The Salamander Collection has officially broadened its luxury portfolio by adding the prestigious PGA National Resort, located in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. This acquisition, realized through a collaboration with real estate partners Henderson Park and South Street Partners, signifies a strategic investment in one of the country’s premier golfing destinations. While the exact financial details of the deal with Brookfield Asset Management remain undisclosed, the implications of this acquisition are noteworthy for both visitors and golf enthusiasts alike.
Established in 1981, PGA National Resort spans an impressive 807 acres and recently underwent a $100 million renovation, further enhancing its allure as a top-tier resort. With a total of 360 elegantly appointed guestrooms and six meticulously designed golf courses—two of which were crafted by renowned golfing legends Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer—the resort stands as a testament to golf heritage and luxury leisure. Notably, the Champion course, a Nicklaus masterpiece, has been the site of the PGA Tour’s annual Cognizant Classic since 2007, further solidifying the resort’s status in the golfing community.
In addition to its golf offerings, PGA National Resort boasts an array of high-end amenities, including a sprawling 40,000-square-foot spa, tennis courts, and pickleball courts, catering to guests seeking both relaxation and recreational opportunities. The culinary scene is equally impressive, featuring four diverse restaurants, among which is the Butcher’s Club, led by “Top Chef” winner Jeremy Ford. This blend of world-class amenities and gourmet dining speaks to Salamander Collection’s commitment to providing a holistic luxurious experience to its guests.
Under the new ownership of Salamander Collection, significant enhancements are planned for the PGA National Resort. This transformative vision includes the introduction of a new pool facility and substantial upgrades aimed at enriching the golfing experience for both members and resort guests. Sheila Johnson, the founder and CEO of the Salamander Collection, emphasized her enthusiasm for this venture, expressing pride in the ability to share their unique brand of hospitality that has become synonymous with their other esteemed destinations.
This acquisition marks Salamander’s second venture into Florida’s golf resort scene, joining the already successful Innisbrook Resort in Palm Harbor. As Salamander Collection continues to expand its footprint, the addition of PGA National Resort not only reinforces its status as a leader in luxury resorts but also highlights its passion for offering exceptional hospitality experiences. With seven properties currently in their portfolio, Salamander is showcasing its vision for delivering high-end leisure experiences while maintaining deep respect for the heritage and traditions of golf.
The acquisition of PGA National Resort is a significant milestone for the Salamander Collection, opening new avenues for growth while preserving the storied legacy of one of America’s iconic golf resorts. The future looks promising not just for the new owners, but also for the guests and golf aficionados eager to experience the enhanced offerings this acclaimed destination will soon present.