Originally built as the 'crowning jewel' in Henry Flager's overseas railway, the historic building of the Casa Marina represents the finest in luxury hotels.
Casa Marina was unveiled on New Year's Eve in 1920.
Originally conceived by railroad tycoon and visionary Henry Flagler, the Casa was built to cater for the rich and glamorous customers of his Overseas Railroad, which spanned from Key West to the Florida mainland.
Flagler died before the hotel construction began in 1918. His work was resumed by architects John M. Carrere and Thomas Hastings. Intending to create a resort to act as a monument to Flagler's memory, they bought 6.5 acres of private land for $1,000. With this peerless natural background and playground for the hotel, they worked tirelessly on the interior and exterior of the building, scrupulously ensuring each detail honored the original Flagler vision.
A mere three days following the resort's opening, the American President Warren G. Harding stayed as a guest. Instantly, the hotel was established as an exclusive, high-end destination. During World War II, the property was bought by the US Navy and used as officer's quarters from 1942.
In the 1950s, the property made a spectacular return to the forefront of luxury, emerging as a holiday hideaway for the Golden Age of Hollywood, and playing host to celebrities such as Gregory Peck, Rita Hayworth and Gary Merrill.
Again, though, Casa Marina was aiding the war effort. Throughout the Cuban Missile Crisis, the hotel space was used by the US Army's Sixth Missile Battalion. Following its work in the war, it fell into disarray. A complete $43 million overhaul saw the hotel restored to its former glory.
Each of the 311 guest rooms in the resort have been completely restyled, preserving the traditional architecture and combining it with a unique, modern sense of luxury.