A little-known luxury community in Delray Beach, Florida, is quietly emerging as a top destination for celebrities and billionaires seeking privacy, security, and opulence. The enclave — Stone Creek Ranch — consists of only 37 custom-built estates, all under 24/7 armed guard, many of whom are former law enforcement or military personnel.
Unlike typical celebrity hotspots, Stone Creek Ranch isn’t about beaches, nightlife, or yachts. Its draw is its seclusion: gated entry, rigorous background checks for prospective buyers, and vast properties that ensure neighbors feel invisible to one another. Residents say the ability to live without paparazzi or the constant presence of onlookers is invaluable.
Some of the most high-profile buyers have already made their mark there. Actor Mark Wahlberg reportedly paid $37 million for his 18,000-plus-square-foot estate, which features a home theater, wine cellar, cigar lounge, and private lakefront. Another standout property is Villa Ananda, spanning more than 11,000 square feet on 2.5 acres, complete with 660 feet of private waterfront.
Beyond the homes themselves, Stone Creek Ranch offers access to five of Palm Beach County’s top private schools. Though the community doesn’t capitalize on oceanfront glamour, it offers something many celebrities value even more: serenity, discretion, and a genuine sense of retreat.
Real estate agents working in the enclave note a shift among ultra-wealthy buyers: they’re prioritizing peace over prestige, choosing hidden luxury over flashy, crowded zip codes. For them, the ultimate luxury isn’t a yacht dock or a beach view — it’s a life unobserved.
