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Kapalua Resort, Maui’s Heaven

Maui’s Ritz-Carlton Residences make for the perfect villa vacation. By Julie Keller

Set along Maui’s pristine northwestern shore is a slice of tropical heaven called Kapalua Resort, a 22,000-acre region that includes picturesque mountain peaks, two award-winning golf courses, and several unspoiled shores, like D.T. Fleming Beach. It’s also home to The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua. Vacationers have been flocking to the spectacular resort for years, most recently enjoying the fruits of a $180 million renovation that was unveiled in 2008. Many of these devotees have decided to make life in paradise a more permanent proposal, courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Kapalua Bay. Located just down the road from the posh resort are the 84 private ownership residences that make up this community, with pricing starting at $3.9 million. Residents can choose from three- and four-bedroom homes ranging in size from 3,002 square feet to 4,271 square feet.

The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Kapalua

Each of the posh abodes, many of which are available as vacation rentals through their individual owners, offer an array of high-end amenities. The interiors are semi-customizable and each features light oak or Brazilian hardwood floors and granite kitchen countertops, as well as beautifully appointed kitchens and bathrooms with premium amenities from Sub-Zero, Fisher & Paykel, Wolf, Bosch, and Kohler.

Perhaps the most enchanting aspect of ownership is the accompanying offerings available through the hotel, including its Kapalua Spa, 8,500-square-foot lagoon-style pool, high-end restaurants, Beach Club, concierge services, housekeeping, and pre-arrival preparation and shopping, as well as access to a Ritz-Carlton chef who can prepare gourmet meals. And that’s just to name a few.

Steven Tyler’s New Hawaiian Home

‘American Idol‘ judge Steven Tyler recently purchased a one-acre, oceanfront estate in Maui with new fiancée Erin Brady. The 3,000 square foot home, which Tyler bought for $4.8 million, was built in 1988 and features 3.5 bathrooms, 2 bedrooms, an infinity-edged saline pool and a floor-to-ceiling aquarium. The home was previously owned by Fred Constant, owner of Constant-Diamond Mountain Vineyard, who told the Wall Street Journal that he sold the home because he didn’t spend enough time at the property.

*More Images of Tyler and Brady’s Maui Home

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The Top 20 Oceanfront Developments

Oceanfront living has different meanings for different people. To some, the truest oceanfront pleasure is realized the moment you step onto your boat and motor out to the high seas. To others, the consummate coastal experience is playing a round of golf where craggy cliffs meet the crashing sea in awestruck splendor. Some simply satisfy their innermost coastal connections by living amongst the pristine nature of a low-density development where the main amenity is Mother Nature’s raw beauty. By Scott Kauffman

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

The World’s Best Villas

With their exclusive and completely personalized offerings, private villas are the ultimate escapes. Here’s our admittedly biased list of the world’s best. By, Lisa Rogak

Antigua

Jumby Bay: Frangipani Point. This villa is the newest estate home at this long-admired Caribbean resort. At 6,500 square feet, this four-bedroom villa occupies an astounding 3.2 oceanfront acres—with its own private beach, of course—allowing you to relax with friends and family in a fairy tale-like home that is as secluded as it gets without it being a private island. The villa is made for entertaining, with a huge first-floor pavilion that combines a living room, dining room, and fully equipped gourmet kitchen. The lush outdoor courtyard fits the bill as well, with a pool and BBQ porch that contains a massive 36-inch grill, big enough to cook for up to 12 guests perched at the outside dining table. jumbybayresort.com

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Casa Bella. Three of the four bedrooms in this three-story villa have stellar views that look out onto the Sea of Cortez, but that’s only the beginning. Casa Bella indeed lives up to its Italian description; this beautiful home is custom built with 6,500 square feet of living space nestled in the exclusive community of Cabo Colorado near Palmilla. Adding to the appeal are the bathrooms stocked with L’Occitane toiletries, as well as your own personal concierge, who is on call 24/7. To get in the mood for endless days of lolling around and enjoying the ocean views, you’ll be greeted with freshly made salsa, guacamole, and margaritas upon your arrival. wimco.com

Tortola, BVI

Frenchmans Lookout. The Villa at this ultra-luxe resort on the west end of Tortola measures in at no less than 10,000 square feet, with 15 rooms in all, including five bedrooms, a state-of-the-art gym, a freshwater pool, and best of all, a nearly 360-degree view of the Caribbean. In fact, every single room in the villa is mere steps away from the wraparound deck, which has been thoughtfully equipped with eight hammocks. The Villa is extremely private, yet it’s also accessible to local beaches and the main shopping district. You’ll be in good company, as more than a few celebrities have stayed here—but our lips are sealed! frenchmanslookout.com

Providenciales, Turks & Caicos

White Sands. A quick look at the numbers can tell you all you need to know about what it will be like to stay at White Sands. Aside from the four bedrooms, this oceanfront villa is pretty much hidden from public view on its two acres of tropically landscaped grounds. You’ll be able to relax on 200 feet of your own private beach or ramble around a 9,000-square-foot villa with up to 10 of your closest friends and family members. Terraces, gazebos, and a lagoon-style pool complete the picture outside. Hide out all you want, but the fact that the storied Grace Bay is only three miles away makes White Sands an easy choice. hostedvillas.com

Kalkan, Turkey

White Lodge. Sophisticated European travelers have been flocking to Turkey’s southern coast for decades for Mediterranean oceanfront splendor combined with the exoticism that is part and parcel of this ancient land. As more people around the world catch onto Turkey as a coastal vacation destination, finding an untouched, private place that still respects the sea is increasingly difficult. White Lodge is that place: a stunning eight-bedroom oceanfront villa that was built from local white stone and marble. A private garden, gourmet kitchen, and white grand piano complete the picture. Though beaches and bustling neighborhoods are a short drive away, the ocean and mountain views from the villa’s infinity pool will make it difficult to leave. holiday-rentals.co.uk/p419447

Miami, Florida

The Villa by Barton G. Stay in one of Miami Beach’s most renowned and lavishly decorated villas, the former residence of the late fashion designer Gianni Versace. Everything throughout the 19,000-square-foot mansion and its 10 custom-designed suites is over the top, from the nine-foot double-king-size bed in Versace’s former bedroom to the European continental cuisine served on Versace-Rosenthal china in the villa’s restaurant. The spa services are also personally designed for each guest and can be enjoyed poolside or atop the Rooftop Lounge. As Versace would have wanted it, a private British-trained butler is available for each suite. thevillabybartong.com

Paros, Greece

Villa Jasmine. If Greek islands are your thing, head for Villa Jasmine on the Cyclades island of Paros, where you’ll be able to imagine life as a Greek sea baron on this relatively uncrowded island of 13,000. The villa is built in the Cycladic style: plenty of swooping arches, soaring ceilings, and, of course, white marble, as Paros is renowned worldwide for its exquisite stone. Low-slung couches on the villa’s terraces are strewn with countless pillows, and no matter where you wander on the villa’s six acres, you’ll have an enviable view of the Aegean Sea. whitekeyvillas.com

Nassau, Bahamas

Plantation Beach Estate. Nestled within a private club on the west side of New Providence, Nassau, Plantation Beach Estate charms visitors with gardens that overlook the water. Guests are welcomed to the 14,000-square-foot three-acre estate through large antique wooden doors, behind which is a quaint courtyard that doubles as an alfresco dining space. Amenities at the eight-bedroom villa include a gourmet kitchen, a bar, an infinity pool, a gym, a game room, and an “Ocean Terrace,” which features two glass-bottom openings for easy viewing of sea life below. Should you be inclined to venture off site or sample beach activities, be sure to ring your dedicated butler. villasofdistinction.com/villas/bahamas/plantation-beach-estate/

Puerta Vallarta, Mexico

Castle Sol de Oriente at Costa Careyes. It’s not easy to reach Castle Sol de Oriente at Costa Careyes—fly into Puerto Vallarta and drive for a couple of hours, or fly into Manzanillo and drive for an hour—but once you settle in at one of several luxuriously appointed villas, it’ll be more than worth the effort. Each villa offers six bedrooms, with two in separate bungalows connected by an electric gondola. The lemon yellow exterior of the Castle presents a striking picture against the cobalt blue sky. The Castle is fully staffed with a chef, housekeeper, and butler, so all you have to do is focus on the task at hand; that is, taking in the ocean view. careyes.com

Riviera Maya, Mexico

Hacienda Kukulkan. This oceanfront retreat is named after Kukulkan, a Mayan god in the form of a feathered serpent; indeed, just outside is a stone mural with a carving of the fierce god. Kukulkan must have been quite a fitness buff, because the villa comes equipped with a wealth of activities to keep you and up to 16 guests in shape. The villa boasts a full-size tennis court—in fact, it’s the only villa in Riviera Maya to have one—as well as a fully equipped gym that overlooks the ocean and beachfront putting green. Need something? A concierge, a gardener, and housekeepers are on call.
puertoaventurasrentals.com/hacienda-kukulkan.aspx

Virgin Gorda, BVI

Villa Aquamare. Choose from one of three oceanfront villas at this private resort on Mahoe Bay; better yet, rent them all to create an extensive and elegant retreat for you and 35 of your closest friends. Each 8,000-square-foot villa has five bedrooms, and with the Concierge House unobtrusively situated nearby on the compound, whatever you desire is within your grasp. Bulgari toiletries, Frette linens, and a large gourmet kitchen are part of the package; each villa is situated on slightly different levels, providing varied views of the Sir Francis Drake Channel. villaaquamare.com

St. John’s

Isla Vista. On a private gated hillside on Caneel Bay, everything about Isla Vista is top of the line, from the mahogany four-poster bed to the ice cream maker in the kitchen. Adjacent to the Virgin Islands National Park, the villa takes full advantage of its location, from the private garden overlooking the sea to the outdoor pavilion where you can rinse off the sand while birds nest nearby. With just two bedrooms, the villa’s size and secluded location make it the perfect romantic retreat. wimco.com/villas/villa.aspx?pid=902586

St. Barts

Le Sereno: La Villa du Pecheur. This villa with a French accent is small—it has just one bedroom with 900 square feet—but it’s perfect for a private romantic stay where it’s easy for the rest of the world to fade into the background. You’ll have your own garden, a pool, and a 600-square-foot deck all to yourself, as well as a solitary stretch of beach with your name on it. With the daybed on the deck looking out onto the lagoon, it’ll be hard to resist spending every minute outside. If you want to expand the hospitality, you can add a few suites from the adjacent Grand Suite Plage to create your own oceanfront villa complex. lesereno.com

Galapagos Islands

Villa on Santa Cruz Island. The luxury tour operator International Expeditions offers guests a rare chance to indulge in the glorious natural world of the Galapagos while doing it in utmost luxury and style. The Villa’s five bedrooms provide an unmatched view of the water and is the only villa on the list to provide a staff naturalist, which means that a veritable expert will lead you on a variety
of hiking and biking excursions. You’ll also enjoy personal introductions to the giant tortoises that are the trademark of the Galapagos Islands. ietravel.com/galapagosvilla/home.asp

Maui, Hawaii

Island Palace. At this 12,000-square-foot palatial villa on a whopping 10 acres of Maui’s best beachfront in Kapalua, it’s easy to think you’ve died and gone to heaven. Absolutely nothing is overlooked here, from the Chinese courtyard complete with a lotus pond to the game room and wine cellar. There are five well-appointed bedroom suites, plus a media room, yoga and exercise room, and freshwater pool and Jacuzzi perched directly over the ocean. Don’t forget about the killer view of mountains that loom in the distance. hawaiihideaways.com

Providenciales, Turks & Caicos

Turtle Breeze. Situated on Providenciales in the Turks & Caicos islands, Turtle Breeze villa comprises five bedrooms, each with a private bathroom, and is surrounded by sugary white beaches and turquoise waters. The villa, each of whose bedrooms has its own private outdoor entrance, occupies two beautifully landscaped acres along Grace Bay beachfront, providing easy access to water-based activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing, and fishing. The climate on Provo, as it’s known to locals, is practically perfect all year round, meaning guests can partake in activities like golf or enjoy alfresco dining. Perfect for those who plan to bring along private staff, Turtle Breeze also offers a separate one-bedroom suite with its own kitchenette. Feel like taking a dip but without going far? Turtle Breeze boasts its own private swimming pool that’s surrounded by waterfalls and lagoons and is outfitted with a swim-up bar. turtlebreeze.com

Great Exuma, Bahamas

Bougainvillea House. Bougainvillea House comprises two beachfront homes, available weekly either individually or combined. A separate garden cottage can host a couple, a nanny, or private staff. All told, the property features six bedrooms with private baths, plus three suites with shared baths for a total capacity of 18 adults. Interiors are given an island-chic feel thanks to Tommy Bahama furnishings and linens, but the major draw here is its beachfront location and outdoor deck, which comprises 8,000 square feet of space in which to relax or to host friends, family, or the ultimate special function. When it comes to leisure, guests can enjoy boating, fishing, shell collecting, snorkeling, and scuba diving, plus activities like tennis and golf at the nearby Four Seasons Emerald Bay. bougainvilleahouse.com

Montego Bay, Jamaica

Noble House. The sprawling beachfront Noble House on Jamaica’s Montego Bay clocks in at 15,000 square feet, which includes four bedrooms and six baths, all on five acres of waterfront. Guests of Noble House can lounge on 500 feet of private beachfront, bob in its free-form swimming pool, or explore their surroundings in two single-seat sea kayaks. When they’re not taking advantage of the villa’s natural surroundings, guests can laze on the villa’s verandah (it’s outfitted with its own TV), take up a game of ping pong, or sample the amenities at nearby Round Hill (think tennis, gym, heated pools, jogging trails, bars, restaurants, and a salon and spa). However, with its breathtaking setting and its unique architecture and grounds, which comprise a series of airy pavilions that are connected by water gardens and bridges, guests just might not want to leave.
jamaicavillas.com/villa-listing/noble-house-on-the-beach

Eustatia Island, BVI

Villa Far Niente & Casa de Playa. Until recently, the only way to snag a stay on this private island was by invitation from its owner. Now, travelers can book the island’s two villas at their own volition. Perched on a hill 117 feet above the Caribbean, Villa Far Niente comprises three bedrooms, a professional-grade kitchen, outdoor living areas, a pool, a hot tub, and panoramic sea views. At the water’s edge, Casa de Playa consists of two bedrooms and is outfitted with up-to-date amenities, appliances, and fixtures, and, best of all, offers direct access to the beach and sea. A third, discreetly situated villa is dedicated to service staff, who will see to it that guests have their pick of activities—from yacht charters and windsurfing to kayaking and paddle boarding—during their villa vacation. eustatia.com

Hill Bay Beach, Anguilla

Bird of Paradise. On Anguilla’s Sandy Hill Bay Beach, Bird of Paradise features lagoon-style pools, carved rock walls, and art from Papua New Guinea. Guests can stay in the four-bedroom suite equipped with three king beds and two queen beds, or rent the villa as a one-, two-, or three-bedroom unit. Four flat-screen TVs, a gourmet kitchen, wireless Internet, and two whirlpool tubs and outdoor showers are among its creature comforts. Fold-back walls transform indoor living space into an outdoor experience, and an outdoor living room has a fireplace, lounge chairs, a wet bar, and a treetop deck. Guests can take in spa treatments on daybeds overlooking the ocean or enjoy a sunset cruise or fishing on the villa’s privately chartered boat. anguillabird.com

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. Privacy and luxury combine here for a lifestyle that dreams are made of. A gated entry opens to a tropical garden environment with 4,500 square feet of living space. The estate features four bedrooms, five bathrooms, an enormous greatroom opening out to an extensive covered lanai, a media room, a three-car garage, a chef’s kitchen, an infinity pool and spa, and all the amenities you would expect in a luxurious home built less than five years ago. Enjoy a meal at the dining room table where walls open to amazing ocean views or sit back as the sun sets and just feel the tension leaving your body. Contemporary architecture and outstanding views combine for one of the most ideal oceanfront settings in the country. $22,950,000, Tom Muldoon, Coldwell Banker Island Properties, 866-476-6284, 4544makenaroad.com.

Maui, Hawaii

Located on the property of the ultra-luxe Ritz-Carlton Kapalua Bay on Maui, the Residences oceanfront complex is composed of 84 condominiums from about 3,000 to more than 4,200 square feet and have lanais as large as 1,150 square feet. Continue reading Maui, Hawaii

Maui’s Ahihi Bay Hideaway

Soak in the rays at this secluded Hawaiian destination. By Scott Kauffman

Continue reading Maui’s Ahihi Bay Hideaway

Maluaka

Makena, Maui

Located just five minutes from Wailea Resort on Maui’s southwest coast, Maluaka offers 69 luxury condominium residences perched above the world-famous Maluaka Beach and alongside the Robert Trent Jones, Jr. golf course. Residences contain approximately 2,600 to 3,500 square feet of interior space with 500 to 1,000 square feet on the lanai. Units are available in three-bedroom configurations and penthouses. There are also two freestanding bungalows with 4,500 square feet of interior space, 1,500 square feet of outdoor living space and a private pool. Ownership includes the opportunity to join the Club at Maluaka. Prices start at $3.65 million. Site construction has begun, with initial occupancy scheduled for late 2010.

808.879.0009
www.maluaka.com

The Ritz-Carlton Club and Residences, Kapalua Bay, Maui

In May, The Ritz-Carlton Club and Residences, Kapalua Bay will debut its collection of luxury residences. The development, located within Kapalua Resort, will feature a mix of private and fractional-ownership condominium residences situated along 24 acres of coastline. On offer are 84 private residences with three- and four-bedroom floor plans ranging from 3,002 square feet to 4,271 square feet. The Ritz-Carlton Club, Kapalua Bay, Hawaii’s first fractional offering in a resort setting, is offering 62 fully furnished residences with two- and three-bedroom floor plans ranging from 1,912 to 2,257 square feet. Residents will enjoy membership in The Kapalua Club. www.kapaluabay.com

The Residential Suites at The Ritz-Carlton

Kapalua, Maui
An exciting component of the famed resort’s $95 million renovation, The Residential Suites at The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua will feature 107 luxuriously appointed one- and two bedroom units, starting at $895,000, upon completion in December. Owners of the whole ownership suites will have access to all of the resort’s first-class amenities, including world-class golf, a luxury spa, several gourmet-dining options, and the Ritz-Carlton signature event series. The interior design is inspired by the natural beauty of the island,and indigenous materials like woven coconut and taro will be utilized to provide the suites with a sense of place. The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua is located on 50 acres of Maui’s northwest shore as a centerpiece of a historic, 23,000-acre working pineapple plantation.