Nudist resort to add time shares

Mira Vista Resort, at 7501 N. Wade Road in Marana, is slated to build 114 new time-share condominium-style units by 2009, said resort co-owner David Landman.

Landman and the resort's five other partners launched the property as a nudist vacation spot about a year ago. Under previous ownership, the resort was operated as Coyote Moon, a guest ranch catering to gay, lesbian and transgendered guests.

The time-share additions would be a major expansion for Mira Vista. The resort currently has just 14 guest rooms along with a restaurant, pool, spa, hiking trails and other amenities. The regular rate for the rooms ranges from $90 to $130 per night.

Landman said the success of the resort over the past year has convinced him that demand for time shares at the property would be strong.

The resort has consistently had an occupancy rate of at least 80 percent. On weekends with special events, the property has had to put prospective guests on a waiting list, he said.

Guests have also told Landman that they would like a stake in the resort, he said.

"There's a big trend in the nudist community for time shares or condominiums," Landman said. "They just want a piece of it as an investment, or a retirement home or a place to live. They like the lifestyle."

Landman said it is too early to provide details about the terms of the time-share deals or how much they will cost. The units are expected to be about 1,200 square feet with two bedrooms and two bathrooms, Landman said.

The project still requires approval from the town of Marana and other governmental authorities.

Since its opening, Mira Vista has generated sizable interest from the nudist community, said Carolyn Hawkins, spokeswoman for the American Association for Nudist Recreation.

The resort is considered one of the higher-end destinations for nudist travelers, she said. The weather helps too, she added.

"I have had a lot of feedback, and it's all been very positive," she said.

The association represents 267 nudist clubs and vacation properties, including a variety of small campgrounds and resorts such as Mira Vista.

Mira Vista may be one of the first clothing-optional vacation spots to add time shares, Hawkins said. She said some clubs and resorts are adding condominiums, but she doesn't know of any others selling time shares.

"I think it would be a good idea," she said. "It would be a new thing, and we all like something new."

Although the time-share condominiums would be marketed toward the nudist community, Landman said Mira Vista would also welcome non-nudists interested in purchasing time at the resort.

"We don't discriminate," he said.

To learn more

• Mira Vista Resort: www.miravistaresort.com

744-2355

• American Association for Nude Recreation: www.aanr.com