Pier Sixty-Six Hotel and Marina

The Challenge

Sixty years ago, Pier Sixty-Six was synonymous with mid-century coastal glamour: it served as a hotel, deep-water marina and fueling station along Fort Lauderdale’s Intracoastal Waterway. The iconic location drew celebrities and Floridians alike with its revolving rooftop restaurant and panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and downtown skyline. But in 2017 when the 17-story landmark bore the brunt of Hurricane Irma, Pier Sixty-Six began to fade, leading to exposure to the elements and neglect.

The hotel needed a new life, but through the COVID 19 pandemic and rising sea levels, the team was tasked with revitalizing this fading jewel into a legendary destination once again.

The Design Solution

The revived Pier Sixty-Six seamlessly blends preservation and forward-thinking design to create a destination where history and modernity converge.

Designers renovated the existing historic tower, which has 150 keys and a rotating restaurant at its crown that provides views of downtown and the Atlantic Ocean. In addition, the project created an additional 200-key, seven-story tower, redesigned podium, grand arrival entry and cascading multi-tier pool deck, elevating the hotel’s amenities and additional rooms. Guests also now have an array of dining options, from a casual poolside dining to a rooftop lounge with panoramic views.

Inspired by the luxury and majesty of the yachts gracing its marina, the design of the hotel expansion evokes “nautical escapism” at every turn.

The guestroom tower’s balconies sweep outward in fluid, boat-like curves, while floor-to-ceiling glass and shaded terraces frame views of the ocean and downtown skyline.

The materials echo the maritime theme with whitewashed plaster, sleek wood planks, stainless steel accents and expansive glass capturing the interplay of light and water. A rooftop captain’s lounge sits atop the podium, honoring the original tower’s iconic crown.

Three event venues combine state-of-the-art technology with extraordinary views, including one space with a retractable glass wall that opens onto a rooftop lawn.

The multi-tiered pool deck unfolds into three distinct experiences. The upper tier offers a vibrant social scene with club lounges and scenic terraces overlooking the skyline. The middle tier provides a secluded adult retreat, complete with private plunge pools, waterfalls and lush tropical landscaping. At the water’s edge overlooking the marina, a family-friendly beach-entry pool features a water slide and private cabanas.

With ongoing sea-level rise that is exacerbated with occasional king tides, the marina was raised several feet by rebuilding a new deck, raising the seawall and related infrastructure.

The Design Impact

By honoring Pier Sixty-Six’s historic roots while embracing modern innovation, the property achieves a balance of timeless elegance and contemporary allure.

Arriving guests are greeted by a 100-year-old banyan tree that anchors the entry plaza.

Pier Sixty-Six expresses the style and romance of a bygone era while also adding a contemporary flare, creating a guest experience that is uniquely South Florida.