Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison has made a significant splash in South Florida’s real estate market, investing a staggering $450 million in the exclusive town of Manalapan. This strategic move aims to transform the small coastal community into a luxurious haven for the ultra-wealthy, capitalizing on its prime location just minutes from President Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate.
Key Takeaways
- Oracle’s Larry Ellison has invested $450 million in Manalapan, Florida.
- The investments include a record-breaking estate purchase and the Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa.
- Ellison aims to position Manalapan as a destination for the mega-rich.
- The town’s proximity to Mar-a-Lago is seen as a significant draw.
A Lavish Real Estate Portfolio
Ellison, the world’s fifth-wealthiest man, began acquiring properties in Manalapan, a town with only 400 residents, in 2022. His substantial investment includes two landmark properties. In 2024, he purchased the Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa for $277 million, the town’s largest structure, which sits on the historic grounds of the former La Coquille Club. Prior to that, Ellison set a Florida record with the acquisition of a 16-acre estate for $173 million, boasting both beachfront and lakefront access.
Transforming Manalapan into a Luxury Enclave
Ellison’s vision for Manalapan extends beyond mere property acquisition. He plans to leverage his experience in developing luxury resorts, similar to his extensive work on the Hawaiian island of Lanai. The Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa is already undergoing renovations, with a Nobu restaurant, a favorite of Ellison’s, already established on-site. These enhancements are intended to attract high-net-worth individuals, further solidifying Manalapan’s status as an exclusive residential and commercial destination.
Strategic Location and Market Appeal
The appeal of Manalapan is amplified by its proximity to Mar-a-Lago, President Trump’s renowned estate. Local officials, including Manalapan’s Mayor John Deese, have welcomed Ellison’s investments, noting that the town has long been recognized for its high real estate values. The influx of capital and development is seen as a positive addition to the already thriving South Florida real estate market. Other wealthy individuals, such as Jeff Bezos and Ken Griffin, have also made significant property investments in the region, underscoring Florida’s growing popularity among the affluent.
Sources
- After
pouring $450 million into Florida real estate, Larry Ellison
plans to lure the ultrarich to an exclusive town just
minutes from Mar-a-Lago, Fortune. - After pouring $450 million into Florida real estate, Oracle’s Larry Ellison plans to lure the ultra-rich to
an exclusive town 20 minutes from Trump’s Mar-a-Lago, Fortune.
