St. Pete resort’s transformation nears completion 

A sprawling waterfront resort in St. Petersburg’s Skyway Marina District has unveiled several new public and private amenities.

Recently completed enhancements at SkyBeach Resort include a reimagined lobby, a new event center and a Paradeco Coffee Roasters cafe. An upscale dining concept will open later this year.

The 18-acre property, formerly known as the Magnuson Hotel Marina Cove, also features public pickleball and volleyball courts, a stage for live music, a marina and the Skybar + Grille. Pennsylvania-based Willner Realty and Development Company (WRDC) bought the resort and several adjacent parcels for roughly $17 million in 2022.

WRDC launched a comprehensive renovation project and reopened as SkyBeach in July 2024. Hurricanes Helene and Milton subsequently disrupted the ongoing work.

“Renovations were already underway when the hurricanes hit and caused some damage to the property, prompting us to fast-track the process,” said CEO Ben Willner. “In many ways, it turned out to be a silver lining – everything came together ahead of schedule, and we couldn’t be happier with the results and fresh, elevated direction we’re now heading in.”

The SkyBeach Event Center features a 4,228-square-foot ballroom. Photo: The Dana Agency.

WRDC would not share the renovation project’s price tag. Charleston Bay Interiors designed the reimagined lobby featuring a custom accent wall applied in authentic Venetian plaster by local artist Jesse Wilhelm of JW Murals.

The 6,260-square-foot SkyBeach Event Center features a grand ballroom that can accommodate 250 guests and three smaller, coastal-inspired spaces. Paradeco Coffee, known for its popular downtown cafe, chose the resort for its second location.

In a prepared statement, owners Sonya and Thomas Maloney said SkyBeach felt like a “perfect fit” for Paradeco’s blend of “paradise with an art deco vibe.” The husband and wife duo are also “excited to bring something new to South St. Pete and be part of the area’s growth.”

“When we first visited the hotel, we immediately saw the opportunity – the renovation is beautiful, and the views are breathtaking,” they said. “Being able to watch the sunrise over the bay with a great cup of coffee in hand is exactly the kind of experience we want to offer.”

SouthSeas Tapas will pay tribute to the property’s legacy as the former Outrigger Inn, a Polynesian-themed dining and entertainment venue, when the restaurant opens later this year. Executive chef Tom Legg will lead the elevated take on coastal dining.

“We’re in a prime location right on Tampa Bay with completely unobstructed views of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks,” Willner said. “The setting is absolutely stunning and incredibly unique.”

The SouthSide Sports facility features 12 pickleball courts. Photo: The Dana Agency.

In addition to the private beach, guests can arrive by boat, take a fishing charter at the 29-slip marina or explore nearby mangroves via paddleboard or kayak.

The SouthSide Sports facility and its 12 pickleball courts, four professional beach volleyball courts and a tennis court are also open to the public. Eduardo Ferreira, a former top 100-ranked tennis player, oversees operations.

Willner noted the Skyway Marina District offers a peaceful and scenic atmosphere that feels like an escape from the city despite its proximity to downtown St. Petersburg. He said that balance makes the area and resort an ideal location to host a wide range of events.

“We’re beyond thrilled to welcome guests and visitors to experience this exciting new chapter of SkyBeach Resort.”

The public SkyBar + Grille overlooks the resort’s private beach. Photo: The Dana Agency.

The 144-key Magnuson closed in 2020. Skybeach has reopened with 113 upgraded guest rooms.

Local visitors can utilize SkyBeach’s pools, daybeds and private cabanas through ResortPass, and SkyBar + Grille is open to everyone, and features live music Friday through Sunday.

Willner said watching his plans for the property come to life has been “incredibly fulfilling.

“From the start, we had a vision to create something that brought together all the things that make St. Pete unique, whether that’s playing pickleball, catching live music, enjoying local art or just hanging out over great food and drinks. We wanted it to be a place where everyone feels welcome, where people from all walks of life can come together and have a great time.”

The Sunshine Skyway Bridge as seen from SkyBeach Resort. Photo by Mark Parker.