Indian Creek Island, known as “Billionaire Bunker,” is one of the most exclusive and luxurious communities in the world, located just off the coast of Miami. This private island is home to a select group of high-profile individuals, including tech moguls, athletes, entertainers, and political figures. The ultra-elite nature of the island, combined with unparalleled security and privacy, has made it a haven for those who seek a secluded yet opulent lifestyle. Here’s a look at who resides on Indian Creek Island and what makes this place so special.
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1. Tom Brady and Gisele Bündchen
One of the most high-profile names associated with Indian Creek Island is the legendary NFL quarterback Tom Brady and his ex-wife, supermodel Gisele Bündchen. The couple purchased a property on the island in 2020, reportedly for around $17 million. Their home was under renovation, and they had plans to make the estate their South Florida sanctuary. However, following their separation in 2022, it is believed that their ties to the island have loosened, though they are still counted among notable past residents.
2. Julio Iglesias
Internationally renowned Spanish singer Julio Iglesias was once a long-time resident of Indian Creek Island properties since the late 1970s. Over the years, he owned several properties there and was one of the island’s most well-known residents, even outside of the U.S. However, in recent years, Iglesias reportedly sold off his holdings, leaving the island’s residency, but his association with Indian Creek remains part of its storied past.
3. Jeff Bezos
One of the latest high-profile additions to Indian Creek Island is Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon and one of the wealthiest individuals in the world. Bezos and his fiancée, Lauren Sanchez, have recently acquired two neighboring properties on the island, with a combined value nearing $150 million. The sprawling estate features a modern Mediterranean design and offers stunning views of Biscayne Bay and Miami’s skyline.
Bezos’ presence on the island solidifies Indian Creek as the ultimate destination for billionaires, especially those looking for a luxurious escape within close reach of major financial hubs.
Also read: Most Expensive Neighborhoods In Miami
4. Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner
Former White House advisors Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner have made Indian Creek Island their home, further boosting its reputation as a refuge for political power players. In 2021, the couple purchased a $24 million waterfront property, which they have been renovating. Their move to Indian Creek followed the sale of a $32 million home, demonstrating their deepening commitment to the Miami area.
Their residence stands as a blend of elegance and exclusivity, reflecting both their political stature and their real estate savvy. The couple’s home adds a touch of sophistication to the island’s landscape.
5. Carl Icahn
Billionaire investor Carl Icahn, known for his aggressive investment strategies and corporate takeovers, has been a resident of Indian Creek Island for decades. Icahn purchased his mansion in 1997 through a foreclosure auction for $7.5 million. The sprawling 14,000-square-foot estate, built on nearly two acres, showcases the luxurious lifestyles that characterize Indian Creek Island.
With his vast wealth and influence, Icahn exemplifies the type of resident who is drawn to the island: individuals who have reached the pinnacle of financial success.
6. David Guetta
International DJ and music producer David Guetta recently listed his Indian Creek Island mansion for a staggering $69 million. Guetta’s 15,500-square-foot home, which sits on over an acre of prime real estate, features 12 bedrooms and breathtaking views. The property was built from scratch in 2021, showcasing cutting-edge design and technology.
Guetta’s presence brings a touch of entertainment flair to the island, attracting attention from both the music and real estate worlds.
7. Julio Iglesias
Legendary Spanish singer Julio Iglesias has been a long-time resident of Indian Creek Island, owning multiple properties since the late 1970s. His mansion reflects a harmonious blend of contemporary architecture and artistic design, mirroring his international success in the music industry.
Though Iglesias has sold some of his properties over the years, he remains one of the most iconic figures associated with Indian Creek Island.
8. Eduardo Saverin
One of the co-founders of Facebook, Eduardo Saverin, has been linked to Indian Creek Island as well. Though he has since moved to Singapore for business reasons, Saverin has kept a strong connection to the Miami area. Saverin’s immense wealth, estimated in the billions, is typical of Indian Creek Island’s residents, many of whom are tech entrepreneurs and financiers.
9. Norman Braman
Billionaire businessman Norman Braman, known for his car dealerships and significant contributions to arts and culture in Miami, is another prominent figure with ties to Indian Creek. Braman has been influential in shaping Miami’s cultural landscape, making him a key figure both in the business world and within the exclusive island community.
10. Sheldon Adelson
Late casino magnate Sheldon Adelson and his family were once residents of Indian Creek Island. Adelson was known for his ownership of the Las Vegas Sands Corporation and his significant contributions to political causes. His residence on Indian Creek underscored the island’s allure for individuals who have amassed substantial wealth from diverse industries.
Other Notable Residents of Indian Creek Island
Edward Lampert
Edward “Eddie” Lampert is a well-known American billionaire, hedge fund manager, and former CEO of Sears Holdings Corporation. He founded the hedge fund ESL Investments in 1988 and quickly rose to prominence in the world of finance. Lampert is famous for his shrewd investment strategies and for being the youngest person to chair a Fortune 500 company when he took control of Sears Holdings in 2004.
Lampert’s decision to merge Sears and Kmart was controversial, and the company’s struggles under his leadership garnered significant media attention. Despite criticism regarding his handling of Sears’ financial troubles, Lampert remains a highly influential figure in the hedge fund industry.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Lampert is known for his discreet and private lifestyle. His residence on Indian Creek Island is in line with the island’s reputation for providing a refuge for the ultra-wealthy. Living among billionaires and celebrities, Lampert fits well into the island’s elite society.
George Smathers
George Armistead Smathers was an influential American politician and U.S. Senator from Florida, serving from 1951 to 1969. A member of the Democratic Party, Smathers was a key political figure during the mid-20th century, often aligning with pro-business and moderate Democratic views. He was known for his strong stance on defense and his support of the Kennedy administration, with whom he had close personal relationships.
Smathers played a significant role in shaping U.S. foreign and domestic policies during his tenure, and he was considered a “handsome and eloquent” statesman. After leaving the Senate, he continued to remain active in politics and business, securing his legacy as a prominent Floridian.
His residence on Indian Creek Island reflected his success and stature, and he was part of the early wave of notable figures who made the island their home, drawn to its exclusivity and privacy.
Don Shula
Don Shula was a legendary figure in American football, best known as the head coach of the Miami Dolphins, where he solidified his status as one of the greatest coaches in NFL history. Shula’s most famous achievement came in 1972 when he led the Dolphins to a perfect season, the only undefeated season in NFL history, capped off by a Super Bowl victory. Shula coached the Dolphins for 26 seasons, amassing the most wins of any coach in NFL history with 347 victories.
Beyond his on-field success, Shula became a beloved figure in Miami, known for his contributions to the local community. He owned a chain of steakhouses and was involved in various charitable endeavors. Shula’s presence on Indian Creek Island highlighted the island’s appeal to both sports legends and business magnates.
Shula’s home on Indian Creek Island was a symbol of his immense success and his connection to South Florida. Even after his passing in 2020, his legacy remains an integral part of Miami’s sports culture, and his memory endures among the residents of Indian Creek.
Security and Exclusivity
One of the main reasons billionaires are drawn to Indian Creek Island is its privacy and security. The island has its own police force, which patrols the waters surrounding it and guards its single bridge entrance. This ensures that only residents, their guests, and staff have access to the island, creating a sense of seclusion unmatched even by other luxury communities.
Indian Creek is also an unincorporated village, and its small population is a deliberate choice by those seeking not only opulence but peace. This high level of security, combined with the stunning waterfront views and proximity to Miami’s vibrant social and cultural scene, makes Indian Creek Island a unique oasis for the world’s wealthiest individuals.
Real Estate
Indian Creek’s exclusivity comes with astronomical real estate prices. Homes on the island typically range from $20 million to upwards of $50 million. The limited number of properties, combined with the ultra-luxury finishes and vast land plots, ensures that only the financial elite can afford to live here.
Conclusion
Indian Creek Island, also known as “Billionaire Bunker,”. Indian Creek Island represents the pinnacle of luxury and exclusivity. The residents, a mix of international business magnates, celebrities, and politicians, live in an environment of supreme privacy and wealth. The island’s security, limited access, and unrivaled luxury homes make it one of the most sought-after addresses in the world.
