The historic Don Cesar Hotel in St. Pete welcomed guests back yesterday in a limited capacity, more than six months after sustaining significant damage from Hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024.

The 1920s Gatsby-Era building suffered extensive harm, prompting the hotel’s management to opt for a gradual reopening. As of yesterday, guests can access the Maritana Restaurant, spa, Lobby Bar, beach, pool, and poolside dining. Room reservations will be available starting April 1.

Renovations are ongoing, with the newly designed ballroom, remaining restaurants, bars, and shopping boutiques expected to be completed over the next several months.

In its 97-year history, this marks the first time the Don Cesar has faced severe hurricane damage. Constructed in the late 1920s, the hotel was purchased by the U.S. Army in the 1940s for use as a sub-base hospital. It later fell into disrepair until a restoration in the early 1970s revitalized it.

Since its revival, the Don Cesar has become a cherished symbol of Pinellas County’s beach community. Charlie Justice from the Tampa Bay Beaches Chamber of Commerce emphasized the significance of the reopening, stating, “It’s a sign that we’re back and the beaches are ready. It sends a message to the entire Tampa Bay community and beyond: ‘Come visit—our doors are open.’”

Repairs and upgrades to parts of the hotel will continue through the fall.

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(Image credit: The Don Cesar website)

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