![[Larry Ellison] plans exclusive Florida town near Mar-a-Lago.](https://floridarealestatewire.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/f20df274thumbnail.jpeg "Larry Ellison Bets Big on Florida: Billionaire Plans Exclusive Town Near Mar-a-Lago")
Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison is making a significant splash in Florida’s real estate market, investing a staggering $450 million to transform the exclusive town of Manalapan into a haven for the ultra-wealthy. The move positions the tech magnate as a major developer, aiming to attract high-net-worth individuals to a prime location just minutes from Mar-a-Lago.
Key Takeaways
- Ellison has invested $450 million in two landmark properties in Manalapan, Florida.
- His acquisitions include a record-breaking $173 million estate and the $277 million Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa.
- The development aims to create an exclusive enclave for the ultra-rich, leveraging the area’s prestige and proximity to Mar-a-Lago.
- Ellison has a history of luxury resort development, notably on the Hawaiian island of Lanai.
A Mega-Investment in Manalapan
Ellison, the world’s fifth wealthiest man, began acquiring properties in the small, 400-resident town of Manalapan in 2022. His substantial investment includes a 16-acre estate that fetched a Florida record of $173 million, boasting both beachfront and lakefront access. In August 2024, he further solidified his presence by purchasing the Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa for $277 million. This expansive property, once the site of the historic La Coquille Club, has a legacy of hosting notable figures.
Creating an Elite Destination
The acquisition of the Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa is central to Ellison’s vision. He plans extensive renovations, already introducing a pop-up Nobu restaurant, a known favorite of his. This move mirrors his previous success in developing luxury accommodations on the Hawaiian island of Lanai, where he enhanced Four Seasons resorts with ultra-luxe amenities. The goal is to make Manalapan an even more attractive destination for the world’s wealthiest individuals.
Florida’s Appeal to the Ultra-Rich
Ellison’s investment aligns with a broader trend of the ultra-rich flocking to Florida. Notable figures like Jeff Bezos and Ken Griffin have also made significant real estate acquisitions in the state, particularly in exclusive enclaves like Indian Creek and Palm Beach. Manalapan’s mayor, John Deese, expressed enthusiasm for Ellison’s investments, noting that they contribute to the area’s already strong real estate market.
The proximity to Mar-a-Lago, President Trump’s "Winter White House," is also cited as a significant draw for the region. This location offers a unique blend of exclusivity and high-profile visibility, further enhancing Manalapan’s appeal as a prime spot for luxury living and investment.