A staple in the Newport Beach hospitality sector is updating its name to reflect its unique place in Southern California. Island Hotel Newport Beach changed its name to Fashion Island Hotel to emphasize its location as an iconic luxury destination, explained Ralph Grippo, president of Irvine Company Resort Properties, in a statement on Dec. 8. Irvine Company owns and operates the retail center, Fashion Island, and neighboring Fashion Island Hotel. “We are always looking for innovative ways to engage with and meet the needs of our guests–packaging the hotel and Fashion Island together is a win-win for both the company and our customers,” he said.
Visitors can look forward to more integrated perks, such as a Fashion Island Gift Card program, a personal shopper, trunk shows with fashion designers and a trolley to transport guests to and from each destination. Planners can also expect to see cocktails inspired by fashion designers, and newly inspired food and beverage presentations for groups and private events.
The 295-room hotel recently completed an 18-month transformation that included Oak Grill, an inventive new restaurant with a 2,100-square-foot deck for al fresco dining; an updated resort-style pool area with a contemporary poolside bar; a remodeled event space, including the largest ballroom in Newport Beach; an indoor/outdoor Cabana Room with glass panels opening to a private, heated terrace; and Aqua Lounge, which features an interactive mixology format. Gerard Widder, general manager of the property, says the name change “fortifies our commitment to its position as an important destination for local, regional and international business and leisure travelers.”
