South Seas announces proposed redevelopment plan
South Seas recently unveiled its redevelopment plan, adding that it maintains the historic character and coastal charm that defines Captiva, while modernizing the property to enhance the guest experience.
“Our goal is to preserve and celebrate the history of South Seas, while adding amenities, building more current hotels, luxury residential and improving overall aesthetics,” South Seas Ownership Group President Greg Spencer said in a prepared statement. “It’s a thoughtful fresh approach that will restore a sense of coastal grandeur.”
The zoning application — a requirement as the resort rebuilds after Hurricane Ian — proposes that structures would be rebuilt up to 45 feet above the minimum permittable habitable floor and include up to three stories over parking or commercial space. South Seas reported that its commitment to environmental sustainability and conservation will be reflected in the building and golf course design, restoration of the Red Fish Pass revetment, reconstruction of the fishing pier and other initiatives. The proposed plan also maintains all existing preservation space and wetlands.
Spencer presented the redevelopment plan to owners on Dec. 14, prior to submitting the zoning application to Lee County. The new structures would be built to withstand 185 mph winds, with ample flood protection.
South Seas reported that under the proposal, it would maintain its existing approval to develop up to 272 residential units by building new waterfront condominiums. It would include the construction of the north hotel with 185 to 225 hotel keys, replacing the Harborside Hotel, and the south hotel with 180 to 210 hotel keys, replacing the conference center. Both of those buildings were damaged during Ian.
The plan breaks down the proposed enhancements into two areas:
SOUTH END
– New Captiva Landing amenity with water slide, lazy river, cove pool, Flippers restaurant, arcade and Camptiva kids’ club
– Captiva Landing marina with water sports programming and potential for interpretive trail
– Centralized resort services building
– Beachfront condominium
– Hotel with event space
– Eco-friendly, all-electric golf cart rental space
– New concept for Shops at South Seas with mix of national retailers and local businesses
NORTH END
– Hotel
– Beachfront condominium
– Bayfront condominium
– Newly envisioned short golf course, The Clutch
– South Seas Spa & Fitness Center
– Beachfront restaurant, The Beach House
– Re-engineered stormwater and drainage system
The resort added that some redevelopment initiatives were in the planning phase prior to Ian. Under its new leadership, the resort’s investment in the proposed improvements would reach the high nine figures.
“We desire to be the No. 1 family resort not just in Florida, but throughout the nation,” Spencer said in the statement. “Some of these proposed upgrades were years overdue, but our vision for South Seas is to recapture our place as the favorite vacation destination of families for generations to come.”
South Seas is at 5400 Plantation Road, Captiva.