The Thunderbird Beach Resort, a historic landmark on Treasure Island since its opening in 1957, is slated for demolition to make way for a modern redevelopment. The resort, located at 10700 Gulf Blvd., has been a cherished part of the community for nearly seven decades, known for its retro charm and beachfront access along 310 linear feet of Gulf of Mexico shoreline.

The property was sold in June 2021 for $25.5 million to Thunderbird TI Holdings LLC, a Hollywood, Florida-based investment group, ending 50 years of ownership by the King family. The adjacent Best Western Sea Castle Suites at 10750 Gulf Blvd. was also part of the $32.5 million deal. The new owners have now finalized plans to raze the existing 106-room structure and replace it with a contemporary resort designed to meet modern traveler expectations while preserving the nostalgic essence of the original Thunderbird.

The redevelopment will feature a new seven-story building with 90 rooms, a rooftop bar, a beachfront pool, and updated dining options. The project aims to blend modern amenities with the mid-century aesthetic that made the Thunderbird a beloved destination, incorporating elements like neon signage and vibrant colors reminiscent of its 1950s origins. Construction is expected to begin later this year, with completion projected for late 2026, pending approval from the Treasure Island City Commission.

The Thunderbird has faced challenges in recent years, including significant damage from Hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024, which flooded first-floor rooms and forced temporary closures. The resort, already in need of updates to meet current building codes and guest expectations, was deemed more cost-effective to rebuild than renovate. The decision reflects a broader trend of revitalization along Treasure Island’s coastline, where other properties like the Sirata Beach Resort and Postcard Inn have also undergone major transformations in recent years.

Local residents have mixed feelings about the project. Some welcome the modernization, citing the need for updated facilities to attract tourists, while others lament the loss of a piece of Treasure Island’s history. The Thunderbird’s iconic neon sign, a symbol of the area’s mid-century heyday, will be preserved and integrated into the new design as a nod to its legacy.

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(Image credit: Thunderbird Beach Resort)

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