One of Miami's most exclusive country clubs, the Indian Creek Country Club, has reportedly denied membership to high-profile figures including Jeff Bezos, Lauren Sanchez, and Ivanka Trump. The club, located on the affluent Indian Creek island, often referred to as 'Billionaire Bunker,' is known for its extreme exclusivity, charging a $1 million initiation fee and $44,000 per month for members.
Despite their immense wealth, which would easily cover the club's costs, Bezos, Sanchez, and Trump have faced significant hurdles in gaining admission. In February, Bezos and Sanchez, who own multiple properties on the island, attended the club's annual dock party in an apparent effort to gain favor with board members. While some members reportedly welcomed the Amazon founder, he has not yet received an invitation to join.
Similarly, Ivanka Trump and her husband Jared Kushner, who own a $30 million property on Indian Creek, have also reportedly struggled to be admitted. Mary Anne Shula, the widow of Miami Dolphins coach Don Shula, is said to have sponsored the couple and hosted a cocktail party to introduce them to the club's board. However, reports suggest that only half of the board attended, and the couple has not been offered membership.
There are indications that Kushner's involvement in a local project to build a new sewer system for Indian Creek might be bringing the couple closer to admission.
Founded in 1929, the Indian Creek Country Club boasts a private 18-hole golf course, a Mediterranean-style clubhouse, and a swimming pool with views of the Miami skyline. The club maintains a low profile, with no social media presence and a website that requires member login. Its approximately 350 members are typically long-time residents of the island, including professionals such as doctors, real estate developers, entrepreneurs, attorneys, and financiers.
The membership process is rigorous, requiring sponsorship from two current members and recommendation letters from five others. Prospective members must then impress other club attendees before the six-member membership committee determines if they are eligible for nomination. The final decision rests with the 15-member board of directors, currently led by former AutoNation CEO Mike Jackson.
Dina Goldentayer, a real estate agent specializing in the area, described Indian Creek as "the most exclusive single-family home community" and "the most exclusive private members club," highlighting that membership is not automatically granted with homeownership in the enclave.