Signia by Hilton Diplomat Beach debuts following $80M renovation

The Diplomat Beach Resort has officially reopened as Signia by Hilton Diplomat Beach Resort, marking a new chapter for one of South Florida’s most recognizable beachfront landmarks.

The Hollywood, Fla., resort debuted under Hilton’s growing Signia by Hilton brand on May 1, following an $80 million renovation that repositioned the 1,000-room property with upgraded public spaces, expanded dining concepts and new amenities tailored to both leisure travelers and large-scale meetings and events.

“The Diplomat has long been one of South Florida’s most iconic properties, and this transformation marks an important next chapter—not just for the hotel, but for Hilton’s continued growth in the region,” Hilton President and CEO Chris Nassetta said in a statement. “As we expand Signia by Hilton in key gateway and resort destinations, this property is a great example of how we’re building on strong foundations to meet what today’s travelers are looking for—thoughtful design, standout dining and unforgettable experiences.”

Originally opened in 1958, the resort entered its latest evolution after being acquired by Trinity Investments in 2023. The rebranding aligns the property with Signia by Hilton’s portfolio of what the company describes as approachable luxury hotels designed to blend refined style, social energy and experience-driven programming.

“Working alongside Hilton, we’ve focused on making thoughtful, strategic investments across the resort,” said Sean Hehir, managing partner, president and CEO of Trinity Investments. “Our goal was to enhance the property’s positioning, build on its enduring legacy and strengthen its standing as one of South Florida’s leading beachfront destinations.”

Design Refresh

The renovation focused heavily on public areas, beginning with a redesigned lobby conceived as a social hub rather than a traditional arrival space. Bathed in natural light and layered with greenery, lounge seating, communal tables and intimate work-and-meet zones, the lobby is designed to transition easily from daytime work sessions to evening gatherings.

Just beyond the lobby, the resort introduced The Verandah, a reimagined oceanfront destination centered on South Florida’s indoor-outdoor lifestyle. The expansive deck includes the Solara Infinity Pool, an updated Grand Lagoon Pool, upgraded cabanas and daybeds, a new oceanfront jacuzzi and the adults-only Verandah Social Club. A newly created Horizon Lawn adds flexible outdoor event space overlooking the Atlantic.

Together with 1,000 linear feet of semi-private beach, the redesigned outdoor areas reinforce the resort’s positioning as both a destination resort and a large-scale event venue.

Culinary Repositioning

Food and beverage has become a defining element of the relaunch, with six updated dining venues introduced earlier this year under the direction of culinary director Miguel Santiago.

According to Hilton executives, the concepts reflect the brand’s emphasis on chef-driven restaurants that appeal to both resort guests and local diners.

“Signia by Hilton Diplomat Beach Resort represents a defining moment for the Signia by Hilton brand as we continue our pivotal phase of growth,” said Meghan Fitzgerald, global brand leader, Signia by Hilton. “This opening introduces a new kind of luxury stay—combining sophisticated design, exceptional service and world-class experiences that bring guests together in meaningful ways, from large-scale events to everyday moments.”

A key addition to the resort is Club Signia, an exclusive lounge experience located on the 33rd floor. Spanning more than 6,600 square feet of indoor and terrace space, the club has panoramic views of both the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway. Available to guests reserving select premium rooms and Hilton Honors Diamond Reserve members, Club Signia provides personalized pre-arrival service, curated daily food presentations, wellness-oriented menu options and priority access to resort amenities.

Another new feature, The Verandah Social Club, introduces an adults-only pool and cabana experience inspired by international beach clubs. Open to both hotel guests and locals via ResortPass, the social club includes private locker rooms, ocean-view seating, cabana service, caviar offerings and in-cabana spa treatments.

The Signia by Hilton brand currently includes properties in Atlanta, Orlando, San Antonio, San Jose and Amman, Jordan. Additional locations are planned in markets including Savannah, Indianapolis, Cairo, Jaipur and Tainan, Taiwan.