The 25 most expensive ZIP codes in America

Read article : The 25 most expensive ZIP codes in America

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New York City’s TriBeCa neighborhood is home to three of the most expensive ZIP codes in the US.

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Property Shark

The 25 most expensive ZIP codes in the US are unsurprisingly concentrated on the coasts.

Real estate listings site Property Shark recently used data from all residential transactions closed in 2016 to determine which ZIP codes across the US were most expensive for buyers.

California dominated the list with 17 cities represented, including well-known places like Beverly Hills and its famous 90210 ZIP code.

New York also claimed six spots, with pricey Hamptons favorite Sagaponack coming in at No. 1.

Only ZIP codes containing more than five sold properties were considered for the list. Property Shark helped us find listings that were close to each of the ZIP codes’ median sales price. Check out the full list below:

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25. 95030: Los Gatos, California

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Sotheby’s

Median sale price: $2,180,000

This two-bedroom, two-bathroom Los Gatos home will run you around $2.3 million, but it comes complete with hardwood floors, a detached guest house, and four private acres of wooded land.

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24. 94123: San Francisco

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Sotheby’s

Median sale price:$2,210,000

In San Francisco, $2.27 million will get you a home like this one, which packs three bedrooms, two and a half bathrooms, a wood burning fireplace, stainless steel appliances, and a formal dining room into 1,900 square feet.

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23. 94306: Palo Alto, California

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Property Shark

Median sale price:$2,227,500

This three-level home in Palo Alto, on the market for $2.25 million, features quartz countertops, abundant natural light, and a fenced-in patio.

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22. 94010: Burlingame, California

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Sotheby’s

Median sale price:$2,234,000

For around $2 million, you can snag a home like this one in Burlingame, which sits close to local schools and parks, and is only a hop, skip, and jump away from Silicon Valley. The 2,180-square-foot house features three bedrooms and two and a half baths.

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21. 92657: Newport Coast, California

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Property Shark

Median sale price:$2,260,000

This four bedroom Newport Coast home can be found inside the The Pointe gated community. On the market for $2.24 million, it features high-end appliances, quartz countertops, and an outdoor kitchen.

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20. 90265: Malibu, California

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Property Shark

Median sale price:$2,375,500

Call this four-bedroom, two-bathroom abode home for a little over $2.37 million. In addition to a private pool, it’s also decked out with vaulted ceilings and a spacious kitchen and dining area.

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19. 93108: Santa Barbara, California

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Coldwell Banker

Median sale price:$2,450,000

For $2.5 million, score this 1,540-square-foot Santa Barbara home right by Montecito Beach. In addition to the killer views, the place features a remodeled kitchen and cathedral ceilings.

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18. 92661: Newport Beach

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Property Shark

Median sale price:$2,465,000

This three-bedroom home in Newport Beach is just a short walk from the beach. It’s on the market for around $2.3 million and offers tremendous ocean views.

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17. 11975: Wainscott, New York

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Halstead Property

Median sale price:$2,510,000

Minutes away from East Hampton and Sag Harbor, this five-bedroom Wainscott home is going for around $2.5 million. It features covered outdoor dining, a heated backyard pool, and an expansive wraparound porch.

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16. 11976: Water Mill, New York

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Zillow

Median sale price:$2,600,000

Full of natural light, this airy and secluded home in Water Mill is on the market for $2.67 million. Located on two acres of private land, it comes complete with multiple outdoor decks, a pool, and a wood burning fireplace.

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15. 94024: Los Altos, California

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Property Shark

Median sale price:$2,637,000

This $2.5 million home in Los Altos sits at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac and offers hardwod floors, a wraparound deck, and a spacious kitchen.

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14. 92662: Newport Beach, California

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Property Shark

Median sale price:$2,687,500

Just a short walk from the water, this beach style home in Newport Beach is breezy and welcoming, with clean white walls, dark wood floors, and abundant natural light. Make it yours for $2.75 million.

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13. 94957: Ross, California

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Coldwell Banker

Median sale price:$2,771,250

On the market for around $2 million, this 3,020-square-foot home boasts breaktaking views of Ross Valley and an outdoor sun deck that will let you enjoy California’s fantastic weather all year round.

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12. 10282: New York City

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Sotheby’s

Median sale price:$2,784,500

Located in NYC’s TriBeCa neighborhood, this 1,439-square-foot home features 40 feet of windows, an open kitchen, and stunning views of the Hudson River. Building amenities also include a saltwater pool and landscaped courtyard. Make it yours for $2.8 million.

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11. 02199: Boston

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CL Properties

Median sale price:$2,800,000

Located in one of the only non-California or New York zip codes on the list, this $2.7 million Boston home boasts floor-t0-ceiling windows, granite countertops, and 1,589 square feet of space.

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10. 94028: Portola Valley, California

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Coldwell Banker

Median sale price:$2,815,000

This Portola Valley home is on the market for around $2.6 million. It comes complete with three bedrooms, a spacious kitchen, and high, wood-beamed ceilings. The surrounding forest views add a cozy touch.

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9. 94022: Los Altos, California

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MLS Listings

Median sale price:$2,831,250

Snag this five-bedroom Los Altos home for around $2.7 million. The freshly painted interior is airy and bright, while the newly landscaped backyard provides a quiet, private place to relax.

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8. 94301: Palo Alto, California

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Coldwell Banker

Median sale price:$2,935,000

For around $3 million, this two-home lot in Palo Alto allows owners a rare opportunity to build the house of their dreams up to 2,600 square feet in size. The newly renovated guesthouse out back boasts 950 square feet of space and can be utilized as a separate rental unit.

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7. 90210: Beverly Hills, California

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Property Shark

Median sale price:$3,128,250

For just over $3 million, enjoy this luxury penthouse in the heart of Beverly Hills. The unit comes equipped with high ceilings, two master suites, and a private rooftop deck.

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6. 10007: New York City

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Property Shark

Median sale price:$3,349,657

This two-bedroom, three-bathroom TriBeCa residence offers 10-foot ceilings, gold marble countertops, and a full-size in-unit washer and dryer. It’s on the market for around $3.35 million.

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5. 90402: Santa Monica, California

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Coldwell Banker

Median sale price:$3,395,000

This cheery Santa Monica home is available for $3.25 million. It boasts a renovated chef’s kitchen, private swimming pool, and loads of outdoor space.

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4. 33109: Miami Beach, Florida

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Property Shark

Median sale price:$3,400,000

Boasting both pool and beach views, this 2,744-square-foot Miami Beach home is available for around $3.4 million. It also has also high-end appliances and a glass walk-in closet to swoon over.

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3. 10013: New York City

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Property Shark

Median sale price:$3,808,765

Cool white walls and streams of natural light give this TriBeCa apartment a cozy vibe. The spacious home is on the market for $3.75 million.

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2. 94027: Atherton, California

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Coldwell Banker

Median sale price:$5,425,000

Available for $5.5 million, this Atherton home features white marble countertops, four spacious bedrooms, and an outdoor kitchen.

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1. 11962: Sagaponack, New York

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Sotheby’s

Median sale price:$5,500,000

This classic Hamptons beach house comes complete with a heated pool, outdoor gardens, and a spacious deck, perfect for entertaining all summer. The home is on the market for $5.75 million.

Beach Place Guesthouses in Cocoa Beach, FL

Read article : Beach Place Guesthouses in Cocoa Beach, FL

By VacationIdea Staff. Last Updated on August 16, 2017.

Beach Place Guesthouses is a collection of beautifully furnished and fully-equipped beach houses in a prime beachside location near Cocoa Beach. Ideally located for either a relaxing getaway or to explore Cocoa Beach, Beach Place Guesthouses comfortable home-away-from-home retreats with contemporary décor and furnishings, modern amenities, access to a peaceful, secluded beach and the Cocoa Beach Pier, and personalized concierge services.

Cocoa Beach lies just south of Cape Canaveral Air Force Station and is often called the gateway to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. The seaside city is renowned for its beautiful beaches, excellent waves for surfing, and relaxing, laud-back vibe. The city offers a plethora of things to see and do, including restaurants, cafés, and bars, museums – don’t miss the Florida Surf Museum, art galleries and the nearby Lori Wilson Park, which is home to an array of birdlife.

Weekend Getaways & Attractions near me: From NYC, Romantic Getaways, LA, Ohio, TX, PA, Florida, ME, SC, SF, Last Minute Travel, Places to Visit from San Diego, Romantic Weekend Getaways, Anniversary, Poconos, Sanibel Island

Guest Accommodations

Beach Place Guesthouses offer an array of unique one or two-bedroom oceanfront lodgings with king or queen-size beds in deluxe linens, private bathrooms with bath and shower combinations, fresh towels, and branded toiletries, and spacious living areas with comfy seating. Guest houses also feature living areas with dining tables and chairs for dining in and fully equipped kitchens with all the appliances and utensils necessary for comfortable holiday living. Private patios and porches overlook white sandy beaches and lush tropical gardens. Oceanfront One and Two Bedroom King Suites offer additional space with fully equipped kitchens, dining rooms with tables and chairs, and living rooms with queen-size sleeper sofas for additional guests. Modern amenities include flat screen television with cable channels, air-conditioning, and high-speed wireless Internet access.

Dining

Beach Place Guesthouses have fully equipped kitchens with all the appliances and utensils necessary for comfortable holiday living, as well as dining rooms with tables and chairs. Cocoa Beach is close by and is home to a variety of places to eat from fine dining restaurants to casual cafés and buzzing beach bars. A communal barbecue deck and firepit is perfect for outdoor dining on warm summer nights with family and friends.

Amenities & Recreation

This resort-style hotel offers an array of amenities and facilities to ensure everything is on hand for a relaxing stay. Amenities include complimentary yoga classes every Saturday morning, barbecues on the communal barbecue deck, bonfires on the beach, hammocks in which to relax, complimentary use of beach towels, beach chairs, boogie boards, and umbrellas.

Some of the top things to see and do in and around Cocoa Beach include visiting the beautiful tropical forests of the Lori Wilson Park, learning to surf or enjoying the waves on Cocoa Beach, or exploring the Cocoa Beach Pier and the near-mile of the boardwalk which is packed with shops and restaurants. Visit the iconic Ron Jon Surf Shop, the world’s largest surf shop, have lunch at Fat Kahuna’s Beachside Grille, enjoy a kayak expedition with Adventure Kayak or Fin Expeditions and venture through tropical mangrove forests, or have fun on a Space Coast Segway Tour.

Weddings & Events

Beach Place Guesthouses offer an idyllic location for romantic beach weddings with stunning white sandy beaches, sparkling blue oceans and luxurious beachside accommodations with open ocean decks. The hotel provides a variety of customized wedding packages that include a range of services such as catering services, a list of preferred vendors and a wedding coordinator to ensure a perfect, hassle-free day. Beach Place Guesthouses also offers a selection of specials such as Weekend and Week Day Specials and ‘I Do’ specials for brides and grooms.

1445 S Atlantic Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931, Phone: 321-783-4045

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Reid’s Heritage Homes just released new bungalows at Cobble Beach! -The New Home Buyers Network Blog

Read article : Reid’s Heritage Homes just released new bungalows at Cobble Beach! -The New Home Buyers Network Blog

Newinhomes.com just received news that Reid’s Heritage Homes has released a brand new collection of detached bungalows and townhome bungalows at The Residences of Cobble Beach near Owen Sound.

The new townhome bungalows and detached bungalows (some with lofts) at Cobble Beach range from 1,700 to 2,700 square feet. Whether you’re moving up to your dream home to start a family or downsizing with your eyes on retirement, there are many options for you in this new collection.

Depending on how you use the space, the new Cobble Beach plans range from one- to five-bedroom with 1.5 to three bathrooms. In order to get more bedrooms out of the intelligently designed floor plan, you can finish the basement or use the loft space as a bedroom. The optional finished basements have space for a bedroom, a recreation area, as well as a bathroom.

The homes boast a classic Nantucket style with vinyl shake and siding. The Nantucket look is defined by its New England and coastal roots. The design is inspired by natural beauty and is a combination of island comfort and the seafaring lifestyle.

The large windows and covered front porches offer panoramic views of Georgian Bay, and the double garages provide plenty of room for storage. The open concept plans are ideal for entertaining and ensure that your living space is fully inundated with natural light throughout the day.

A few impressive interior features and finishes in the new Cobble Beach models include 9’ main floor ceilings, granite countertops, large islands in the kitchen with extended breakfast bars, extra height cabinetry, and walk-in pantries (as per plan).

The master bedroom is more like a master retreat thanks to the amazing walk-in closet with double doors, the spa-inspired ensuite with double sinks and a freestanding soaker tub, and the detached models have glass shower enclosures with marble seats.

Depending on the model you purchase, there are many other standard features and finishes that you may have in your new Cobble Beach home, such as sloped, cathedral or two-storey ceilings, hardwood flooring, or a gas fireplace with a rustic mantel.

Another standard of Cobble Beach is that all the homes are ENERGY STAR qualified. Reid’s Heritage Homes is going above and beyond by building homes that operate up to 40% more energy efficient than homes built to the minimum standard that the Ontario Building Code requires.  

Your life in Cobble Beach

This 574-acre master-planned community stretches across a pristine landscape, nestled between the picturesque Georgian Bay and the world-class Cobble Beach Golf Links Club. At the heart of the community, there is a Nantucket clubhouse, which offers year-round hospitality and 5-star dining.

All homeowners in Cobble Beach also have access to the spa’s sauna, a whirlpool, tennis courts, a fully equipped fitness centre, and a plunge pool. In addition to having exclusive access to these community fixtures, Cobble Beach is surrounded by a wealth of amenities, such as miles of trails, shopping, restaurants, and cultural festivals. Plus, Owen Sound and Bruce Peninsula are within a close enough proximity to plan a day-trip on a whim, and Collingwood is only 30 minutes away!  

The new townhome bungalows and detached bungalows at The Residences of Cobble Beach by Reid’s Heritage Homes start from $449,900.

For more information, visit the sales centre at 221 McLeese Drive, Kemble, Thursday to Monday from 11 am to 5 pm. You can also call 1-705-888-5124 or go toReidsHeritageHomes.com for more information.

Versace Mansion: Inside South Beach's sensational hotel

Read article : Versace Mansion: Inside South Beach's sensational hotel

(CNN) —The world-famous Ocean Drive is one of the most photographed stretches of Miami Beach.

But, with its neon lights and sidewalk cafes serving beer-garitas for two, it's not known for being a high-end destination.

The exception, nestled amid low-rise Art Deco hotels, with streams of tourists strolling past, is the Villa Casa Casuarina -- better known as the Versace Mansion.

What many of those selfie-snapping tourists outside may not realize is that the former home of late fashion designer Gianni Versace isn't a museum or private home, but a hotel.

And it's a hotel where guests can sleep in what was Versace's bedroom. Or in the bedroom of his sister Donatella. Or perhaps the suite where Madonna used to stay when she visited Versace in the '90s and helped put the Miami Beach neighborhood of South Beach on the national scene.

If a $1,000-plus-a-night hotel room is out of reach, members of the public can indulge in the villa's Baroque grandeur with a dinner reservation at Gianni's, and an aperitif in the intimate, clubby Onyx Bar, in the space that used to be Versace's kitchen.

Since Versace's death -- he was shot dead on the steps of his mansion in 1997, thus the camera-wielding tourists outside -- the property has changed management a couple of times.

However even now, 20 years later, under the ownership of Jordache Enterprises, it retains the designer's over-the-top splendor. (Donatella auctioned off some of the home's contents in 2001, but what remains are the richly decorated walls, floors, ceilings and windows, plus the pool, garden and southern wing.)

The best-known property on Ocean Drive

House-turned-hotel:The former home of late fashion designer Gianni Versace has been transformed into one of Miami's most opulent hotels.

The unapologetic opulence of Casa Casuarina made it an obvious location for filming the upcoming TV series "The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story", which will air on FX in early 2018.

This May, tourists along Ocean Drive were treated to in-costume sightings of the show's stars, including Penelope Cruz as Donatella, Ricky Martin as Versace's longtime partner Antonio D'Amico, and Edgar Ramirez as the designer -- who appeared on the balcony of Versace's former bedroom clad in a pink bathrobe.

The room is now known as The Villa Suite, and, like the rest of the mansion's interiors, it's as over-the-top on glitz as Versace's collections. The most arresting feature, also available in Donatella's bedroom, the Venus Suite, is a custom-made double-king-size bed.

No longer on show is Versace's $10,000 marble toilet with 24-karat gold-plated seat -- one of the items auctioned off by Donatella after her brother's death.

From flashy home to over-the-top hotel

Italian fashion designer Gianni Versace was murdered on the steps of the Miami mansion in July 1997.

Today, Casa Casuarina has 10 hotel suites, plus a restaurant and bar, a lounge that can be used for meetings, a rooftop and an elaborate Mediterranean-style Mosaic Garden, with tiles picturing icons of Greek mythology, chief among them Medusa -- who has a place of honor on the Versace brand's logo.

The most elaborate Medusa can be found in the Villa's 54-foot-long pool, inspired by Versace's "Marine Vanuras" collection and said to be made from more than one million mosaic tiles, thousands of them 24-karat gold.

The Medusa mosaic was crafted in Versace's home town, Reggio Calabria, Italy, and then taken apart and shipped to Miami Beach in pieces, where it was painstakingly reassembled.

Adjacent to the garden, in the "new wing" that Versace built when he acquired the mansion, is The Moroccan Lounge, which used to be his gym, and still houses his eight-person hamam Turkish steam room and shower.

The room where Madonna would stay, the Mosaic Suite, is located upstairs, where the singer apparently enjoyed the bathroom's acoustics and the bird's-eye view of the pool.

The history of Casa Casuarina

Versace purchased Casa Casuarina in 1992, after falling under the spell of the Magic City and the Spanish architecture of the grand house.

Next door was an Art Deco Hotel called the Hotel Revere, which Versace also snapped up, and demolished to make way for his garden, pool and the south wing, which used to house one of his libraries.

An estimated $32 million in renovations over three years transformed the historic property into a manse fit for a style king.

But even before his tenure, Casa Casuarina had a flashy history.

It was built in 1930 by Alden Freeman, whose father worked for The Standard Oil Trust and left him a fortune which allowed him to retire at 27 and build his dream house, inspired by the historic Alcazar De Colon in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

Freeman lived in a top-floor suite and either housed his friends or rented the 23 remaining apartments.

Many of the architectural details of the house, including the key lime coral floors, the pillars surrounding the courtyard, and the decorative medallions of famous personalities (Cleopatra, Gandhi, Rockefeller and -- more dissonantly -- Mussolini and Lenin) date to Freeman's time, which ended with his death in 1937, when the house was sold and run as an apartment complex.

By the 1980s, the building fell into disrepair, although most of the original fittings and artworks survived.

Mansion mysteries

As with many famous buildings, Casa Casuarina has its share of mystery: There are rumored to be secret doors and passageways throughout the mansion, although a door that used to lead from Versace's bedroom to an entertainment den has since been closed off.

It's also said that Versace maintained a pigeon coop beneath the rooftop observatory, and would use the messenger pigeons to send notes to friends. Details are scant on these rumors, but what's certain is that The Villa will continue to intrigue visitors, no doubt even more so when the TV series hits screens next year.

Rebecca Wallwork is a freelance writer based in Miami Beach. She loves dogs, books and hotels and is the author of the 33 1/3 book "Hangin' Tough" (Bloomsbury Academic).

Hibiscus Island Residence: An Island Paradise Home in Miami Beach, Florida

Read article : Hibiscus Island Residence: An Island Paradise Home in Miami Beach, Florida

Would you love to live near the water edges of Miami, Florida? Of course you would say yes! What you would get once there is not just an island paradise experience, but, an island luxury living in a high-end tropical environment in a secluded, exclusive and a gated community in Hibiscus Island, Miami Beach, Florida. A waterfront house with a great indoor and outdoor living so suited for Miami’s year round tropical climate, from a long summer, abundant rainfall, and a mild, dry winter. Surely, this island property that we will feature today is a masterpiece to the designer and a priced-possession to the homeowner.

This modern house design was made possible by Architect Ralph Choeff of the Choeff Levy Fischman Architecture + Design, built by Bosch Construction. A house with a modern architectural design and a high-end tropical environment. Considering that this house is nested in a private island community in Miami Beach, Florida, the quality of living here is of great pride and price. Let us know more of this luxury island paradise living through this Hibiscus modern waterfront residence.

Location: Hibiscus Island Community, Miami Beach, Florida

Designer: Choeff Levy Fischman Architecture + Design

Style: Modern Tropical

Number of Level: Two-storey

Unique feature: A waterfront residence with a tropical architectural design and great massive indoor and outdoor living.

Similar House: A Stunning White Modern Home on a Greek Island

This is an astounding front view of this Hibiscus Residence. A two-level water-front house located in the water edges of Miami Beach, Florida. Ipe wood, natural stones and water features are the tropical elements commonly used in this house.

To the right of the house is the garage guarded in steel railings. Palm trees were placed to achieve a tropical tone in this modern architecture.

A simple wooden door opens the house to its indoor spaces and a lit up entryway warmly welcomes guests to the house. Also, stone steps leading towards the door travel over a Koi pond, one of the house’s tropical touch. Ornamental plants and palm trees surround the area.

This rectangular swimming pool is one of the great outdoor space in this house. Its underwater light effect reflects the water element of the pool. Lounging seats were in place to give comfier and a relaxing pool experience. Surely, your swimming pool experience here will be different from a sandy beaches bath along Miami Beach.

Read Also: Lovely Contemporary Home on Di Lido Island in Miami

Towards the end of the swimming pool is a covered entertaining area with a sunken lounge and an outdoor kitchen. During night time, it’s best to enjoy the view of the city light while lounging with family and friends in this classy and modern outdoor space.

From this photo, the glass panel set as the boundary from the outdoor space to the indoor space of the house. Its interior is a combination of wood and glass accent. Plants placed inside the house add a tropical aura to the space.

In the living room, continuity of accent and design is achieved. Light brown wall and floor tiling compliment the white ceiling of the space.

The modern kitchen design was achieved through a light wood cabinetry and white top design. An island is placed to accommodate five setters. Above the island are three pendant lights that give off simplicity and beauty to the kitchen.

One of the house great indoor space is this media room with a bar beside it. This space is best for a lazy afternoon. Large white couch, pillows, and chairs were added to accentuate the room. The bar on its side will surely add flavor to your high-end experience.

Contrasting colors of black and white made the living room more classy. Glass sliding doors can be opened completely for an uninterrupted view of downtown Miami. Below it is the rectangular type swimming pool.

Safety in style. Light wood stairs with glass railings lead to the upper floor of the house. The materials used for the stairs look great together. One will not question the strength of the glass material and the wood reflects its tropical touch. Modern and tropical.

Another great indoor space in this house is this chic and luxurious master bedroom. A small sitting area and working area had been incorporated into this room so that one can lounge and work at the same time. A glass surround wall is placed for an interrupted view of the downtown Miami. Onward is a balcony which is great for some open yet private moments. And, the space is in great combination with its white ceiling with hidden lights, white wall, and light brown floor tiling.

This is one of the many bedrooms available in the upper space of the house. A wall of cabinetry surrounds the room good for plenty of storage. The bed, its linens, the lampshade, tables and the floor carpet is in consonance with the theme of the whole space.

The master bathroom is placed next to the master bedroom. The space looks great and perfect for its dual sink vanity, a shower with a floor-to-ceiling glass surround, white freestanding bathtub, with views on the palm trees through the large glass windows. Its white ceiling provides a wider space, while the hidden lighting from it emit warm glow on the wood wall and the floor.

Truly, this house is a masterpiece project of the architect and at the same time a prized possession to the house owners. This may be of a very great market value, yet, undoubtedly, the island paradise living it may offer is priceless. This is just another achievement to the Choeff Levy Fischman Architecture + Design for this Hibiscus Island Residence. It is a fact that Miami’s cost of living is really priced high, thus, a home owner resident of Miami will be very much willing to sacrifice cost for luxury, comfort, modern, and tropical island living experience this Hibiscus Island residence can offer.

3 Beach Resorts Where You Can Surf & Slack at Puraran, Catanduanes

Read article : 3 Beach Resorts Where You Can Surf & Slack at Puraran, Catanduanes

With the Pacific Ocean on the east and the South China Sea on the west, it's no wonder that the Philippines has a variety of surfing spots to choose from--be it for beginners or pro surfers, beach break or reef break, baby waves or hollow barrels. Siargao has "Cloud Nine," San Narciso has "High 5 Lahar," San Antonio has "Magic Left," and the list just goes on.

Surf’s up!

Puraran Beach, an isolated cove in Baras, Catanduanes, has its own swells coming in from the Pacific that break on an offshore reef. The “Majestic” is one of the “fastest, most hollow, and right-handed barrels in the world” (from majesticpuraran.com.ph). The term was coined by Hawaiian photographer Warren Bolster in the June 1988 issue of California-based Surfer Magazine. Locals say that on a good day, the waves can reach more than six feet, and even higher during the typhoon season.

Puraran Beach, Baras, Catanduanes: Home of the Majestic

Between 1 to 3 pm, you can see the seaweeds, clams, mussels, and even small fish that thrive in the tide pools.

In the months of August to October, the Majestic is recommended for advanced and professional surfers only.

(Photo courtesy of Puraran Surf Beach Resort.)

One weekend in May, Choose Philippines was invited to the island’s first ever Surf & Music Festival, the “Catanduanes Reef Break 2014" or in Twitter-speak: #CRB2014.

[FOLLOW: Watch out for the next Catanduanes Reef Break - Surf Music Festival!]

For three full days, this was what we woke up to:

This photograph doesn't do justice to the beauty of the island.

Being the non-surfer (and later, ehem ehem, a “beginning” surfer) that I was, all I could do was stay on the shore as the professionals paddled out for the competition. And, of course, to lounge the afternoon away in Puraran’s resorts.

Surfing 101 during the #CRB2014 Surf Clinic

Disclaimer: Most of the room accommodations don’t have WiFi, a flat screen LCD TV with 100+ cable channels, and Dolby surround sound. They offer something better: friendly local surfers who will share with you stories of waves conquered, a picturesque beach that has an interesting terrain at low tide, and the rhythmic crashing of the water as the wind blows in from the ocean.

1. PURARAN SURF BEACH RESORT

Puraran Surf Beach Resort, formerly Puting Baybay Puraran, was established in 1985. It's owned by Celia Estrada-Soria who has witnessed the growth of Puraran from the humble fishing village that it was to the world-renowned surfing attraction that it is now.

It's no secret that Catanduanes is known as the "Land of the Howling Winds" because of the frequent visit of tropical storms coming in from the Pacific Ocean. Though this title doesn't ring true anymore (thanks or no thanks to climate change), Puraran Surf has gone through a lot of building and rebuilding after the onslaught of every storm. Puraransurf.com provides a rundown of the first surfers, landowners, and typhoons that have come and gone much like the ebb and flow of the Majestic.

It was in 1984 when Australian surfer Peter Sutton chanced upon “the wave with the perfect barrel” in Puraran. He met the Soria couple and, along with his Japanese wife Sally, stayed with them for a few months.

(Photo courtesy of Puraran Surf Beach Resort.)

Later on, Japanese surfers came and started buying lands from the townsfolk. The Japanese corporation HAROGEN started constructing the “Puraran Beach Resort.” Around the same time, Cecilia sought permission from his father, Jorge Jacob Estrada, to build cottages on their land along the beach (the present site of Puraran Surf Beach Resort).

In 1987, Typhoon Sisang destroyed the Soria-owned cottages. Rebuilding ensued and it was then that the “Puting Baybay Beach Resort” officially started its existence. Three years later, the Estrada-owned “Pacific View Beach Resort” was established through the efforts of Cecilia's sisters.

In 1995, Typhoon Rosing destroyed the Japanese-owned Puraran Beach Resort, the Soria-owned Puting Baybay Beach Resort, and the Estrada-owned Pacific View Beach Resort. Puting Baybay started rebuilding while Pacific View became the “Majestic Beach Resort,” owned by Elena Estrada-Tanael.

In 1998, Typhoon Loleng wiped out every structure on the beach, forcing the two resorts to rebuild yet again.

Plastic floating walkway in Puraran as executed by the almost-five-million-peso agreement last 2013 between government-owned Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) and a private contractor to construct a "Surfers' Boardwalk and Surfing Viewdeck."

The present Puraran Surf Beach Resort has two types of accommodation: the family resort with native beachfront nipa huts and the dorm-type surf house.

Cottages have their own bathrooms and have a price range of PhP 600 to PhP 1,200. Two of the six huts have cable TV, but who cares?

The dorm is perfect for surfers, backpackers, and budget travelers who can cowboy it up in a shared space for 15 people. It has a kitchen, a common bathroom and shower area, and a balcony for early morning wave checks and/or greeting the sunrise. Standard rate is at PhP 400/head/night.

Their menu changes daily depending on the fresh catch of the day. The sea is right there, after all.

Fresh lobster for PhP 230

2. MAJESTIC PURARAN BEACH RESORT

Named after Puraran’s signature break, Majestic Puraran Beach Resort was established in 1995. It's owned by Elena Estrada-Tanael and managed by surfer daughter Aireen Tanael. Another Tanael, Chris, can be seen riding the waves when not teaching a beginner.

Majestic Resort has maintained the countryside vibe with all the kubo-style accommodations and a patch of grassland that serves as a tent area. Huts are available for PhP 500 while pitching a tent costs PhP 150. Each room only has the basics: a bed with a mattress, mosquito net, and a bathroom with toilet and faucet. Simple, just like how island life--or life in general, perhaps--should be.

The rustic resort has a row of coconut trees as backdrop.
(Photo courtesy of Majestic Puraran Beach Resort.)

A room with a natural cooling system: Catanduanes’ sea breeze.
(Photo courtesy of Majestic Puraran Beach Resort.)

Majestic Resort’s dining area is the perfect place for hanging out--and eating, of course--when everywhere else is flat (no waves). Set meals (chicken/fish/pork/lobster with vegetables & rice) are available for PhP 150. Let me say that again: lobster + vegetables + rice for PhP 150. Other viands of choice are pork sinigang, ginataang tulingan, pakbet, porkchop, fried chicken, Bicol express, and pork adobo. Sandwiches are at PhP 35-45, burgers at PhP 40-50, and a plate of pansit bihon/canton is at PhP 180. You can also order a fruit shake for just PhP 50. A bottle of beer costs only PhP 40 but don’t drink and surf!

The resort’s one-stop shop for your stomach’s needs.

Breakfast of champions? Omelette with toast for PhP 75

Bits of chili pepper are well-hidden in this plate of Bicol Express. Don’t say I didn’t warn you. I wasn’t!

3. PACIFIC SURFERS’ PARADISE

The youngest of the three resorts in Puraran, Pacific Surfers' Paradise opened early this year. In fact, they were still doing the last brush strokes and fitting doors into frames on their air-conditioned rooms when we got there.

When I asked one of the owners, Dr. Rodolfo E. Joson, why their family decided to open a resort in Puraran, he said "It is because Puraran Beach is one of the most beautiful beach and one of the top surfing destinations in the Philippines." Now, the family of the Manila-based physician has a peaceful beach resort ideal for surfing and swimming right in their own backyard.

(Photo courtesy of Dr. Rodolfo E. Joson, Pacific Surfers’ Paradise.)

Spending the night in a duplex cottage costs PhP 1,700 while a single cottage costs PhP 800.

(Photo courtesy of Dr. Rodolfo E. Joson, Pacific Surfers’ Paradise.)

(Photo courtesy of Dr. Rodolfo E. Joson, Pacific Surfers’ Paradise.)

Aside from cottages, Pacific Surfers' Paradise has one-floor building with rooms for two persons. Aircon room is at PhP 1,500 while non-aircon room is at PhP 800. You can add an extra mattress (PhP 200) to accommodate a total of four persons.

Short orders of the 'silog' range from PhP 90 to PhP 120. Set meals (chicken/pork/lobster with vegetables & rice) are at PhP 150. If you want to share (or not share, no judgment here) a whole chicken after a day of surfing, chip in for PhP 400.

Dr. Joson also recommends Balakay Point for the best view of the cove. It's 15 minutes by car/tricycle from the beach and another 30 minutes by foot.

Where on Earth is Puraran?

Puraran is one of the 29 barangays of Baras, a fifth class municipality in the island-province of Catanduanes (capital: Virac) in the Bicol Region of the Philippines.

(Courtesy of Google Maps.)

How to Get There

(from catanduanes.gov.ph)

By Air:Cebu Pacific flies from Manila to Virac every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday (ETD: 0600; travel time: 1h 10m).

By Land/Water:Numerous bus lines operate air-conditioned coaches from Manila to Tabaco, Albay (travel time: 9-10h). From the seaport of Tabaco, hop on either at MV Calixta 2, 4 and 5 or MV Eugene Elson to reach the island of Catanduanes via Virac seaport (ETD: 0630; travel time: 4h; aircon: Php 310; non-aircon: Php 240). Jeepneys and buses ply from Virac to Baras daily (travel time: 1h 30 m; Php 35-45). Take a tricycle from Baras to Puraran (Php 150.00).

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Beach bumming in Puraran was just the start of our 8-day Catanduanes adventure last May. Watch out for our feature on skimboarding at Mamangal Beach (Virac), kayaking at Amenia Beach & spelunking at Luyang Cave Park (San Andres), snorkeling in Carangyan Beach & carabao-riding at Hiyop Point (Pandan), and many more.

Sneak peek: Choose Philippines Editor-in-Chief Phillip Kimpo Jr. tries to catch a fish for lunch
(Kuripdas Fishing Lagoon & Resort, Virac)

Many thanks to the Provincial Tourism Office of Catanduanes (Tourism Officer Carmel Bonifacio Garcia; Armie Villanueva, Maria Glenda Borja Tablate, and Kuya Buboy) and the Catanduanes Reef Break Organizing Team (Festival Director Ezra Efondo † and Sponsorship Coordinators Jean Grey Garcia & Moireen Espinosa).

Visit online: Catanduanes Tourism Promotion | Surf Catanduanes

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More on Catanduanes

Twin Rock Beach Resort, Virac, Catanduanes

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Other Surfing Destinations in the Philippines

1) LUZON: Baler, Aurora

2) LUZON: Crystal Beach, Zambales

3) VISAYAS: Guian, Samar

Photo credit: Guiuan, Eastern Samar FB Page

4) VISAYAS: 6 Spots

Photo credit: Eastern Samar Surfing

5) MINDANAO: Siargao

6) MINDANAO: 6 Spots