Carve big waves or cruise rollers at these amazing beachfronts around the world
If your passion is hanging ten, or merely hanging out, these homes in prime global surfing destinations boast a backyard with some of the best swells and sandy expanses that Planet Earth has to offer. Hardcore surfers can catch a wave—to quote those bards of surf, the Beach Boys—and you’ll be sittin’ on top of the world.
Those who prefer a less nail-biting ride can enjoy more forgiving waves, but still feel on top of the world when the board successfully makes it to shore. Surfing is not even required to fully appreciate the crash of waves and the ocean’s magnificent and mesmerizing power. Sprawl on your patio lounge and watch the surfers shred—thrills by association.
Lahaina Surf Estate in Maui, Hawaii
Puamana Beach, immediately south of Lahaina and the locale of this home, is ideal for beginners and intermediates, especially to catch Maui’s south swells that roll in through summer. With four surf spots in view, Lahaina Surf Estate commands not one but two beachfront lots for double the ocean magnificence. The single-story oasis includes an open kitchen and living area with vaulted ceilings and glass walls which disappear to fully segue into a covered lanai overlooking the Pacific. Perfect for entertaining and technicolor sunset viewing. The gated community also offers country club amenities: three pools, a clubhouse, and tennis courts.
Montauk Oceanfront Paradise in Montauk, New York
The beach at this Montauk estate isn’t private but it is so secluded that it may as well be. The surf at Montauk is an East Coast mainstay, thanks to the Atlantic’s stormy volatility. In stark contrast to the ocean’s roiling forces of nature, Montauk Oceanfront Paradise exudes Asian serenity with its signature blue pitched roof, feng shui aesthetic, and soothing wall expanses perfect for the display of large-scale art. The property is sited high on a bluff to capture commanding views of the Atlantic Ocean and its own private 36-acre nature preserve, which includes a two-acre pond surrounded by beautiful gardens and scenic pastures. At the ocean’s edge, two naturally formed 100-foot jetties act as natural barriers to passing storms.
Portuguese Wonder in Algarve, Portugal
This nautically inspired home—with porthole windows, spiral staircases, and generous decks with views of the Atlantic—is poised on a cliff above the idyllic beaches of Aljezur and in one of the most untouched preserves in Portugal. Comprising four stories, with seven bedrooms and 10 bathrooms, the seaside villa also includes a gym, sauna, lovely pool, and, of course, easy access to surfing. Portugal offers surfers warm waters and more. One underwater duck dive on your board into the belly of a wave and into the impossibly blue waters of the Algarve reveals schools of tropical fish, making you feel one with the sea.
Playa Blanca Beachfront in Barra de Potosi, Mexico
Mum’s the word. This well-kept beachfront secret is perhaps Mexico’s most authentic slice of untouched beach heaven and neighbors a protected biosphere. The surf needle at Playa Blanca registers on the gentle side, the location is a step back in time. The village of 400—mostly fishermen and coconut workers—exudes charm yet is a mere 10 minutes from Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo International Airport. The gated compound is composed of three luxury villas constructed with traditional materials such as palapa roofs, adobe, local stone, and tropical hardwoods. An orchard, lily ponds, a yoga pavilion, and a breathtaking infinity pool complete the serene setting.
California Dreamin’ in Laguna Beach, California
The Endless Summer, that enduring 1960s globetrotting surf cult classic, was conceived on this stretch of SoCal beaches. With that film’s release, surfing’s international appeal took wing. Modern elegance is epitomized in this stunning manse overlooking Victoria Beach, one of the state’s most spectacular and secluded expanses. The opulent master suite features a fireplace, walk-in closet, an ocean-view gym, a sauna, and a spa-caliber steam room. Three oversized decks showcase the water views and capture the symphonic pounding of surf; the largest deck includes a hot tub and private stairs down to the sand.
Steps from the Beach in Cape Town, South Africa
South Africa’s surf beaches are legendary. The aptly named Tombstone, Washing Machine, and Dungeons, are as daunting as they sound. Then there is Long Beach, harkening to California’s mecca of the same name. Then there is Long Beach, harkening to California’s mecca of the same name. While welcoming all levels, the shore break can get serious on big days. With private beach access, this five-bedroom and five-bathroom main residence includes a spectacular pool deck with complementing hues of blue accenting the color of the ocean’s waters. The property also offers two self-contained living units with living quarters, perfect for extended family and friends or for short-term rentals.
Atlantic Perfection in Westport, Massachusetts
While surfing is indeed global, the East Coast of the U.S. still flies under the wave riding radar. Westport, on Boston’s South Coast, offers quick access to surf spots of Horseneck Beach, so named by the Algonquins, and Rhode Island’s Goosewing Beach. After a day in the waves, retire to this secluded four-bedroom and three-bathroom retreat surrounded by vegetation and water views of Buzzards Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, Cuttyhunk, and Cockeast Pond. The elevated deck, with direct access to the white sand beach, invites large- or small-scale entertaining against the pristine water backdrop.
Jewel of the Reef in Queensland, Australia
With some 37,000 kilometers of coastline, the Down Under is downright celestial when it comes to water sports, including surfing. Jewel of the Reef is a true gem, an island retreat where rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef, considered one of the Wonders of the World. Water views and outdoor living take center stage on this coveted estate. Highlights include a king suite with a salt water plunge pool and separate queen suite. One of the property’s signature features is an expansive covered deck that floats above a natural granite tidal pool. Ultimately private, the estate is only accessible by boat. Surfboards welcome.
