Nestled along the scenic shores of the Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri, Tan-Tar-A Resort has been a beloved vacation destination for generations. Since its opening in 1960, the resort has hosted families, business retreats, and celebrities, becoming an iconic getaway in the Midwest. However, in recent years, the property underwent a major transformation—reborn as Margaritaville Lake Resort—breathing new life into the resort and the surrounding real estate market.
The Golden Era of Tan-Tar-A Resort
Tan-Tar-A Resort was developed by Burton Duenke, a visionary entrepreneur who saw the potential of the Lake of the Ozarks as a premier vacation spot. The resort’s name was derived from the phrase "Tan-Tar-A, the Land of Tall Pines and Good Times," reflecting its rustic yet luxurious appeal.
Over the decades, Tan-Tar-A became famous for its:
- Championship golf course (designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr.)
- Indoor and outdoor pools
- Marina and water sports
- Family-friendly activities, including an arcade and horseback riding
- The resort thrived as a year-round destination, hosting conventions, weddings, and holiday events. However, by the 2010s, the property began showing its age, and competition from newer resorts led to declining occupancy rates.
Search Margaritaville Condos For Sale (Formerly Tan-Tar-A Estates)
The Margaritaville Makeover: A New Era Begins
In 2020, Driftwood Acquisitions & Development purchased Tan-Tar-A with plans for a massive renovation. Partnering with Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville brand, the resort underwent a $100 million transformation, reopening in 2022 as Margaritaville Lake Resort, Lake of the Ozarks.
Key Upgrades & Attractions:
- Completely redesigned rooms and suites with coastal-inspired décor
- New dining options, including License to Chill Bar & Grill and JWB Prime Steak & Seafood
- A sprawling indoor waterpark (Parrot Island) with slides, a lazy river, and a swim-up bar
- A modernized marina with boat rentals and lakeside cabanas
- Live music venues featuring Jimmy Buffett-style entertainment
- A refreshed golf course with Margaritaville branding
- The rebranding tapped into the laid-back, escapist vibe that Margaritaville is known for, attracting a younger demographic while still appealing to longtime Tan-Tar-A loyalists.
Revitalizing the Lake of the Ozarks Real Estate Market
The Margaritaville transformation didn’t just revive the resort—it also sparked a surge in real estate interest around the Lake of the Ozarks.
Increased Property Values: Homes and condos near the resort saw a boost in demand, with buyers drawn to the area’s upgraded amenities.
New Developments: The success of Margaritaville encouraged new residential and commercial projects, including luxury condos and vacation rentals.
Tourism Growth: Higher occupancy rates at the resort led to more visitors exploring nearby businesses, from restaurants to boutique shops.
Local real estate agents reported a noticeable uptick in inquiries, particularly from out-of-state buyers looking for vacation homes or investment properties.
A Bright Future for Margaritaville Lake Resort
The transformation of Tan-Tar-A into Margaritaville Lake Resort has proven to be a game-changer for the Lake of the Ozarks. By blending nostalgia with modern luxury, the resort has reestablished itself as a top Midwest destination while boosting the local economy and real estate market.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Tan-Tar-A or a newcomer drawn to the Margaritaville lifestyle, the resort’s revival ensures that the Lake of the Ozarks remains a hotspot for relaxation and adventure for years to come.
Ready to escape to Margaritaville and purchase an investment condo? The Lake of the Ozarks is calling!
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