What Happened to Tan-Tar-a Resort?

By Alice Nichols

If you’re a fan of Missouri’s beautiful Lake of the Ozarks and have been to Tan-Tar-A Resort, you may be wondering what happened to this beloved vacation destination. In 2019, the resort underwent a major renovation and rebranding, transforming into Margaritaville Lake Resort Lake of the Ozarks. Let’s take a closer look at what led to this change and what visitors can expect from the new resort.

The Origins of Tan-Tar-A Resort

Tan-Tar-A Resort was originally built in 1960 by Burton Duenke as a small fishing resort on the shores of Lake of the Ozarks. Over the years, it grew into a sprawling complex with over 800 rooms, multiple restaurants and bars, an indoor water park, golf courses, and more. The resort became known for its family-friendly atmosphere and beautiful lakefront location.

The Decision to Rebrand

In 2017, it was announced that Tan-Tar-A Resort had been sold to Driftwood Acquisitions & Development and Sefira Capital. The new owners immediately set their sights on renovating and modernizing the aging property. They decided to partner with Margaritaville Holdings to bring the iconic brand’s laid-back vibe to Lake of the Ozarks.

The Transformation into Margaritaville Lake Resort Lake of the Ozarks

Over the course of two years and $30 million in renovations, Tan-Tar-A Resort was transformed into Margaritaville Lake Resort Lake of the Ozarks. The new resort features 494 guest rooms and suites with tropical decor inspired by Jimmy Buffett’s famous song “Margaritaville.” The property also includes multiple restaurants and bars with names like LandShark Bar & Grill, Frank & Lola’s Pizzeria, and Tiki Hut Pool Bar.

One of the biggest changes to the resort is the addition of a 20,000-square-foot indoor water park called The Fins Up! Water Park.

This family-friendly attraction features multiple slides, a lazy river, and a surf simulator. Other new amenities include a full-service spa, fitness center, and arcade.

What Visitors Can Expect

If you’re planning a trip to Lake of the Ozarks and are considering staying at Margaritaville Lake Resort, you can expect a fun and relaxing atmosphere with plenty of activities for all ages. The resort’s location on the lake allows for easy access to water sports like boating and fishing.

The multiple restaurants and bars offer a variety of dining options from pizza to seafood to tropical cocktails. And for those looking to unwind, the spa offers massages, facials, and other treatments.

Overall, while Tan-Tar-A Resort may be gone, its spirit lives on in Margaritaville Lake Resort Lake of the Ozarks. The new resort offers updated amenities while still maintaining its family-friendly charm and stunning lakefront location.