Blog
Hotel Maya Celebrates 50 Years as a Long Beach Icon
07.27.25
This summer marks a major milestone for one of Long Beach’s most beloved waterfront landmarks. Hotel Maya, now newly independent, is celebrating its 50th anniversary—a half-century of hospitality that blends coastal California charm with Latin American influence.
Since opening in 1975 as the Queensbay Hilton, the 199-room resort has become much more than a hotel. Nestled on 14 lush acres with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, the downtown Long Beach skyline, and the Queen Mary, Hotel Maya has welcomed generations of travelers and locals alike. Over the years, it has been the setting for weekend getaways, business retreats, and unforgettable waterfront weddings.
Designed with bold architectural lines, vivid textures, and artistic Latin American touches, Hotel Maya continues to reflect the vibrant culture and energy of its surroundings. Fuego, the hotel’s signature waterfront restaurant, and Playa at the Maya, Long Beach’s largest man-made beach, are just a few of the experiences that have made the hotel a local institution.
Its golden anniversary comes at a high point for Long Beach tourism, which generated nearly $2 billion in visitor spending in 2023, supporting more than 14,000 jobs and contributing $785 million in labor income, according to Visit Long Beach.
Beyond its guest experiences, Hotel Maya remains deeply committed to the community. Recent outreach includes donating meals to the Ronald McDonald House, supporting the Long Beach Rescue Mission, contributing toys to the Boys & Girls Clubs holiday drive, and partnering with organizations like LA Cares, Precious Lamb Preschool, the Freedom Writers Foundation, and the Long Beach Unified School District. From mentoring underserved youth to hosting cultural events and coastal cleanups, the hotel’s local impact continues to grow.
50 Years of Flavor, Flair, and Firsts
- Opened in 1975 as Queensbay Hilton, with major renovations in 2009 ($20 million) and 2015 ($4 million).
- Helped mark Hilton’s 200 millionth chocolate chip cookie served in 2009.
- Held an “End of the World” party in 2012 for the final day of the Mayan calendar, complete with a countdown clock.
- Fuego hosted the world’s first LGBTQ mariachi band for Pride and mariachi celebrations.
- Ongoing partnerships with the Museum of Latin American Art, Casa De La Cultura Maya, and others have brought vibrant art shows and cultural festivals to the hotel.
- Hotel Maya has been featured in films and TV shows including Savages, Swordfish, Dexter, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, NCIS: LA, Griselda, and Lucifer.
Looking ahead, Hotel Maya is embracing its independence with new culinary and wellness activations, plus plans to renovate guest rooms and the lobby this fall. Inspired by the tranquil elegance of Tulum, the redesign will blend coastal ease with elevated design. A full transformation of the main lobby and Fuego restaurant is expected by June 2026.
As Hotel Maya celebrates 50 years on the Long Beach waterfront, it remains a symbol of resilience, creativity, and connection—with a story that’s far from over.
For more information, reservations, or visit hotelmayalongbeach.com
Blog
darkroom Pop-Up: Spanish AF
07.24.25
darkroom Pop-Up: Spanish AF
Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025 | 6 p.m.
Click here to reserve your seats
This August, darkroom presents a culinary tribute to Spain—one of the most influential cuisines of the past 20 years. From Ferran Adrià’s groundbreaking work at El Bulli to beloved regional classics, Spanish food has left an undeniable mark on chefs and diners alike.
What makes it so special? It’s the directness. The purity. The simplicity. Spanish cuisine celebrates exceptional ingredients and precise technique—exactly what this dinner is all about.
Chefs Drew and his team are channeling their culinary chops into a one-night-only experience designed to transport guests straight to Barcelona.
The dinner will be served family-style and includes:
– Pan con tomate + boquerones
– Ensalada rusa (with a nod to José Andrés)
– Blistered padrón peppers with dehydrated lemon zest and nettle dust
– Tortilla española with Lays potato chips and shallots
– Jamón croquettes
– Rice pretending to be paella
– Galician-style beef with piquillo peppers
– Dessert
They’ll also debut a new seasonal favorite: Watermelon with lime and chili crunch.
Details:
$110 per guest (plus tax and tip)
Beverages not included
Parties of one will be canceled—this menu is designed for sharing
Upcoming darkroom events:
– July 30: Peter Neptune Presents the Unknown Grapes of France – Reserve here
– Aug. 6: Steak Frites – Reserve here
– Aug. 19: darkroom Wine Club, Episode 2 – Reserve here
– All month: Chrysalis Prix Fixe Summer Menu – Reserve here
Seats are limited.
Darkroom is at 3751 South Harbor Boulevard, STE C in Santa Ana.
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