The Treasure Island Beach Resort is the first new luxury hotel to open in the city in 10 years, according to Mayor Bob Minning.

“It’s a very, very, welcome addition to the city,"said Minning. "Quite frankly, it’s about time that we had something pop."

The five-story, art-deco inspired boutique resort features 77 rooms, all-suites, that have balconies overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. The resort, which opened on March 12, is located at 10800 Gulf Boulevard. Officials said there's already a strong demand for the rooms.

"We have bookings through the rest of the year, already into 2017," said Robyn Price, director of sales and marketing. "The residents have come to us with open arms. They’re so excited that we’re here."

Price said Spring Break rates for rooms start at $449 per night, but that will drop to $379 during the off season. Amy Taylor's family from Ohio were some of the first guests at the resort. Taylor said they normally stay at older hotels on the beach but were attracted by the new resort.

"It’s very family friendly. It’s fabulous," said Taylor. “It’s nice to have the view. The pool deck and everything up here is outstanding. Compared to where we’ve stayed before, it’s ground level and you can’t see the water. So, this has been a pleasure."

The resort also features the BRGR Kitchen and Bar that serves gourmet burgers and handcrafted cocktails. Future plans call for a tiki bar and fire pits located next to the city's beach trail, which is open to the public.

“We plan to come back every year," said Taylor.