Blog  |  Monday, September 23, 2024

The Rising Popularity of Club Communities

A growing number of people have joined exclusive club communities. These private hospitality-led organizations, which offer premium athletic, cultural, and social accommodations for a fee, have risen in popularity amongst the elite crowd of business professionals, foodies, and world travelers.

Services vary from club to club, but many offer a combination of high-end sports facilities, spas, restaurants, and even VIP hotel rooms.

Once more a shunned experience that conjured images of stuffy, blazer-wearing elitists, private clubs have shirked the stigma and now embrace an open culture for those looking for tailored experiences that could include private beaches, golf courses, and yacht clubs. We’ll explore the reasons behind the rise of club communities and explore some of the amenities offered.

Why the increase in club communities?

What is it that’s driving more club communities to open and more members to join? Membership often comes at a premium, which means that club communities typically cater to wealthy clients. Several economic and cultural changes are likely behind the increase of member-only clubs. Here’s a quick look at some of the reasons for the boost in communities and members:

• Luxury travel is up

  A growing number of people are willing to spend more on luxury travel options. From opulent hotels and private flights to one-on-one experiences with local guides, there’s a demand for affluent accommodations amongst elite travelers. These same travelers are looking for club communities when they travel abroad.

• Urban social clubs are becoming more popular

  Across the world, the number of urban social clubs is climbing. As their popularity rises, so does the concept of exclusive groups or clubs. As it becomes more accepted, the demand for such clubs will grow. Members will come to expect them in other parts of the world as they travel for work or pleasure.

• Sharing common interests

  After being forced into quarantine during the COVID-19 outbreak, many people are ready to rejoin society again. They want to grab a bite to eat with a fellow golfer or plan a multi-day fishing trip with anglers. Club communities bring people together and create a culture that develops camaraderie and friendship. With like-minded people in the club, members are at ease and are able to chat about their shared interests.

What club communities offer

Club communities vary. Some may focus on a specific sport, like golf, while others may offer a host of high-end amenities. The club, like the membership cost, will also vary. But, if you’re considering membership at a club, here’s a look at some of the common amenities they offer:

• Social clubs that engage like-minded people

  For members, it’s not just about accessing a golf course or lounging on a private beach, it’s about the company around them. Club members want to talk about their common interests. At Costa Palmas, for example, the exclusive Yacht Club offers access to a mega-yacht marina, high-end shopping, and exclusive dining options.

• Private beaches

  Certain club communities offer membership to exclusive beaches. As a member of the Costa Palmas Beach Club, for example, you have access to a two-mile stretch of swimmable beach along with Sea of Cortez. Considering how crowded the beaches of Cabo are, and how few are swimmable, it’s an attractive perk for world travelers looking to rest and relax on the unspoiled, uncrowded beach overlooking the Sierra de Laguna Mountains.

• Sports that take place on pristine courses and courts

  Club communities often center on a sport or two; most commonly golf, tennis, or swimming. Costa Palma’s sport of choice is golf, where members are welcome to play on an expansive course designed by golf legend Robert Trend Jones Jr. Described as an “emerald symphony” where a sea of green meets the Sea of Cortez, the course is a prestigious experience for both seasoned and novice players.

• Exclusivity

  Above all, members want exclusivity paired with amenities. Hospitality brands often tout the VIP experience and the top-notch service that comes with membership. Every member of the staff must embody that feeling, as clubs develop a culture of elevated experiences.

• Blur the lines of work and play

  Given the rise of remote work, many aren’t tied to a desk anymore. Rather than working at a local coffee shop or hotel lobby, many club communities offer a shared work space that goes beyond tables, wifi, and frappuccinos. Many club communities have created an upscale space that caters to both digital nomads and CEOS complete with an exclusive bar, seating that invites solo workers and small groups, a workout space, and culinary treats served to order.

• Restaurants provide world-class experiences

  Most club communities have several high-end restaurants to choose from, which only adds to the allure of membership. Some restaurants are themed according to activities, for example, you might find a grab-and-go style restaurant at the beginning of the golf course and a more formal bar and dining experience nestled next to the 18th hole.

  In some cases, restaurants are spawned by big names. Inside Costa Palmas, for example, Delphine, where the essence of the French Rivera comes to life, with meals curated by acclaimed Michelen-star Chef Ludo. The notoriety of the restaurant and its chef is an attractive addition.

Interested in a club community that pairs elegant style, natural beauty, and affluent amenities? Costa Palmas, a 1500-acre property sitting along the shores of the Sea of Cortez, offers everything you could want in a club. From exclusive beach access and boutique shopping to a high-end golf course and yacht club, you’ll find what you’re looking for at Costa Palmas.

Club membership is open exclusively to owners of property at Four Seasons, Aman, Costa Palmas Villas and three and four-bedroom residences at Casa Blake and other Costa Palmas hospitality properties. If you’re ready to learn more about this picturesque local on Baja’s iconic southern point, check out real estate options within Costa Palmas.