Oct. 23–SANDESTIN — Construction recently started on a new multi-million dollar expansion and renovation project that will grow the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort and Spa’s conference center and spa features.
Part of the expansion includes building the new 7,500-square-foot Coastal Ballroom, which will be located on the same floor as the resort’s two existing ballrooms.
The new ballroom will be built out from the second floor and hang over the existing parking lot for the Seagar’s Prime Steak & Seafood restaurant.
“We wanted to ensure we had the ability to keep pace and tempo with some of our existing customers who have been enjoying a growth cycle,” said Richard Ross, vice president of sales and marketing for the Hilton Sandestin. “We wanted to make sure they had room to continue growing their programs and have the ability to book with us.”
When completed sometime in March, the Hilton Sandestin will have more than 24,000 square feet of ballroom space.
“Our goal is to try to drive more occupancy in our fall and spring months when leisure demand is not quite as high and we have more latitude and more ability to bring group customers to the destination,” Ross said.
Although the Serenity by the sea Spa had a partial renovation last year, it’s undergoing much larger changes this year.
The resort is adding 3,000 square feet, which will allow it to enhance and expand its services.
The fitness center is moving to a new footprint inside the spa, allowing guests to have 24-hour access to workout equipment.
The salon services are also being expanded. Nail services will have its own area, and hair, makeup and other salon areas will be larger.
Construction on the spa expansion is expected to be completed before the new ballroom.
A history of growth
This is the third consecutive year that the Hilton Sandestin has undertaken a major off-season renovation project.
In 2012, the resort completely renovated its conference center meeting spaces and Seagar’s restaurant. Last year, the lobby and public space, Sandcastles Restaurant and Lounge, Hadashi Sushi Bar, Spa Tower guest rooms and Serenity by the sea Spa were renovated and outside the porte-cochere was upgraded with a contemporary design and a new 160-space valet parking deck was added.
By the time the current expansion and renovation project is completed, which has an estimated price tag of $6.5 to $7 million, the Hilton Sandestin will have invested more than $26 million the past three years on upgrades to the property.
“It’s great timing for us given the 30th anniversary and we continue to modify and improve as we look forward to the next 30 years here in South Walton,” said the hotel’s Richard Ross.
Contact Daily News Business Editor Dusty Ricketts at 850-315-4448 or dricketts@nwfdailynews.com. Follow him on Twitter @DustyRnwfdn.
