Oracle cofounder and CTO Larry Ellison has significantly expanded his real estate footprint in South Florida, investing a staggering $450 million into the exclusive town of Manalapan. This substantial investment aims to transform the island community, located just 20 minutes from Mar-a-Lago, into a premier destination for the ultra-wealthy.
Key Takeaways
- Larry Ellison has invested $450 million in Florida real estate.
- The investments are concentrated in Manalapan, a town near Mar-a-Lago.
- Ellison acquired a record-breaking estate and a major resort hotel.
- The move is expected to further attract high-net-worth individuals to the area.
A Significant Investment in Manalapan
Ellison, the world’s fifth-wealthiest man, began acquiring properties in Manalapan, a town with only 400 residents, in 2022. His investments include a record-breaking $173 million estate spanning 16 acres with both beachfront and lakefront access. Additionally, in August 2024, he purchased the Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa for $277 million, a significant structure in the town.
The Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa is situated on the grounds of the historic La Coquille Club, which once hosted notable figures like the Duke and Duchess of Windsor. Ellison’s acquisition of the hotel is seen as a major draw for potential high-net-worth buyers, with local developers noting his reputation for operating luxury resorts.
Transforming an Exclusive Enclave
Ellison’s vision for Manalapan appears to mirror his previous development successes, notably on the Hawaiian island of Lanai, which he purchased in 2012. On Lanai, he invested in upgrading resort hotels and introducing ultraluxe amenities. Similarly, at the Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa, renovations are underway, including the addition of a permanent Nobu restaurant, a brand favored by Ellison.
The town’s mayor, John Deese, expressed enthusiasm for Ellison’s investments, stating that Manalapan has long been a high-ranking community in terms of home sales prices and that these new investments will contribute to the success of the South Florida real estate market.
Proximity to Mar-a-Lago and the Appeal of South Florida
The strategic location of Manalapan, just a short drive from President Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate, is also a significant factor in its growing appeal. The proximity to such a high-profile location, often referred to as the "Winter White House," has contributed to the area’s current prominence. This, combined with the influx of significant investments from figures like Ellison and Ken Griffin, is solidifying South Florida’s status as a magnet for the ultra-rich.
