There’s rarely a tropical destination I have visited that doesn’t make me think, “Yeah, I could live here,” but it wasn’t until the first time I visited Mayakoba that I really meant it. Set in arguably the most beautiful area of Mexico’s Riviera Maya, this 600-acre oasis is, first and foremost, an ideal vacation choice, as each of the four spectacular resorts offers an essential travel element, from family-focused amenities to the most romantic sunsets you’ll ever witness from a private plunge pool. And don’t even get me started on the food.

Where would a dreamer live in Mayakoba, though? Well, the luckiest among us can purchase the last remaining three-bedroom luxury penthouse at Fairmont Residences Mayakoba and hope to step out onto the balcony and nod at Leonardo Di Caprio as he lounges nearby. But the clock is presumably ticking, so let’s look at what has made these units so incredibly desirable.

Listed at $2.2 million, Penthouse 12B boasts 3,200-sq. ft. of indoor and outdoor space, which means it is basically a resort within a resort community. With three bedrooms and an open floor plan, this is an exceptional choice for families that vacation several times a year or perhaps a party host with an open door, welcoming friends and loved ones for years to come.

Anyone who has visited Fairmont Residences Mayakoba knows that this property puts an emphasis on subtle luxury, as the interior design and décor plays off local culture and regional natural beauty, all while fostering a sense of serenity that we seek on sabbatical. The earthy tones flow throughout this penthouse, inspiring tranquility while also making guests wonder, “How did they come up with something this spectacular?”

The cherry on top is a private swimming pool that will provide exceptional solitude after a day spent exploring the region or playing a round or two at the iconic El Camaleón golf course. And while Penthouse 12B comes equipped with high-end appliances and a kitchen that’ll make Gordon Ramsay grin, Mayakoba offers 30 restaurants that will cover just about any occasion.

After all, a property like this will make anyone want to celebrate every day.

The post Inside the Last Available Luxury Penthouse at Fairmont Residences Mayakoba appeared first on Islands.

When you think about the ideal Florida vacation home, what are the most important elements? Beach bums will want to have access to plenty of sand, while boaters will prefer being right on the water. Some Endless Summer enthusiasts will take the setting that gives them the sunset of a lifetime every evening, while others will hope they have enough light to paddle board to the end of the world and back. And as certain people would love to be part of a community where they can wave to neighbors as they pass in their fancy golf carts and e-bikes, some of us just want to feel like the only people on the planet.

To each his own, obviously, but the latest listing from Corcoran Reverie is the closest thing to an “all of the above” residence that any dreamer might find in the Sunshine State.

Set within beautiful North Bay—a hop, skip, and a pontoon boat from Panama City Beach—this 4-bedroom, 5.5-bath palace is a family’s year-round haven for laidback panhandle vibes. With more than 5,100-sq. ft. of living space spread out over three stories, residents and guests can enjoy the privacy as much as the naturally beautiful surroundings.

That’s especially great for multigenerational gatherings, so the kids can take a break from hearing parents and grandparents tell the same old stories.

Every room of this $3.6 million listing boasts views of the water, so fishing and boating mavens will barely spend a moment on the sprawling pool deck. That just means more summer jams and fresh cocktails for those who prefer the resort life, but without all the strangers and noise.

When the crew returns with the fresh catch, the family chefs can show off their talents in the modern kitchen or poolside grill, and simply pass the dishes down the line to everyone gathered by the loungers and hot tub. However, sunset chasers will probably want to grab a plate and head upstairs to the second- or third-level terrace for the best views on this private island.

With a private road and the Gulf of Mexico 10 nautical miles away, there won’t be many aimless wanderers driving or floating by, so the seclusion is off the charts—aside from an occasional wave from the neighbor, of course. Still, it’s not so far off the beaten path that someone can’t drive to town to pick up more steaks, so the surf and turf is as seemingly endless as the amazing views.

The post This Three-Story Private Island Retreat Checks Every Box for a Florida Dream Home appeared first on Islands.

Few coastal destinations offer year-round allure and tropical bliss like Miami, which is probably why Lionel Messi had no problem making it his new home. Well, the giant bags of money probably helped, but anyone who has ever lived in or around The Magic City can attest that it has more perks than even the savviest travelers know.

But when it comes to dream homes, few destinations on this planet will ignite the average Joe’s imagination quite like Fisher Island, which has been called home or “home away from home” by celebrities like Oprah, Julia Roberts, and Mel Brooks, among others. Why are A-listers drawn here? Probably because it’s about as exclusive as it gets, but also because you could step outside your home, do a 360, and immediately realize it’s impossible not to smile here.

That’s why we presume that the latest addition to this secluded retreat is sure to be a hit with anyone who has ever wanted to declare residency. Currently under development by the Related Group, Six Fisher Island is set to become a 50-unit ultra-luxury condominium complex that will be nothing short of spectacular upon completion. In fact, it will give many of the Caribbean’s best resort communities a run for their money… emphasis on that last part.

After all, the regular units will start at a jaw-dropping $30 million. The penthouses? $60 million. Again, this is Oprah country.

Expectations for the condos will be sky high, but the amenities will keep residents entertained and fit for years to come. The P.B. Dye-designed golf course will have casual players admiring from a distance, while residents can spend time between rounds living out their triathlete dreams on the 17 tennis courts, as well as the quartet of pickleball courts for everyone who is hooked on the planet’s fastest growing sport.

That’s just the tip of the iceberg. A multi-sport simulator will offer a break from the sun while keeping the competitive juices flowing, and if tennis and pickleball aren’t enough, a paddle ball court will add another level to the fitness programming. The cherry on top, though, is the wellness facility that will offer yoga, pilates, weight training, and anything else the muscles need.

As if residents didn’t already have it made here, the 4,800-sq. ft. roof deck will likely become the coolest spot in South Florida for enjoying views any time of day. If anything, a selfie in the infinity pool will be the most sought-after souvenir for anyone lucky enough to step foot on Fisher Island.

The post A Sneak Peek at the Phenomenal Luxury of Miami’s Six Fisher Island appeared first on Islands.

There’s just something about the Abacos that makes a person’s eyes light up. Fishermen, beach bums, boaters, divers, and all types of travelers love this destination in the Bahamas because it simply feels like it exists for all of us to enjoy and embrace. And perhaps the best thing about it is that it’s away from the massive resorts and cruise crowds, so there’s an extra level of seclusion that is so much better than even the most luxurious amenities.

But imagine being able to visit any time you feel like it. Even better, imagine living there. That’s what my brain has been doing since the moment I laid eyes on one of the dream home concepts now for sale in The Residences at Montage Cay.

Villa 7, also known far more affectionately as Jasmine, is located in the Southpoint Village of Montage Cay, and the interior design has been conceived by DesignAgency to be as beautiful as the natural surroundings. Fully furnished, this home is ideal for anyone who wants to sit inside and enjoy the Bahamian breeze while reading a book and/or sipping a neat rum, but it’ll be tough for residents and guests to not spend every moment in the private infinity pool.

At approximately 4,100-sq. ft., this $8.9 custom home is big enough for a family that wants nothing but the best for every occasion. Birthdays, anniversaries, and any milestone celebration in between can all be celebrated under this roof, and eight people will feel like royalty while staying in the four bedrooms.

That’s not to say the party can’t be bigger, although any other guests will need to find other accommodations. Fortunately, there will eventually be a 50-suite hotel at The Residences at Montage Cay, boasting more pools and beaches, and a 46-slip marina will be the best place to dock vessels as long as 110-feet. Jasmine is just one of the 47 luxury residences expected to be built in this ambitious 53-acre community concept.

The post Enjoy a Sneak Preview of ‘Jasmine’, an Exceptional New Property in the Abacos appeared first on Islands.

Known for its amazing beaches and marvelous, lush forestry, Guanacaste is a favorite destination for travelers who love to seek adventure in Costa Rica. Between sandy spots like Tamarindo—home to exceptional surfing—and Playa Grande—a fantastic spot for sunsets—this region is already heaven to a beach bum, but the national parks are also an explorer’s dream, as they are home to myriad animal species that turn an ordinary hike into a thrilling educational experience.

Now, imagine living here—or at least spending months at a time in the vacation home of your dreams. It’s easy to close your eyes and picture such an idea after taking a good look at the amazing Sunset Villa currently for sale in the private community of Costa Elena. Priced at $2.85 million, this four-bedroom residence is located an hour from the Guanacaste Airport, which makes it an ideal choice for family gatherings, milestone celebrations, or just those moments when you want to be one with nature without the resort crowds.

With the treetop setting, it hardly needs to be mentioned that the views are downright epic, as the villa looks out at the Pacific Ocean, as well as Salinas Bay and the Orosi Volcano. Nearby Bolaños Island and Nicaragua might catch everyone’s eyes as well since it’ll be tough for residents and guests to leave the terraces and private balconies off every bedroom.

With space for as many as eight people, this Costa Elena Sunset Villa will certainly have the vibes and luxuries of miniature resorts, and the infinity pool will undoubtedly be the centerpiece of every visit. The sprawling dining area is also ideal for memorable family meals; perhaps after grilling the catch of the day from an awesome fishing charter.

The biggest perk of living in Costa Elena, though, is proximity to stunning Playa El Jobo for mornings spent lounging on the sand. That’s not to say it isn’t great to be located minutes from the Costa Elena Beach Club, where guests will also enjoy an even larger infinity pool and other, ever-expanding amenities that will eventually include retail stores, restaurants, fitness facilities, and trails for hiking and biking.

That is, of course, if anyone wants to give up their premium spots beneath the shady beach palapas.

The post This Spectacular Sunset Villa is the Best Way to Make Costa Rica Your Permanent Destination appeared first on Islands.

We’ve seen Caribbean dream homes with incredible locations, pools that would be the envy of the entire island, and enough living space to keep an extended family on an even more extended vacation. Just recently, we saw one house that has all of that and then some. But what if you’re looking for something that’s heavier on history and culture? In that case, it’s time to head to Barbados, where the Clifton Hall Great House is on the market.

For aspiring permanent vacationers who’d love to have a great story to share with guests, this property comes with plenty of tales. Currently listed for $3.9 million with One Caribbean Estates, it is one of the oldest and largest of the island’s Great Houses and dates back to 1656, when it was owned by Ferdinand Palaeologus, a direct descendent of Constantine, the last emperor of the Byzantine empire. See? That’s already one great story to share over a glass of rum.

There is a Clifton Hall Rum, after all.

The property is an astounding 13,500 sq. ft., making it a remarkable choice for hosting family events or destination weddings. In addition to six bedrooms and six bathrooms in the main building, there is also a separate two-bed, two-bath cottage, which would be ideal for the couple of honor’s honeymoon quarters or simply a smaller scale vacation rental. 

One of the more creative elements of the home is how the three wings reflect the historical significance and cultural influences. Two original structures boast a distinct Medieval style, while the building that was added in the late 18^th century is Caribbean-Georgian. Each wing offers access to the spacious courtyard and pool, where guests can gather and enjoy the significance of their accommodations.

Clifton Hall takes its name from the Clifton suburb of Bristol, England, where Palaeologus and his siblings were raised. After emigrating to Barbados, he became a man of many titles and rests today at St. John’s Church, not far from the home. Only seven people have been fortunate enough to call themselves owner of this Great House, with the most recent being Massimo Franchi, who acquired it in 2008 and spent four years restoring its glory.

“Since then, the house has been a well-loved family home and also successfully used for tours, weddings, events, conferences because of its grandeur and architectural importance and island status,” he explained. “Since the official opening, hundreds of people annually have visited the house, exclaiming of its magnificence, its elegance and the unbelievable revival!”

Bajans are not only immensely proud of their history, but also their creative architecture. The island offers visitors a variety of tours including the Open House Programme, presented by the Barbados National Trust, which showcases the “most historic and beautiful private homes” for one day each year. Thanks to Franchi’s efforts, Clifton Hall was once a regular stop on that tour.

The home has also been featured in a variety of publications, all the way back to Robert Schaumburg’s “The History of Barbados” in 1848. But now it’s all about Clifton Hall’s future.

The post Rich with History, the Clifton Hall Great House on Barbados is For Sale appeared first on Islands.

When we think of dream homes, most of us would be wildly content with a small, charming cottage and a secluded stretch of beach on a Caribbean island few people know. Located in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Mustique would certainly fit the latter part of that description, but there is nothing small about the spectacular property that was recently listed by Knight Frank. Known as The Terraces, this home is nothing short of extraordinary.

Valued at $200 million, this is the most expensive Caribbean home to ever be publicly listed. Prince’s vacation compound? Bruce Willis’s family retreat? They might as well be studio apartments compared to the largest property on an island with a reputation for being the preferred getaway for the ultra-famous. On three occasions, Queen Elizabeth II journeyed to the island, and she was probably inspired by her sister, Princess Margaret, who originally built the Les Jolies Eaux villa that is available for rent.

“Mustique is an island where incredibly high-profile people go for incredibly low-profile holidays—and don’t post about it on social media,” explains Edward de Mallet Morgan of Knight Frank. “The paparazzi is banned on Mustique and the easy, relaxed interaction of royal families, rock stars, celebrities, business moguls and entrepreneurs is really unique to Mustique. The essence of Mustique has to be experienced to be understood.”

Nobody loves Mustique quite like rock stars, as David Bowie also owned a villa on the island, and superstars like Paul McCartney, Jon Bon Jovi, and Mick Jagger were known to vacation here as well. In a fun bit of bar trivia, Noel Gallagher wrote most of Oasis’s third album “Be Here Now” while visiting, and a 2016 re-release featured “The Mustique Sessions,” which some fans (points to self) will insist was better than the initial effort.

Enough about musicians, though—it’s time to daydream.

For decades, Mustique has had a reputation of being one of the most exclusive communities in the entire Caribbean, there are approximately 100 homes set across 1,400 acres. The Terraces was built on a little more than 17 acres, making it the largest property on the island, and its setting atop Endeavour Hill is the cherry on top for this modern tribute to classic palaces.

With everything this home offers, it’s impossible not to compare it some of the region’s finest resorts. The size of the nine principal suites will have residents and guests feeling as if they’re in a home within a home, while the separate villa will cause jaws to drop and monocles to shatter. In all, there are 13 bedrooms and 13 bathrooms, so absolutely no one in the entourage will be able to complain about a lack of privacy.

The main home features two pools, both of which would be instant contenders for Best Pools in the Caribbean, if ever there was an awards show with such a category. And the guest villa also has its own infinity pool, because you simply can’t be too spoiled on such a beautiful island.

“If Mustique is the quintessential, private island paradise, The Terraces, being the largest and most visually prominent property on the island is not just one of the Caribbeans foremost houses, but arguably one of the world’s foremost homes,” Edward de Mallet Morgan said.

Whomever buys this sprawling property must promise to regularly entertain friends and family, because there’s more than enough living space to give each room its own theme. The Terraces offers the most space for entertaining of any property on the island, so don’t be surprised if you hear “Wonderwall” as you pass by on a boat.

Although, it would be understandable if guests would rather stand in silence as to admire the marvelous décor—inspired by palladium and Venetian styles—and murals, which were painted by French artist Jean-Claude Adenin.

When not entertaining, hosts can simply enjoy the amazing views of the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic for longer than any timepiece can keep track. The beautiful grounds and gardens are begging to be explored, and there’s even a tennis court that is, to the surprise of no one, also the nicest in Mustique.

The post You’ve Never Seen Anything Like this $200 Million Dream Home on Mustique appeared first on Islands.

In the Eastern Caribbean, Barbados is one of those destinations whose name alone can set you dreaming. And it’s the rare Caribbean island, too, that appeals to golfers, sunbathers, and the surf set in equal measure—the island’s east coast sees large, powerful Atlantic Ocean swells that have made Barbados’ beach and point breaks among the most coveted by surfers in all of the Caribbean. 

Barbados is also the kind of island that can make you want to settle in and stay a while to peel back its many layers. And that’s just what Villa Tamarindo—a rental villa designed by renowned Barbadian architect Larry Warren—will make you want to do. After all, Warren’s homes have played host to guests that range from members of The Rolling Stones to Luciano Pavarotti.

The luxurious two-story villa has five full bedroom suites with ensuite bathrooms, all of which serve as private escapes for guests, as they are set within gated grounds with plenty of indoor and outdoor spaces to stroll and enjoy. 

Start your day with a morning swim in the villa’s 44-foot-long swimming pool, raised up from the beachfront for privacy. Then step down to the sand to stroll the golden beach or dip into the turquoise ocean.

Villa Tamarindo fronts the beach and sprawls across 4.5 acres in one of the island’s most sought-after west coast neighborhoods, Beachlands, close to all the island’s highlights (Holetown and Limegrove Lifestyle Centre are just a short drive away). But it feels like its own private world. 

The home’s quintessential Caribbean architecture, designed to maximize ocean breeze, makes a seamless segue with contemporary interior design and there’s a gym, media room and chef’s kitchen ready for a private chef for guests to enjoy. In the bedrooms, bright white linens pair with pops of color and dark woods to soothing effect. Views of the ocean and verdant tropical greenery come streaming in everywhere. 

For a multigenerational gathering, a family reunion or an intimate wedding, Villa Tamarindo is sure to set the stage for maximum enjoyment and relaxation during a Barbados getaway. Rates start from $5,500 per night.

The post For Beachy Bajan Beauty, Level Up with a Stay at this Spectacular Barbados Rental appeared first on Islands.

Almost any slice of Oahu that comes available for purchase is one worth crowing about, as the real estate options on the most populated island in the Hawaiian Islands are always slim. 

But the magnificent home at 380 Lama Place occupies a stratosphere all its own in a destination already known for being otherworldly. On the market for the cool sum of $14.8 million, the listing by Hawaii Life takes design sense to new heights and stands out from anything else currently on the market on Oahu. 

The private compound has an idyllic position in the beach town of Lanikai, looking directly out on the surrounding ocean and Mokuleia Islands. And renowned Honolulu architect James McPeak is behind its intuitive layout. 

Renowned Los Angeles designer César Giraldo Design is responsible for the home’s exceptional interior aesthetics and the firm’s philosophy was simple: “Create a bespoke architectural gem that evokes form and function, emotion and exclusivity.” The overall design was informed by the surrounding landscapes’ rich and vibrant colors, with a focus on maximizing the spectacular ocean and island views. 

The home is all about blurring the borders between island views and sublime and relaxing interior spaces, giving a real indoor/outdoor feeling from nearly every vantage point while maintaining timeless craftsmanship. 

Set on more than 13,000 sq. ft. of beautiful land, this four-bedroom home boasts 4,450 sq. ft. of living space that will be ideal for entertaining friends and family, be it for annual vacations or the everyday elation of living in paradise.

Among the many lifestyle amenities the new owner(s), whomever those lucky ones might be, can look forward to here are the covered private rooftop bar, an outdoor pool and jacuzzi, a Tesla power wall, and climate controlled wine cellar. 

The home is even fitted with a commercial elevator in case residents are in a hurry to move from one spectacular level to the next to enjoy every possible angle of these epic views.

The post A Rare Oahu Dream Home Awaits its New Family appeared first on Islands.

Situated on 400 pristine acres in the easternmost reaches of Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands, the uber-luxury development of Oil Nut Bay has always been a setting apart, even in these spectacularly beautiful islands known for being a line-of-sight sailing paradise.

But a rare cliffside listing in the coveted North South neighborhood is taking things to next-level decadence with impeccable design that brings the views sweeping inside at every turn, delightfully blurring the lines between inside and out.

Currently on the market for the not-so-paltry sum of $18.5 million, the 4,470-sq. ft. villa named Constellations has four bedrooms (including two lavish primary suites), five bathrooms, and two half-baths to sleep eight people in the utmost of comfort. 

The home’s breathtaking moments begin the moment you arrive in its grand entry hall, with open-concept living and dining spaces that unfold across two floors that are perfectly angled to the north to take in jaw-dropping views of Necker and Anegada Islands. 

Barefoot is the best way to experience the luxe feel of the elegant Turkish marble that paves the home’s floors, which perfectly complement the natural and seamless feel of the Euro-Wall sliders and windows that bring the views angling in everywhere.

Marble outdoor living terraces ring both the home’s two stories, making it inviting to step outside, wherever you happen to be to take in the views and fresh Caribbean air. Outdoor living spaces—a whopping 2,567 square feet of them—are as much a selling point as Constellations’ immaculately appointed interiors, too. There’s even a gourmet outdoor chef’s kitchen for entertaining alfresco or just whipping up a humble barbecue for you and yours. 

The home features an infinity saltwater pool and hot tub with a swim-up bar as stunning as any five-star resort’s watery play space. 

But for beach lovers, even better might be the private nature trail that winds down from Constellations to your very own private beach below, complete with its own bath house for ducking out of the sun.

For explorations further afield on Virgin Gorda, residents can keep the seabreezes in their hair two with the property’s two included six-passenger carts for exploring the marina and elsewhere. Just don’t forget to wave to the neighbors.

The post An Out of this World Dream Estate Hits the Market in the British Virgin Islands appeared first on Islands.