![[Larry Ellison] invests $450 million in Florida real estate.](https://floridarealestatewire.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/2d16acefjournalist2Fa7678669-0326-4a4b-92a1-87cb28e2c34d2Fthumbnail.jpeg "Larry Ellison Makes Massive Real Estate Play in Florida, Investing $450 Million")
Oracle cofounder and CTO Larry Ellison is making a significant splash in South Florida’s real estate market, investing a staggering $450 million to transform the exclusive island town of Manalapan into a luxury enclave. This strategic move positions the tech magnate as a major developer aiming to attract the ultra-wealthy to the area, which is conveniently located just 20 minutes from Mar-a-Lago.
Key Takeaways
- Larry Ellison has invested $450 million in Florida real estate, focusing on the town of Manalapan.
- His purchases include a record-breaking $173 million estate and the $277 million Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa.
- Ellison aims to develop Manalapan into a haven for the mega-rich, leveraging his experience from developing the Hawaiian island of Lanai.
- The proximity to Mar-a-Lago is seen as a significant draw for the area.
A Strategic Investment in Manalapan
Ellison, the fifth-wealthiest man globally, began acquiring properties in the small, 400-resident town of Manalapan in 2022. His substantial investment includes two landmark properties. In 2022, he purchased a sprawling 16-acre estate for $173 million, setting a Florida record for its combination of beachfront and lakefront access. More recently, in August 2024, Ellison acquired the Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa for $277 million. This 300-plus room hotel is situated on the historic grounds of the original La Coquille Club, which once hosted notable figures like the Duke and Duchess of Windsor.
Developing a Luxury Destination
Ellison’s vision for Manalapan extends beyond mere property acquisition. He plans to enhance the Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa with renovations, including the addition of a permanent Nobu restaurant, a brand he has previously integrated into his developments on the Hawaiian island of Lanai. His experience in transforming Lanai into a high-end resort destination, featuring amenities like a $21,000-per-night suite and advanced in-room technology, suggests a similar ambition for Manalapan. Local developers and town officials have welcomed Ellison’s investments, viewing them as a positive contribution to the area’s already high-value real estate market.
The Appeal of South Florida
The allure of South Florida for the ultra-wealthy is undeniable, with other prominent figures like Jeff Bezos and Ken Griffin also making significant property investments in the region. Manalapan’s appeal is further amplified by its proximity to Mar-a-Lago, former President Donald Trump’s estate. This strategic location, coupled with Ellison’s substantial investment and development plans, is poised to solidify Manalapan’s status as an exclusive destination for the world’s wealthiest individuals.