A waterfront hotel in Long Beach is set to relaunch this summer as The Maya following a $10.5 million renovation that updates guest accommodations, public areas and food and beverage offerings.
The California hotel originally opened in 1975 as the Queensbay Hilton and has undergone multiple renovations, including upgrades in 2009 and 2015. The repositioning coincides with the property’s 50th anniversary and marks a transition to independent operations.
The renovation includes redesigned guestrooms, a reconfigured arrival experience and a new direction for the hotel’s signature lounge and bar, Fuego. Kam Babaoff—founding partner of Long Beach, Calif.-based Ensemble and owner of the property—also plans to introduce a series of partnerships and on-property programming.
“The Maya has been a defining part of the Long Beach waterfront for half a century,” Babaoff said in a statement. “This next chapter represents more than just a design transformation; it’s a continued investment in the growth of Long Beach’s tourism landscape and a reaffirmation of our commitment to creating spaces that celebrate community, culture and connection.”
“As we look ahead to this next chapter, our goal is to elevate every touchpoint of the guest experience,” added Greg Guthrie, general manager of The Maya.
Design updates draw on coastal influences and a contemporary Latin aesthetic, incorporating natural materials and a more subdued color palette. The project seeks to maintain elements of the property’s established identity while modernizing accommodations and shared spaces.
In addition to physical upgrades, the hotel plans to implement a calendar of programming that includes live music, film-based dining events and wellness sessions in partnership with The DEN Meditation. Seasonal poolside activations and collaborations with local lifestyle brands are also planned.
The property’s 191 guestrooms and suites have been redesigned by Dyelot Interiors, a Long Beach, Calif.-based firm. Updates include new finishes, walk-in showers and in-room amenities such as coffee makers. The renovation adds eight one-bedroom suites, bringing the total suite count to 10, including the Presidential and Loft suites.
Public areas have been reconfigured to improve circulation and expand seating. The lobby now includes additional retail space and open seating areas. At Fuego, the redesign introduces a lounge-focused concept with expanded indoor-outdoor connectivity, new furnishings and firepit features.