The St. Regis Longboat Key Resort opened today on Longboat Key, a barrier island off Sarasota, Florida.

Spanning 18 acres of white sand beachfront, the luxury resort was developed by Unicorp National Developments, with architectural design by 10 Design and interiors by Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA Miami) and Dutch East Design. It is the largest development on Longboat Key in half a century.

“St. Regis is proud to celebrate a remarkable 120-year legacy, offering the ‘best address’ in the world’s most captivating destinations,” said Jenni Benzaquen, senior vice-president of St. Regis, The Ritz-Carlton, and Bvlgari Hotels & Resorts. “We are excited to bring the renowned St. Regis experience to Longboat Key, known for its breathtaking natural beauty, spectacular beachfront and vibrant social scene. St. Regis is synonymous with timeless elegance and exquisite experiences, and we look forward to welcoming guests to another iconic destination in our global portfolio.”

Highlights of St. Regis Longboat Key include:

• 168 rooms and 26 suites with ocean views, a rainfall shower, a freestanding bathtub, a spacious walk-in closet and signature St. Regis Butler Service in every room;
• a 3,432-square-foot Presidential Suite, featuring a sprawling private terrace with views of the Gulf of Mexico;
• seven distinct dining venues, including CW Prime, the resort’s signature steakhouse, an interactive pasta bar called Riva, and a rooftop lounge – Oshen – serving cocktails and small plates infused with Japanese and Peruvian influences;
• The St. Regis Spa, a 20,000-square-foot beach-front retreat with 14 treatment rooms, a hydrothermal area, a Finnish sauna, a eucalyptus steam room, a snow shower, vitality waters, cold plunge, and sensorial showers;
• exclusive access to 800 feet of private beach;
• a central courtyard called “The Pools,” featuring an array of swimming pools (family-friendly, adults-only), luxury loungers and personal cabanas;
• the “Grotto,” a secluded oasis with jacuzzi jets and personalized champagne service at the touch of a button;
• Under the Sea Lagoon, a 500,000-gallon habitat where guests can swim and interact with 40 stingrays, more than 2,800 local reef fish, and two giant Aldabra tortoises, guided by the property’s resident marine biologists;
• and a boutique (opening this fall) from luxury French swimwear brand Vilebrequin.

The St. Regis Longboat Key Resort also offers 34,000 square feet of event space across 10 versatile rooms, including 18,000 square feet of beachfront access. The Astor Ballroom and The St. Regis Longboat Key Ballroom each accommodate up to 750 guests.

“Reflecting the St. Regis’ legacy of excellence, The St. Regis Longboat Key Resort stands out as a new symbol of resort glamour,” said Winfred van Workum, general manager, The St. Regis Longboat Key Resort. “This spectacular resort offers a global experience you would typically need a passport to enjoy, but it’s right here on some of the country’s finest beaches. We look forward to welcoming guests from near and far to experience our newest destination.”