News Summary
SkyBeach Resort in St. Petersburg, Florida, has appointed JoAnna Halpin as its new Director of Sales to enhance its market position in luxury hospitality. With over 20 years of experience, Halpin will focus on driving group bookings, promoting client partnerships, and planning large events. The resort, recently renovated, offers modern amenities and plans to launch a new dining concept, SouthSeas Tapas, in 2025, aiming for a unique coastal experience that caters to guests’ desires.
St. Petersburg, Florida — SkyBeach Resort has officially appointed JoAnna Halpin as its new Director of Sales, a move aimed at enhancing the resort’s position in the competitive hospitality market of Florida, especially in the realm of luxury coastal getaways. Halpin, who has more than 20 years of experience in hospitality sales leadership, will be charged with driving group bookings, cultivating client partnerships, and securing large-scale events.
SkyBeach Resort is located on an impressive 18 acres of beachfront property at the southern tip of St. Petersburg. The resort was completely renovated and reopened its doors in July 2024 after being acquired by WRDC in 2022. It now boasts 113 redesigned guest rooms and a modern lobby, designed to offer a welcoming and luxurious experience.
With over 6,200 square feet of indoor meeting space and flexible outdoor event venues, SkyBeach aims to attract high-value events while redefining the luxury getaway experience in the U.S. Southeast. Halpin’s experience spans major U.S. markets, including Los Angeles, San Diego, Boston, and Nashville, making her well-equipped to understand diverse client needs and preferences.
Halpin will also oversee the marketing strategy for the resort’s upcoming upscale dining concept called SouthSeas Tapas, scheduled to launch in late 2025. This new restaurant will pay homage to the resort’s legacy as the former Outrigger Inn, known for its Polynesian cuisine. SouthSeas Tapas aims to blend elevated coastal flavors with a nostalgic atmosphere, appealing to both locals and tourists seeking unique dining experiences.
In her role, Halpin will focus on marketing SouthSeas Tapas to corporate groups, wedding planners, and long-stay guests, enhancing the resort’s appeal as a holistic lifestyle destination. The dining strategy is designed to ensure that SkyBeach offers more than just accommodations; it seeks to create curated guest experiences that resonate with the community and local culture.
Halpin’s hospitality journey began at Boston College, where she participated in the Walt Disney World College Program, igniting a passion for the industry. She is widely recognized for her ability to build strong client relationships and her strategic approach to anticipating and responding to market trends. This expertise aligns with SkyBeach’s goals of adapting its culture to embody a blend of polished and purposeful hospitality.
In addition to her sales responsibilities, Halpin is committed to community engagement and social responsibility, having advocated for pet adoption initiatives at her previous properties. This aligns with the resort’s intention to engage in local initiatives while providing luxurious stays for discerning travelers.
WRDC’s investment in SkyBeach Resort, coupled with Halpin’s extensive background in hospitality sales, positions the resort to strengthen its foothold in the competitive Florida market. The management team is optimistic that Halpin’s leadership will enhance the resort’s reputation and drive growth in both group and event bookings.
As SkyBeach Resort embarks on this new chapter with JoAnna Halpin at the helm, all eyes are on the transformation and elevation of luxury coastal getaways in the vibrant city of St. Petersburg.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Local Family Getaways in St. Petersburg and Tampa Bay
St. Petersburg Welcomes New Coffee Haven
Additional Resources
- Travel and Tour World
- Wikipedia: St. Petersburg, Florida
- Hotel Online
- Google Search: SkyBeach Resort
- Boutique Hotelier
- Google Scholar: Joanna Halpin
- St. Pete Catalyst
- Encyclopedia Britannica: SkyBeach Resort
Author: STAFF HERE PETERSBURG WRITER
ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER The ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREStPetersburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in St Petersburg, Pinellas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, Localtopia, and SHINE Mural Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce and St. Pete Downtown Partnership, plus leading businesses in finance, manufacturing, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Raymond James Financial, Jabil, and Bayfront Health St. Petersburg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
