Travel & Recreation
Latest coverage, analysis and business news from Tampa Bay Business and Wealth.
Saddlebrook Resort has entered the next phase of its $92 million transformation, unveiling new details about renovations to its event spaces, golf courses and guest amenities. The updates mark progress since Mast Capital secured renovation financing late last year. The 480-acre resort, located about 30 minutes north of Tampa, first announced its renovation plans in … Read more
Margaritaville at Sea Islander has unveiled its 2027 cruise schedule, featuring several new itineraries, including the brand’s first 8-night voyages and its first overnight stay in New Orleans. Sailing from Port Tampa Bay, the Islander will offer a variety of four- to 10-night cruises with expanded destinations in Mexico, the Caribbean and the Bahamas. Among … Read more
The Pinellas County Commission has adopted a new ordinance aimed at increasing oversight and accountability for short-term rental properties in unincorporated areas of the county. The ordinance establishes a certification process for rental owners, sets safety and occupancy requirements and outlines rules on parking, noise and inspections. The goal is to preserve quality of life … Read more
LEGOLAND Florida Resort provided an early look at its upcoming SEA LIFE Florida Aquarium, during a behind-the-scenes hard hat tour. The new attraction, described as the world’s first “Theme Park Under the Sea,” is scheduled to open on May 23, 2025. “SEA LIFE Florida is designed to be a child’s first aquarium experience,” said Franceen … Read more
Hillsborough County’s tourism industry hit another milestone, in 2024, generating a record $1.16 billion in taxable hotel revenue, according to Visit Tampa Bay. The figure marks an $80 million, or 7.4%, increase from the previous record set in 2023. This is the county’s third consecutive year surpassing $1 billion in hotel revenue and the fourth … Read more
St. Petersburg has a new place to gather, stay and play with the arrival of Moxy St. Pete. Developed through a partnership between PTM Partners and DoveHill, and managed by the Wurzak Hotel Group, the hotel brings Marriott’s Moxy brand to the heart of the city. The property joins the landscape near Tropicana Field, seamlessly … Read more
Peak Surf Park plans a surf-focused destination in Pasco County as part of a large-scale mixed-use development, targeting a 2027 opening.
St. Regis Hotels & Resorts has opened The St. Regis Longboat Key Resort, the largest development on the island in 50 years. The beachfront resort, developed by Unicorp National Developments, features design work by 10 Design, HBA Miami and Dutch East Design. The resort spans 18 acres with 800 feet of private beach, offering luxury … Read more
In mid-June, Kris Hallstrand did something not out of character for an airport executive: she boarded a plane and took a flight. But this was no ordinary flight – for Hallstrand, her airport or its community. That Lakeland to New Haven, Connecticut trip was the first commercial outbound flight for the Lakeland Linder International Airport, … Read more
Oasis Bay Suites, located in the middle of northern Tampa’s “amusement district,” has announced that its grand opening will take place July 1st. The fully renovated hotel will feature 155 guest suites overlooking the pool surrounded by tropical landscaping, an expansive sundeck, cabana and restaurant and bar. Each pet-friendly two-room suite features a decorated living … Read more
