Trump's Mar-a-Lago Now Costs $200K to Join

PALM BEACH — The Mar-a-Lago Club website describes the exclusive enclave as the "greatest mansion ever built” and the "pinnacle of Palm Beach" but from now on the crown jewel of President Donald Trump's one-time resort empire will set you back $200,000 to become a member.

That represents a $50,000 price hike from last year, though the managing director and executive vice president insisted on Wednesday in an interview with Patch that the increase was in no way related to President Trump's recent ascension to the most powerful job on the planet.

"This is actually what was our business strategy all along," explained Bernd Lembcke. "It’s not something out of the ordinary."

In addition, to the initial fee, members also play $14,000 per year in annual dues plus 7 percent tax.

Lembcke told Patch that the initial membership fee had been $200,000 but was reduced to $100,000 around 2007 0r 2008 during the great recession. This reduction also coincided with the massive investment scandal involving Bernard Madoff that struck a number of wealthy investors with ties to the Palm Beach area.

Less than a week after the well-known real estate mogul took the oath of office to become America's 45th president on Jan. 20, he is still featured on the Mar-a-Lago website delivering a welcome message.

"Since purchasing this landmark in 1985, I spend many weekends and holidays at this home away from home," Trump penned. "When I made it a club in 1995 (126 rooms made it a very big house), I kept private quarters and designed the club to provide the best amenities possible for our members."

He added that visitors are always "astounded" at the beauty and elegance at Mar-a-Lago, which is a five-minute drive from Trump International Golf Club in nearby West Palm Beach.

"I invite you to experience all the world-class services and facilities that the Mar-a-Lago Club has to offer. I look forward to seeing you soon," Trump said in his welcome remarks.

The club sits on 20 acres of manicured lawns, gardens and sweeping sea-to-lake vistas, including two acres of beach access. Members can enjoy an oceanfront swimming pool, book a spa treatment in the spa and salon, play tennis on one of six championship tennis courts and try their hand at a full-size croquet court or a chip and putt golf course.

"The on-property beach club includes eight lavish seaside cabanas, a 100 foot by 50 foot pool surrounded by billowing yellow-striped umbrellas, a whirlpool, and the delicious beachfront Bistro, all complemented by a full-service private beach and an awe-inspiring view," according to the Mar-a-Lago website, which lists the Donald J. Trump Grand Ballroom among the property's many amenities.

Images courtesy of Mar-a-Lago