Mark Zuckerberg denies rumors of a massive “Doomsday bunker” on his Hawaiian estate, describing it as merely a “little shelter.”
At a Glance
- Zuckerberg’s 1,400-acre Kauai estate includes a 5,000-square-foot underground shelter
- The Meta CEO emphasizes the property’s focus on sustainable agriculture and self-sufficiency
- The estate, valued at over $270 million, has sparked local controversy and criticism
- Zuckerberg denies claims of building a “doomsday bunker,” calling it a “little shelter” or “basement”
Zuckerberg’s Hawaiian Paradise: More Than Meets the Eye
Mark Zuckerberg, the third wealthiest person in the world with a net worth of $215 billion, has found himself at the center of controversy surrounding his sprawling 1,400-acre estate on the Hawaiian island of Kauai. Recent reports have suggested that the Meta CEO is constructing a massive “Doomsday bunker” beneath his property, a claim he vehemently denies.
The estate, known as Koolau Ranch, has been described as a “fight club” due to its secrecy and the non-disclosure agreements reportedly binding its staff. With a price tag exceeding $270 million, the property boasts an impressive array of features, including two mansions connected by a tunnel, 11 treehouses, guest houses, and the contentious underground shelter.
Mark Zuckerberg says he doesn't have a Hawaiian doomsday bunker, just a 'little shelter.' It's bigger than most houses. https://t.co/wbRq4x08gn
— Business Insider (@BusinessInsider) December 26, 2024
A “Little Shelter” or Something More?
Addressing the rumors head-on, Zuckerberg downplayed the significance of the underground structure. “No, I think that’s just like a little shelter. It’s like a basement,” Zuckerberg said.
“I think the whole thing got blown out of proportion, as if the whole ranch was some kind of, like, doomsday bunker,” Mark Zuckerberg said.
Despite Zuckerberg’s dismissal, the underground shelter’s reported features have raised eyebrows. The 5,000-square-foot space, comparable in size to an NBA basketball court, allegedly includes a blast-resistant door, living space, mechanical room, and escape hatch. These elements, combined with the property’s extensive security measures, have fueled speculation about its true purpose.
Sustainable Living or Billionaire’s Bunker?
Zuckerberg maintains that the estate’s primary focus is on sustainable agriculture and self-sufficiency. The ranch aims to raise high-quality cattle fed on beer and macadamia nuts, showcasing a commitment to premium, locally-sourced produce. Additionally, the property is designed to be self-sufficient, with its own energy and food supplies, including a water tank and pump system.
“It’s not true,” Mark Zuckerberg said.
He’s pretty blunt about it, then.
However, the scale and sophistication of the estate’s infrastructure have led some to draw parallels with other wealthy individuals preparing for potential global crises. The property’s extensive amenities, including a gym, pools, sauna, and tennis court, connected by rope bridges, paint a picture of luxury far beyond typical agricultural needs.
Local Tensions and Community Impact
Zuckerberg’s presence on Kauai has not been without controversy. Local journalist Allan Parachini criticized the tech mogul for “erecting a rock wall in front of his 700-acre oceanfront property.” This action, along with the estate’s expansion, has strained relations with the local community, leading to a petition against Zuckerberg’s presence on the island.
In an effort to mitigate local discontent, the Chan Zuckerberg Kauai Community Fund has donated over $20 million to Kauai nonprofits since 2018. However, questions remain about the long-term impact of such large-scale developments on the island’s community and ecosystem.
