Margaritaville Resort Breaks Ground at The Wharf: A New Era Begins in Orange Beach
By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida
SearchTheGulf.com
On May 15, 2025, I stood at The Wharf in Orange Beach and watched history in the making. Construction officially began on what promises to be one of the most dynamic and game-changing resort communities on Alabama’s Gulf Coast—Margaritaville Resort Orange Beach.
For those of us who live, work, and play here, this isn’t just another development—it’s a bold reimagining of what coastal living and vacationing can look like. With its roots in music, relaxation, and escape, the Margaritaville brand is now anchoring a $300+ million lifestyle destination that blends fun, function, and coastal flair like never before.
The Vision: Paradise on the Intracoastal
Spanning over 83 acres on the north side of The Wharf, the resort is a master-planned paradise designed for every generation—with activities and amenities for ages 2 to 90.
The project is divided into four key zones:
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Waterfront District
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Featuring a 43-slip transient boat marina for easy access from local waters
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Ground-floor retail, entertainment, and dining spanning 78,000 square feet
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Vibrant bars, themed restaurants, and a custom ferry service connecting the resort to The Wharf every 30 minutes
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Amenity District
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A six-acre amenity deck that goes far beyond the standard resort pool
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Multiple water experiences:
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Main resort pool with the “Fins Up Bar & Grill”
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Serenity pool with cabanas and private service
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Two signature waterslides with a four-story observation tower
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A lazy river stretching 800 feet through lush landscaping
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An LED swim-up movie screen for concerts and game days
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A kids zone themed around offshore fishing, with wet and dry interactive play areas
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Residential Resort Cottages
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150 custom-designed cottages, ranging from 2 to 5 bedrooms
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Set along Portage Creek, natural wetlands, and green spaces
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Designed for lock-and-leave living, with full management and furnishings
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Luxury Accommodations & Future Expansion
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100 resort condominiums (160 keys) with 60 lockout two-bedroom suites
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49 luxury condos with water and amenity views
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12 exclusive waterfront villas
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Orange Beach: A Natural Fit for Margaritaville
There’s a reason Margaritaville chose Orange Beach. With its laid-back spirit, world-class boating, and emerging culinary scene, Orange Beach is already one of the most beloved destinations on the Gulf Coast.
Add in proximity to The Wharf, the Intracoastal Waterway, and effortless access to airports like Pensacola International and Mobile Regional, and it’s clear why this spot was chosen to bring “two sides of paradise” together.
As one of the developers, Art Favre—who has vacationed in Orange Beach since the early '90s—shared, this project is all about creating a lifestyle that is “Orange Beach on steroids.” And from what I’ve seen, that’s exactly what’s happening.
Jobs, Impact & Timeline
This isn’t just a resort—it’s an economic engine:
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Over $300 million in development value
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350+ jobs created, both during construction and long-term operations
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2,000+ guests at full occupancy
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Extensive food & beverage programming, retail, and entertainment offerings
Sales for the first release begin in September 2025, with product details, pricing, and reservation opportunities expected in August. A Resort Discovery Center will open this fall to introduce the public, buyers, and real estate professionals to the full vision.
A Real Estate Opportunity Unlike Any Other
As a local real estate advisor, I see this project not only as a win for our coastal lifestyle—but also as a rare investment and ownership opportunity. Fully furnished, managed, and designed for convenience, these homes will offer true turnkey living for those seeking a vacation home, income-producing property, or legacy retreat.
Whether you’re considering one of the resort cottages, luxury villas, or hotel condominiums, I encourage buyers to register early, explore the ownership models, and understand the potential for rental income and long-term value.
You can register your interest, ask questions, or learn more about this development anytime at www.searchthegulf.com.
Location & Access
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Pensacola International Airport – 1 hour
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Mobile Regional Airport – 1 hour
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Northwest Florida Beaches International – 3 hours
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Connected to The Wharf by ferry every 30 minutes
Whether arriving by car, boat, or plane, getting here is easy—and leaving may be the hardest part.
This is more than just Margaritaville—it’s a lifestyle anchored in joy, music, and memory-making, and I’m so excited to help guide my clients through this next chapter in Orange Beach’s transformation.
For updates, sales releases, or private consultations, reach out directly or visit: www.searchthegulf.com
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