ABOUT THE MANOR
Enjoy life on the water in every fashion. Fish from your dock, launch a kayak or paddleboard from your private beach, or take a quick boat ride to the Intracoastal Waterway, Destin Harbor, Gulf of Mexico, and Crab Island. This manor is tucked away in a quaint community and is just minutes from downtown Fort Walton Beach, shopping, restaurants, and the pristine beaches of the Emerald Coast.
“It was the first time my kids had ever seen the beach, the first time my mother put her feet in the sand in decades, and our first time gathering as a family since the pandemic."
- Cindy Smith 2021 Guest
Father and son,Tom and Chris Buzzetta, couldn't be more different. One is gentle and safe-minded, and the other is outgoing and strong-willed. Through the years these differences grew together to forge not only a loving family but also a well-balanced partnership that brought them to the opportunity at the Manor on the Bay.
Chris, a member of the Cinco Bayou neighborhood for years, heard the news of a property selling. The design of the house spoke volumes to Chris and convinced him that there was more than a single-family dwelling to be enjoyed.
Tom, with an upcoming retirement in the grocery industry, was looking for a new opportunity. Chris, after a successful career as a pilot in the Air Force, was looking to diversify. What if he and his father partnered to bring their love of family and gathering to a location accessible to all? Chris and Tom agreed, there was nothing like this location in the area and it was meant to be shared.
Unfortunately, the property was not purchased in a safe condition. Among a lengthy list of minor issues, there were three major issues that threatened the property and surrounding neighbors. There were hundreds of thousands of dollars in non-negotiable improvements to be made but Tom and Chris did waiver on their vision.
Within one year of purchase, the Manor was registered as a provider with the Make-A-Wish Foundation to bring dreams of waterfront life to children in dire situations. The vision of offering a space for people to enjoy had become reality. 225 Beachview Drive was now The Manor on the Bay.
You may notice the tables that are made of tree trunks. These tables are very special, as they are made from a large tree that Tom and Chris had to cut down in the backyard. The tree was planted in the 1960s by Johnny, who lives across the street. It was played and swung on by the neighborhood kids in the 70s, including Lisa who lives two doors down. That tree and these tables symbolize the love and togetherness that the property has always given. Tom and Chris brought that spirit back to life.
It is with great pride and excitement that we welcome you to the Manor on the Bay. Join us in savoring this great space, the neighborhood that makes it special and the community that people travel from around the world to be a part of.