Celebrity-infused resort completes $35M post-Ian renovation of its spa

The Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa has reopened after what officials call a “top-to-bottom” $35 million renovation project — driven by suffering major damage from Hurricane Ian. 

The newly transformed Spa at Sanibel Harbour, according to a statement, is now a 40,000-square-foot, full-service spa, salon and fitness complex, featuring 28 treatment rooms, comprehensive spa treatments, coed spa experiences, a private bridal suite, full-day spa experiences and more. It also now includes recreation components such as eight new pickleball courts, three Har-Tru clay tennis courts, a basketball court and an indoor coed pool.

The ambiance is “modern luxe,” the release states, and the design theme is inspired by the coast, including teak, gray blue and green color palette. The renovation also includes a grand entrance, mixed mosaic tile flooring, wall treatments and teak-toned millwork throughout.

“We have been working diligently to redesign and rebuild our spa, which is an integral part of the Fort Myers and Sanibel Island wellness communities,” Spa Director Bryanna Weldy says in the statement. “We are excited to share all of the new offerings with residents through our membership program, and to visitors and resort guests.”

The Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa has long been a destination wedding location, hotel officials say, hosting up to 100 weddings a year. The Spa’s new bridal suite, which is attached to the spa, can accommodate up to 10 guests.

In addition to the spa, the hotel itself has a rich pedigree. It dates back to the Civil War and has hosted multiple high-profile guests, the release states, including comedians Jerry Seinfeld, Dave Chappelle, Steve Martin and Kevin Nealon; former MLB pitcher Andy Pettitte; Wheel of Fortune host Pat Sajak; and American artistic gymnast and social media personality Olivia "Livvy" Dunn. 

Crestview Hills, Kentucky-based Columbia Sussex, one of the largest Marriott franchisees in the country, owns and manages the property. Crestview Hills currently operates 41 hotels under three different brands nationwide, including the Hilton Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa in Clearwater and Marriott Tampa Westshore.