Marianas Beach Resort opens doors today
The long-anticipated opening of the Marianas Beach Resort is set for today, Nov. 25, marking the first phase of a new chapter for the iconic property once known as the Hyatt Regency Saipan. Although the hotel will not yet carry the Sheraton name, plans to transition to the globally recognized brand are well underway, according to general manager Gloria Cavanaugh.
“We’re thrilled to welcome guests back to this beloved property,” Cavanaugh said during a recent interview. “While the Sheraton branding will take a few more months, we are opening as Marianas Beach Resort to give the community an opportunity to enjoy the hotel again while we finalize franchise agreements and undertake renovations.”
The property, which boasts 50 years of history as the former Continental Hotel and later the Hyatt, is entering a new era under the MB Capital LLC. Cavanaugh confirmed that the steps toward the Sheraton franchise are progressing, and the implementation of the Marianas Beach Resort was a temporary situation until the complete transformation, and that renovations aligning with Sheraton’s standards will follow in phases, starting with the main building’s 180 rooms.
“The changes will be transformative,” she said. “This isn’t going to be a return to 1980s or 1990s design. We’re talking about a sleek, classy, and modern look worthy of the Sheraton name.”
Cavanaugh shared that the renovation process will avoid disrupting the Marianas Beach Resort’s guest experience. Construction will begin with accessible back-area work and minimize visible disruptions.
“We see a lot of specials going on that are just room rates. And so we go, you know, let’s do something different. Because everyone was expecting us or, I should say, not expecting this building to be open anytime soon. And so, we decided, okay, as long as we don’t lose money, let’s just try to break even. And we decided, let’s offer a good price.”
For now, Marianas Beach Resort will open 72 of its rooms at a starting rate of $120 per night. The price includes breakfast for two at the Loyalty Lounge and complimentary cocktails in the afternoon.
“It’s our way of saying ‘welcome home,’” said Cavanaugh. “The property may have a new name, but the experience of staying here will remain just as memorable.”
In addition to the rooms, the hotel’s dining options will expand in the coming weeks. Giovanni’s restaurant will open on Thanksgiving Day and offer a Sunday brunch thereafter. Miyako, which has been open since Oct. 16 for limited service, will begin offering dinner on Fridays and Saturdays starting in December.
The reopening has also brought several new job opportunities according to Cavanaugh. A job fair held on Oct. 19 attracted over 450 applicants, with 27 new hires joining the team. Staff training has been in full swing this week in preparation for Monday’s opening.
“The excitement from our team and the community has been overwhelming,” Cavanaugh said.
With the holiday season approaching, the hotel hopes to open an additional 70 rooms if demand surges during key dates like Lunar New Year. Future phases of the renovation will eventually cover the north and south wings, totaling 140 rooms.
For reservations, the public can contact the hotel at (670) 488-8000, and for restaurant reservations (670) 488-1000. Those interested are also welcome to email mbcspn.reservations@gmail.com.
Gloria Cavanagh
