There’s been a sea change at one of St. Johns County’s most scrutinized properties.
A once beleaguered oceanfront beach club toasted to its revitalization this week with a glittering grand opening gala.
The freshly christened South Ponte Vedra Ocean Club sought to expunge the venue’s recent troubles with a swanky gathering of local notables Tuesday evening.
The club formerly known as the Serenata slipped into a financial undertow last year after its prior stewards nearly ran it aground.
The oceanfront property was eventually foreclosed on and later purchased at auction by local businessman Kevin Merritt and his wife Lynda Culhane-Merritt.
The couple flitted from table to table on Tuesday as nattily attired guests dined at the venue’s fully renovated new restaurant, Lynda’s.
Several members of their family are taking active roles in the new venture.
“This night has been such a long time coming and we’re so proud off our dad Kevin and of Lynda for putting this all together,” Kevin’s daughter, Dr. Lindsey Merritt, told The Citizen. “Lynda’s at the Ocean Club has come together absolutely beautifully and I just couldn’t be more proud and excited to be part of this experience as a family.”
The couple secured Cordon Bleu-trained executive chef Michael Richardson to oversee the restaurant at 3175 South Ponte Vedra Blvd.
While the restaurant will be open to the public, the refreshed private club will remain exclusive to members.
Nearly 300 former Serenata members have already joined the new club, and the rolls will be capped at 850 to avoid congestion.
Through March 1, membership initiation fees will cost $15,000, increasing to $17,500 after that date. Annual dues will run about $4,800.
That package includes private beach access, use of the fitness center and pools, free towels and beach chairs, and food services.
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