Treasure Island’s iconic Thunderbird Beach Resort has been out of commission since the devastating storm season that brought Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Last month, a statement released by the resort’s owners, Avi and Gilad Ovaknin, clarified the situation: with the considerable damage done to the resort, it will have to be demolished and then rebuilt.
“We are committed to rebuilding the Thunderbird Beach Resort with the same heart, soul, and charm that guests have come to love—while enhancing the property to be more resilient to the challenges posed by severe weather,” said the statement, posted on the resort’s Facebook page. “The resort’s iconic name and neon signage will remain, and our redesigned beachfront resort will continue to offer direct beach access and the welcoming atmosphere that has defined the Thunderbird for decades.”
An icon on Treasure Island for well over half a century, the resort will be hard to see go for many locals. According to the Ovaknins’ statement, 80% of the resort sustained “substantial damage,” necessitating a “full redevelopment.”
“Our new plans reflect a thoughtful balance of preservation and progress. While the structure and layout will evolve, the spirit of the Thunderbird will live on.”
As the demolition and rebuilt pans out, we’ll also be watching for the return, or reimagining of the resort’s Ikki Woo Woo’s Tiki Hut tiki bar.
You can keep up with Thunderbird by following @thunderbirdti on Instagram.
