St. Pete Beach, Fla.'s Don CeSar, popularly known as the Pink Palace, has emerged from its multimillion-dollar renovation. Managed by Davidson Resorts, The Don CeSar’s renovation celebrates its 93-year history while incorporating modern amenities.
“We’re excited to usher in The Don of a new era while maintaining our resilient legacy as a global hospitality leader,” said Thomas Fraher, the Don CeSar’s GM. “Through the decades, The Don has been a luxurious respite from life’s many challenges. We’re thrilled to revive and honor this prestigious landmark, and also offer a stunning gathering place for visitors to reconnect at a time when rejuvenation is most important.”
The redesign of the hotel began in 2018 when Florida-based design studio Edge of Architecture updated the hotel’s meeting spaces, guest corridors, exteriors and the 71-room Beach House Suites by The Don CeSar. In 2019, The Don partnered with Boston-based Parker-Torres Design to update The Don Boutiques retail experience, The Lobby Bar, Uncle Andy’s Market and Maritana, the property’s fine dining restaurant helmed by executive chef Emily Ferrari.
The final phase, unveiled this month, touched on the resort’s 277 rooms and suites and added a new pool bar with a rooftop deck, new full-service restaurant and a complete restoration of the palm tree-lined front drive.
The newly appointed guestrooms incorporate a beach-inspired aesthetic using elements such as wicker, whitewashed headboards and airy, blush tones reflective of the hotel facade’s signature pink. The Beacon Pool Bar & Lookout was inspired by The Don CeSar’s status as a nautical marker.
