What is it about the allure of coastal living that appeals to most people? For many, it is the quintessential picture of paradise—the pure enchantment of living at the water’s edge, gazing out into the vast blue sea and dreaming of the exotic lands that lie beyond. Undoubtedly, there is something inherently lulling about the sound of the waves, the rhythm of the tides, and the ocean’s profound mystery that draws us to it and stirs our souls from within. Often thought of as some of the world’s most sought-after properties, beachside havens always captivate, inspiring our imaginations to picture what it would be like to have our own little slice of heaven by the shore. So, join us on our journey as we visit a few of the most iconic beach properties across the country, from sea to shining sea.
The Ocean House, Watch Hill, RI
This extraordinary five-star oceanfront hotel, appropriately named The Ocean House, is one of the last of its kind remaining in New England. Poised in stately grandeur on the bluffs of Watch Hill, Rhode Island, this majestic Victorian property built in the late 19th century has been meticulously restored to its former glory, offering its esteemed guests an authentic and luxurious experience. Breezy wraparound porches and magnificent terraces provide breathtaking views of the Atlantic coastline and the estate’s pristine grounds.
Today, guests to the hotel can savor New England’s quaint charm at their own pace, from leisurely walks on the beach to exhilarating sailing adventures. Days are filled with options for any desire, including luxury spa services, tennis, golf, croquet, fishing, and an array of water sports. Next, enjoy a quiet respite with afternoon teatime and sunset cocktails, followed by dinner at one of the hotel’s top-rated dining options that range from innovative modern cuisine to classic bistro fare. In addition, antique shops, art galleries, and delicious seafood eateries await just minutes away in the charming New England setting of Watch Hill.
Butterfly House, Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA
Considered an architectural treasure on the rocky Carmel shoreline, the iconic Butterfly House was designed and built in 1951 by architect Francis W. Wynkoop. Restored in 2011 by Wynkoop’s sons, the historic home is now being offered for the fourth time since it was built. Often thought of as one of the purest examples of Mid-Century modern architecture, the structure’s unusual wing-shaped roof is responsible for its colorful name. Perched along the California coastline, the splendid dwelling offers a beloved symbol of living art, displaying unbelievable westward-facing views of the Pacific Ocean along with spectacular sunsets and moonsets over the water.
This amazing architectural landmark was built for just $135,000, and Wynkoop lived in the house with his wife and children until 1955. A one-and-a-half-story residence, the Butterfly House features a cantilevered deck extending over the solid granite rocks at the edge of the breakers and a sunken living room with a circular fireplace in the center. Additionally, it also boasts an interior courtyard with a kidney-shaped pool.
For a peek into another iconic home in the same locale, check out this stunning beachfront home designed by legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright in 1948.
The Beach House, Nags Head, NC
Built more than 100 years ago, The Beach House in Nags Head, North Carolina, emits a taste of days gone by when farmers would relocate their families to the beach each summer to escape the heat and enjoy the refreshing ocean breezes. This historical treasure features the Outer Bank’s tallest oceanfront observation/sunbathing tower, offering guests sweeping 360-degree views of the Atlantic, the Sound, and Jockey’s Ridge. In the evenings, guests can enjoy unparalleled views of the night sky and the light glowing inside the Bodie Island lighthouse in the distance.
The home was passed down for generations to the same family and was eventually purchased by owners who have a passion and deep respect for the property’s history. Today, the house maintains its original tongue-and-groove planking on the floors, walls, and ceilings, which have been lovingly restored through the years. Plus, the property has an added private pool and hot tub, making it ideal for family beach vacations and gatherings. For more information, visit Outer Banks Blue.
Hearst Castle, San Simeon, CA
Sitting at an elevation of 1600 feet, San Simeon’s Hearst Castle is a legendary crown jewel that presides over the majestic California coastline. Owner William Randolph Hearst, a wealthy businessman who expanded the family fortune into a newspaper and magazine publishing empire, inherited the 250,000-acre family retreat in 1919 and aspired to develop the “Enchanted Hill” into a sprawling Spanish Revival-style estate. Hearst then commissioned architect Julia Morgan to design the estate and worked closely with her to customize and personalize the plans.
Surprisingly, construction was never completed and continued until 1947, when Hearst fell ill and had to move off-site permanently. Nevertheless, the elegant property includes the main house, Casa Grande, as well as several charming cottages, breezy verandas, captivating pools, enchanted gardens, and even a zoo. Today, the Hearst Castle is a treasured and remarkable museum that offers tours to the public. For more information, visit their website.
The Wave House, Malibu, CA
Designed in 1956 by surfer and architect Harry Gesner, the Wave House was intentionally built to extend into the surf at high tide. History has it that Gesner paddled offshore and sketched the design on his surfboard with a grease pencil while studying the site. Emulating the organic shapes found in nature on the coastline, the Wave House takes its structural cues from the ocean. Gesner innovatively implemented glue-laminated beams for the home’s roof structure and applied a shingled surface that resembles fish scales. In addition, the home’s projecting rooflines that cantilever over curvaceous circular balconies mirror the breaking waves. Inside, the dwelling focuses on a conversation pit with a fireplace overlooking the Pacific.
The structure’s similarities to the sail-like forms of Jorn Utzon’s design for Australia’s Sydney Opera House do not go unnoticed. However, neither architect ever claimed the Wave House inspired the design of the Opera House, but both expressed appreciation for each other’s work.
The Breakers, Newport, RI
Designed in 1895 by architect Richard Morris Hunt, this magnificent 70-room villa called The Breakers was built for wealthy railroad magnate Cornelius Vanderbilt II. Overlooking Newport, Rhode Island’s rocky coastline, this historic landmark stands as a symbol of the Vanderbilt family’s social and financial prominence during the turn of the century. Inside, opulent interiors include gilded rooms rich with marble, mosaic tile floors and ceilings, a 50-foot-tall Great Hall, and splendid open-air terraces boasting stunning ocean views.
In 1934, the Vanderbilt family’s youngest daughter, Gladys, inherited the house following her mother’s death. In 1948, she opened The Breakers to raise funds for The Preservation Society of Newport County, of which she was an avid benefactor. In 1972, the Preservation Society purchased the estate from her heirs, and today it stands as a National Historic Landmark. For information on tours of The Breakers, visit Newport Mansions.
The Kennedy Compound, Hyannis Port, MA
Nestled along Cape Cod’s Nantucket Sound in Hyannis Port, Massachusetts, The Kennedy Compound is a legendary six-acre waterfront property that includes three houses. Boats gliding past can catch an enviable glimpse of this richly storied property that was once home to many esteemed Kennedy family members, including Joseph P. Kennedy, President John F. Kennedy, and U.S. Senators Robert F. Kennedy and Edward M. Kennedy. In 1960, JFK made the compound his base for the presidential campaign and later, after his presidency, used it as a summer white house and presidential retreat. The main house was donated to the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate in 2012, and since 2020, Robert’s widow, Ethel Kennedy, has lived in the adjacent home.
For more inspirational beachfront architecture, check out these Southern styles that embody the beach life—our first article in a series called Regional Beach Living. Here’s to a blissful spring season on the beach!