In one of the wealthiest enclaves in South Florida, even a billionaire fortune reportedly is not enough to secure entry.
Indian Creek Country Club, set within the gated island community nicknamed "Billionaire Bunker," reportedly has not admitted Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, media personality Lauren Sánchez, and Ivanka Trump.
Here's what to know
According to the Daily Mail, joining the Indian Creek club can be exceptionally difficult, even for people who can cover its reported costs: a $1 million initiation fee and $44,000 in monthly dues.
In February, Bezos and Sánchez reportedly turned up at the club's dock party as part of an apparent bid to make a favorable impression on the board. The pair, owners of three properties on the island, reportedly received a warm response from many members, but no invitation had been extended when the report was published.
Membership has also reportedly proved elusive for Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner, whom the report described as owners of a $30 million island home.
Miami Dolphins coach Don Shula's widow, Mary Anne Shula, is said to have supported their effort and hosted a cocktail event introducing them to board members, yet they still had not been invited to join.
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The club dates to 1929 and reportedly has roughly 350 members. Its amenities include an 18-hole golf course, a Mediterranean-style clubhouse, and a pool with views toward the Miami skyline over Biscayne Bay.
More background
Wealth and discretion are central to Indian Creek's image. The island reportedly counts NFL legend Tom Brady, music icon Julio Iglesias, and businessman Carl Icahn among its residents, and the club mirrors that low-profile approach by reportedly avoiding social media and using a homepage that appears to function mainly as a member login.
Becoming a member reportedly requires multiple layers of support and review. A candidate needs sponsorship from two existing members along with five recommendation letters. After that, a six-person membership committee determines whether the application advances to a nomination, and a 15-member board chaired by former AutoNation CEO Mike Jackson makes the final call.
Real estate agent Dina Goldentayer, who has sold homes on the island, said, "Most communities you buy a home, you become a member of the club, and this community doesn't fall in line with that."
What can be done?
The report said Kushner may be improving his chances, in part because he has been involved in plans for a new sewer system in Indian Creek.
As Goldentayer put it: "It's the most exclusive single-family home community, it's the most exclusive private members club."
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