Top Homes 2015

Welcome to our annual Top Homes issue, a unique collection of the most exclusive and spectacular oceanfront properties currently on the market in the United States. With prices ranging from $6 million to $139 million, and glorious coastal settings from Hawaii to the Hamptons, these magnificent private estates are the essence of luxury coastal living. And they’re yours for the asking.

$5 MILLION TO $10 MILLION

16 SHOREHAM CLUB ROAD

Old Greenwich, Conn.

This multi-award-winning home by leading Greenwich architect Joeb Moore offers an exceptional contemporary lifestyle in a prime waterfront setting on Long Island Sound. Perched within a coveted private association, near Greenwich Point, this eye-catching four-bedroom residence features unique glass curtain walls and open living spaces that flow seamlessly to an outdoor deck and breathtaking water views to the horizon. The master suite features a balcony, fireplace, gym, dressing room and spa-like bath. Built in 2009, this unique ocean home has won several awards from the American Institute of Architects and major design magazines for its cutting-edge construction and stylish interiors.

Bedrooms: 4

Bathrooms: 4 + 1 half

Price: $5,995,000

Listed by: Sotheby’s International Realty, sothebyshomes.com

$10 MILLION TO $30 MILLION

THE ROCK HOUSE

Malibu, Calif.

One of the most captivating homes in Malibu, this Mediterranean-style residence, with spectacular coastline views and 266 feet of beach frontage, overlooks El Matador Beach. Designed by Michael Lee, and featuring architectural details imported from Spain, France and Argentina, this four-bedroom, three-and-a-half bath property has all the ambience of a classic European villa. Nestled in lush gardens, the home includes a romantic owner’s suite with a wraparound stone veranda, a great room with wood-beam ceilings, stone floors, a gourmet kitchen, dining and seating areas and another wraparound veranda that’s perfect for entertaining family and friends amid beautiful ocean panoramas.

Bedrooms: 4

Bathrooms: 3 + 1 half

Price: $25,000,000

Listed by: Chris Cortazzo, chriscortazzo.com

OVER $30 MILLION

LE PALAIS ROYAL

Hillsboro Beach, Fla.

If ever there was a coastal residence fit for royalty, this is it. Le Palais Royal is a majestic estate, perched on more than four acres of land on Hillsboro Beach with 465 feet of direct beachfront, 492 feet of land on the Intracoastal Waterway and a private dock for a 185-foot megayacht. The 60,000-square-foot residence is designed with a host of unique features, including a subterranean garage that can accommodate up to 30 cars, the first-ever IMAX theater contracted for private use, a $2 million marble staircase, a vast infinity pool with a double-loop waterslide and state-of-the-art security technology.

Bedrooms: 11

Bathrooms: 17

Price: $139,000,000

Listed by: Coldwell Banker, coldwellbanker.com

THE HAMPTONS

VILLA MARIA

Water Mill, N.Y.

One of Long Island’s most beautiful estates, with expansive views of Mecox Bay, Villa Maria is a mansion straight out of The Great Gatsby. Built in 1919 by shipping magnate Edward P. Morse, this grand 15-acre estate is now owned by world-renowned designers who embarked on a six-year project to recapture its 1920s grandeur. The home features a reception hall, 60-foot living room, formal dining room, 11 bedrooms – including a six-room master suite – and a gourmet kitchen. The stately grounds and gardens include a pool and cabana, tennis court, chic two-bedroom guesthouse and 1,200 feet of waterfront with a boat dock.

Bedrooms: 11

Bathrooms: 12 + 4 half

Price: $85,000,000

Co-listed by: Sotheby’s International Realty and The Corcoran Group sothebyshomes.com, timdavishamptons.com.

NEW ENGLAND

SEAPOINT ESTATE

Dartmouth, Mass.

A landmark property perched on almost 10 acres of land on a peninsula stretching into Buzzards Bay, the breathtaking Seapoint Estate bears all the hallmarks of a classic New England manse. Designed in 2007 by renowned architect Robert A. M. Stern, the residence has deep covered porches running the length of both its sides that offer expansive ocean views from every room. With five bedrooms in the main home and another three in a separate guesthouse, Seapoint also features more than 1,500 feet of water frontage, an oceanfront infinity pool, custom-built hot tub and deep-water boat dock.

Bedrooms: 8

Bathrooms: 10 + 4 half

Price: $25,000,000

Listed by: Robert Paul Properties, seapointestate.com

THE CAROLINAS

90 JACKSTAY COURT

Kiawah Island, S.C.

A masterwork of design and craftsmanship, this magnificent estate captures the essence of Kiawah Island’s breezy yet luxurious coastal lifestyle. A classic Shingle Style home, with 200 feet of ocean frontage and a separate guesthouse, 90 Jackstay Court is a multi-generational homestead arranged on three levels, all with ocean views. Features include a three-story entry foyer with Palladian windows, light and airy great rooms, a billiard room, gourmet kitchen, Charleston-inspired formal dining room and sumptuous master suite. Outside, tiered verandas, a saltwater infinity pool, gazebo, lawn and fountains provide an idyllic setting for entertaining and enjoying the spectacular sunsets.

Bedrooms: 8

Bathrooms: 8 + 4 half

Price: $24,000,000

Listed by: Kiawah Island Real Estate, kiawahisland.com

WEST COAST

10 CARMEL WAY

Carmel, Calif.

Is there an ocean home with a more beautiful setting? Located just off 17 Mile Drive on a private road called Carmel Drive, this iconic estate sits on the largest beachfront parcel in Carmel-by-the-Sea and is widely regarded as the finest home on California’s Central Coast. Built in 1932, and formerly owned by Hollywood legend Gene Hackman, the stately stone home enjoys breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, a picture-perfect beach and bay and the rolling greens and fairways of The Links at Pebble Beach. Designed and maintained to exacting standards in its architecture and interiors, this exceptional four-bedroom home features a separate guesthouse and additional acreage, making the estate ideal for extended family to follow.

Bedrooms: 4

Bathrooms: 5 + 2 half

Price: $37,500,000*

*$63,000,000 for the entire compound, which includes an additional beach house and caretaker’s house with four bedrooms and five and three-half baths.

Listed by: Carmel Realty Company, carmelrealtycompany.com

SOUTHEAST COAST

1 CASUARINA CONCOURSE

Coral Gables, Fla.

Offering a rare level of luxury, even for Miami, this ravishing home is located in the exclusive gated waterfront community of Gables Estate. Nestled on a 3.6-acre lot that juts out into Biscayne Bay, the residence enjoys 270-degree water and skyline views and 937 feet of direct water frontage with a private beach. Built in 2000, the Mediterranean-inspired mansion offers three levels of living space, including an opulent master suite, two-bedroom guest apartment, chef’s kitchen and 1,500-bottle wine room. The beautifully landscaped grounds feature a large heated pool and spa overlooking the bay and a 100-foot private boat dock.

Bedrooms: 9

Bathrooms: 10 + 5 half

Price: $67,000,000

Listed by: The Jills, thejills.com

HAWAIIAN ISLANDS

72-105 LAUEKI PLACE

Kailua Kona, HI

Looking for a slice of Hawaiian heaven, with sublime views of ocean, sunsets, mountains, lava rock, golf course and bristling coconut trees? This dazzling property, nestled on 1.8 tropical acres and two adjacent land lots at Hualalai Resort on the Big Island of Hawaii, features eight suites inspired by the stylish and luxurious Aman Resorts. The primary four-bedroom residence offers a stunning pool and spa and beautiful interiors with teak walls, hemlock ceilings and stone countertops. The guest accommodations include another four individual suites, all with views of the resort’s golf course – a classic example of resort-style living at its best.

Bedrooms: 8

Bathrooms: 9

Price: $33,000,000

Listed by: Luxury Big Island, luxurybigisland.com

PACIFIC NORTHWEST

36044 HWY 101

Gold Beach, OR

Capturing the essence of the Pacific Northwest’s wild and romantic coastline, this mountain lodge-style home offers mesmerizing views of Oregon’s iconic Three Sisters rock formation and private access to two very pretty coves. Constructed of the finest building materials, including cedar, mahogany, bronze, copper and reclaimed Heart Pine floors, the lodge combines old-world charm and contemporary comforts with four spacious bedrooms, four-and-a-half baths, a great room, family room, gourmet kitchen, media room and a deck for outdoor entertaining. The expansive and mature landscaped gardens also feature an enchanting Scandinavian-style log guesthouse with ocean and mountain views, a barn and greenhouse.

Bedrooms: 4

Bathrooms: 4 + 3 half

Price: $8,000,000

Listed by: Cascade Sotheby’s International Realty, sothebysrealty.com

$5 MILLION TO $10 MILLION

171 TERRAPIN POINT

John’s Island, Vero Beach, Fla.

A haven of river views and sea breezes on Florida’s Atlantic coast, this welcoming four-bedroom estate commands attention with grand appointments and even grander views. Set on the western shore of beautiful Gem Island, the 1.44-acre estate embraces the Intracoastal Waterway from every angle. Inside, the 12,300-square-foot home features hardwood floors, marble accents and plenty of space for entertaining, including an all-season screened lanai and a library with fireplace and bar. Upstairs, a generous master suite with two studies opens onto an expansive balcony with treetop views. Outside, the tropical setting includes a lap pool, boat dock with lift and seawall-protected sandy beach. The home is located in the private, seaside community of John’s Island, offering world-class lifestyle amenities for residents and visitors.

Bedrooms: 4

Bathrooms: 5 + 3 half

Price: $8,000,000

Listed by: Johns Island Real Estate Company, johnsislandrealestate.com

$10 MILLION TO $30 MILLION

MALIBU BEACH BLUFF RETREAT

Malibu, Calif.

When it comes to oceanfront living, this resort-like Malibu beach home has it all. Perched on a bluff, with mesmerizing coastline and ocean views, the Spanish-style estate is a single-story study in casual elegance. From the gourmet cook’s kitchen to the ocean-centric living room and dining area, the interior blends clean, crisp finishes with warm touches such as exposed beams. Besides the never-want-to-leave master suite, which leads to a pergola-covered fireside sitting area, there are four additional bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, an office, studio, guest suite and gym. A beautifully landscaped terrace, heated pool, organic garden and paddle tennis court are perfect for outdoor entertaining, while private stairs descend to Malibu Road Beach.

Bedrooms: 5

Bathrooms: 6

Price: $26,500,000

Listed by: Sotheby’s International Realty, sothebyshomes.com

OVER $30 MILLION

LA VILLA CONTENTA

Malibu, Calif.

One of the world’s great estates, La Villa Contenta is a private sanctuary like no other. Designed on classic European lines, and perched on almost 6.5 acres overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this exquisite residence at 26880 Pacific Coast Highway is a California masterpiece. Approached via a sweeping driveway, the main villa has a double living room and covered loggia looking out to manicured lawns, along with a dining room seating The lower level comprises a billiards room, wine cellar, screening room and gym while the upper level offers spacious master suites and guestrooms. The grounds are equally beautiful with an infinity pool, pavilion, tennis court, kitchen garden, rose garden and cactus garden, greenhouse, guest suite and staff quarters.

Bedrooms: 13

Bathrooms: 14

Price: $60,000,000

Co-listed by: Chris Cortazzo, chriscortazzo.com, Maya Hazen Manshel, thearchitecturalestates.com and Aaron Kirman, aaronkirman.com

THE HAMPTONS

326, 328, 332 COBB ROAD

Water Mill, N.Y.

An American classic, this Georgian-style 1900s Hamptons residence enjoys 500 feet of direct waterfront on Mecox Bay. The six-acre estate is full of surprises, including a four-story windmill that stands between its two private entry gates. Originally designed by architect W. E. Brady, the seven-bedroom shingled home retains many of its original features, including lead-pane windows, wainscoting and ornamental columns. The stately bay-front beauty boasts a variety of exterior features, from covered verandahs and decks to manicured lawns and formal gardens to a pool, boat dock and brick-walled tennis court. Meanwhile, a five-bedroom, 4.5-bath guesthouse assures ample space for visiting friends and family.

Bedrooms: 12

Bathrooms: 10 + 3 half

Price: $32,900,000

Listed by: Sotheby’s International Realty, sothebyshomes.com and The Corcoran Group, timdavishamptons.com

NEW ENGLAND

THE OAKS, 49 MARGIN STREET

Cohasset, Mass.

Who can resist a home with pedigree? For 60-plus years, Clarence W. Barron and family (owners of the Dow Jones & Company, original publisher of the Wall Street Journal and Barron’s Weekly) owned this Georgian Revival mansion set on the South Shore of Mass. Known as The Oaks, the historically significant estate is set on a private 9.41-acre peninsula with 1,800 feet of ocean frontage and 20,000 square feet of space. It offers a deep-water dock, tennis court, swimming pool, skating pond, children’s games lawn and outbuildings totaling 4,000 square feet. Beautifully landscaped grounds lead up to an ivy-covered, movie-worthy façade. Inside the mansion, grand reception rooms and comfortable family living spaces offer panoramic ocean views. Here, history and grandeur collide in a quintessential New England setting.

Bedrooms: 10

Bathrooms: 7 + 4 half

Price: $18,900,000

Listed by: Coldwell Banker, coldwellbanker.com

THE CAROLINAS

85 BLUE HERON POND ROAD

Kiawah Island, S.C.

This exquisite private estate, set on a 12-acre peninsula with Atlantic Ocean views, is the essence of Carolina Lowcountry charm. Designed by the respected architectural firm Shope Reno Wharton, of Norwalk, Conn., the 15,000-square foot residence and guesthouse enjoy 5,000 square feet of outdoor living spaces comprising decks, pavilions, porches, balconies and an infinity pool. The interiors are finished to exacting standards and feature a mahogany paneled media room, gourmet kitchen, butler’s pantry, stocking room, and wine cellar. The property also boasts a private boat dock with views that extend across sun-dappled marsh grasses out to the Stono Inlet and Kiawah River.

Bedrooms: 7

Bathrooms: 9 + 3 half

Price: $18,000,000

Listed by: Kiawah Island Real Estate, kiawahisland.com

WEST COAST

33 SMITHCLIFFS

Laguna Beach, Calif.

Every conceivable need is met in this Laguna Beach oasis, where luxury reigns supreme. Situated on a half-acre oceanfront lot in the exclusive gated enclave of Smithcliffs, the custom villa, designed by leading architect Brion Jeannette, offers an array of coveted features. The main level’s open floor plan includes a grand gourmet kitchen, family room, office and enticing master suite. With more than 10,000 square feet of living space, the residence also boasts a formal dining room, game room and guesthouse with separate entry. Family and friends can enjoy a resort-style exterior, with a pool, spa, waterfall, expansive terraces, putting green and outdoor kitchen.

Bedrooms: 7

Bathrooms: 5 + 4 half

Price: $24,995,000

Listed by: Smith Group Real Estate, smithgrouprealestate.com

SOUTHEAST COAST

6633 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE

Longboat Key, Fla.

Poised on 2.56 pristine acres, Ohana is a breathtaking tropical hideaway overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. Envisioned by the owner and brought to life by architect Guy Peterson, the private retreat was inspired by the spirit of coastal South Africa and southern Indonesia. Reminiscent of a Balinese luxury resort, the residence comprises three pavilions, including the masterfully finished main home and private guesthouse. Each interior space takes full advantage of the shimmering gulf views and spectacular grounds designed by award-winning landscape architect Raymond Jungles. Jungles’ realized vision marries luxurious elements like the free-form pool, elevated spa and tennis court with peaceful courtyards and serene walkways surrounded by lush, native plants.

Bedrooms: 6

Bathrooms: 7

Price: $22,000,000

Listed by: Michael Saunders & Company, michaelsaunders.com

HAWAIIAN ISLANDS

123 KAILUANA LOOP

Kailua, Oahu, HI

With 125 feet of frontage on world-famous Kailua Beach, this architectural gem on the Island of Oahu, Hawaii, is a rare find. Just 20 minutes from downtown Honolulu, the oceanfront stunner is situated on a quiet street in Kailua. Impressively, the estate is LEED Certified to a Gold standard, demonstrating cutting-edge sustainability inside and out. Designed by GAST Architects, based in San Francisco, the home showcases sweeping ocean views at every turn. Standout features include a gourmet kitchen, luxurious master suite, media room, gym and guest suite. Outside, the home’s U-shaped design embraces a resort-size pool, with spa and waterfall, while covered lanais outfitted with built-in barbeque and pizza ovens encourage island-style entertaining.

Bedrooms: 7

Bathrooms: 9 + 2 half

Price: $20,138,000

Listed by: Choi International, Exclusive Affiliate of Christie’s International Real Estate, choi-realty.com

PACIFIC NORTHWEST

86 HALSEY ROAD

Friday Harbor, Wash.

Capitalizing on the Pacific Northwest’s celebrated natural beauty, this lovely coastal Washington retreat epitomizes peace and tranquility. A short distance from the picturesque town of Friday Harbor in San Juan County, with mountain peaks in the distance, the compound offers unrivaled seclusion on 7.6 acres. Swathed in natural wood, the 4,173-square-foot main home blends contemporary lines and rustic overtones with exacting craftsmanship. A vaulted ceiling soars over the open-concept gourmet kitchen, dining area and family room, all of which command attention while deferring to the breathtaking beauty just steps outside. Strategically positioned porches and terraces offer dramatic coastal views. Additional features include a two-bedroom guesthouse and detached shop/garage.

Bedrooms: 2

Bathrooms: 2 + 2 half

Price; $7,000,000

Listed by: Coldwell Banker San Juan Island, sanjuanislands.com

View the gallery of our Top 20 Homes for 2015.