The Dolphin Beach Resort, a landmark hotel situated in the heart of St. Pete Beach, Florida, has been sold for the first time in over four decades. This significant transaction marks a new chapter for one of the most beloved resorts on America’s top-rated beach. The Plasencia Group announced the successful sale on May 25, 2022, representing the long-term owners, Dolphin Holdings Limited, Inc. SCG Beach Hospitality, LLC, led by Bryan Glazer, is the new custodian of this exceptional property.
For over forty years, Dolphin Holdings Limited, Inc. has nurtured the Dolphin Beach Resort into an iconic destination. Nizar Lakhani, President of Dolphin Holdings Limited, Inc., expressed pride in their legacy, stating, “We have believed in the international appeal of the St. Pete Beach market since we arrived in the area in 1981, when we acquired the Dolphin Beach Resort.” He further conveyed confidence in the new ownership, adding, “We are pleased to be passing on the keys to the resort to Shanna and Bryan Glazer, a well-respected local family who we know will be great stewards.” This transition signifies a continued commitment to the resort’s legacy while ushering in a period of anticipated enhancements.
Bryan Glazer of SCG Beach Hospitality shared his enthusiasm for the acquisition and the future of the Dolphin Beach Resort St. Pete Beach. “St. Pete Beach is the #1 beach in the United States, and we think that the future will only get better for the area,” Glazer remarked. “We look forward to maximizing the potential that we believe the Dolphin Beach Resort offers.” This purchase underscores Glazer’s growing investment in the St. Petersburg area, following the acquisition of The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club in 2018. The Vinoy is currently undergoing extensive renovations, and similar revitalization plans are anticipated for the Dolphin Beach Resort, promising a renewed and elevated guest experience.
The sale of Dolphin Beach Resort St. Pete Beach was expertly facilitated by Nick Plasencia and Chris Plasencia of The Plasencia Group. This transaction highlights the firm’s expertise in the Florida hospitality market, where they have managed the sale and financing of over 2,500 hotel rooms in the past year alone. Nick Plasencia emphasized the resort’s prime location, commenting, “The Dolphin Beach Resort enjoys pride of place at the heart of St. Pete Beach, one of the nation’s most attractive lodging destinations.” He added anticipation for the future, stating, “We look forward to seeing what the Glazers have in store for this generational resort.”
Florida’s thriving economy and the Tampa Bay Area’s rapid growth contribute to the allure of investments like the Dolphin Beach Resort. With factors such as a favorable business environment, attractive cost of living, and increasing domestic and international accessibility, Florida continues to draw significant interest and investment. The acquisition of the Dolphin Beach Resort St. Pete Beach is a testament to the enduring appeal and future prospects of this premier Gulf Coast destination.
About The Plasencia Group
The Plasencia Group is a leading lodging investment advisory firm providing comprehensive services to hotel and resort owners across North America. Established in 1993, the firm specializes in transaction services, capital markets, asset management, and development management consulting. They are recognized for their involvement in some of the most noteworthy hospitality transactions in North America.
