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Margaritaville Resort starts construction at The Wharf in Orange Beach

Margaritaville Resort Breaks Ground in Alabama

A new resort has officially started construction in Orange Beach, Alabama. The Margaritaville Resort Orange Beach, with a budget of $300 million, is set to enhance the tourism experience along Alabama’s Gulf Coast.

Situated on 83 acres across from the Wharf Entertainment District and along scenic waterways, the resort will boast various accommodations, entertainment options, dining spots, and recreational facilities. Once finished, it will provide over 400 residential units, catering to families and multi-generational visitors.

Art Fabre, owner and founder of Performance Contractor, is partnering with Margaritaville Holdings to direct the project. Local officials joined representatives from both teams for a ceremonial groundbreaking event, including Margaritaville CEO John Koran and Orange Beach Mayor Tony Kennon.

“This development is about more than just a resort,” Kennon expressed during the ceremony. “It’s a significant investment in the tourism and economic future of Orange Beach.”

The development consists of four distinct districts. The waterfront area will include a 43-slip marina and ferry access. There’s also an amenity zone featuring a 6-acre recreational area with pools, slides, lazy rivers, and areas for children. Furthermore, a residential section will have 150 custom-designed cottages, alongside various upscale accommodations, including condos and waterfront villas.

Sales for the resort residences are anticipated to launch in the fall of 2025, with starting prices around the mid-$500,000 range. The first construction phase, which includes the waterfront district, apartment buildings, and amenity areas, is expected to wrap up by 2027. The entire project is projected to be completed by 2029.

The resort is expected to create over 350 jobs and house more than 2,000 guests at full capacity. A Resort Discovery Centre, which will open later this year, aims to offer further information to potential buyers and the general public.

In terms of accessibility, the site is well-connected with various transport options. Gulf Shores International Airport is approximately 6 miles away, while Pensacola International Airport and Mobile Regional Airport are about an hour’s drive. Additionally, a private ferry operates every 30 minutes between the resort and nearby areas, enhancing connectivity for visitors.