Here’s What ‘Margaritaville’ Means – And Doesn’t Mean – For Tan-Tar-A

LAKE OF THE OZARKS, Mo. — On Thursday, news hit the Lake that the iconic Tan-Tar-A resort had been bought and would be rebranded. That news was met by the Lake community with plenty of enthusiasm and plenty of questions.

LakeExpo.com caught up with Tan-Tar-A General Manager Fred Dehner to ask some questions, straighten out some rumors, and get a glimpse of the future “Margaritaville” property.

#1 - What will the actual name of the resort be?

Dehner explained the resort will be rebranded as Tan-Tar-A: A Margaritaville Resort. “The history of Tan-Tar-A is to be incorporated with the Margaritaville theme,” he explained. Margaritaville is a global resort brand described as “casual-luxe,” with a passionate customer base, many of whom cheered the news on social media. However, Dehner noted, the “Margaritaville” rebrand will not officially happen until the renovation project is done, or nearly done.

#2 - Will the Tan-Tar-A staff and management be fired?

No. Dehner emphasized this was one of the rumors that had quickly started after the news of the purchase made its way around social media. He says the staffing and management will remain the same.

#3 - What will the renovation look like?

Margaritaville has a distinct look: marine-inspired colors and decor that are bright yet soothing. The resort brand aims to evoke the lifestyle of leisure and relaxation, and Dehner says Tan-Tar-A’s rustic-themed facilities—inside and out—will undergo a major makeover.

Guest rooms and public spaces will be renovated, exteriors will be painted, and there will be enhancements throughout the property, even including new carts for The Oaks golf course. The resort’s Black Bear Restaurant will become Margaritaville Restaurant, and Windrose Restaurant will keep its name but undergo renovation. 

For one of the biggest projects, though, several cottages will be demolished to make room for a new lakeside restaurant: Landshark Bar & Grill. Docks and a breakwater will be added to accomodate boaters at the new restaurant. There will be a new “It’s Five-O-Clock Somewhere” poolside bar, too.

#4 - How long will it take?

The renovation is expected to take between 18 months and 2 years. So the resort will not be rebranded until the spring of 2019.

#5 - How does this affect Tan-Tar-A Estates?

The change doesn’t affect Tan Tar A Estates at all, Dehner said. The name will stay the same, and residents and property owners won’t be affected.