A Florida-based production builder is betting that older Americans are ready to live the laidback lifestyle of one of the country's most famous beach bums: singer and restaurant mogul Jimmy Buffett.
Tampa-based Minto Communities has partnered with Buffett's Margaritaville Holdings to develop active adult communities in some of the country's most popular warm-weather destinations. The first location, Latitude Margaritaville Daytona Beach, has broken ground and is slated to open in the fall, the company says.
Margaritaville is a global brand inspired by Buffett's easygoing attitude focusing on escape and relaxation, says John Cohlan, CEO of Margaritaville. The company owns hotel resorts, casinos, and restaurants across the Southeast U.S. and the Caribbean.
“With Minto’s expertise in creating master planned developments and Margaritaville’s inherent ability to deliver fun and escapism, Latitude Margaritaville has the exact coordinates for those looking to live the Margaritaville lifestyle as they grow older, but not up," he says.
Plans call for walkable neighborhoods and a town center featuring a fitness center with an aerobics studio, indoor lap pool, spa, and group fitness classes; indoor and outdoor dining with signature Margaritaville food and beverage concepts, as well as others; arts and learning programs for residents and guests; and a resort pool area with beach entry. In homage to Buffett, music will also play an important part in the community, with a band shell for live entertainment in the town center. Residents will be able to access a private beachfront club via a continuous loop shuttle service.
The location offers access to the area’s beaches; championship golf at LPGA International; Daytona International Speedway; Daytona Beach International Airport; and the new Daytona One entertainment, dining and shopping destination.
Minto, No. 56 on the Builder 100 list, has a long history in Florida. Over the past 35 years, Minto has built more than 25,000 new homes in 44 communities throughout the state.
