Marriott International is set to bring the St. Regis brand to Australia with the opening of a luxury property on the Gold Coast, following the signing of a management agreement with multi-billion-dollar property developer, Gurner.
St. Regis Gold Coast Resort is expected to open in 2027 as part of Gurner’s $1.7 billion premier lifestyle destination, La Pelago, at Budds Beach.
The St. Regis brand, which debuted in New York over 100 years ago, is regarded for its rich heritage, sophistication, and attentive service including through its bespoke Butler Service.
Marriott International Vice President Hotel Development – Australia, New Zealand, and Pacific, Richard Crawford, described the signing as “momentous” for the business.
“The St. Regis brand promises a vanguard spirit steeped in history and tradition, and is synonymous with global luxury,” he said.
“We appreciate Gurner Group’s confidence in selecting St. Regis as the centrepiece of its world-class mixed-use development.”
Gurner Group CEO, Tim Gurner, said it has long been a personal favourite hotel brand and will be “unlike anything on offer in Australia’s hotel market currently”.
“We are honoured to be able to announce this deal with the team at Marriott International – St. Regis has always been my favourite hotel brand, and it is very exciting to be able to offer its world-class service, amenity and luxury to our La Pelago residents, and to the Australian market for the first time,” he said.
“It’s a brand that has stood the test of time for elegance, bespoke service and exquisite experiences.
“We think the addition of such an illustrious and exclusive hotel brand will put the Gold Coast right back on the top of luxury travellers’ lists and make it one of the hottest tourism markets in the world.”
It will be Marriott’s fourth property in the area, joining JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort and Spa, Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort Gold Coast, and The Ritz-Carlton, Gold Coast, which is expected to open in 2026.
Crawford said that the brand debut represents positive progression for Gold Coast, one of Australia’s fastest growing cities.
“[Gurner Group’s] well-earned reputation for excellence and vision for the Gold Coast aligns exceptionally well with the very high standards we set for every St. Regis hotel around the world, and we look forward to bringing to life an iteration of the brand that is modern, aspirational, and befits the lifestyle and energy of the Gold Coast,” he said.
The new-build resort – which will feature a modern but timeless design – will include a large porte cochère for a suitably glamorous arrival with the main hotel lobby located on level 42.
There will be around 185 rooms, a speciality restaurant and signature St. Regis Bar, sky bar, pool, bar, lounge, and spa, as well as a luxurious penthouse collection.
Standing tall above all other towers in the project, and 50% taller than any surrounding towers, the hotel will provide guests with uninterrupted views of the ocean and hinterland.
The wider La Pelago development – a joint venture between Gurner and investment house Wingate – will also feature luxury residences, with their own private entrance and exclusive access to hotel-style services, international hospitality, retail, and wellness offerings, a business centre, ballroom, and event spaces.
Gurner said the hotel will “perfectly complement the ultra-luxury amenity-rich residences” at La Pelago.
Marriott International’s Area Vice President – Australia, New Zealand, and Pacific, Sean Hunt, expressed his confidence in demand for luxury accommodation and in the return of international travel.
“This signing is a testament to Marriott International’s continued commitment to growing our luxury portfolio in Australia and our confidence in the appeal of Australia as a leading tourism destination into the future,” he said.