Access to ocean breezes has long been seen as a tonic for many of the things that ail us, and it’s true that nothing soothes the soul quite like the sea. As these difficult times test our ability to maintain a sense of calm, we turn to nature for its healing, grounding qualities—the same traits that we so often look for in a home. For now we need to stay put where we are, but that doesn’t mean we can’t plan for future seaside escapes—and let the anticipation of those later visits soothe us.

From seaside escapes on the edge of the Mediterranean to romantic bungalows set on white sandy beaches, these are the ocean-adjacent homes we’re dreaming of during these days of social distancing. 

Contemporary Luxury in La Jolla, California

On the cusp of the Southern Californian coast, this contemporary home embodies the modernist minimalism that sets apart much of the region’s iconic architecture. Tiered patios on all three levels of the home ensure that its residents never miss a sunset, while features like an outdoor bar, fire pit, and dining area encourage more outdoor living—here, open-air design and fully moveable walls invite visitors outside. The seamless transition from the beach to the home is a large part of what makes this house such a unique combination of indulgent luxury and environmental reverence. 

Beachfront Paradise in Providenciales, Turks & Caicos

The ultimate secluded getaway, Turtle Tail Estate sits on a private, nearly five-acre peninsula where clear blue waters meet the rocky archipelago landscape. This villa compound comprises a main house, guest cottage, multiple pools, outdoor lounge areas, and a dock for yacht mooring. In addition to the elegantly designed interiors, the property is also equipped with a wine cellar, movie theatre, game room, and lighted tennis court, so any time not spent in the water or on the sand can be filled with any number of leisurely pursuits. 

A Tropical Escape in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

This exclusive single-family home, part of the coveted Kumukehu Estates, is privy to some of the best views on the Hawaiian Islands. Finishes like mahogany framing, travertine flooring, and pocket sliding glass doors are part of what makes the home timelessly stylish. Thoughtfully integrated with the region’s tropical flora, the home offers multiple vantage points of dramatic ocean views, while the infinity pool looks out to a pristine white sand beach—your own slice of paradise.

An Elysian Retreat in Queensland, Australia

Whitsundays was voted the Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice for Top Island in Australia in 2019, and we can see why. One of eight luxury oceanfront resorts, the Elysian Retreat offers guests a taste of the unparalleled beauty in this corner of the world. Set on nearly eight acres of Coral Sea oceanfront and surrounded by national parkland and ancient rainforests, the resort comprises 10 luxury villas, each with its own private balcony. A multi-purpose main house is equipped to function as a restaurant and bar, with its own lounge area and commercial kitchen, while the swimming pool and spa treatment center complete the seaside vacation experience.

A Mediterranean Escape in Nice, France

This contemporary-chic escape in Southern France’s Nice is fully equipped with a large kitchen, a wine cellar, and a private swimming pool overlooking the not-so-distant glimmering Mediterreanean. Owners can bask poolside in the warm sun on the spacious lounge area or take a quick ride on the funicular leading down to the private beach area below. The seaside colors of the Cote d’Azur are reflected in the apartment’s design scheme, where calming shades of bone white, pebble grey, and sand lend an upscale, refined peacefulness to a modern space.

A Romantic Waterfront Estate in Huntington Bay, New York

Take a step onto this waterfront estate in Huntington, New York, and you’ll immediately feel drawn into the romance that the Shingle style manor exudes. Set on more than three acres, this home backs onto Northport Bay, where a grassy meadow meets a manicured garden, welcoming swimming pool, and refined lounge area. In addition to the main house, the property comprises a pool house, private beach area, golf course, and tennis courts. The interiors have been designed with an eye to detail, with cream-toned crown moldings, arched doorways, and wooden beamed ceilings bringing the sophistication of the home’s exterior indoors.

No matter your ideal seaside, the white sandy beaches and rocky shores of the world will still be there when we can travel once again—and we’ll be more ready for the waves than ever.

Originally published in May 18, 2020 by sothebysrealty