Today is June 24, 2026, and there’s a buzz in the air around Redington Beach, Florida. After 18 long months of rebuilding, the Das Sails Resort Motel has finally reopened its doors to guests! This family-run gem had been waiting patiently for this moment, ever since Hurricane Helene wreaked havoc in 2024, destroying the ground floor and most of the outdoor facilities. Regular visitors, especially families from Canada, are thrilled to return to a place that holds so many cherished memories.
The Hamann family, for instance, has been coming to this motel for five years, spending three weeks each year soaking up the sun and the local charm. Annette and Mitchell Hamann were among the first to express their excitement upon hearing the news of the reopening. Meanwhile, the Basek family, who have made annual trips for two decades, shared their sadness over the long closure but are now eager to revisit their favorite spot. It’s a testament to the motel’s place in the hearts of its guests.
Community Resilience
This reopening isn’t just about a motel; it’s a symbol of resilience. The Cieslak family, who owns the Das Sails Resort, faced a tough year without income but remained determined to restore their beloved property. They worked tirelessly, and just last Friday, the last room—a two-bedroom suite—was completed just in time for the grand reopening. It’s heartwarming to see that the motel already has reservations lined up for up to a year in advance!
But Das Sails isn’t the only establishment working hard to bounce back. Just down the beach, the Coral Shores Resort is also in the midst of a major rebuild after being battered by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. This family destination with 19 units has been a cherished spot for decades, often described by its owners as a “piece of their hearts.” The resort, which was converted into its current form in 1981, suffered significant flooding, with up to four feet of water damaging the property. The owners, like Rick Wilson, the treasurer of the Coral Shores board, have seen the place they love nearly destroyed but remain determined to rebuild.
A Community Effort
As they navigate the rebuild, the Coral Shores team is actively raising funds to support their efforts. Initial remediation costs skyrocketed to over $800,000, with the total rebuild estimated at about $1.7 million. They’ve set up an online fundraiser—because, believe it or not, they aren’t getting any corporate assistance. It’s all about community spirit and determination as they rally support to bring their resort back to life. Repair crews are currently on-site, and owners hope to reopen in a couple of months, bringing back a beloved vacation spot for families.
As we reflect on these stories, it’s hard not to think about the broader impact hurricanes have had on communities like ours. For instance, Hurricane Melissa recently hit Jamaica, causing widespread devastation. With winds reaching up to 295 km/h, it was among the fiercest storms recorded. The aftermath saw homes collapse, trees uprooted, and a tourism sector that relies heavily on visitors taking a major hit. Thankfully, as recovery efforts begin, Jamaica’s tourism minister announced that the sector would be operational again by December 2025, with two-thirds of hotel rooms ready to welcome back guests.
Back here in Florida, the spirit of perseverance shines brightly. Whether it’s the excitement of families returning to Das Sails or the hard work being put into Coral Shores Resort, it’s clear that Redington Beach is on the path to recovery. With nearly 90 hotel rooms still temporarily closed on Redington Beach alone, the community continues to support one another as we all look forward to sunny days ahead!
For more details on the reopening of Das Sails Resort Motel, check out the full article here.
Learn more about Coral Shores Resort’s fundraising efforts here.