In some parts of America, porching is a thing. It’s a verb, in fact, something you might do on a quiet afternoon from the comfort of your veranda, which may also include reading, sipping wine, watching passersby, or visiting with neighbors.
Long, warm summer nights are made for this! From the coasts to the mountain lodges, here are several luxury developments that embrace porching.
Kukui’ula, South Shore of Kauai, HI
Kukui’ula is the leading luxury resort community on Kauai’s south shore, boasting a $100 million club facility that includes The Plantation House, designed to be the community social and recreational hub. Homeowners also enjoy access to The Spa at Kukui’ula, a dramatic 20,000 square foot retreat featuring state of the art spa and fitness facilities; a Tom Weiskopf-designed 18-hole championship golf course; extensive pool facilities; a variety of dining options; a community farm and an upcountry fishing lake; and island pursuits program for unlimited island adventure.
Where to porch: Each residence at Kukui’ula, from Club Cottages to Club Bungalows to Club Villas, offers an expansive patio overlooking the property lanais which feature lush tropical landscaping and offers a variety of ocean, golf and mountain views. Additionally, the Clubhouse features an array of indoor/outdoor seating which looks out upon The Great Lawn, a fire pit, the Makai pools, and more. Owners/guests can grab a cocktail or glass of wine at the nearby restaurant to round out the experience.
Palmetto Bluff, South Carolina Lowcountry
Surrounded by rich history, stunning beauty and cultural heritage, Palmetto Bluff is the largest remaining waterfront property on the East Coast. Currently evolving as a residential community and conservation preserve, the 20,000-acre development is in the heart of South Carolina Lowcountry. It is surrounded by 32 miles of riverfront and features extensive nature trails; a vibrant Village center complete with river access; a distinctive food and beverage program; and the AAA Five Diamond Montage Palmetto Bluff and the May River Golf Club with a Jack Nicklaus Signature Course.
Where to porch: With a total of 500 built homes that embrace traditional Lowcountry architecture, Palmetto Bluff offers countless porches that rest beneath picturesque moss-draped live oaks with its quiet streets lined with gas-lit walkways, evoking a sense of timelessness and neighborly pace. Montage Palmetto Bluff recently debuted a new Inn with a wrap-around porch dotted with relaxing rocking chairs, beckoning you to sit and sway the summer away.
Snake River Sporting Club, Jackson, WY
Snake River Sporting Club is a four-season residential community and private club offering an authentic Jackson Hole experience. Luxury real estate is complemented by world-class golf on a Tom Weiskopf-designed championship course, fly-fishing along the famed Snake River, hiking trails, equestrian facilities, archery, boating, mountain biking and more. In the winter, residents and club members enjoy snowshoeing, ice skating, cross country skiing, heli-skiing, as well as private Après ski and valet service at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.
Where to porch: Nestled in the woods and tucked in around the fairways of the Snake River Sporting Club, the Residences have expansive porches offering sunny mountain views and the peace of a developed community. Alternatively, owners and guests can porch up at The Clubhouse, overlooking the Snake River and surrounded by mature trees, and grab a drink or bite from the restaurant and grill rooms.
The Cliffs, The Carolinas
The Cliffs is situated in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, The Cliffs is a collection of residential communities set among a million acres of protected national forest reaching north to Asheville, North Carolina, and south to Greenville, South Carolina. Homeowners can choose between three distinct community settings–Mountain, Lake and Asheville–and enjoy every clubhouse, golf course, wellness center, hiking trail, tennis court, marina and restaurant all with one membership across all seven communities.
Where to Porch: The Cliffs seven communities offer a variety of porching opportunities, from Lake Keowee to the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville, and all terrain in between.