St. Kitts: Christophe Harbour

Upon its “official” launch in 2012, Christophe Harbour is positioned to propel St. Kitts to the forefront of high-end tourism in the Caribbean, highlighted by a 300-acre mega-yacht harbor and marina with full concierge and hospitality services. The 300-slip marina will be a designated port of entry with streamlined Customs and Immigration Services, featuring a private yacht club component and harbourside village that encompasses a collection of luxury shops and restaurants. The Beach Club is scheduled for an April 2011 opening, and the Beach House is one fine dining restaurant already open alongside four beachfront one-bedroom villas with private gazebos, decks, and plunge pools available for nightly rentals. South Carolina-based Kiawah Development, whose namesake Kiawah Island is a renowned destination, is currently dredging the harbor for mega-yacht depth and actually using that soil to build three golf holes that will play along the harbor.  Many of the remaining golf holes, designed by esteemed golf course architect Tom Fazio, will play on a plateau 500 feet above sea level when it is scheduled to open in 2013. $600,000 to $2.7 million, christopheharbour.com

Willemstad, Curacao: Santa Barbara Plantation

With the opening of the Hyatt Regency Curacao Resort and Spa and legendary golf designer Pete Dye’s Old Quarry” Golf Course, this historic island has now reached the level of other world-class destination resorts. And these impressive amenities don’t even include the deepwater Seru Boca Marina, the Tennis Center run by Peter Burwash International, or the powdery white sand beaches, colorful shallow reefs and turquoise waters offshore. The setting for all this is the 1,500-acre Santa Barbara Plantation, a $700 million master-planned resort community 10 miles from Curaçao’s capital city of Willemstad. Besides the golf course, there is also a new 120-slip marina located near the hotel that can accommodate up to five megayachts up to 120 feet in length, dive boats, charter boats, and catamarans for evening dinner cruises. The community also features a private beach club for residents and their guests, business center, outdoor swimming pools, and boutique retail shops and miles of walking, jogging, and bicycling trails. $650,000 to $8 million, santabarbaraplantation.com

Key Largo, Florida: Ocean Reef Club

Ocean Reef Club comprises two championship 18-hole layouts, a rarity in the Florida Keys. The Club’s courses, designed by Bob Von Hagge and Bruce Devlin in 1969, are in excellent condition. Ten years ago, the Dolphin Course underwent a $3 million redesign and renovation under the direction of golf course architect Chip Powell. Golf course homes are nestled in tropical hardwood hammocks with fairway and sometimes lake views and offer close proximity to the club marina and other major points within Ocean Reef. Ocean Reef became a private club in 1993, and the community-owned club now has close to 4,000 members and approximately 1,700 waterfront estates, private golf-course homes, condominiums, and boat slips. Waterfront properties offer water views, breeze exposure, and deep-water access for boats and larger yachts. $1 million to $20-plus million, 800-319-7686, oceanreef.com

Bocas Del Toro, Panama: Red Frog Beach Rainforest Resort & Marina

Panama’s Red Frog Beach Rainforest Resort & Marina is positioned to capitalize on the eco-tourism trend. Situated on Isla Bastimentos, approximately 30 miles from the border of Costa Rica, this island is renowned for its beaches and rainforest and is home to Panama’s national marine park. Activities at the resort community include fishing, snorkeling, kayaking, surfing, hiking, bird watching, and cave tours. The resort offers spectacular Caribbean views, white-sand beaches, stunning architecture and landscaping, and a protected private marina—all next to a national wildlife preserve. The island is a 10-minute boat ride from Bocas Town, which has an eclectic Caribbean vibe with nightlife, restaurants, and an airport. Currently the villa residences are being rented to vacationers, and several villas are occupied by owners. Construction is ongoing at the resort and approximately 25 homes have been completed along with a jungle lodge called Bocas Bound. $400,000 to high $700,000, redfrogbeach.com

Kauai, Hawaii: Kukui’ula

The island of Kauai is no longer in the shadows of its fellow Hawaiian islands when it comes to world-class oceanfront living thanks to the opening of Kukui’ula on the island’s southern coast. A private $100 million clubhouse serves as the centerpiece of the community, while residents also have use of a spa, the Kukui‘ula Golf Club, a Tom Weiskopf-designed championship golf course, and an array of swimming pools. The club also includes a community farm and 20-acre fishing lake. The 20,000-square-foot Plantation House, which overlooks Kukui‘ula Bay, is a showcase of classic Hawaii style. A great room, with coffered ceilings and wood beams and an eclectic mix of furnishings collected from around the world, opens to a wraparound lanai with numerous seating areas offering all-day views of the Pacific, Spouting Horn, ocean sunsets and the finishing shots of golfers on the 9th and 18th holes. $1 million to $3.6 million, kukuiula.com

Herradura Bay, Costa Rica: Los Suenos Resort and Marina

Based on its breathtaking Herradura Bay setting on the Central Pacific Coast of Costa Rica, Los Sueños Resort and Marina is a perfect escape for those looking to buy a vacation home in increasingly popular Central America. Of course, one of the main highlights at Los Suenos is the 200-slip marina, the first government-sanctioned, full-service international marina. Over the years, Los Sueños has proven to be one of the most successful resort developments in Central America with record-breaking home sales, fueled by the marvelous marina that is considered the best in Latin America for its world-class facilities and renowned bill fishery. (Having the highly acclaimed 201-room Los Sueños Marriott Ocean & Golf Resort nearby certainly helped.) Other top amenities in place are the Beach Club and 18-hole La Iguana golf course. The next eight years will see the completion of the remaining phases of the 1,100-acre Los Sueños, including the final phase of Marina Village, several hundred additional luxury residences, and the construction of an eco-lodge in the private 600-acre rainforest reserve. $589,000 to $749,000, lsrm.com

Great Abaco, Bahamas: Abaco Club on Winding Bay

When it opened more than five years ago, this $250-million development was billed as the Caribbean’s first true links-style golf course and one of the great new courses in the world. The 7,183-yard championship course’s first 14 holes traverse wind-blown dunes next to Winding Bay. The final four holes conclude with a downhill 204-yard par-3 No. 17 that seems like you’re hitting into the Caribbean and an elevated 572-yard par-5 No. 18 that runs along the ocean as crashing waves climb the seaside cliffs. Three years ago, an affiliate of the Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company acquired the property and subsequently introduced fractional real estate ownership options as part of the Ritz-Carlton Club. Additionally, there are estate lots ranging from $520,000 to $4 million; turn-key oceanfront/bayfront cottages starting from $1.2 million; and 16 new Ritz-Carlton Destination Club residences with prices starting in the low $110,000s per fractional interest. $1.2 to $4 million, ritzcarltondestinationclub.com

Kapalua, Maui, Hawaii: Ritz-Carlton Club and Residences, Kapalua Bay

Situated along one of Maui’s most breathtaking beaches, arguably no other place on Maui is more captivating than Kapalua’s spectacular 24-acre oceanfront setting overlooking Kapalua Bay. Beginning at the shoreline and terraced up a gentle slope, The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Kapalua Bay comprise just 84 elegantly appointed three- and four-bedroom fee simple whole-ownership condominiums, fashioned into just four intimate low-rise structures. Ranging from approximately 3,002 to 4,271 square feet, including approximately 600-1,150 square feet of lanai space, these residences provide a Hawaiian sense of place and seclusion complemented by dramatic views of the ocean, mountains, and neighboring islands Lana‘i and Moloka‘i. Another new option at Kapalua is The Ritz-Carlton Club, Kapalua Bay, Hawaii’s first fractional offering in a resort setting. $300,000 fractional interests; $3.9 million wholly owned, kapaluabay.com

Kona-Kohala Coast, Hawaii: Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

Ke’olu, the Tom Weiskopf-designed members-only golf course at the luxurious Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, is named for the “gentle breeze” that brings a sense of calm and coolness to the Hualalai Club’s “mauka” or mountaintop setting. The name is fitting because Hualalai’s private residential community has been more than a breath of fresh air for Hawaii’s upscale real estate market. At a time when many upscale private and resort-style communities struggled against recessionary headwinds, Hualalai Realty had another banner year at the prestigious 865-acre community located just 10 minutes from the Kona International Airport. Situated along the renowned Kona-Kohala Coast where exquisite resort communities and multi-million dollar home sites dot a 40-mile stretch of pristine oceanfront landscape, Hualalai is home to just 500 families and the perennially ranked AAA/Five Diamond Four Seasons Resort. The resort’s gated residential enclaves, home to billionaires and celebrities alike, make Hualalai one of the world’s most distinguished addresses. $2 million to $30 million-plus, 800-983-3880; www.hualalairealty.com

Kiawah Island, South Carolina: Cottages at Cypress Point

Kiawah Island Just 21 miles from Charleston, one of the newest residential enclaves at Kiawah Island is the Cottages at Cypress Point. In keeping with the developer’s commitment to preserving the island’s natural beauty, the residences will nurture and enhance a low-density environment while blending indoor and outdoor living. The Cottages at Cypress Point are a custom-designed collection of 23 built-for-sale homesites ranging from approximately 2,200 to 2,500 square feet. Priced from $1.1 million to $1.7 million, The Cottages are available in nine floor plans, each of which is designed to complement the area’s centuries-old, natural wooded setting. All Cypress Point cottages will be made of natural stucco, copper roofs, and impact-resistant windows.  Each home will feature a front and rear courtyard and a covered outdoor living area. $1.1 to $1.7 million, kiawah.com

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands: Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman

Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman Situated at the doorstep of the dynamic $650-million Ritz-Carlton Resort, the DeckHouses at the Ritz-Carlton, Dragon Bay is redefining the meaning of marina living. Stretching sea to sea from the acclaimed Seven Mile Beach to the North Sound, Dragon Bay and The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman resort have set a lavish new standard of living on what is arguably the Caribbean’s most prosperous, cosmopolitan, and safe island—Grand Cayman. The 360-acre Dragon Bay development, comprising the Residences at the Ritz, the DeckHouses and Secret Harbour, is distinguished by an unparalleled lifestyle experience enhanced with the unique Endless Service program, which includes interior designed turn-key furnishings, a fleet of luxury automobiles, and 36-foot Intrepid motor yachts available for use when in residence. Owners also have access to the legendary service and amenities of the adjacent Ritz-Carlton resort hotel. $4.4 to $6.5 million, dragonbaycayman.com

La Paz, Mexico: CostaBaja Resort & Spa

CostaBaja Resort & Spa opened last September in Mexico, and Hall of Fame golfer Gary Player unveiled his signature golf course two months later. CostaBaja Resort & Spa is the centerpiece of the 550-acre master-planned Costa Baja development and the area’s first five-star resort. Just 10 minutes from downtown La Paz, CostaBaja overlooks the Sea of Cortez and offers 115 rooms with panoramic ocean, mountain, golf course, and marina views. Its challenging golf course is highlighted by 14 dramatic holes overlooking the Bay of La Paz. For potential owners, smaller hillside and golf-front townhomes are being sold in the Las Colinas neighborhood for $580,900 to $800,000, while similar-sized oceanfront condos in the VistaMar enclave are going for $843,000 to $1 million. Larger oceanview villas range from $1.1 million to $1.6 million. $580,900 to $18.4 million, costabaja.com

New Providence, Bahamas: Albany

Created by the partnership composed of the Tavistock Group and golf stars Tiger Woods and Ernie Els, Albany is nestled among 580 oceanfront acres just seven minutes from Nassau’s international airport and two private airfields. Albany’s name is inspired by the historic beachside mansion in the heart of the development that now houses a fine dining restaurant and oceanside lounge. Originally owned by French filmmaker and Inspector Gadget-creator Jean Chalopin, Albany House made history as the site of two movies, most notably the James Bond film “Casino Royale.” Among the superb multi-generational amenities to be found are a mega-yacht marina, an 18-hole championship golf course designed by Els, a full-service spa and fitness center, casual and fine dining restaurants, seaside bars, a family water park, kids’ clubhouse, and an adult pool and lounge. $1.5 to $4 million, albanybahamas.com

Punta Mita, Mexico

An exclusive resort-style oasis situated along 9.5 miles of the Pacific Coast. Two Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Courses. Home to a Four Seasons Resort, and now a new St. Regis Resort. Need we say more? The visionary behind this spear-shaped picturesque peninsula along western Mexico’s rapidly developing Riviera Nayarit is the Mexico’s premier real estate developer, DINE. Located 28 miles north of the romantic town of Puerto Vallarta, Punta Mita is surrounded on three sides by gorgeous white-sand beaches and dramatic coves thanks to Banderas Bay, Mexico’s largest natural bay and second largest in the world. Punta Mita will offer approximately 1,000 residences at full buildout. Currently, a range of properties suiting the different tastes and needs of buyers is available, from traditional Mexican-style villas with terracotta tile roofs and palapasto condos with chic urban décors. $700,000 up to $14 million, puntamita.com

Virgin Gorda, British Virgin  Islands: Oil Nut Bay

On the eastern tip of Virgin Gorda and accessible only by helicopter or boat, Oil Nut Bay is a 300-acre community offering freehold whole ownership for only 88 families. Oil Nut Bay is a low-density property committed to integrating environmentally sensitive practices, such as maintaining 50 percent open space, incorporating groundbreaking carbon-neutral elements and the use of electric cars. Currently in the first sales phase, debt-free Oil Nut offers a variety of lot and home options, including 27 estate lots ranging in size from 1.5 to 10 acres and in price from $1.95 million to $5 million. Oil Nut Bay is committed to environmental excellence and eco-progressive policies and foundations. A prime example is local regulations allowed up to 300 units on the 300-acre property, but Michigan-based Victor International will only build 88 units, maintaining its commitment and history of low-density developments and environmental integrity. Other eco-friendly initiatives include wind and solar power and an on-site desalination plant. $1.95 to $9.95 million, oilnutbay.com

Montego Bay, Jamaica: Palmyra Resort & Spa at Rose Hall

Palmyra Resort & Spa stretches along 16 acres of Caribbean coastline within the world-class Rose Hall golf course resort community. Residents can relax at two seafront swimming pavilions, enjoy sparkling waters at a protected cove, or get pampered at the 30,000-square-foot Palmyra ESPA. Montego Bay’s most prestigious enclave is recognized as one of the leading golf destinations in the world, highlighted by three stunning championship courses—White Witch, Cinnamon Hill, and Half Moon—designed by renowned architects Robert Trent Jones, Sr., Robert von Hagge, and Rick Baril. Simply put, Jamaica’s white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and towering palms provide a breathtaking backdrop for a round of golf. Palmyra encompasses a private village built in the grand tradition of British Colonial architecture, from large villa homes to luxurious condominium buildings. $450,000-$3,550,000, thepalmyra.com

Anacortes , Washington: San Juan Passage

With its breathtaking views of islands and ferry-dotted waters, San Juan Passage pairs the intimacy of 19th-century seaside communities with the 21st-century design principles of traditional, walkable neighborhood design and sustainable green building practices. The 100 cedar-shingled homes are built with gabled roofs and deep covered porches and streets and park paths wind to the water, perfect for enjoying shoreline trails and sunsets. As for the water, 24-acre San Juan Passage offers six nearby marinas that provide quick access to the San Juan and Gulf islands. Anacortes, about 90 miles north of Seattle, is recognized as one of the major boating centers in the country, boasting the second-largest bare boat fleet in the world. Buyers at the 100-unit San Juan Passage have a variety of home styles inspired by historic coastal design, including cottage-style retreats to Harborside Series homes featuring dramatic water views from custom luxury homes. $395,000 to $989,000, sanjuanpassage.com

Galveston,  Texas: Diamond Beach

A lazy river, world-class spa and fitness center, concierge service, and private beach are just a few of the compelling amenities of Diamond Beach, a five-star resort-style development on Galveston’s prestigious West Beach. Diamond Beach is the island’s only mid-rise condo community located behind the protective Galveston Seawall, a 10-mile stretch of 17-foot-thick concrete built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Just a year old, the pale-pink ultra-modern mid-rise is the inspiration of Houston developer Randall Davis. Situated on 8.5 acres on the Seawall’s western edge, Diamond Beach is just steps from a private beach and views of the Gulf of Mexico. In addition to the 750-foot lazy river,  a state-of-the-art fitness center with Gulf views, a private theater, and an indoor pool are among the $4.2 million worth of amenities already built for its 120 homeowners. But the rarest amenity of all is its location: it’s the only such development on the Texas Coast with both seawall protection and direct beach access, according to Davis. $400,000-plus, diamondbeachgalveston.com

Roatan, Bay Islands, Honduras: Keyhole Bay

Featuring the world’s second-largest barrier reef, this is a boater’s heaven. One new place to enjoy in this growing Western Caribbean destination is Keyhole Bay. On the romantic island of Roatan, Keyhole Bay is nestled between rolling hills and Roatan’s southwestern shore. Gentle tradewinds highlight breathtaking views of the Hog Islands and mainland Honduras in an idyllic setting that is only minutes from Roatan’s lively beachfront village of West End and the famous West Bay Beach. For pure privacy, Keyhole Bay residents can enjoy waterfalls cascading into an infinity-edge pool just steps from a private beach. Keyhole Bay’s master plan features 23 presold single-family estate lots, 45 luxurious condos, residential apartments, a clubhouse, retail shops, commercial offices, and a centerpiece pool and restaurant. The community was designed by EDSA, creators of Atlantis Paradise Island (Bahamas). $364,000-plus, keyholebay.com

Narragansett, Rhode Island, Surfside Narragansett

Picture panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Lake Canonchet within an intimate, eco-friendly, and maintenance-free condominium community, and you have the essence of Surfside Narragansett. This luxurious waterfront development is the perfect getaway situated directly across from Narragansett Town Beach. Beyond its beauty, Surfside is considered a leading “green community,” having been honored as a finalist for the National Association of Home Builders “National Green Building” awards in 2009. Developed by Providence’s Gilbane Development Company, Surfside Narragansett was nominated in the “Project of the Year—Remodel” category for the compelling transformation of existing 1970s apartments into luxury condominiums. The redevelopment of Surfside created a quaint seaside community within the Narragansett Pier Village while utilizing “smart redevelopment,” where nine of the 10 buildings remodeled were pre-existing structures. The condominiums have earned the “ENERGY STAR Five-Star Verified Condition” label, with homes that feature high-performance, renewable resource products such as the Icynene Insulation System, Kultur wood flooring, and appliances that carry the ENERGY STAR label. $400,000-$850,000-plus, liveatsurfside.com

We were recently introduced to one of their newer properties. Located on the foot of Diamond Head, Oahu, this newly built single-family beachfront estate is a design of traditional Hawaiian lifestyle. The three-bedroom home features three and one-half bathrooms, hardwood flooring, hot tub and spa, but the exquisite part about the property is the view. Located directly on the water, the home was designed to offer ocean and sunset views from its expansive lanais and living areas.

The estate is listed for $8.8 million and can be found here

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Ke’olu, the Tom Weiskopf-designed members-only golf course at the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, is named for the “gentle breeze” that brings a sense of calm and coolness to the Hualalai Club’s “mauka,” or mountaintop setting. The name is fitting, as Hualalai’s exclusive residential community has been a breath of fresh air for Hawaii’s high-end residential real estate market.

At a time when many upscale private and resort-style communities are struggling against recessionary headwinds, Hualalai Realty is having another banner year at the prestigious community located on the Kona-Kohala Coast of the Big Island. Hualalai is reporting $98 million in closed transactions for the year, a pace to surpass the previous year’s $150 million in sales revenue.

Last August, Hualalai Realty’s director of residential sales, Rob Kildow, made nine sales, the community’s largest single month for transactions in its 14-year history. It’s just another small sign that the luxury real estate market is slowly regaining its health.

“It’s still no picnic,” adds Kildow, one of the 300 resident members at Hualalai Club, which costs $225,000 to join. “We’re ahead of last year’s numbers but not by tons. Tour traffic is up by 35 percent, though, and prices have started to climb some.”

Kildow says the lower-end luxury condominium homes priced from $2-$3 million are slow in moving, with the bulk of Hualalai’s sales falling in the $5 million-plus range.

“Instinctively, [Hualalai members] know now’s the time to get great values,” Kildow adds. “We haven’t pulled back 40 percent like others. Plus, we’ve got an obvious 15-year track record and we’re so diverse. We’re not staking the value or experience of Hualalai on one or two things.” Rob Kildow, Hualalai Realty; 800-983-3880; hualalairealty.com.

Must Sea

Hôtel Le Toiny’s restaurant Le Gaïac – St. Barts’ Hotel Le Toiny is home to the island’s first greenhouse, as well as the popular Restaurant Le Gaïac, which features French cuisine with Creole accents. So successful was the 1,000-square-foot greenhouse’s first growing season that Le Toiny added two more greenhouses in 2010. Each day, Executive Chef Stéphane Mazières incorporates fresh-from-the-garden herbs and veggies into his daily menu. “When we moved to St. Barts last year, we marveled at how much it cost to ship tomatoes to the hotel,” says General Manger Guy Lombard. “We felt we could have fresher and more economical produce by growing our own.” The resulting greenhouses produce everything from basil and coriander to lemongrass and licorice. Future plans include a nursery for bananas, papayas, and mangos. When they’re not dining, guests at Le Toiny can retreat to 15 suites offering ocean views, large terraces, private swimming pools, and kitchenettes. letoiny.com. —Melissa Gillespie

$17,900,000, Brodie Callender, MacArthur & Company Sotheby’s International Realty, 808-885-8885, bigislandreale.com.

$22,500,000, Roy H. Sakamoto, Sakamoto Properties, 808-669-0070,  sakamotoproperties.com.

We searched high and low for the best of the best. From quaint oceanfront villas to palatial cliffside estates, these dream homes currently for sale represent the top of the market in the most desired and most exclusive seaside communities in the United States. If you want an oceanfront home, your search begins right here.

	Laguna Beach, California Along Laguna Beach, you will find this creative modern home designed by Christian Light, known for his contemporary oceanside residences.
	Malibu, California Massive stone fireplaces, wood beams, walnut floors, and hand-forged designer hardware bring warm comfort to this Californian villa located on La Piedra State Beach in Malibu.
	Malibu, California Set back on the quiet, pristine shore of Malibu’s El Matador Beach is the marvelous stone house of Elephant Rock..
	Santa Barbara, California Sitting on a bluff with the Santa Barbara mountain range behind and the Pacific in front, this estate not only features some of the finest views in the state, but it also serves as one of the best homes for entertaining you’ll come across on the West Coast.
	Greenwich, Connecticut This newly built palace located on 2.2 acres on Long Island Sound should cause a few jaws to drop.
	Boca Raton, Flordia Located within the exclusive Royal Palm Yacht & Country Club, this gated, Italian Renaissance-style estate offers spectacular views on 475 feet of water frontage with protected deepwater yacht dockage.
	Coral Gables, Flordia For those who want the best, this South Florida estate situated on three acres of prime oceanfront land on Biscayne Bay with views of the Miami skyline provides the ultimate in decadence.
	Manalapan, Florida Surrounded by meandering and swimmable water gardens, the home features a first-ever glass “water floor,” an arched aquarium wet bar with over 100 exotic fish, and a 10-foot kitchen water wall.
	Palm Beach, Flordia British West Indies/Georgian-style architecture merges with contemporary interior design at this stately 12,700-square-foot oceanfront mansion on North Ocean Boulevard.
	Sea Island, Georgia Once you drive out to Sea Island and breathe in that sweet Southern air, you’ll know right away that it’s time to slow down.
	Honolulu, Hawaii This spectacular 1.4-acre estate, located on Honolulu’s most prestigious Kahala Avenue, includes three residences with a total of 18,300 square feet of roofed living area.
	Kamuela, Hawaii The elegant landscape and interior design of this spectacular oceanfront estate gives a tropical feel to indoor and outdoor living at its finest at the Mauna Lani Resort.
	Kapalua, Hawaii This breathtaking beachfront home is surrounded by a quarter mile of sandy beach on Oneloa Bay.
	Maui, Hawaii Located just south of the Kea Lani Hotel and only steps to one of Maui’s pristine, white sand beaches, this home is set on two-thirds of an acre and overlooks the Pacific Ocean.
	Gloucester, Massachusetts With two acres of manicured lawns, alluring perennial gardens, natural privacy of the coast and wooded areas, and over 10,000 square feet of indoor space, this five-structure home is both exquisite and functional.
	Deer Isle Point, Maine Both unique and beautiful, this four-bedroom property set on 5.2 acres known as Lighthouse Point is perfect for a true ocean lover.
	Figure Eight Island, North Carolina When it comes to seclusion, privacy, and luxury on the East Coast, it’s hard to beat this 4,000-square-foot beach cottage on Figure Eight Island.
	East Hampton, New York Privacy and panoramic views are just the beginning for this exquisite oceanfront home. This gated property on 1.86 acres includes six bedrooms, seven full bathrooms, a professional kitchen, a formal dining room, and a gym.
	Southampton, New York This dramatic oceanfront home is situated on 2.3 acres featuring beautiful views of Meadow Lane’s Coopers Pond as well as the Atlantic Ocean.
	Gold Beach, Oregon This 4,500-square-foot Pacific Northwest lodge-style home combines the best of the mountains with a spectacular setting perched high atop steep cliffs on this rugged section of the southern Oregon coast.
	Narragansett, Rhode Island This romantic four-bedroom, three-bathroom Ocean Road estate calls to mind ancient English architecture with its stone masonry arch, 30-foot turret, and decorative wrought iron gates, as well as romantic interior design details such as oak panel doors that open to a spacious living hall with an inglenook fireplace and a master bedroom suite with its own fireplace.
	Charleston, South Carolina Take a stroll through this historical low country town, past the Old City Market, along Rainbow Row, and down to Battery Park and before you know it, you’ll be looking for a home here.
	Corpus Christi, Texas In the search for that ideal oceanfront estate, it’s rare that one’s eye turns to the Gulf Coast of Texas, but for the discriminating buyer, it’s obvious that this 5,000-square-foot estate situated on 4.18 acres along Corpus Christi Bay is the top choice.
	Eastville, Virginia If you’re in the market for a piece of history, as well as some of the most spectacular land available in the region, Point Farm should be your only choice.
	Port Ludlow, Washington Situated in a recreational area of Port Ludlow, this incredible custom-built timber lodge boasts a one-of-a-kind structure with panoramic views of Hood Canal.

Stepping out of your beachfront estate right onto pristine white sands and wading into gentle rolling surf might be high on anyone’s list of priorities when it comes to planning a Hawaiian vacation. But not if you’re the President of the United States. And not if you’re staying at Oahu’s Paradise Point.

“There’s a beach on the Marine base where they have privacy that they like to go to,” says Paradise Point owner David Zimel about the First Family. “It’s a crime that they can’t go out to the beach in front of their house.”

View the complete photo gallery of the Obama Winter White House below:

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Paparazzi aside, President Barack Obama and his family have been content to call this corner of the world their home during the past two winter holiday seasons, prompting Zimel to dub this private estate on Kailua Beach the “Obama Winter White House.” One look around and it’s no surprise that the President and his family chose to return to this same spot one year after a photo of his leisurely ocean swim here made headlines across the globe.

Located on 4.5 acres on the windward eastern shore of Oahu, just 20 minutes from Honolulu, Paradise Point is a gated, island plantation-style retreat comprised of two structures—a guest house and Plantation Estate—marked by exquisite luxuries and unmatched scenery.

Just beyond the seven-foot lava rock walls that protect the estate from the nearby road, a sprawling courtyard welcomes visitors with lush vegetation, a lagoon-style pool, tropical waterfalls, and a lavish island spa. Here is where Hawaiian tradition and modern amenities unite.

Spread out over 7,000 square feet, the Obama Winter White House features five bedrooms, five and a half bathrooms, a three-car garage, a media room with a 60-inch flat-screen TV with speakers embedded in laser-carved mahogany leaves, and a centralized Lutron lighting system. Details like the etched windows, stained glass, natural stone tiling, and African mahogany carvings set the scene for the ultimate in presidential and Hawaiian relaxation.

“It’s incredibly peaceful and self-contained,” says Zimel. “The President gets to download here. Rarely can he do that anywhere else. The only time he leaves is when he speaks publicly or goes to Kailua with the family.”

The President and Mrs. Obama sleep in the master bedroom suite, which includes a therapy tub that looks directly out onto Kailua Beach, while their two daughters, Malia and Sasha, share a room that is separated from the rest of the house and overlooks the pool. But even if you’re the leader of the free world, a vacation on Hawaii’s coast means getting outside and enjoying the tropical breezes. That’s where the covered lanai comes into play.

“This is Michelle Obama’s favorite reading space,” says Zimel. Surrounded by coconut trees and well outfitted with an outdoor bar, refrigerator, sink, and TV, the lanai’s privacy and amenities are only part of the draw. The flow of the nearby waterfall can be adjusted to suit any mood, and the surrounding native vegetation and coconut trees can be illuminated at the touch of a button.

“At night, if you want to be wowed, you turn on the pool lights and the tree lights, then adjust the tiki torches. It’s like you’ve died and gone to heaven,” Zimel says. It’s also where the Obamas enjoy dinner every so often—a catered affair with their own private chef. Add to that the sound of the ocean wafting over your shoulder and the waterfall trickling nearby, along with the smell of the hibiscus flowers in the garden, and it suddenly becomes apparent as to why the Obamas chose this location out of all the places in the world to spend their winter vacation.

History also played a role in bringing the Obamas back to Hawaii. The President spent his early years attending nearby Punahou School and swimming in the waters of Kailua Beach with his grandfather. While he did return several times since his youth, it wasn’t until a good friend showed him Paradise Point that sealed the deal. In the winter of 2008, the family stayed in the Plantation Estate for the first time.

“The Obamas didn’t want to leave,” Zimel says of their first visit. “They knew they had a lot of work ahead of them, and so I believe that’s why they wanted to come back.”

The history of Paradise Point dates much farther back than 2008, however. Kailua Beach itself is considered to be the birthplace of the Hawaiian people. In the 16th century, Kailua became the political and social focal point for Hawaiian royalty, thanks to its crops of sugarcane, rice, and taro. In the 1800s, a New England missionary named Samuel Castle came to Kailua to establish a school for local children. Castle’s success in the sugar industry allowed him to purchase large tracts of land in the Kailua basin, as well as the area now known as Paradise Point.

These days, the Castle name has been overshadowed by the Obamas, but it doesn’t seem to be ruffling any feathers. When the First Family comes to town, business booms. Located just five minutes from the estate, the town of Kailua is home to 50,000 permanent residents and a quaint shopping district full of restaurants and stores, including one called Island Snow, where the Obamas regularly visit for shaved ice. There’s even an item on the menu called the “Snowbama.”

When not visiting the town of Kailua, the President often takes a drive four minutes up the road to the Kaneohe Marine Corps Base, where he regularly works out and where the family can share some downtime away from the public eye at the private beach. With several golf courses nearby, as well as options for surfing, kayaking, windsurfing, and other water sports, there’s certainly plenty to keep anyone busy. But at the end of the day, it’s the tranquility of the oceanfront setting and the luxuries of the home that appeal to the Obamas.

“I’ve heard people say it’s like you’re at a lavish hotel, only it’s all yours,” says Zimel. “Every time you walk up and down the white sand beach of Kailua Bay, you keep pinching yourself, saying, ‘How can this be so quiet and so peaceful?’ It feels too good to be true there.”

Rates for renting the Obama Winter White House start at $3,000 per night, but for a cool $8.9 million, anyone can scoop up this slice of heaven all for themselves. Paradise Point Estates, 866-702-6565, paradisepointestates.com.

Amenities include twice-daily housekeeping, as well as membership in the Kapalua Club and preferred tee times on the famed Plantation Course and Bay Courses designed by Arnold Palmer and Ben Crenshaw. The resort recently had a $180 million transformation, including a 17,500-square-foot spa with multiple treatment rooms and whirlpool grottos. Six restaurants also provide a variety of dining options.

Residences from $3.9 million, Club from $350,000, 800-281-9440, kapaluabay.com.

On the grounds is the five-diamond Four Seasons Hualalai, but the attraction for homeowners is the private Hualalai Club that has two 18-hole PGA Tour golf courses for exclusive use by homeowners and their guests, in addition to a private spa, a beachfront Canoe Club, a tennis club, and the Beach House.

This award-winning residential resort recently unveiled a $40 million enhancement that only increases its allure.

$2 to $30 million, 808-325-8500, hualalairesort.com.

KONA, Hawaii, Jan. 21 /PRNewswire/ — Concierge Auctions (www.conciergeauctions.com), the leading luxury real estate auction company, today announced the sale of Cher’s home in the exclusive Hualalai Resort in Hawaii to a buyer from Arizona for $8.72 million. The January 18 auction included the successful sale of five properties in Kona, Hawaii, for a total of more than $19.4 million.

In addition to Cher’s home, a property at 72-3209 Ka Nehe Place in the Kuki’o Golf and Beach Club and Residences selling absolute was purchased by a buyer from Beverly Hills for $4.95 million. A second home selling absolute in Kuki’o, at 72-3205 Punaloa Place, was purchased for $3.85 million. Collectively, the prices achieved for the homes in Kuki’o were $10 per square foot higher than the average price per square foot for other homes sold in the Maniniowali section of Kuki’o over the past six months. Additionally, two home sites in Kuki’o sold for $990,000 and $962,000, respectively.

Read More…

http://www.flickr.com/photos/mely-o/ / CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

President Barack Obama in Hawaii.

Coastal lifestyle publication to unveil photo gallery featuring the luxurious Plantation Estate at Paradise Point Estates at oceanhomemag.com after the holidays, and in the March/April 2010 print issue

(BOSTON) – December 26, 2009 – Ocean Home magazine, the luxury coastal lifestyle magazine designed for oceanfront homeowners, resorts, developers, and designers, gained exclusive print access to the Presidential family’s Winter White House. Ocean Home received an inside tour of the luxurious Plantation Estate at Paradise Point Estates at Kailua Bay prior to President Obama and his family’s arrival. In December 2008 and 2009, President Barack Obama and his family personally selected the Plantation Estate as their holiday vacation home. The Plantation Estate offers classic beachfront elegance at its finest. The lavish estate is fully appointed with exquisite amenities and custom finishes and furnishings from around the world. The home is built for well-appointed comfort and elegance just steps from the silky white sands of Kailua Beach, recognized as one of the best beaches in the world.

Ocean Home magazine has the print exclusive on the inside tour. They will unveil the shoot in a post-holiday photo gallery at oceanhomemag.com immediately after the New Year. A pictorial and interview with the property owner is scheduled to run in the March/April 2010 issue of the publication. For more information about Ocean Home, visit www.oceanhomemag.com or call 978-623-0019.

About Ocean Home Magazine
Published bi-monthly by RMS Media Inc., Ocean Home puts the luxurious lifestyle of oceanfront living into the palms of your hands. From high-end developments in the Caribbean to private beachfront estates in California, Ocean Home not only unveils the dream homes of the world’s wealthiest real estate investors, but also reveals the best travel destinations, the top designs for your ocean home, and interviews the key players in the next generation of luxury oceanfront living. Launched in the summer of 2006, Ocean Home is available by subscription, controlled private circulation or individual purchase and is published bi-monthly. For more information or to subscribe to Ocean Home, visit www.oceanhomemag.com, or follow Ocean Home on twitter at @oceanhomemag.

If you would like more information, or to schedule an interview with an Ocean Home magazine editor, please contact media@rmsmg.com. For more information about The Plantation Estate, contact Bill Dolan at bill@spiritmedia.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.

Hawaii, Mexico’s Riviera Maya, and Oregon.

The Ritz-Carlton ushers in the era of fractional ownership in Hawaii.

The Ritz-Carlton Club and Residences, Kapalua Bay opened May 30, 2009, marking the first time fractional property ownership is being offered in Hawaii. All fractional and whole ownership residences feature a private garden entryway, gourmet kitchen, and a spacious covered lanai with panoramic ocean and sunset views, with unit sizes ranging from 1,912 to 4,271 square feet. Residents enjoy membership at The Kapalua Club, which features a private beach club and lagoon-shaped pool with indoor/outdoor grill and bar. A 25,000-square-foot Spa at Kapalua is planned. Fractional sale prices start at $350,000 per deeded interest, and residences start around $4 million. 800-281-9440, kapaluabay.com.

Piece of the Playa

The white sand beaches of Mexico’s Riviera Maya, just south of Cancun, are bustling with new developments and investments. At the center of this activity is the town of Playa del Carmen, where Jack Perlman, real estate developer and owner of Condo Hotels Playa del Carmen, is opening his newest gem, El Taj Oceanfront, in January 2010. The property features a Bali-inspired design that combines soft curves, natural materials, and tropical landscaping with soothing water features. Interior luxuries include marble counter tops, large terraces, private elevators, hurricane-resistant window glass, Jacuzzis, and rooftop showers. Prices range from $415,000 for a one-bedroom apartment to $1.27 million for a three-bedroom oceanfront penthouse. sales.eltaj.com.

North Country

With miles of pristine shorelines and a wide-ranging climate, the Cannon Beach community on the North Oregon Coast is hugely attractive to frequent beach lovers looking for a place to call home. Lodges at Cannon Beach, which opened July 2009, offers whole and fractional ownership opportunities in two- and three-bedroom residences. The property, developed by Escape Lodging, features amenities that include gas fireplaces, garage and decks, tile and slate detailing, and large flat-panel televisions. Ownerships start at $99,000 for a one-twelfth share. lodgesatcannonbeach.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

From his deck overlooking the emerald waters inside Belize’s cherished coral reef on the north island of Ambergris Caye, John McAfee dries himself off after a swim, sips his second cup of coffee, and openly admits, “Hawaii is over for me.”

McAfee’s take on the Aloha State isn’t shared by many, but then again, most people aren’t as fortunate to have the luxury of turning their backs on paradise.

The British-born former software mogul, who was raised in Virginia, singlehandedly created the world’s most popular anti-virus program (McAfee VirusScan) with his eponymous company and one of the first Internet chat services anywhere (PowWow). However, at the height of it all, McAfee dumped the corporate suits for a rockstar lifestyle of flight jackets, crash helmets, and flip-flops.

“In the software industry, we don’t have the culture that rock stars have,” says McAfee. “It might be nice to be on stage with women throwing panties at you and doing drugs all night, but I worked 16 hours a day managing a software company. The success that came was an afterthought. It didn’t change what I was doing.”

Maybe it’s the Maori tattoos on his arms (a reminder of a trip to the remote west coast of New Zealand), the network of airstrips he’s building in Belize for his club of aerotrekkers (think motorcycles with wings), or the fact that McAfee just became an official resident of Belize, but this 64-yearold looks, acts, and talks more like a wide-eyed grad student whose world is his oyster than a retired millionaire about to receive his AARP card.

“It wasn’t until after I left the company that I realized I had more money than anyone can spend. What was I going to do? So I stared doing what I loved to do: fishing, diving, snorkeling, jet skiing, boating, and all the things that thrilled me.”

McAfee’s success also afforded him the luxury of owning about a dozen estates (he isn’t sure of the exact number) spread out across North America, Fiji, and Belize, and now he’s cashing it all in. In fact, his 280-acre Colorado mountain estate that was estimated at over $20 million was auctioned off for a mere $5.78 million. “I’m embarrassed that I built that house in Colorado,” says McAfee. “It sold to a gentleman who shouldn’t have bought it. The maintenance on that place is over $1 million a year.”

One of the featured items on the McAfee real estate chopping block is his 5,800 square foot beachfront
estate on 5.3 acres of Hawaii’s secluded Molokai Island, a home that took him seven years to build and one that he never moved into.

Construction of the Molokai home wasn’t easy, admits McAfee. All of the materials had to be flown in or shipped by barge. But now that the home is finished, it’s easy to see why he started the project in the first place, especially when you calculate a quick 15-minute flight to Honolulu. “It’s the perfect place,” says McAfee.

The property, nestled at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, is guarded by a 20- foot-high Japanese gate house featuring iron gates and Afghan teak wood horses. The perimeter fence includes Molokai rock columns with tight knot cedar in case the seclusion of this spot doesn’t offer enough privacy as it is.

“I was trying to build something fairly grand,” says McAfee. “I contracted a local Hawaiian artist to build a traditional Hawaiian wall around the entire property. The wall and gatehouse cost $300,000.”

Andrea Pilot of Coldwell Banker represents the property which begins with a circular driveway that winds through a Kiawe forest into the double-wide porte-cochere. From there you can see through the custom front doors of this Hawaiian-Asian style farmhouse to the crashing surf out back.

The great room combines the kitchen, living room, and dining room. It has large sliding glass doors that open out to a huge covered deck, providing sweeping ocean views towards Oahu and Diamond Head. The deck runs along the entire ocean side of the house from the master suite to the north wing bedrooms (four, including a private maid’s quarters). The great room contains four large skylights which are remote controlled with sensors to automatically close when it rains.

“I like open spaces, hence the open design of the home—large rooms, high ceiling, lots of windows. If you live at the beach, you should let the light in and be able to see the surf crashing on the rocks.”

Along with the openness of the home, McAfee wanted to make sure the house paid tribute to the local heritage. Two Molokai rock fireplaces with hickory entertainment centers, one in the great room and one in the master suite, took six months to build, while all counter tops are custom “sea foam” granite with full backsplashes that reflect like a mirror.

The master bedroom suite is 1,262 square feet of enclosed living space with an additional 528 square-foot covered deck with an ocean view of Kaiwi Channel. The suite also includes a large walk-in closet, computer office space, floor-to-ceiling Molokai rock fireplace and entertainment center, a Jacuzzi bath tub with view of ocean, glass block shower, toilet and bidet, his-and-hers sinks, and a large hickory wood linen closet. Two guest bedrooms feature full bathrooms and walk-in closets along with access to the covered deck with ocean views. The maid’s quarters provide privacy with a separate entrance, full bathroom, kitchenette area, and private deck, also enjoying ocean views.

“The house is designed so that from any bedroom you have a grand view of the ocean. At night, with the lights of Waikiki just offshore, it’s gorgeous.”

So why sell, especially for a third of what he put into it? For McAfee, the answer is more philosophical than practical. He says that his success was a potential threat to his freedom. As his company became more successful, he put more of himself into it to the point where he says he had no other life. “You socialize around it, you think about it exclusively, and spend all of your time on it. It happened to me and it wasn’t fun.” That’s when he hired former IBM executive Bill Larson to take over the reins.

“I said, ‘Here’s the company, take it, I’m leaving.’ It freed me from what could have become a very tedious life with me ending up some fat, retired business man wearing a suit, taking a two-week vacation to a place where I now live. It took seven years to build this house on Molokai and in that time, my entire life changed. Belize is where I want to spend my time. This will be my home for my remaining time here.”

The ease with which McAfee discusses his ultimate demise carries with it a tone of spiritual enlightenment that seems to flow as smoothly off his tongue as do his natural observations overlooking the turquoise waters from his deck. For this former corporate king, a beachfront home is more than just a status symbol. It has become a way of life. —Jack Morris

For more information on John McAfee’s Molokai home, including an expanded photo gallery, visit andreapilot.com or contact Andrea Pilot at Coldwell Banker:

Andrea Pilot
REALTOR
Coldwell Banker Brentwood West
11999 San Vicente Blvd. #100
Los Angeles, CA 90049
310-442-1639 (D)
310-874-5201 (C)
email: andpilot@aol.com
www.andreapilot.com

Video: John McAfee and his Sky Gypsies

Additional Photos:

John McAfee's home in Belize

John McAfee in Belize

John McAfee in Belize

John McAfee in Belize

John McAfee in Belize

John McAfee's home in Belize

Details: $23,000,000; Nancy Callahan, Makena Bay Properties, 877-960-0009, www.makenabayproperties.com.

Royal Island, Bahamas
This new private-island retreat comes complete with celebrity caché, as Hall of Fame athletes Roger Staubach and Jack Nicklaus are involved in the plans. Led by Cypress Equities—the development arm of Staubach Company—and real estate investor Behringer Harvard, Royal Island is a 430-acre island about four miles west of Eleuthera and 50 miles northeast of Nassau. Indeed, one of the development’s highlights is the first Jack Nicklaus Golf Club of the Bahamas, featuring an 18-hole, Nicklaus-designed signature course with 14 oceanfront holes and a 20,000-square-foot oceanfront clubhouse. The Royal Island course has been selected as a participating club in the exclusive and global Jack Nicklaus Golf Club, which calls for as many 25 Nicklaus-branded clubs around the world (including New Zealand, The Bahamas, St.Lucia, Anguilla, and Argentina’s Patagonia region). Besides the golf course, scheduled to open in 2010, other planned amenities are a 200-slip, deep-water marina; a marina village with restaurants, shops and a customs and immigration office; beach; a children’s clubs and more. Montage Hotels & Resorts (which currently operates properties in Laguna Beach and Beverly Hills) will manage Montage Royal Island, the island’s oceanfront destination resort expected to open in 2011, and provide exclusive residential services for the private community. The master plan calls for approximately 270 residences at completion, including 95 custom home sites and 150 villas ranging in size from 2,000 square feet to 5,000 square feet. The villas are priced from $3 million to $7 million, with home sites going for $2 million to $9 million. 888.512.2050, www.royalislandbahamas.com

Kukui’ula, Kauai, Hawaii
PGA Champions Tour and British Open winner Tom Weiskopf, designer of the exclusive Keolu Golf Club at Hualalai on the Big Islandis now putting his imprint on Kauai’s first private golf club development, the 1,000-acre, low-density Kukui’ula community. The par-72, eco-friendly course sits on 200 acres overlooking Kauai’s sunny south shore and popular Poipu beaches, surrounded by tropical flowers, native Hawaiian plants, and fruit, macadamia and coffee trees. The golf course and clubhouse are expected to be completed in 2010. “The finishing sequence of holes is among the most dramatic in all of Hawaii,” says Richard A. Holtzman, president of Kukui’ula Development Company (LLC), a partnership of Scottsdale based DMB Associates and Alexander & Baldwin of Hawaii. “Dictated by the footprint of this extraordinary piece of land, these holes provide a challenging experience that seasoned golfers will certainly appreciate.” To complement the incredible ocean views, each hole of the course will also have its own unique landscape feature. “We are planning an amazing landscape that is tropically lush and full of indigenous plant life,” says Kukui’ula golf project manager Phil Wycoff. “The course will mirror the living garden concept of the entire Kukui’ula community, and will be set amidst thousands of Hawaiian plants, a complete contrast to Tom’s other highly regarded course on the Big Island.” For example, macadamia nut trees will shape the second hole and line the pathway to the third hole, which will integrate a garden theme. The fourth will be set within rainbow-hued shower trees while the fifth and sixth holes, appropriately called the “Lei Garden” holes, will feature up to 800 plantings of scented plumeria, pikake and other floral species. Edible lychee and star fruit, kukui nut and dwarf citrus trees, coffee and pineapple crops and a majestic coconut grove will also be incorporated. 808.742.0234, www.kukuiula.com

Hoakalei, Oahu, Hawaii
In January, Hawaii’s main island of Oahu opened its first new private golf club in 30 years. The golf course development on Oahu’s southwest coast, Hoakalei Country Club, also represents the first course designed in Hawaii by South African golf star Ernie Els. Upon opening, the 18-hole layout will also mark the official unveiling of Oahu’s latest master-planned resort-style community. Located in Ewa Beach about 20 minutes from downtown Honolulu, Hoakalei Country Club will be the centerpiece of Hoakalei, a 726-acre development billed as “Hawaii’s Marina Resort.” When completed by Japan’s Haseko, which has been developing real estate on Oahu since 1973, Hoakalei will feature a full-service marina, hotel, resort spa, resort residences, exclusive beach and canoe club, and a waterfront commercial district. These amenities will make Hoakalei Country Club the only private resort-based country club on Oahu. Ka Makana is the first section of the property being developed for housing, comprising 900 golf and marina residences at build out. Prices start at $500,000 for single-family homes and range up to $1 million. The par-72, 7,400-yard golf experience at Hoakalei promises to be unforgettable, with expansive vistas of the Ewa coastline throughout the 248-acre layout and water features on most holes. Playability is an important part of Els’s design philosophy with multiple tee boxes accommodating players of all levels. Hoakalei Country Club will be managed by Dallas-based ClubCorp, one of the country’s leading owners and operators of private clubs.

Punta Cana Corales, Dominican Republic
This venerable resort-style community that first put Hispaniola on the tourism map 40 years ago is about to welcome its first private golf and oceanfront community, Corales. The secluded and exclusive development features a Tom Fazio designed layout, and homeowners such as entertainer Julio Iglesias and designer Oscar de la Renta. Set between rocky cliffs and coral reefs, Fazio’s first soon-to-be-opened course in the Dominican offers awesome ocean views, including a striking 18th hole that features a dramatic carry over the rocky Bay of Corales. In addition to playing the Corales course, residents of the 625-acre development will have access to a second P.B. Dye-designed course when it opens in late-2009 at Punta Cana’s new Hacienda community. Of course, Corales club members also can enjoy all the activities and amenities that the 15,000-acre Punta Cana Resort has to offer, including the main 355-room hotel and a boutique villa hotel with interiors designed by de la Renta. Corales encompasses just 126 homes, all of which feature magnificent views of the golf course, Caribbean Sea or lush, palm forest just steps from the new Corales Clubhouse. Home sites are priced from $330,000 to $2 million. 809.959.7325, www.puntacana.com

Roco Ki, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Another golfing gem that opened earlier this year in the Punta Cana region is Nick Faldo’s Legacy Golf Course. As part of the new Westin Roco Ki Beach & Golf Resort scheduled to open next year, Faldo’s first course in the Caribbean is already collecting worldwide accolades for its mix of thrilling holes and memorable landscapes. (The Association of British Travel Agents named it one of the world’s top 10 new resort courses, second only to storied St. Andrews in Scotland.) The first tee of the 7,075-yard layout starts with a panorama of the course, including the headlands, ocean and mountains beyond. Two holes later, Faldo’s routing takes travels down into a tropical sanctuary where centuries-old mangroves line the fairways. Then, golfers continue over a sawgrass plain and return to the captivating cliffs of the Caribbean at the 15th hole.Arguably, the highlight of the round is the 104-yard, par three 17th that plays across an ocean inlet from the back tees; it is a hole many are comparing to the classic par three seventh hole at Pebble Beach. The final hole is also full of action, with two shots over the crashing cliff side surf. “Roco Ki is a course designer’s dream,” says Faldo, the 2008 Ryder Cup captain and six-time major championship winner. “There is so much variety across the 18 holes leading up to an absolutely stunning finish. It was a thrill to build.” In addition to this new world-class layout, Roco Ki offers three miles of beachfront Westin resort accommodations and a variety of luxury residential opportunities, including beachfront residences and home sites. EcoDream Villas, 6,285-square-foot, four-story residences with wraparound porches and private rooftop terraces, are under construction and priced from $2.25 million. A future phase of the 2,500-acre resort-style community will feature a Fairmont hotel and luxury condominiums. 888.476.2654, www.rocoki.com

Santa Barbara Plantation, CuraÇao, Netherlands Antilles
Esteemed golf course architect Pete Dye, who was recently enshrined in the World Golf Hall of Fame, is about to add Curaçao to his long list of golf course locations. Scheduled for a fall 2009 opening, the course is taking shape on the naturally contoured site overlooking the Caribbean Sea and the sheltered harbor known as Spanish Water, aptly named centuries ago after the Spanish sailors who came ashore to fill their freshwater casks. Measuring 7,200 yards from the championship tees, the course will be complemented by an 8,000-square-foot clubhouse featuring a fully stocked golf shop, locker rooms, restaurant and lounge. “The ambiance is what makes it special,” says Dye. “First you see the Caribbean, then the bay and the boats, then that big mountain. This land is incredible—the contours, the views, the ruins, the setting. Here the topography has enough movement; you don’t have to create it.” The golf course development is part of Santa Barbara Plantation, a 1,500-acre, resort-style community under development just 25 minutes from Curaçao’s capital city of Willemstad. Besides the course, the other main element of Santa Barbara’s initial phase is the 350-room Hyatt Regency Curaçao Resort & Spa, also scheduled to open this fall. Already in operation is the 120-slip Seru Boca Marina, which is capable of accommodating vessels up to 80 feet in length within Spanish Water. In addition to the golf course and marina, Santa Barbara Plantation will feature recreational amenities, such as a beach club for homeowners and their guests, fine and casual dining, a tennis center, business center, outdoor swimming pools and boutique retail shops. By late spring, Santa Barbara Plantation should have Terrace home models available for viewing, priced from $1.1 million. Single-family home sites priced from $450,000 to more than $1 million will feature similar golf course or ocean views. The Marina Village, a 27-unit residential community overlooking Seru Boca Marina, consists of two- and three bedroom patio homes ranging from 1,700 to 2,100 square feet with pricing from $726,000. 877.740.0567, www.santabarbaraplantation.com

Punta Brava, Mexico
Tiger Woods and oceanfront golf. Need we say more? Actually,this private golf and ocean club, located near Ensenada 65 miles south of San Diego, represents the first oceanfront golf course project for Tiger Woods Design. Situated at the tip of a peninsula that extends seven miles into the ocean on Mexico’s Pacific coast, Punta Brava (which translates to Wild Point), is being developed by the San Antonio, Tex.-based Flagship Group, whose co-founder is Texas billionaire Red McCombs. “My goal is to design a collection of amazing golf courses around the world,” said Woods at a December event for Founders Club members and invited guests. “To do this, I try to pick the best sites, find the best partners and create exceptional course designs. This project is a great fit for me because the site is amazing, the Flagship Group is a fantastic partner and we’ve created an exceptional design. Adds Woods: “It is a rare opportunity to be able to put 17 greens or tees on the ocean and have eight shots playing over the Pacific. Couple that with views of the ocean from every hole and you have a place that’s pretty special.” Besides Woods’ par-70 oceanfront course, which is scheduled to open in early 2011, Punta Brava will also feature a private clubhouse, ocean club, wellness center and spa, multiple dining venues, and recreational activities for the entire family. The residential component is comprised of 39 estate lots (three-quarter acre to three acres), 99 villa residences (4,500 to 7,000 square feet) and 14 club casitas for the residents’ guests. Prices range from $3 million to $12 million. 866.619.8090, www.puntabrava.com

Wyndansea, Vancouver Isl and, Canada
Located on the island’s wild, west coast near Long Beach and Pacific Rim National Park, the Wyndansea Ocean Golf Resort is part of the elite Jack Nicklaus Golf Club network. At the 370-acre Wyndansea, the Jack Nicklaus Golf Club of Canada will be a stunning oceanfront signature course designed by Nicklaus, joined by a future luxury resort and spa, and deep-water marina for yachts and seaplane service. Nine holes of the 18-hole course have already been cleared, including the signature par three 15th, where visitors and prospective buyers are invited to hit range balls across a vast expanse of coastline to a cliffside green site, the churning Pacific’s soothing soundtrack in the background. Membership in the Jack Nicklaus Golf Club of Canada includes Wyndansea resort privileges and golf amenities for the entire family (multi-generational). It also comes with associate member status at Jack Nicklaus Golf Clubs worldwide, which includes complimentary accommodation at any Nicklaus Home and golf privileges and exclusive club amenities at any Jack Nicklaus Golf Club around the world—without any dues or initiation fees. Members also enjoy golf privileges at the Golden Bear’s two home clubs, The Bear’s Club in North Palm Beach, Fla., and Muirfield Village in Dublin, Ohio; fractional access to Citation private jets; and an oceanfront home site in Wyndansea’s Signature Circle, an enclave of 30 oceanfront and semi-oceanfront estate lots adjacent to the course. Price for this ultimate Wyndansea real estate/club package: $2.2 million. Additionally, 1 Hotel Vancouver Island, the 370-acre resort and condominium development developed by Starwood Capital Group and Marine Drive Properties Ltd., will boast a host of amenities, including a full-service spa, fitness facility, deep-water marina, and a restaurant and wine bistro. 888.898.8568, www.wyndansea.com

Trump International Residences & Golf Club, Puerto Rico
The newest Trump-branded project on the Atlantic Ocean in Rio Grande is positioned to set a new standard of design and luxury in Puerto Rico. More than 75,000 spectators got a taste of The backdrop of Trump International Residences & Golf Club in Rio Grand, Puerto Rico this reborn style of haute living when the $600 million development recently unveiled its model residences during the first-ever PGA Puerto Rico Open last March. Situated in the quaint village of Rio Grande (only 20 minutes from the Luis Munoz Marin International Airport), Trump International Residences and Golf Club is spread over 1,000 lush acres and positioned at the foothills of the El Yunque Rainforest. The eco-diverse community is the first of its kind on the island and will showcase 500 residences at completion. The first residents will become part of the Founders Club, an exclusive community that will allow its residents to enjoy distinct benefits, such as preferred tee times, and access to elite services, such as a private jet, helicopter and limousine service. The project will feature an array of residences, from condominiums to estate homes, with prices ranging from the $600,000s to $5 million. Among the amenities planned are a family-friendly beach club, an intimate spa, state-of-the art fitness centers, tennis courts, a fully equipped business center and more. The Trump Organization’s partner on this project is Puerto Rican construction conglomerate Empresas Diaz Inc. 877.4TRUMP5, www.trumpgolfclubpuertorico.com

Baker’s Bay Golf & Ocean Club, Abaco Islands, Bahamas
Nestled between the turquoise Sea of Abaco and the Atlantic Ocean on Great Guana Cay, Baker’s Bay Golf & Ocean Club is a private 585-acre community being developed by Scottsdale, Ariz.- based Discovery Land Company (which also developed the ultra-exclusive Kukio community on Hawaii’s Big Island). Just a short ferry ride from Great Abaco island, Baker’s Bay features a Fazio-designed, 18-hole golf course with fabulous ocean views, a 165-slip deep water state-of-the-art marina, which accommodates yachts up to 250 feet, a lively commercial marina village, and two private clubhouses for members and their guests scheduled for a spring 2010 opening. The Baker’s Bay residential offerings will comprise a blend of oceanfront home sites, luxurious island cottages and colorful beach bungalows that blend perfectly with the cultural heritage of the Bahamas. Prices for the private retreat range from $2 million $12 million. 561.833.9590, www.bakersbayclub.com