners are revealing the results of a “floor to ceiling” modernization for the 7-story, 125 room hotel aimed at elevating the Pinellas County’s hospitality scene with radiant hues, enhanced amenities, and modernized space that retains the coastal allure it’s known for.

Contemporary themes with waterfront views offered on either side 

Guest rooms, many of which open onto balconies with Gulf or Boca Ciega Bay views, feature updated furnishings, remodeled bathrooms, and in-room amenities like refrigerators and microwaves. Throughout the resort, nautical charm is evident in details like shiplap paneling and rope screens, complemented by sophisticated millwork and custom tile flooring and beach-inspired artwork. Additional upgrades include a new fitness center, enhanced meeting spaces boasting ocean views, and a revitalized pool deck, completing the resort’s transformation into a refined yet inviting beachfront haven.

A restaurant concept that’s unique to the new owners

The newly opened Coconut Charlie’s Beach Bar & Grill, is a concept unique to the owners’ other properties in Panama City Beach and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. It promises to welcome hotel guests and locals to enjoy a fresh dining experience that blends casual bites with elevated cuisine against the backdrop of the Gulf’s shimmering waters with an expansive list of handcrafted cocktails, boozy slushies and local brews. 

For visitors and locals, the revamped DoubleTree offers a timely reminder that innovation need not always be measured in scale. In the vibrant and competitive landscape of Florida’s Gulf Coast, its strategic renovations make it a preview to the grand visions of the future.

In July 2022, the Business Observer reported the DoubleTree Beach Resort was sold by its longtime owner to South Carolina developer OTO Development, paving the way for the extensive renovations. 

South Carolina-based OTO Development, a subsidiary of The Johnson Group, has a history of developing and managing top-tier hotels in partnership with Hilton, Hyatt, IHG, and Marriott. The company focuses on competitive markets and the revitalization of existing properties, and and owns/operates 60 hotels comprising approximately 9,500 room keys.

What to read next:

• St. Pete shines in The Throwback as local film industry eyes new growth
• Brewery and Maine-style oyster bar to open in Pinellas Park
• Mahuffer’s, the wurst dive-bar experience in Indian Shores
• Trader Joe’s plans major Pinellas County expansion