The Don CeSar
This Moorish-style “Pink Palace” on the National Register of Historic Places has a rich history dating back to the Gatsby era (author F. Scott Fitzgerald actually stayed here). Sitting majestically on 7.5 acres of beachfront, this recently revamped landmark’s lobby has classic high windows and archways, crystal chandeliers, marble floors, and original artwork. The 277 rooms have also been freshened up and are light and airy with good beds and fun flamingo-themed wallpaper. Rooms under the minarets of the original building are a bit smaller, but they offer views of the Gulf or Boca Ciega Bay. Some have balconies. If you want more space but less charm, go for one of the resort’s luxe condos in the Beach House Suites by the Don Cesar, a midrise building [bf]3/4 mile to the north (there’s 24-hr. complimentary transportation between the two). Back at The Don, as it’s known, the two beachfront pools and an 11,000 square-foot spa have been joined by the brand-new Beacon Pool Bar & Lookout (dazzling views). The once musty, stuffy lobby bar has been transformed into a swellegant, 1920s-looking bar with stiff drinks and live jazz. The award-winning Maritana restaurant serves very fresh seafood. There’s also a beach bar with fire pits, an ice cream shop and market, and another restaurant. The beach is spectacular, as is the service there, whether its kids’ activities on the sands or outdoor yoga classes. The $40 plus tax resort fee covers bikes and non-motorized watersports rentals. The hotel is completely cashless and accepts only credit cards for payment.
This Moorish-style “Pink Palace” on the National Register of Historic Places has a rich history dating back to the Gatsby era (author F. Scott Fitzgerald actually stayed here). Sitting majestically on 7.5 acres of beachfront, this recently revamped landmark’s lobby has classic high windows and archways, crystal chandeliers, marble floors, and original artwork. The 277 rooms have also been freshened up and are light and airy with good beds and fun flamingo-themed wallpaper. Rooms under the minarets of the original building are a bit smaller, but they offer views of the Gulf or Boca Ciega Bay. Some have balconies. If you want more space but less charm, go for one of the resort’s luxe condos in the Beach House Suites by the Don Cesar, a midrise building [bf]3/4 mile to the north (there’s 24-hr. complimentary transportation between the two). Back at The Don, as it’s known, the two beachfront pools and an 11,000 square-foot spa have been joined by the brand-new Beacon Pool Bar & Lookout (dazzling views). The once musty, stuffy lobby bar has been transformed into a swellegant, 1920s-looking bar with stiff drinks and live jazz. The award-winning Maritana restaurant serves very fresh seafood. There’s also a beach bar with fire pits, an ice cream shop and market, and another restaurant. The beach is spectacular, as is the service there, whether its kids’ activities on the sands or outdoor yoga classes. The $40 plus tax resort fee covers bikes and non-motorized watersports rentals. The hotel is completely cashless and accepts only credit cards for payment.
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