SkyBeach Resort, a newly reimagined beachfront hotel located on the southern tip of St. Petersburg, Florida, proudly announces the appointment of JoAnna Halpin as director of sales. In this role, Halpin will lead all sales strategies for the 113-room resort spanning 18-acres, bringing more than two decades of hospitality experience and a proven track record in hotel sales and client relationship management.
Halpin's appointment comes at a pivotal time for SkyBeach. Acquired in 2022 by WRDC, the resort reopened in July 2024 following a comprehensive renovation that introduced 113 redesigned guest rooms, a completely reimagined lobby, and 6,260 square feet of versatile indoor event space, along with flexible outdoor venues. Later this year, the resort will debut SouthSeas Tapas, an upscale dining concept offering an elevated take on coastal cuisine while paying homage to the property's legacy as the former Outrigger Inn, a beloved 1960s retreat known for its Polynesian-themed dining and entertainment. Halpin will play a key role in booking meetings and events at the resort's revitalized event center and range of outdoor gathering spaces, furthering its position as a standout hospitality destination in St. Pete.
Halpin began her hospitality career during her time at Boston College, where she participated twice in the Walt Disney World College Program, an experience that sparked a lifelong love for the industry. She has since held sales leadership positions across major markets, including Los Angeles, San Diego, Nashville and Boston, earning a reputation for her strategic approach and ability to cultivate long-standing client relationships. Outside of the office, Halpin is an advocate for animal rescue and previously led pet adoption initiatives at her former properties.
Halpin looks forward to building relationships within the local market while helping shape the next chapter of SkyBeach Resort.