The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Estero Bay towers are designed to withstand hurricanes

The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Estero Bay, a 22-story, two-tower waterfront condominium development under construction, was designed with numerous elements for hurricane resiliency. The lobby level sits at 21.7 feet—well above Hurricane Ian’s historic 19-foot storm surge. All habitable floors begin above that flood zone. 

Critical mechanical equipment will be placed away from ground level, and the garage is engineered with waterproofing membranes, hydrostatic vents, and a pile cap mat slab system to resist vertical water intrusion.

The building envelope is fortified to withstand Category 5 hurricane conditions, with impact-resistant glazing, concrete and steel framing, and wind tunnel-tested aerodynamic form.

Natural coastal buffers, including preserved mangrove forests, enhance flood mitigation and erosion control, while manmade interventions such as seawalls and removable flood panels strengthen sitewide protection. These design elements anticipate the realities of climate volatility.

Seasonal residents, typically occupying just 15% to 20% of units during hurricane season, will also benefit from the property’s “lock-and-leave” model and high level of service.

The development is situated within 500 acres of lush lands next to the natural beauty of the state’s oldest aquatic preserve. Totaling 224 condominium homes, The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Estero Bay will feature views of the sea and of Saltleaf Marina.

Priced from $3 million, residences range from 2,628 sf to 3,885 sf, composed of two, three- and four-bedroom units all with a den and unobstructed water views. A collection of penthouses, priced from $15,235,000, presents two distinct floor plans ranging from 12,790 sf to 13,630 sf.

Amenities include a centrally located, 8,000 sf space, The Oasis, that presents a Sunset Lounge, Sports & News Café, Wine & Whiskey room, fitness center, and demonstration and catering kitchen. Outdoor amenities include three pools, an expansive 1-acre lagoon feature with floating-like pavilions, bocce courts, and multiple firepits and barbeque stations. Ritz-Carlton will provide personalized concierge service.

The development is part of the new master-planned coastal village, Saltleaf on Estero Bay. The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Estero Bay, residents will be able to walk to the 72-slip Saltleaf Marina—currently under construction—or tee off at the Saltleaf Golf Preserve, including an 18-hole championship golf course, designed by PGA winner Raymond Floyd, and a nine-hole short course.

The first tower is slated for occupancy in early 2026.

On the project team:

• Owner and/or developer: London Bay Development Group
• Design architect: Arquitectonica
• MEP engineer: MG-Engineering
• Structural engineer: McNama Salvia Structural Engineers
• General contractor/construction manager: Coastal Construction