Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa, a distinguished member of the Preferred Hotels & Resorts Legend Collection, proudly announces its acquisition by Larry Ellison. Marking a significant milestone in the resort’s illustrious history, Ellison aims to preserve the resort’s legacy of excellence, uphold its values, and maintain its Five-Star rankings.
Originally established as La Coquille Club in the 1950s, Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa has evolved remarkably since its inception. From the mid-1950s to the late 1970s, La Coquille Club served as a popular beach club and playground for socialites such as the Vanderbilt and Ford families, as well as the Rockefeller family and U.S. presidents. By the late 1970s, the Simon family, owners of the Vanderbilt estate, obtained permission to raze the club and build The Ritz-Carlton Palm Beach, which opened in the early 1990s. The Lewis family purchased the property in 2003, maintaining its status as a Ritz-Carlton until 2013, when it was rebranded as Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa.
Today, the resort stands as one of Palm Beach’s most famed oceanfront destinations, boasting numerous accolades, including nine consecutive years as a Forbes Five-Star resort and ten years of recognition for its renowned Eau Spa. Residents of Manalapan still enjoy the La Coquille Club located within Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa, participating in meals, receptions, and other functions while taking advantage of the resort’s year-round amenities, such as the pools, beach, fitness center, and spa.
“Our family feels privileged to have been a successful part of the Eau Palm Beach story,” said Simon Lewis, Principal, Lewis Trust Group. “Though we are sorry to bring our tenure to a close, we are gratified in knowing that Larry Ellison will treasure the resort and guide its hoteliers to even greater heights. Though we leave behind countless memories and friends, we will always look back on our long association with Manalapan with gratitude and pride.”
The transition of ownership from the Lewis family to the Ellison family signifies a seamless passing of the torch from one dedicated family to another. Larry Ellison, a notable figure in the world of luxury hospitality, brings experience and commitment to maintaining and enhancing the resort’s esteemed reputation. His impressive portfolio includes Four Seasons Resort Lanai, Sensei Lanai, Nobu Ryokan Malibu, Nobu Hotel Palo Alto, Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe, and Sensei Porcupine Creek.
“We are excited about the acquisition by the Ellison family,” said Tim Nardi, General Manager of Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa. “Ellison’s extensive experience in luxury hospitality brings a new level of innovation to the resort and we are confident that this transition will not only enhance the unique experiences we offer but also introduce new amenities and services, ensuring Eau Palm Beach remains a premier destination for our valued guests.”
Larry Ellison is planning to invest in future updates that will further elevate the guest experience at Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa. Guests can expect the same exceptional service and luxurious experiences that have made the resort a favorite for discerning travelers. Importantly, the current team of hoteliers will remain on staff, ensuring a smooth transition and continuity in operations.
