This expansive villa is just minutes from San Francisco, across the Golden Gate Bridge, but it may as well be worlds away, given its seven meticulous bayfront acres. Here, guests can roam over hilled knolls surrounded by oak trees and beautiful seasonal flowers or enjoy the brilliantly designed contemporary villa. Paradise by the Bay comprises four bedrooms and five bathrooms and features views of the bay from every room. The villa also features a library and a media room, perfect for those who can’t bear being disconnected. The lower terrace provides a spacious room that can be transformed into an entertainment or game room.

Paradise by the Bay is an impeccable spot for entertaining friends and family: the spacious living room and dining room face the water, thus providing a perfect party backdrop. The home’s large deck provides a stunning ocean view, as well. After dinner, why not sit fireside or enjoy the sounds of the Steinway grand piano in the music room?

When the Great Outdoors come calling, guests can enjoy alfresco amenities that include a kitchen, a courtyard, and two bars. For a more spiritual escape, enjoy the massage sanctuary hidden among Japanese maple trees. After some much-needed R&R, suit up for a match on the full-size tennis court or humor your inner child and explore the playground, complete with a two-story treehouse. Nightly, weekly, or monthly rates available. 800-495-9961, beautiful-places.com.

Exclusivity differentiates Anguilla from its fellow picturesque neighbors. The true epitome of peacefulness, the 15-mile-long island is home to not a single nightclub or casino. Thirty white-sand beaches stretch along the island and are home to some of the Caribbean’s most luxurious accommodations. Newest among them is the 10-bedroom beachfront villa Le Bleu in the Little Harbour estates.

Situated on approximately 2.5 acres of land, Le Bleu’s tranquil beachside suites overlook the sparkling turquoise waters of Little Harbour. Caribbean architecture and Thai influences accentuate the unsurpassed surrounding views and plentiful privacy of Anguilla. Fresh air, blue sky, and aquamarine hues are reflected in every spacious room.
Le Bleu is located on Anguilla’s south shore at the mouth of Little Harbour Bay. Tropical and water gardens, a beachside Jacuzzi, and two gorgeous swimming pools that are strategically positioned to ensure views of neighboring islands St. Bartholomew and St. Martin complete the lavish landscape.

Protected and secluded by Little Harbour Reef, Le Bleu’s location is optimal for water activities like snorkeling and kayaking. For land activities, journey to the nearby Temenos Golf Club, complete with a Greg Norman-designed 18-hole golf course. $3,120-$9,643 per night, $27,300-67,500 per week, 800.289.0900, villalebleu.com

Located just two blocks from Straight Wharf and historic Main Street, this charming compound comprises a playful mix of homes that are laid out in the shape of a horseshoe. Tradition aside, Harborview is just steps away from one of the island’s primary ferry landings, affording great views of Nantucket Harbor and the picturesque estates of Monomoy. This peaceful in-town oasis feels like it’s a world away from the Massachusetts mainland.

The 10 residences are uniquely designed in Nantucket’s timeless tradition of simple elegance, including a classic fisherman’s cottage by the water and a historic barn. Harborview boasts an array of amenities and private club services from a personal concierge to pre-stocked, privately staffed units, an owners’ lounge and private beach services, transportation, spa treatments, and anything else your island heart desires.

Of course, no trip to Nantucket would be complete without getting out on the water, and what better way to see the island than cruising around in one of Harborview’s new hassle- and maintenance-free Boston Whaler 200 Dauntless club boats. “Everything is so close, so you don’t need a car,” says Jon McLoughlin, the director of sales and marketing for Time and Place Homes. “Staying at Harborview Place is really like having your own home.” $450-$2,700 per night, Time and Place Homes, 202-286-6110, harborviewnantucket.com.

By Scott Kauffman

The Dominican Republic has long been known for its world-class cigars, rums, and professional baseball players. Now, with a growing number of upscale resort-style developments, the DR is becoming recognized as one of the Caribbean’s top destinations for luxury real estate. A relative newcomer is Google software engineer Spencer Kimball. Unlike numerous celebrities gravitating to the DR’s popular Punta Cana and Casa de Campo resort communities, Kimball is content on the Costa Verde coastline along the north.

Specifically, Kimball has his little piece of heaven in the gated community of Orchard Bay, where he offers his luxurious Caribbean casa as a rental villa when he is back at home in his multi-million dollar New York City loft. Located less than 10 miles from Playa Grande, the Aman Resort-anchored golf course community, Kimball’s Casa Kimball villa is a sleek, 20,000-square-foot estate comprised of eight bedroom suites, an outdoor bar and rooftop lounge, a state-of-the-art media and entertainment center, cliffside terraces, gardens, and more.

Designed by New York City architect Jasmit Rangr, Casa Kimball is an elegant transformation of a three-acre footprint that features unique surface textures and sightlines, giving this stack of “minimalist boxes” a combination of architectural confidence and retro-like style. Casa Kimball’s most popular spots are the 156-foot infinity pool that spills out to the sea.

“It is an escape to a completely different world with all the services and modern amenities expected,” says villa manager Monica Bouwmeester. “I’ve had a lot of clients research us and a lot of other high-end places, and when they walk in through our doors, they’re just blown away. It’s surreal.” $3,000-$4,000 per night; $18,000-$35,000 weekly, 888-766-4640, casakimball.com.

Story by Scott Kauffman. Photos by Paul Warchol

A newer, more intimate gem just 10 minutes south of Punta Mita is Villa Koi, a newly constructed, 11,000-square-foot Mexican masterpiece. Offering gated beachfront access and unobstructed views of beautiful Banderas Bay, the city of Puerto Vallarta, and Marieta Islands, Villa Koi features five spacious, well-appointed suites, each with their own sitting area, ensuite bathroom, and veranda and/or private patio garden. Four of the suites overlook the ocean, while the fifth opens up to a private garden with its own fountain and outdoor sitting room.

One of the villa’s preferred spots is the large main dining room, highlighted by ample open-air seating that overlooks the infinity pool and Banderas Bay on one side and a large Koi pond on the other. Perhaps Villa Koi can best be enjoyed through either the English-speaking caretaker or the top-notch chef, who discreetly reside on the estate property in a separate casita. The full-time staff is available at the touch of an intercom key, beginning with airport pick-up in a private van and continuing with meal service twice a day, beverage service, and daily housekeeping.

As for entertainment, Puerto Vallarta offers a plethora of activities from surfing to deep-sea fishing and boating, not to mention golf at two Jack Nicklaus-designed courses. Of course, if none of these activities sounds appetizing, there’s always the opportunity to work on your romance, an art popularized here by that famous Hollywood couple. $3,500-$5,500 per night, La Punta Realty, 011-52-329-291-6420, lapuntarealty.com. –Scott Kauffman

Beginning with the late Princess Margaret, who received 10 acres of land on Mustique as a wedding gift in 1960 from her friend and the island’s then owner Colin Tennant (the present-day Lord Glenconner), members of the international elite have taken up residence here to enjoy a respite from their everyday lives. And while insiders will only identify prominent island dwellers as “captains of industry, fashion designers, architects,

financiers” and the like, one can with little effort unearth names of

several A-list inhabitants: Mick Jagger, Raquel Welch, David Bowie, and the late Paul Newman are among purported past and present homeowners here. An exciting recent development is that a trio of magnificent homes has emerged on the market in Mustique, meaning this little slice of paradise could be your very own home away from home.

Difficult at best to pinpoint on a map, Mustique is a speck of an island just 18 miles south of St. Vincent in the Grenadines in the southern Caribbean. And although just 1.9 square miles, what this tiny, exclusive islet offers in terms of luxurious living is anything but small. In fact, a controlled development plan devised by the island’s current owners—shareholders of The Mustique Company—ensures that Mustique is preserved in both its environment and its exclusivity. Thus, accommodations consist only of a 19-room boutique hotel, a four-bedroom guesthouse, and 100 privately owned villas, carefully situated throughout the island’s 1,400 acres. Whether you’re a resident or guest here, it’s virtually impossible to impose on your neighbors’ space, an idea that potential buyers find particularly appealing.

Homes in Mustique’s Villa Collection range in size from two to nine bedrooms and are strategically placed in various settings to provide optimum privacy and a range of price points. An eclectic blend of architectural styles includes those described by islanders as Caribbean Gingerbread, Tuscan, Balinese, French Chateau, Contemporary, Moroccan, and Palladian, among others. Each villa has been individually designed with the owner’s taste and style in mind, from classic Japanese to contemporary Mexican. Of particular historical significance are the 13 villas designed by Oliver Messel, the British theatrical set designer. Messel moved to Barbados in the 1950s, whereupon he took to designing and modifying residences. Messel later lent his talents to the island of Mustique, where he arrived in 1969 to begin restorative work on its now-sought-after Cotton House hotel. Ultimately, his collection of villas will remain among the island’s most popular residences.

Styles might vary, but some luxuries and amenities remain consistent throughout the entire villa collection—think spacious, landscaped grounds, private terraces, freshwater swimming pools, and yes, those ubiquitous breathtaking views. In addition to such creature comforts, villas are tended to by dedicated staffs, which are employed by each respective villa’s owner and managed by The Mustique Company. To ensure that every stay is completely hassle-free, a minimum of three staffers—most often including a butler and/or house manager—oversee each home, but insiders at The Mustique Company say that number tends to increase along with acreage, square footage, and, of course, the owners’ individual needs.

Approximately 1,300 people inhabit the island during peak season, and residents pride themselves on their discretion and respect for each other’s privacy. Anonymity is, after all, what draws so many owners and guests here to begin with. Yet unavoidable is the fact that so many notables make Mustique their home for at least part of every year. Among them is fashion designer Tommy Hilfiger. Hilfiger is said to have repeatedly visited Mustique for more than a decade before commissioning his own sprawling, six-bedroom villa (complete with five surrounding guest cottages) named Palm Beach, which was completed in 1999. Ten years later, he still calls Mustique “the ultimate private paradise.”

So also say Tatiana and Gerret Copeland, who own the island’s Toucan Hill villa: “Mustique is a place where dreams become reality. We have always found Mustique the closest thing to paradise in our lives,” the Copelands say. “And we love our home, with its amazing views, warm and friendly staff, delicious food, drinks at sunset overlooking the infinite water—life is good!”

Here’s good news for anyone who’d like to own a corner of this private paradise: The Mustique Company at press time reported three villas available for sale. On-the-market manses include Seascape, a three-bedroom villa situated on 8.7 acres of beachfront, affording views of Bequia and St. Vincent. Seascape’s residents can laze in one of two freshwater pools or enjoy a film in its media room for a mere $18 million. In a very different setting, the four-bedroom Rutland Hill occupies a hilltop lot spanning 20 acres overlooking the ocean. A centralized swimming pool gives way to panoramas of the beach and sea, which residents can also absorb from private balconies off each bedroom. Five staffers manage Rutland Hill, the asking price for which is $15 million.

A third and final property for sale, the contemporary Iguana, occupies 4.47 acres on a promontory offering 180-degree views including the popular Macaroni Beach to the east, St. Vincent to the north, and Britannia Bay to the west. Iguana actually comprises two parallel main structures—principal living areas in the westward-facing first building and bedrooms in the other eastward-facing building—yielding a courtyard that is open at one end, lest those breathtaking views be obstructed. A lower level, reachable by an external staircase, is dedicated to guest accommodations, a fitness room, and an infinity-edge pool; the asking price is $17.8 million. A 4.8-acre lot on Brittania Bay is also available for a cool $7.5 million—a far cry from the $67,500 Tennant first paid in 1958 to call the entire island his own—and is the perfect foundation on which to build the ultimate beachfront dream home.

Of course, those who aren’t quite ready to buy can still try their hand at island life, with villas like Sapphire and Hibiscus at the ready for rental. The three-bedroom open-air Sapphire recently was reintroduced into the rental program with weekly rates beginning at $12,000. Although Hibiscus’s arched doorways and windows evoke images of the Tuscan countryside, its 270-degree ocean and island views—perhaps best appreciated while afloat in the infinity-edge pool—are unmistakably Mustique. Rates for Hibiscus begin at $16,000.

Homeowners here are among the first to admit there’s much more to Mustique than its real estate. “We fell in love with Mustique in the early 1980s and have never found a place to equal it in all our travels throughout the world,” says Tatiana Copeland. “The island has a magical combination of fantasy, serenity, intriguing houses (and owners), and privacy, as well as perfect parties.”

Perhaps between parties, then, residents and guests alike revel in the island’s unspoiled environment, which, combined with a tropical climate that sees an average yearly temperature of 81 degrees, is conducive to more than a dozen recreational activities tailored to nearly every imaginable pace.

Facilities for sports staples like basketball, tennis, volleyball, soccer, and cricket are found throughout the island. For duffers, a dedicated Activities Department can easily arrange a round of golf at Trump International Golf Course on neighboring Canouan Island, a 10-minute flight or 45-minute ride by boat. Boating enthusiasts can take to the sea surrounding Mustique on a number of privately chartered excursions, be it a sunset cruise, a powerboat day trip, or a leisurely sail aboard a luxury yacht to nearby islands like Petit St. Vincent, Canouan, Tobago Cays, Palm Island, Mayreau, and Bequia.

Islanders who prefer to rely on the land for leisure won’t want for options, either. Mustique’s latticework of trails—designed to be traversed by foot or on horseback—has proved to be popular means by which to explore the island’s brilliant flora, sneak a peek at wildlife, and learn about its history firsthand. A 2.2-mile fitness trail is punctuated with 14 exercise stations, beckoning the fitness-focused to test their might. Jeeps, motorcycles, and mountain bikes are available for rent through Mustique Mechanical Services, meaning adrenaline junkies can enjoy the island at an even more heart-pounding pace. Without a doubt, Mustique’s most popular natural draw is the nine beaches that abut the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, which ably play host to leisurely picnics and, simply, sunbathing.

Mustique’s intimate size and community spirit are perhaps best exemplified in its restaurant and entertainment offerings. At Basil’s Beach Bar & Restaurant, proprietor and longtime resident Basil Charles welcomes guests, day visitors, and villa owners 365 days a year for casual fare in a beachfront setting. The stilted, seaside establishment is a favorite for its sunset views and is the scene each Wednesday of “Jump Up & Barbecue,” a festive night set to live music. Even for residents of this little island, reservations at the popular hangout come strongly recommended.

Another popular gathering spot in Mustique is the Firefly Guest House, from which cocktail bar guests enjoy sunset views over Britannia Bay that are said to be nothing short of legendary. Then, after the sun goes down, guests head to Firefly’s infamous Mustique Martini Club. The club’s martini menu reads like a nature guide, touting concoctions like the Jitterbug, Termite, Dragon Fly, and Bumble Bee. Not to be missed is the Mustique Champagne Club, whose menu boasts cocktails of Champagne blended with everything from Crème de Cassis to Cointreau and light, fruity flavors. Guests who want simply to sate a five-star appetite can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner at Firefly as well, with a candlelit dinner on its balcony reportedly one of the most romantic experiences imaginable on the island.

The crowning jewel, however, is the island’s 19-room boutique hotel, the Cotton House. The hotel began as an 18th century cotton warehouse and sugar mill, but today, thanks largely to Messel’s restorative work in the 1960s, it is the social centerpiece of Mustique. Widely known as one of the Caribbean’s most exclusive and romantic inns, the Colonial-style Cotton House attracts guests with its beachy-yet-elegant atmosphere. Accommodations, which consist of a series of bedrooms, suites, and cottages, as well as the Cotton Hill Residence, feature understated, fuss-free décor—a basic, earthy palette is punctuated with pops of brilliant color, and dreamy details like frothy mosquito nets hung from four-poster beds—that allows panoramic island and ocean views to take center stage.

Happily for island residents, owning or renting a villa here also means having access to the hotel’s top-notch amenities. The Veranda restaurant serves breakfast and dinner daily from a menu of fresh, local offerings, while the Beach Café Restaurant & Bar is a more casual stop where beachgoers can break for items like fried seafood, pizza, lobster, and entrees hot off the grill. But no stay on Mustique would be complete without a visit to the Cotton House Spa. The intimate ESPA facility offers an impressive variety of massages, facials, specialized body and signature treatments, and other beauty services, nearly all of which feature natural, if not locally produced, ingredients. Most treatments can also be enjoyed in the privacy of a guest’s room at the Cotton House or in their very own villa—just one more perk of living life in paradise.

Mustique by the Numbers

$67,500 – Price paid by Colin Tennant to purchase Mustique in 1958.

1,300 – Average number of residents on island during peak season.

100 – The number of private residences on Mustique.

72 – Villas available to rent through the island’s rental program.

17 – Countries represented by shareholders of The Mustique Company, which owns the island of Mustique.

3 – Minimum number of staffers dedicated to each particular villa.

81 – Average temperature on island.

1,400 – Size of Mustique in acres.

3,180 – Length in feet of Mustique’s private airstrip.

19 – Guest accommodations in the Cotton House hotel.

4 – Bedrooms at Firefly Guest House.

65 – Percentage of repeat visitors to Mustique.

Buyer Facts and Figures

Properties for Sale by Name:
Iguana: 4.47 acres; $17.8 million (hilltop/promontory)
Seascape: 8.7 acres; $18 million (oceanfront)
Rutland Hill: 20 acres; $15 million (hilltop/promontory)
Lot 1 (Britannia Bay): 4.8 acres; $7.5 million

Contact for Ownership Opportunities
Roger Pritchard, Managing Director: 784-488-8402;
Cordelia@mustique.vc
Rental inquiries should be sent to: villarentals@mustique.vc
General information: mustique-island.com

Located just 10 minutes outside of the popular master-planned Wailea resort community on the southern coast of Maui, Ahihi Bay Hideaway is a secluded, $6.5 million oceanfront villa situated in Maui’s historic Natural Area Reserves System district. Basically, if your vision of Hawaii is something remote, romantic, and magical, this is the place for you.

The magic is quickly evident once you step inside this unique “dual-pod” resort residence that is surrounded by the Pacific Ocean on three sides, as well as a pristine nature preserve. It all gives Ahihi Bay a loyal following among both honeymooners and families, who all relish the 3,000-square-foot home’s beautiful and peaceful setting. A favorite spot is the second floor, highlighted by a huge master bedroom and deck that offers panoramic vistas of the ocean and neighboring islands. The master suite also features separate his-and-her marble bathrooms, plus giant sliding pocket doors that help bring the ocean in and offer one of the most romantic views on Maui.

Located in the center of the house is a giant floor-to-ceiling saltwater aquarium. Lush tropical landscaping and a koi pond surround the main house and separate the “tree house” bedroom suite. Another signature feature is the home’s heated saline infinity pool that flows into a waterfall carved out of lava rock just beyond the open living pavilion.

What makes the Ahihi Bay Hideaway experience complete are the many amenities which include private gourmet chefs, highly skilled massage therapists, expert ocean and hiking guides, and more. For example, an avid kite boarder and Ahihi Bay client recently came back from a memorable Maui trip that involved renting a 65-foot catamaran charter that acted as his towboat. From $1,700 per night, Mindy Robertson, Pure Maui, Inc., 808-721-9200, puremaui.com.

Shrouded in exotic flora and overlooking the Pacific from a 120-foot cliff, Casa Triton is the ultimate home away from home in Mexico’s tony Costa Careyes community, just a few hours south of Puerto Vallarta. The villa bears the signature “modernist palapa” style of its designer, Mexican architect Marco Aldaco, and offers panoramic ocean views. Other standout features of the villa include a 200-foot serpentine infinity pool and an adjacent clifftop terrace that’s furnished with a canopied day bed.

Perhaps the most impressive feature of the house is not its views of the surrounding scenery, but its integration into it. According to insiders, Aldaco painstakingly planned the villa’s construction with a series of open-air palapas—structures with sloping, thatched roofs supported at all corners by timber posts—in harmony with the environment.

Second only to the home’s incredible setting are the amenities and services guests enjoy once they arrive here, beginning with the option to customize its configuration based on group size. (Casa Triton can be rented as a three- or six-bedroom unit.) Interior features include ocean view showers, walk-in closets, a sitting area and a bar, and a full staff including a butler and chef. Guests will want to get to know their personal concierge, who can arrange massages on the terrace and picnics on the beach, or more active endeavors like snorkeling, horseback riding, and golf. Upon request, he can even arrange live entertainment—be it a professional DJ or authentic Mariachi band—for an unforgettable wedding, reception, reunion, or any other special event. Of course, don’t forget to ask him to assist with next year’s reservation before you head back home.

Maximum villa occupancy is eight, and children should be at least 12 to stay. Rates from $5,000 per night, minimum seven-night stay required; Jon Chiniborch, jon@luxury retreats.com; 877-993-0100 Ext. 418; luxuryretreats.com.

—Lindsay Lambert

Midway along Florida’s Gulf coast at Sarasota’s Siesta Key are some of the state’s finest beaches. Crescent Beach on Siesta Key is a perennial top ten beach—the sand itself is 99 percent quartz and almost as fine as powder. This is the setting for the newly opened Hyatt Siesta Key Beach, the 15th property in the Hyatt Residence Club and Hyatt Vacation Club portfolio.

Every one of the 44 residences, which debuted in July 2009, was designed, built, and furnished to satisfy your discerning taste. Kitchens are equipped to suit the preferences of even the most accomplished home chefs. Handcrafted Italian cabinetry is used throughout and flat panel TVs are in every room. After a day of beach combing, lavish linens and deep, comfortable beds make retiring for the night an anticipated ritual.

Outside, relax in one of the 22 private cabanas furnished with overstuffed chaises.  On cooler evenings, a fire pit area beckons with the promise of a comfortable chair, lively conversation, and the perfect spot to take in the Gulf views.

Expect to be pampered. Every morning, a local gourmet and catering firm presents an array of freshly baked goods, fruit, and other breakfast staples in an airy dining area. They also provide a daily lunch and dinner menu if you prefer to have a professional chef at your beck and call.

Fractional ownership at Hyatt Siesta Key Beach provides you with as much time as is typically spent at a wholly owned second home, but with the added benefits of onsite property management by a luxury brand, the style of service and amenities luxury buyers expect, and travel opportunities to other Hyatt properties worldwide. Pricing begins at $135,700 for a one-sixteenth share. 888-280-4928, hyattsiestakeybeach.com.

Mexican  Majesty

Located on Camarones Beach near downtown Puerto Vallarta, Mexico is Puerta al Mar, the new boutique-style luxury condominium development designed by architect Jose Francisco Gomez. Completed August 2009, Puerta al Mar is comprised of eight luxury units with carefully designed floor plans. Two penthouse units each feature two stories of luxury living with three bedrooms, three and a half baths, and rooftop decks, while the remaining six units offer two bedrooms and two and a half baths. All units feature traditional Mexican decor and granite countertops and come furnished or unfurnished. Deluxe amenities include a Jacuzzi and heated pool right at the beach level, elevator service, an impressive outdoor bar, and private covered parking. Priced from $588,000 to $1.5 million, the size of the units ranges from 1,356 square feet to 1,916 square feet. 011-52-322 223-5871, investpv.com.

Sunshine State of Mind

The Westin Beach Resort, Fort Lauderdale completed the second phase of its multi-million-dollar extensive redesign in July 2009. The Florida resort now boasts a Heavenly Spa by Westin, 24-hour Westin Workout, oceanfront Starbucks Coffee, and 433 guestrooms and suites, each with a Heavenly Bed and Heavenly Bath, among its array of upscale offerings. The resort has been named a member of the Lauderdale Luxe collection, honored with the AAA Four Diamond Award, and has been named a 2010 Super Bowl headquarters hotel for the NFL. 888-627-7108, westin.com/fortlauderdalebeach.

Hyatt has just opened its 15th luxury fractional residence club overlooking the clear, warm waters of Crescent Beach on Siesta Key, a barrier island off the Sarasota, Florida mainland. World-renowned for its 99% quartz sands, Crescent Beach is consistently named one of the top beaches in America and considered one of the finest beaches in the world. The soft, sugar white quartz sand is powdery to touch and stays cool underfoot even on the brightest summer days. The surrounding environment provides endless opportunities for fishing, boating, water sports, wildlife viewing, cultural events, or simply relaxing.

The luxurious 300 foot private beach is only the beginning of the exceptional amenities awaiting you at Hyatt Siesta Key Beach. The property houses 44 boutique residences fully furnished with top of the line appliances from Wolf, Fisher Pyakel, Sub-Zero and Miele. If you’d rather leave the cooking to someone else, a professional chef is available to prepare your meals. Twice daily maid service means you’ll rarely lift a finger as you enjoy your vacation swathed in the wrap of luxury. Each residence features handcrafted Italian cabinetry and custom designed furniture throughout. You’ll enjoy soothing yourself in the master bath spa tub and experience breath taking Gulf views from your private balcony.  Every room is equipped with wall mounted flat screen TVs and there is high-speed wireless Internet service throughout.

Unwind and stay fit in our on-site fitness center and spa, equipped with the very latest Lifestyle® professional equipment. You’ll also find steam rooms, sauna and our waterfall spa. The entire family will love the beachfront pool area, surrounded by majestic Majewel palms, overstuffed lounge furniture and private cabanas.

Later, as the sun prepares its descent, you’ll likely want to gather around the beachside fire-pit with a tropical cocktail to await the pastel sky of a Gulf of Mexico sunset.

Escape to Siesta Key Beach and experience the luxury, lifestyle and location for yourself.

1-888-280-4928, hyattsiestakeybeach.com

St. Maarten’s Porto Cupecoy indulges in the Mediterranean good life.

Relaxing in the tropics normally conjures up images of secluded, pristine beaches, but Orient-Express is putting a new spin on Caribbean living. Framed by lush landscape and teal waters, the Mediterranean-style village of St. Maarten’s Porto Cupecoy features high- and low-rise residence buildings, coupled with galleries, bistros, European sidewalk cafes, and resort boutiques, creating the perfect balance of energy and relaxation. The pedestrian-friendly community includes a white-glove marina and yacht club with 48 slips.

The setting was developed by Orient-Express, whose La Samanna Hotel in St. Maarten proved to be a favorite spot of Jackie Kennedy Onassis in the 1960s. Spacious residences with large loggia balconies overlook stucco buildings with red barrel tile roofs and ever-changing views of the Caribbean, dotted with a variety of pleasure boats. Bright, airy interiors include Brazilian cherry kitchens, stainless Viking appliances, Italian marble, and simple, clean European detailing throughout.

Joseph Rosol, a resident of the island, has vacationed all over the Caribbean and fell in love with St. Maarten in the 1980s. After 40 years in hedge funds, he retired here three years ago. The Dallas native had already bought a house on the island when he found himself first in line to buy at Porto Cupecoy.  “This development has everything going for it. It’s being developed by a very reputable company, it’s on the best side of the island, it’s close to the airport, and there are no capital gains or property taxes here,” Rosol says.

Porto Cupecoy is slated for completion in November 2009 and will have everything residents need at their fingertips. A variety of stores, medical offices, fitness amenities, and a boardwalk will be steps away.

Porto Cupecoy, St. Maarten, sales@portocupecoy.com, portocupecoy.com.

While visions of sugarplums might be dancing in your head, now is the perfect time to start planning for next summer’s beach retreat.

Mention the term “summer rental” and a host of unflattering images might spring to mind including, but not limited to, John Candy stumbling down the beach, outfitted as the quintessential tourist in the 1985 comedy Summer Rental. The reality of renting a home on the ocean for a season is obviously much different, especially for the high-end market, and oftentimes the benefits far outweigh the alternative of buying. For one, there’s much less to worry about, especially with on-premise staff at many locations to cater to your every whim. There’s also little maintenance to get in the way of a relaxing day at the beach. Water damage from last night’s storm? The owners will take care of that. Fluctuations in the real estate market? Who cares? You’re renting! With all of that in mind, we present you with the top 10 summer rental homes. Now is the best time to begin thinking about next summer. These homes tend to book up early, so securing one for next summer takes some forward thinking and some fast dialing. See you at the beach!

Tortola, British Virgin Islands
When your summer vacation plans include getting the heck out of Dodge, this island retreat should top your list. Set high on a cliff with stunning ocean views, this brand new, 5,000-square-foot Balinese-inspired villa exudes relaxation. Set on a private, four-acre gated lot with 180-degree views of the ocean, this villa features four bedrooms and four and a half baths and comes loaded with modern amenities. Kick back in the heated infinity pool and hot tub, cook outdoors on the gas fire pit, or start cocktail hour early on the second floor gallery with a wet bar, pool table, and a media room with a large flat screen TV and surround sound. There’s also a fully equipped gym, air conditioning in all primary rooms and a private chef. If that’s still not enough for you and your family, boating excursions on a 29-foot fishing/ski boat are available, as well as spa services.
$14,000-$25,000 per week; 284-541-0201, info@goldenpavilionvilla.com, goldenpavilionvilla.com.

Jupiter Island,  Florida
Those looking to combine ocean views and ultra-private surroundings can do no wrong with this modern Jupiter Island hideaway. Although the house is tucked away within a dense landscape of sea grape foliage and palms, occupants still enjoy unobstructed ocean views thanks to a bit of clever interior design; most of the home’s principal living areas were intentionally located on the upper levels, meaning maximized views of the ocean and beach. Additional highlights of the five-bedroom, five-and-a-half-bath house include an open floor plan with soaring windows, an ultra-modern kitchen, and an Ipe Brazilian-wood deck that overlooks the heated outdoor swimming pool.
$35,000 per month, Fenton Lang and Bruner, 800-587-4753, fentonandlang.com.

Malibu, California
If you’re a bona fide star of the silver screen in need of an escape, or you just want to live like Hollywood royalty does, look no further than Villa Versailles, a veritable seaside palace on more than five acres of oceanfront land in Malibu. The massive, 21,000-square-foot mansion comprises a whopping 10 bedrooms and 11 full baths, with amenities including seven fireplaces, seven garage bays, tennis courts, a barn, balconies, and a breathtaking swimming pool overlooking Versailles-style gardens. Whether your business here is film, function, or real-life respite, there’s no more perfect place to create your own happily-ever-after storyline.
$45,000 per month; Shamon Shamonki, Brentwood Brokerage, 310-481-6262; sothebyshomes.com.

Westhampton, NY
Pristine interiors combine with country style and a modern edge to make this Westhampton Beach house one of the Hamptons’ most sought-after spots. The three-story home overlooks the Atlantic through soaring glass walls, while the outdoor pool and privacy decks, an oceanside garden, and mahogany boardwalks provide ample opportunity for guests to take in their breathtaking surroundings firsthand. The ground floor includes a living room, family room, two bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, and a steam shower cabana bath that is accessible from both indoors and out, as well as a sauna, playroom, and laundry room. The second level comprises two additional master bedrooms, a family room with stone fireplace, a gourmet kitchen, and a double living room with twin fireplaces; the third floor is devoted entirely to the master suite.
Memorial Day–Labor Day, $185,000; July/August, $100,000; Noel J. Love, Brown Harris Stevens, 631-204-2416, bhshamptons.com

Carpinteria, Califonia
Classic Cape Cod-style architecture and a location directly on the sand combine to make this four-bedroom cottage the quintessential California beach house. Outside, guests can relax on one of two sun-soaked terraces while taking in views of the Pacific, or warm their toes in the sand by simply stepping off the porch. Inside, living areas are awash in bright white, cobalt blue, and cheerful yellow tones, while ample windows usher in an abundance of natural light. A pair of fireplaces and polished wood floors add to the home’s New England-style atmosphere, but here, you won’t have to shutter the place come winter.
$12,000 per month; Suzanne Perkins, Caroline Santandrea, Montecito – Coast Village Road Brokerage, 805-565-8643, 805-969-9993; sothebyshomes.com.

Necker Island,  British Virgin Islands
Sir Richard Branson’s Caribbean getaway is a 74-acre private island located 30 minutes by launch or helicopter from Tortola. Book the island with up to 28 of your closest friends and you’ve got yourself the party of a lifetime. Stay in the Great House or in one of five Bali Houses. Either way, resident chefs prepare all meals and a fully-stocked bar ensures you never go thirsty. With multiple beaches and pools, a swim-up bar with waterfall, and a staff of 50 catering to your every need, this could very well be the finest summer rental on earth. That is, of course, until you get the bill.
$53,000 per night for up to 28 guests or book per couple starting at $25,400 per night; 877-577-8777, neckerisland.com.

Grace Bay, Turks and Caicos
If you’re planning to spend your entire summer at the beach, it’s important to make sure your villa not only fits your style but also affords you modern amenities and nearby creature comforts. Turtle Breeze fits that bill perfectly. Situated on a peninsula at Grace Bay Beach away from the crowds, this brand-new villa offers plenty to smile about including its own lagoon, waterfalls, and swim-up bar with underwater bar stools. Let’s not forget two acres of gated privacy, six bedrooms—each with their own double-vanity baths and separate outside entrances—and fantastic snorkeling right out
the back door. Turtle Breeze is also located within walking distance to numerous restaurants, shops, and all marine activities.
$12,000-$17,500 per week; Shandon Moog Benedict and Henry Moog, Luxury Villa Rentals, 404-467-4858, tcvillas.com.

Malibu, California
Architect Richard Landry brings a touch of the French countryside to the southern California coast with Chateau Ortolan, which, insiders say, is a favorite celebrity escape. The four-bedroom, four-bath home, which Landry modeled after a 17th-century Dordogne estate, comprises 5,200 square feet of living space and is just one block from the famed Zuma beach. We love the home’s French-country interiors, which include a charming mix of textures and earthy materials (the gourmet kitchen alone boasts timber-beamed ceilings, gleaming wood floors, and a stone fireplace and oven nook). Although the beach is just a block away, a large, circular saltwater pool is the crowning jewel of the estate’s expansive rear lawn, which is the perfect way for one to take in the pristine surroundings in complete and utter privacy.
$20,000 per month; Candance Scott, Pacific Palisades Brokerage, 310-317-2800, sothebyshomes.com.

Southampton, New York
On 4.5 acres of oceanfront dune land in swanky Southampton, this two-story contemporary home welcomes guests with crisp, white interiors complemented by polished wood and marble floors. Standout features of the 5,637-square-foot home include a heated outdoor pool surrounded by a sprawling, sun-drenched deck, and a private walkway that connects the house to a stretch of sandy beach. Inside, the five-bedroom, eight-bath house boasts a magnificent master bath in which the jetted tub is framed by an ocean-facing picture window, where one could spend hours just soaking in the view. An added bonus: three working fireplaces are the perfect way to heat things up when those cool ocean breezes blow in.
July, $160,000, August, $180,000, short-term, $100,000; Noel J. Love, Brown Harris Stevens Southampton, 631-204-2416, bhshamptons.com.

Chatham, Massachusetts
Tucked away within a landscape of manicured gardens and overlooking the picturesque Chatham Harbor, the Chatham Bars Lodge defines summers on the Cape. Interior features of the 4,500-square-foot home include four bedrooms—each with its own private bathroom—a TV bunk room, two additional half baths, a gourmet kitchen with Viking appliances, a formal dining room, a living room with fireplace, and a centrally installed music system that pipes sound throughout the house. Outside, a screened porch, wraparound veranda and upper-level deck showcase beautiful harbor views. Adding to its already undeniable appeal, the lodge is one block north of the Chatham Seaside Golf Links and minutes from the restaurants and shops of charming downtown Chatham.
$12,500 per week; Pine Acres Rentals, 508-945-7443, pineacresrealty.com.

View from Lanai.

Pure oceanfront luxury… This top floor corner penthouse is located in Waipouli Beach Resort’s closest ocean front location, with stunning ocean views from the living area, lanai, and bedrooms. With sprawling ocean views, experience one of Waipouli Beach Resort’s top 5 Suites. Purchase this from the owner for 1.6 million or simply enjoy the experience for a moment in time.

Winner of two first prizes in the $2,000,000 + condo category of the 2006 ’50th Parades of homes is one of many reasons to visit this special property. The furniture was selected and designed by the renown interior designer, Philpotts and Associates, known for their incredible resorts and custom homes around the world. The stylish interior of this ocean view 2 bedroom, 3 bath, 1312 square foot unit includes top of the line kitchen with granite counter tops and African Mahogany cabinets, 3 full bathrooms with Peruvian Travertine stone surrounds, soaking tubs and two showers. Other features include flat screen TVs, air conditioning, and interior full size stackable washer and dryer.

Living Room

Waipouli Beach Resort & Spa boasts Kauai’s only heated fresh water lazy river pool with one cave, two water slides, three sand bottom whirlpool spas, three waterfalls and a child friendly sand bottom beach area. On the property there is a grill and a large beach front bar perfect for lunch, dinner, and Mai Tai time. Take a jog or walk on our outdoor paved walkways that circle the entire resort or enjoy the fitness room. Pamper yourself at the 5,000 square foot Aveda Spa with massage and much more.

The location of the resort is superior in the sense that one is halfway to each side of the island, making all activities a short drive.  It is also a short walk to the historical town of Kapaa which has fantastic restaurants, organic food stores, boutique shopping, and a yoga studio. Nearby is the newly built beach path which goes for miles… perfect for walking or cycling.

Property Features:
* Sunny beachfront location, close to all amenities.
* Exquisite interior design
* Gourmet kitchen
* Beautiful gardens
* 2 Superior King beds for the ultimate sleep!
* Kauai’s only heated salt water pool
* oceanfront bar and restaurant
* Wi-Fi
* Air Conditioning
* Family friendly
* Aveda Spa & fitness facility
* Nearby boutique shopping and variety of excellent restaurants
* Nearby activities – golf, surfing, kayaking, hiking, waterfalls and more…
* Nearby Bikrams Yoga Studio
* Walk to the Coconut MarketPlace with over 60 shops, restaurants and theater

This is truly the best value on Kauai for luxury accommodations!

Call us now at 1.877.465.2824 or email reservations@kauaiexclusive.com to
reserve your dates.

This property is managed by Kauai Exclusive Management. To view all of our Waipouli Beach Resort units, please go to: www.kauaiexclusive.com

Property Details:
Address:
Waipouli Beach Resort
4-820 Kuhio Hwy # 4
Kapaa, HI
96746, USA

Accommodates up to 6 Guests, Rooms: 2 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms, Beds: 2 King Beds, 1 Other Bed. No Smoking. No Pets. 4 Dining Seats. 1300 Square Feet.

Rates: $429 – $649 Nightly

Classy Colina is a peaceful and serene ground-floor, two-bedroom, two-bathroom condominium in the Colina community of the Los Sueños Resort & Marina. Beautifully decorated and fully equipped, this light-filled end unit resort residence has a marvelous, up-close view of the golf course’s 7th hole! The setting affords much privacy and peacefulness. The large terrace is the perfect place to begin your day with coffee and to end it with cocktails.The master bedroom has a king-sized bed, television, private en suite bathroom and a sliding door to the terrace, which has a hammock for your siesta! The second bedroom features a two double beds and a hallway bathroom.

The residence includes wireless Internet, telephone, satellite television, full-sized washer and dryer, and a dining table that seats six.

Rates
High Season (January 5-April 30, 2009): $440 per night
Green Season (May-November 2009): $295 per night

Casa Mono Loco is within the Los Sueños Resort & Marina, yet it offers secluded splendor. With dramatic, spectacular vistas of Bahia Herradura, the resort and the surrounding rain forest and nature preserve, Casa Mono Loco also affords maximum privacy. Recently upgraded, redecorated and refurbished by the new owners who pay homage to the architectural integrity and beauty of the original. The open and clever design of Casa Mono Loco allows one to experience the monkeys, toucans, scarlet macaws, other sights and the sounds of the surrounding lush, tropical rain forest from the comfort of your private Shangri La. Satellite TV and VOIP with free telephone calls to the U.S. and Canada.

Three air-conditioned bedrooms with private en suite bathrooms. The master with king-sized bed is a detached pavilion, providing maxium privacy. The Dome Room bedroom has two full beds and a domed ceiling. The Coral Room bedroom also has two full beds. Every room has a spectacular ocean view. The living area is an open air rancho beyond which is the pool with an infinity edge that melds into the blues of Herradura Bay.

Casa Mono Loco is the only house on the very quiet road; you’ll have no human neighbors! If you seek tranquility and to be at one with nature but desire comforts that are more than civilized, this is the home for you. Yet you’ll have access to all the amenities of the Los Suenos Resort, including the spa, marina, shops, restaurants, golf course, room service from the Marriott Hotel, casino and more just two minutes away by car.

Rates
High Season: $1,200 per night
Green Season: $1,000 per night
Holiday Season: $3,000 per night

Very private pool with swim-up tiki bar, Jacuzzi and sun deck. Perfect for celebrating family events, corporate reward travel, or a fishing week with the buddies! Attention has been paid to every detail. This home is the choice of celebrities and those who know and expect the best. Every bedroom is equipped with a 32″ flat screen television and a private attached bathroom.

Two 60″ flat screen televisions (one in the great room the other by the pool); wireless high speed Internet. Golf course and rainforest views. Very quiet area with quick and easy access to all of the Los Sueños Resort and Marina’s amenities.

This villa cannot be booked online, so call us now at 1-888-744-6599 or email rentals@meadbrown.com to reserve your dates. Don’t miss out!

Three bedrooms each with a private en suite bathroom. Marvelous views of Herradura Bay. Wireless Internet access, satellite televisions, fully equipped chef’s kitchen, dining table that seats eight, the most comfortable beds and linens imaginable.

Master has king-sized bed and king-sized view of the Pacific from the bedroom and from the jetted tub and separate shower. Second bedroom also has a king-sized bed, private terrace on one side and door to the bay-view terrace on the other. Third bedroom has a queen-sized bed plus a day bed that is a bit larger than a twin plus a twin-sized trundle bed.

Rates
High Season (January 5-April 30, 2009): $850 per night
Green Season (May 1-November 30, 2009): $750 per night

Rates
High Season (December-April, excluding mid-December through early January): $850 per night
Green Season (May-November): $650 per night

This beautifully and comfortably decorated residence has three suites, each with its own private en suite bathroom. Master bedroom with king-sized bed, private oceanfront terrace, spa-like bathroom with shower, jetted bathtub, double sinks, separate room for the toilet and bidet, walk-in closet. First guest suite with queen-sized bed, private terrace and door to the oceanfront wrap-around terrace, private en suite bathroom and walk-in closet. Second guest suite the flat screen satellite television and two day beds, each with a trundle bed (perfect room for adolescents and children), plus an en suite bathroom. Fully-equipped, newly remodeled gourmet kitchen (where meals and memories are made!), dining table for six. Perfect for entertaining friends and family. This house-sized condominium includes laundry facilities and a powder room, both off the hall.

This residence, known as “Bella Vista at the Beach Club,” is just steps from two Bella Vista swimming pools, one of which has a waterfall, and overlooks the private Beach Club. Mead Brown guests are privileged with complimentary access to the Beach Club, which is also merely steps away from this residence. Room service is available 24/7 from the Marriott Ocean Resort.

Rates
Green Season (May-November): $650 per night
High Season (December 1-14): $850 per night
Holiday Season (December 15, 2008-January 4, 2009): $1,100 per night
High Season (January 5-April 30, 2009): $850 per night
Green Season (May-November, 2009): $650 per night