Margaritaville Beach Hotel Set to Reopen After Hurricane Sally Damage
The Margaritaville Beach Hotel, a beloved destination on Pensacola Beach inspired by the laid-back vibes of Jimmy Buffett, is preparing to welcome guests once again after a two-month closure due to significant damage from Hurricane Sally. The hotel is set to reopen during the week of Thanksgiving, just in time for the holiday season.
Damage Assessment and Repairs
Hurricane Sally wreaked havoc on the hotel, particularly affecting its elevators, which were severely damaged by floodwaters. The hotel, which is built on two levels of parking garage, faced challenges in providing access to guest rooms without functional elevators. Summer Smith, the hotel’s director of marketing and activities, explained, "That didn’t allow us to have guests just because we wouldn’t be able to get them up to their rooms."
While the hotel has made strides in repairs, not all areas will be reopening. The Landshark Landing bar, a popular spot for guests, will remain closed this year due to extensive storm damage caused by the hurricane’s winds, which blew in the garage doors protecting the bar. However, the Frank and Lola Love Pensacola Café will be operational, offering guests a taste of local cuisine.
Preparing for Guests
As the reopening date approaches, the hotel staff is busy preparing for guests. Smith mentioned that they are currently deep cleaning the rooms and making minor touch-ups to ensure everything is in pristine condition. Although the total cost of the damage remains unknown, the focus is now on creating a welcoming environment for visitors.
Anticipating a Different Holiday Season
Typically, Margaritaville Beach Hotel enjoys high occupancy rates during the Thanksgiving holiday, often reaching 80% to 100% bookings. However, this year presents unique challenges. The ongoing closure of the Pensacola Bay Bridge and the resurgence of COVID-19 cases in the area are expected to impact guest bookings. Smith noted that people usually make reservations about 30 days in advance, but this year, she anticipates shorter stays and last-minute bookings due to the current circumstances.
"We just really hope that our guests enjoy themselves while they’re here and they’re able to come and feel safe," Smith stated. The hotel will continue to implement COVID-19 safety protocols, including mandatory face coverings for guests aged two and older in public indoor spaces.
Safety Measures and Staff Readiness
In addition to mask mandates, the hotel is reinstating several health and safety measures that were in place prior to the hurricane. These include staff temperature checks before shifts, hand sanitizing stations throughout public areas, and a redesign of spaces to promote social distancing.
Smith expressed optimism that most of the hotel’s staff would return to work, although their hours may be limited due to the off-season for tourism at Pensacola Beach. "It’s not easy, and we’re just happy to reopen at least and bring our staff back and provide jobs and provide a place for our guests to feel comfortable and enjoy themselves," she said.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the excitement surrounding the reopening, Smith acknowledged that the closure of the bridge will significantly impact business. "The bridge is going to really really hurt us, and I honestly feel for all the small shops and restaurants in Gulf Breeze because they’re the ones really hurting," she remarked. The dual challenges of navigating a pandemic and recovering from a hurricane have created a tough environment for local businesses.
As the Margaritaville Beach Hotel prepares to reopen its doors, the hope is to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for guests while supporting the local community in its recovery efforts. The resilience of the hotel staff and the spirit of the Pensacola Beach community will undoubtedly play a crucial role in overcoming the challenges ahead.
For those looking to escape to a tropical paradise this Thanksgiving, the Margaritaville Beach Hotel is ready to welcome you back, albeit with a few adjustments to ensure safety and comfort.