Along the East Cape of the Baja Peninsula, Mexico, lies a hidden gem that redefines luxury living and adventure: Costa Palmas. 

Having recently visited Costa Palmas, I can attest to its unique blend of luxury, adventure, and exclusivity. The property’s vast stretch of swimmable beach is a rarity for the region; the integration of organic farms within the community adds a refreshing touch to the overall experience; a combination of leading hospitality brands delivers top-notch amenities; and with the recent addition of a marina, the development is now the exclusive harbor for superyachts in Los Cabos.

Redefining residential resort living

At the heart of Costa Palmas are the residences. The community boasts prestigious names such as the Four Seasons Resort & Residences Los Cabos and Amanvari Resort and Residences, along with the bespoke Costa Palmas–branded residential and hospitality offering Casa Blake, set in its Marina Village.

Four Seasons Resort and Private Residences Los Cabos at Costa Palmas offers an ultra-luxury experience in Baja’s undiscovered East Cape. Designed by Brooklyn-based Guerin Glass Architects, this resort features 118 guest rooms and 23 suites spread across a low-density layout, offering breathtaking views of the Sea of Cortez and the Sierra de la Laguna Mountains. Since its opening in October 2019, the resort has set a new standard for luxury with amenities like multiple pools, five unique dining outlets, a full-service spa, and a comprehensive fitness center. The residential offerings, ranging from turnkey residences to custom-designed villas, provide owners with unparalleled access to the resort’s services and amenities, encapsulating the essence of sophisticated comfort and elemental luxury.

Amanvari Resort and Residences is a serene escape between the mountains and the sea, offering a peaceful oasis. With 25 bi-level hotel pavilions, Amanvari blends space, luxury, and design seamlessly, surrounded by nature’s beauty. The resort’s main pavilion is the heart of Amanvari, housing three restaurants, a library, a lounge, and a striking infinity pool. The Aman Residences offer a permanent slice of this paradise, with options ranging from beachfront to golf lots, designed to meld into the landscape with expansive indoor-outdoor living spaces. 

Aman Residences epitomize an unmatched standard of architectural design, offering a complete immersion in the Aman lifestyle. Each residence serves as a gateway to exploring the world while providing a personal sanctuary for moments of tranquility.

These residences redefine luxury living, with from two to eight bedrooms and ranging from 13,000 to 20,000 square feet of indoor-outdoor living space. Currently undergoing construction, the resort and residences promise a haven of privacy and relaxation.

Casa Blake the latest addition to Costa Palmas, is a curated lifestyle destination inspired by the refined luxury synonymous with the community. This marina-side haven offers residential and hospitality options, from water-view studios to three-bedroom residences. Casa Blake is a vibrant spot within the Marina Village, featuring a lively pool and bar, a secluded garden oasis, and dining options that capture the essence of seaside living. Ownership at Casa Blake comes with the privilege of joining the exclusive Costa Palmas Club, enhancing the lifestyle with access to the East Beach Club and sports center.

World-class yachting destination

Inspired by the elegance of Europe’s most distinguished yachting destinations, the Costa Palmas Marina is the first private marina under the Four Seasons and Aman brands and the exclusive harbor for superyachts in Los Cabos. This 250-slip port will soon be able to accommodate yachts up to 300 feet, complemented by the vibrant Marina Village, a focal point of the locale and a standout feature among renowned marina destinations.

Strolling through the vibrant Marina Village, I was captivated by the elegance and sophistication reminiscent of Europe’s distinguished yachting destinations—from the Martin Brudnizki-designed nightclub Chiki to Michelin-starred Nancy Silverton’s Mozza Baja at Costa Palmas to the forthcoming French-themed bistro La Plage envisioned by Fabien Cerato. 

Adventure meets luxury

Costa Palmas perfectly blends adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. Residents and guests enjoy a variety of excursions and experiences—from sunset cruises and snorkeling to pickleball and tennis. 

I opted for a tequila tasting session led by the in-house agave master, a guided hike to the nearby flat rocks with awe-inspiring views of the East Cape, and an exhilarating ATV ride through the property’s dunes. 

If golf is more your speed, the Costa Palmas Golf Club, designed by Robert Trent Jones II, offers an 18-hole journey through diverse landscapes, from sea dunes to farmlands against the Sierra de la Laguna Mountains backdrop. It’s a golf experience that’s both scenic and challenging.

Resort living redefined

Costa Palmas is not just a destination: It’s a lifestyle, thoughtfully and sensitively designed to embrace the elemental beauty of its surroundings. Whether it’s the sophisticated residences, the allure of the marina, the tranquility of Amanvari, or the vibrant lifestyle at Casa Blake, Costa Palmas is not just setting a new standard for resort living: It’s redefining it.

For more information, visit costapalmas.com

A stunning resort on an island that once was the hideaway of notorious pirate Black Sam Bellamy has come on the market for $50 million, perfect for an upscale commercial hospitality operation or a sprawling and elite family compound.

Known today as Black’s Island, the seven-acre property, ringed with white sand beaches, sits just miles off the coast of the Florida panhandle. Accessible only by boat, seaplane, or helicopter, the island is a secluded escape. It is occupied by a four-star resort including 26 recently remodeled waterfront bungalows, each with two or three bedrooms, a spacious kitchen, living room, dining room, and laundry room. The round bungalows sport balconies allowing visitors to take in 360-degree views of the palm-dotted island, the luminous waves, and vibrant sunrises and sunsets.

Beyond the individual accommodations, the resort includes everything guests need for a relaxed and luxurious getaway. A four-story clubhouse includes a bar, dining areas, game room, and lounge. Outdoors, guests can enjoy the playing some cornhole in the game area, picnicking on the spacious green lawn, floating in the 40-fott-by-16-foot pool, or relaxing on the surrounding sundecks, in the dappled shade of the palm trees. Kayaking, paddle-boarding, beach volleyball, and a water trampoline all add to the fun.

The island was once the territory of famous and feared pirate Samuel Bellamy, known as Black Sam. The richest pirate in recorded history, Black Sam was often seen as a Robin Hood figure, stealing from rich shipowners and sharing the booty with his fiercely loyal crew of some 200 men, all of whom had a vote in how the ship was run. Bellamy commanded a flotilla, including the Whydah, a former slave ship captured by the pirates after its first two voyages. After only a few months as a pirate ship the vessel went down in a storm off Cape Cod in 1717, taking its notorious captain and most of the crew with it.

Today, the island that was once a pirate’s refuge can be your escape as well. For more details and photos, visit the original listing at Jon Kohler & Associates.

Photographs courtesy of toptenrealestatedeals.com.

Set majestically in the seaport, The St. Regis Residences, Boston, is one of the city’s most luxurious developments. Designed by Elkus Manfredi Architects, the towering glass structure, which opened in 2023 and houses 114 condos on 22 floors, looks like a boat afloat with sails fully unfurled in the wind.

With units starting at $1.85 million, the development offers everything residents desire: a health club, a lounge and library, a swimming pool, a Jacuzzi, a business center, a spa. And a model unit by Boston-based Eric Roseff Designs that embraces and elevates the architecture’s aesthetics and showcases the spectacular views center stage.

“Most model units are neutral and vanilla white,” says Roseff. “I wanted people who see it to feel like it’s someone’s home done thoughtfully over time. I’ve added a lot of personalized pieces to make it cross the finish line.”

The resident he envisioned, well-traveled and sophisticated, enjoys entertaining, collecting art and dining out. “I thought of the owner as a couple or a single person who had left a larger home in the suburbs and really embraced city living,” Roseff says. “That’s why the dining area is small, and there’s only one TV.”

Although the developers gave him carte blanche, there were inherent restrictions. Because of the building’s shape, every unit has a different, unconventional configuration.

“With many angles, simply lining a piece of furniture up along a wall creates a challenge,” he says of the 2,589-square-foot unit that has three bedrooms and 3.5 baths. “It took a lot of custom engineering to design everything, including custom window shades and draperies. And because this is a model unit, I couldn’t add built-ins or change any major components in the kitchen or baths.”

To accentuate the unit’s sharp angles, Roseff selected furnishings that are soft and sculptural and upholstered them in neutral fabrics so they don’t distract from the views.

“The visual interest comes from texture and shape, not color,” he says, adding that the ceilings are mirror-like Venetian plaster, a reflective treatment that subtly merges indoor and outdoor spaces. “The color comes from the artwork and curated accessories, including pillows and glass vases. When you walk in, your eye goes where it should—straight to the outside scenery.”

Roseff boldly throws his first curve in the entry, where a large circular artwork by Shay Kun dominates. It’s a preview of the main living space, which is defined by an irregularly shaped custom rug, designed by Roseff, that resembles ocean waves. The room is appointed with a pair of 1970s Vladimir Kagan sofas that look as though they want to embrace each other and a pair of similar- vintage chairs whose wing-like arms conjure images of seagulls in flight. The center coffee/cocktail table is equally dynamic: Its two pieces pull apart, creating separate servers as needed.

Next to this grouping, Roseff created a conversational setting by pairing two 1970s swivel chairs, upholstered in velvet, and a swiveling mushroom ottoman from the same time period.

“A majority of the upholstery throughout the unit is solid-color fabric instead of patterned,” he says. “The fabrics are textural, and some of them, such as that on the swivel chairs, have a sheen that looks different in different light as you walk around them.”

The curvaceous theme continues in the adjoining dining area, where four round-back chairs and a custom dining banquette cozy up to an oval-shaped Italian marble table, another vintage piece. The wall, papered in the same ombre silver silk and metallic leaf mural that runs from the foyer to the windows, shimmers in the glow of the globes of a pair of floor lamps.

Roseff reserves deeper colors for the more private spaces. In the den, for instance, dark-teal drapes, offset by a virtually invisible Lucite desk in the window, create a cozy setting. The guest room pays homage to the water: Its deep blue painted walls match the drapes, creating a cocoon complete with a daybed that overlooks the seaport.

Artwork that looks like a changing, curated collection ties everything together. “I chose many pieces that people maybe haven’t seen before,” Roseff says, adding that the work over the bed in the primary suite is by Damien Hirst. “Or artists people may not be familiar with.”

(He counts himself in the latter category: He created the eight circular paintings that line the hallway.)

From the circular coin-painting in the kitchen and the round portraits in the hallway to the sphere-like globes of the ceiling fixture in the primary bedroom, every aspect of the unit becomes one great big design loop that amplifies the illusion of a place that’s well loved and well lived in.

“Several people who have toured the unit have asked who lives here,” Roseff says. “That’s the greatest compliment.”

We’ve rounded up the latest in oceanfront residences and resorts.

HAVN Residences & Yacht Club, Palm Beach Shores, Florida

HAVN Residences & Yacht Club is a collection of five, three-story revitalized waterfront buildings set along the Intracoastal Waterway in Palm Beach Shores. Comprised of 36 residences, HAVN offers two- and three-bedroom floor plans ranging from 1,823 to 2,662 square feet. Each unit will be finished by interior design firm Shim Projects. Residents will have access to a 52-slip marina managed by F3 Marina, swimming pool, hot tub, fire pit, and fitness center. Pricing starts at $2 million with anticipated deliveries beginning mid-2024. havnresidences.com

The Strand, Turks & Caicos, Caribbean

The Strand, a private residential community located on Cooper Jack Bay, Turks & Caicos, recently introduced a new home design, the four-bedroom signature residences. Starting at $6.5 million, the signature residences include four single-family homes with four bedrooms, a fifth flex space, bonus office, courtyard with an outdoor kitchen, and terrace overlooking a private infinity pool. Additional homes are available at The Strand, ranging from two to six bedrooms, including two-bedroom villas starting at $2.525 million, three-bedroom villas starting at $3.3 million, and grand residences starting at $10.5 million. The Strand is on track for a fall 2024 debut. thestrandtci.com

Baccarat Residences, Miami, Florida

The Baccarat Residences is the brand’s first collection of residences to the Miami market developed by Related Group and GTIS Partners with interior design by Meyer Davis and Architecture by Arquitectonica. Part of SH Hotels & Resorts. Located in Brickell, the property will have 324 flow-through residences, eight penthouses, and twenty-eight waterfront flats. Residents will enjoy over 75,000 square feet of five-star amenities throughout five levels of the 75-story tower, including exquisitely appointed social spaces, a fitness center, La Mer spa facilities, and a private marina. Prices run from $3.425 to $21.7 million. The expected completion of the property, part of SH Hotels & Resorts, is 2028. baccaratresidencesmiami.com

The Abaco Club, Great Abaco Island, Bahamas

The Abaco Club, situated on Winding Bay, is adding The Cays, a new beachfront neighborhood consisting of 36 villa residences. Developed and managed by Southworth, the private Bahamian club’s master plan expansion also includes the Winding Bay Beach Club, which-will offer a resort-style infinity-edge pool, beach bar, and retail outlets, the renovation of existing dining venues, and the multi-phase development of an enhanced amenity corridor. 

Members of The Abaco Club enjoy annual events including wellness retreats, golf and fishing tournaments, and culinary celebrations like the Lobsterfest Food & Wine Festival, while families can partake in extensive kids programming such as “mini members” councils, themed parties and sports activations. The club’s ongoing expansion exemplifies Southworth’s “programming first” mentality, prioritizing extraordinary experiences to foster a genuine community and ultimately reimagine the private club experience. 

Phase one of The Cays will open this year; home prices range from $3.5 to $12 million. theabacoclub.com

St. Regis Cap Cana, Dominican Republic

Located on the Punta Espada Golf Course, the Residences at the St. Regis Cap Cana, the first and only five-star branded real estate offering in Cap Cana, is set to be complete this year. The property will include 70 luxury residences, with a collection of eight penthouses. The Astor collection, some of the most expensive homes in the history of the Dominican Republic, includes the Astor Penthouse, the Caribbean Penthouse, and six Astor Penthouse Residences. These Astor units, all three- to seven-bedroom homes, range in price from $7.6 to $25 million. srresidencescapcana.com

Yerba Buena Island, the new San Francisco, California, neighborhood developed by Wilson Meany and Stockbridge Capital Group, has debuted its newest completed residences, The Townhomes, within The Cove Residences enclave. Designed by Hart Howerton and featuring interior concepts by Meyer Davis, this exclusive collection of attached single-family architectural townhomes merges a timeless modern nod to the classic San Francisco row home with a seamless blend of Bay views, market-defining amenities, and sustainable living.

Situated atop the naturally formed Yerba Buena Island, between Downtown San Francisco and the East Bay, the new residences mark the milestone of reaching 50% completion in the island’s residential development. This news arrives on the heels of announcing its 124-residence completed condominium building, The Bristol, being 40% sold and declared the top-selling new residential development in San Francisco in 2023. 

Reimagining San Francisco’s iconic row homes

The Townhomes breathe new life into the classic San Francisco row home, with gracious, sunlit multi-story floor plans featuring large bay windows and expansive terraces that frame unparalleled views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Marin Headlands, Angel Island, the Berkeley Hills, and Clipper Cove. 

Floor plans range from 1,956 to 4,034 square feet across two, three, and four-bedroom layouts, starting from the high $2 million. Each home is distinct and boasts private entrances, attached garages, gourmet chef’s kitchens with state-of-the-art appliances, spa-style bathrooms, and expansive terraces that provide seamless indoor-outdoor living. Select homes include in-home elevators with private rooftop access, double-height great rooms, and lead gray-honed marble fireplaces. Every home boasts its own outdoor space, from east-facing gardens that catch the morning light to west-facing terraces that take in the evening glow, designed to immerse residents in the island’s incredible vistas and peaceful atmosphere.

“The Townhomes draw inspiration from the finely crafted building traditions of San Francisco coupled with the latest innovations of building materials and technology,” says Tim Slattery, AIA, a partner at Hart Howerton. “The homes are organized in a series that steps with the terrain, creating a unique rhythm and identity for each home. This design approach embraces a variety of expressions that respond to both the island’s natural and neighborhood settings.”

A new era of sustainable design

The Townhomes exemplify Yerba Buena Island’s commitment to sustainability and architectural excellence, with the goal of obtaining LEED Silver certification. Each home achieves environmental efficiency by integrating solar panels into the sophisticated design. This approach prioritizes the well-being of residents and contributes positively to preserving the island’s beauty, embodying Yerba Buena Island’s dedication to preserving and celebrating its natural landscap

“With the arrival of the initial Townhomes within The Cove Residence enclave at Yerba Buena Island, our vision of an urban village is truly coming to life,” says Chris Meany, managing partner at Wilson Meany, the co-developer along with Stockbridge Capital Group of Yerba Buena Island. “Designed by Hart Howerton to integrate with both the natural landscape and the architectural context of the site, each Townhome offers private outdoor spaces—from east-facing morning gardens to west-facing roof terraces—that capture the essence of the island’s views, sounds, colors, and breezes. We’re excited to invite people to experience a new way of living in San Francisco, where the thoughtful design and commitment to the environmental ethos of their homes enhance the natural setting.”

The showcase townhome: Maritime meets city design with panoramic views

Inspired by its prime location in the heart of The Cove Residences, the BraytonHughes-designed Showcase Townhome at Yerba Buena Island is a model of how city sophistication and natural beauty can coalesce. The internationally acclaimed San Francisco-based design firm has outfitted the home with a nautical theme, using natural materials and a soothing palette of creams and blues that mirror the coastal setting. The interiors are enriched with a mix of found objects and a bold modern art collection curated by the Jessica Silverman Gallery. 

Spanning 2,253 square feet, this 3-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom residence features extensive floor-to-ceiling windows, spacious terraces, and a rooftop deck, capturing views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Angel Island, Clipper Cove, and the marina, seamlessly blending city sophistication with the natural beauty of its surroundings.

The Cove Residences: A village-like community

Located within The Cove Residences, adjacent to The Bristol condominiums, the initial release of The Townhomes is designed as a village-like enclave to foster connection and community while providing a tranquil urban retreat. Residents enjoy a safe, walkable lifestyle, access to 72 acres of parks, five miles of trails, a scenic dog park, the Point of Infinity sculpture by Hiroshi Sugimoto, the tranquil Clipper Cove beachfront, and access to an array of exclusive amenities and the forthcoming 10,000-square-foot wellness sanctuary, The Island Club. 

Exclusive amenities and The Island Club

Elevating the living experience, residents of The Cove Residences townhomes enjoy access to The Bristol’s LEED-certified amenities, which include an inviting lobby, a rooftop terrace with sweeping views for leisure and social engagements, and a modern fitness center. The forthcoming Island Club, a private sanctuary designed by Aidlin Darling Design, extends these luxuries with its 10,000-square-foot expanse dedicated to wellness and community. It features an array of amenities for relaxation and socialization, including a comprehensive fitness area, yoga and stretching rooms, a massage room, an outdoor pool and hot tub, and spa-inspired locker rooms with steam and sauna facilities. The Island Club also offers a private dining room, lounge, and library for quiet contemplation, a game room for entertainment, and an outdoor fireplace, all set against the backdrop of the island’s stunning views. 

Redefining urban living: Yerba Buena Island’s visionary approach

Emerging from two decades of strategic planning, Yerba Buena Island introduces a refreshing urban living model, placing you at the city’s core while surrounded by nature and community — and only an 8-minute ferry ride from downtown San Francisco. The success of The Bristol and The Townhomes exemplifies this innovative approach, merging modern urban architecture with a profound connection to the natural environment. This vision cultivates a lifestyle that enhances wellness, sustainability, and community ties. Yerba Buena Island presents a unique duality: a retreat and a dynamic link to urban life, affirming that city living can be revitalizing, environmentally aware, and deeply integrated with community values.

“The introduction of The Townhomes at Yerba Buena Island presents a lifestyle not previously available in San Francisco, blending urban convenience with perfectly-sized architectural residences amidst the serenity of nature,” shares Krysen Heathwood, senior managing director at Compass Development Marketing Group. “This unprecedented living experience emphasizes well-being, a connection to nature, and a genuine sense of community. We know and are already hearing that The Townhomes are truly a one-of-a-kind offering in San Francisco and the Bay Area.”

Sales begin this spring

The public sales launch for The Townhomes is set for this spring. Pricing starts at $2.85 million, and sales are represented by Compass Development Marketing Group.

YerbaBuenaIslandSF.com

Miami-based developer Riviera Horizons and Italian Hypercar brand Pagani have announced the world’s first Pagani Residences, a boutique luxury residential building with interiors designed by Pagani Arte. The property is set to launch in Miami’s North Bay Village this spring, with completion slated in 2027. Fortune Development Sales will lead sales and marketing for Miami’s first-ever Hypercar branded building. Pagani Automobili is a luxury brand renowned for its exquisite quality, unique engineering, and tailor-made handcrafted Hypercars, which stand among the most desired in the world. 

“Pagani Residences represent an exciting blend of Pagani’s bespoke design approach with the finest materials, and the vibrant allure of Miami’s beauty and dynamic energy. This innovative fusion embodies the distinctive essence that defines Pagani,” said Horacio Pagani, founder and CEO of Pagani Automobili. “Our aspiration is for residence owners to evoke the same exhilaration and excitement that our auto enthusiasts and owners experience every time they get behind the wheel of their Pagani Hypercar.” 

Designed by Miami’s renowned architecture firm Revuelta Architecture International, with interiors curated by Pagani Arte, the newly established Made in Italy interior design division was born from the founder of Pagani Automobili. 

The 28-story, amenity-rich property will feature a 240-foot waterfront boardwalk, private boat slips, and entertainment spaces for 70, all-corner residences. The spacious, two-to-four-bedroom homes range from 2,000 to over 3,300 square feet with expansive outdoor terrace spaces ranging from over 800 to 1,040 square feet, with only four residences per floor, making privacy paramount. Penthouses span from 6,900 square feet with up to 4,400 square feet of outdoor living. Pagani Residences interiors are inspired by Leonardo da Vinci’s principles of art and science and aim to create residences that thoughtfully combine a refined aesthetic with cutting-edge technology, a testimony to the artistry created by Pagani Arte. 

“Pagani Residences in Miami are set to redefine the art of handcrafted living, presenting a curated experience that effortlessly extends the essence of Pagani—an embodiment of obsession with detail, refined taste, and a level of craftsmanship that is truly rare in today’s world,” remarked the project’s developer, Mikael Hamaoui, founder and CEO of Riviera Horizons. 

Each home will be entirely customized and fully finished with 11-foot ceilings in all residences with waterfront-facing outdoor spaces and 13-foot ceilings in the penthouses with private pools. Owners will enjoy 24/7 concierge service to anticipate every need. 

Pagani Residences will include an exquisite collection of amenities. On the ground floor residents’ amenities include valet parking and porte-cochère, a pet spa, bicycle, paddleboard and kayak storage, 24/7 security, private garages available for purchase and preferred parking. 

To take maximum benefit of the stunning peninsula location surrounded by waterfront views, a private residents lounge is ensconced on level eight along with a library, and media room. A collection of wellness amenities awaits residents on level 27 with a state-of-the-art fitness center, advanced cardio training, dedicated Pilates and yoga studios, spa with stunning views of Biscayne Bay, sauna and steam rooms, and private treatment rooms as well as a restorative wellness lounge. 

A rooftop pool and sky lounge on level 28 await owners along with stunning 360-degree views of the Atlantic Ocean and Biscayne Bay, poolside cabanas and hot and cold plunges. Fully appointed summer kitchens with chef’s grills complete the package for alfresco, poolside dining. 

“Miami continues to stand as a pinnacle global living destination, drawing buyers from every corner of the world. Pagani Residences, situated against the stunning Biscayne waterfront, will unveil a distinctive harmony between Pagani’s renowned attention to every handcrafted detail as well as the prime positioning of the North Bay Village location,” remarked Edgardo Defortuna, president and CEO of Fortune International Group. 

Situated in Miami’s three-island city of North Bay Village, on Harbor Island, an enclave of tranquility with some of Miami’s most astounding views, Pagani Residences are set in the epicenter of art, culture and lifestyle with a short distance to Miami International and the private airports, shopping, golfing and social clubs as well as Miami Beach, Fisher Island, Bal Harbour, and Miami Design District. 

Pagani Residences are priced starting at $2.4 million.

paganiresidences.com

Address: 41 Arvida Parkway, Coral Gables, FL 33156
Price: $57,000,000
Area: 18,963 square feet
Acres: 1.2
Bedrooms: 8
Bathrooms: 9 full, 1 partial

Realtor contact: Audrey Ross, audrey.ross@compass.com, 305-206-4003

Perched on a V-shaped lot jutting into Biscayne Bay, this exclusive retreat wraps residents in stunning views and unmatched luxury, indoors and out. The home, designed by Ramon Pacheco, creates a sense of approachable, yet undeniable elegance, including a sweeping grand staircase, a fabulous Mick De Giulio kitchen, and spacious inviting bedroom suites. Floor-to-ceiling windows blur the line between the interior and the outdoors.

Outdoors, a stunning bayside, one-of-a-kind pool designed by Estudio Arque, landscaped gardens, and multiple outdoor entertainment areas yield a relaxing escape. Yachting enthusiasts will appreciate the private, 140-foot boat dock that can accommodate a 170-foot mega-yacht.

Located just moments south of Miami, the property balances privacy and security with easy access to world-class dining and nightlife, a thriving arts scene, and international air travel.

All photos by Become Legendary, Mike Ruiz

The award-winning Casa Chameleon at Las Catalinas has announced the addition of a brand-new real estate component, Casa Chameleon Residences, to its renowned resort property, offering four exclusive villas and 15 luxury condominiums to a select group of owners. Scheduled to be completed at the end of 2024, the new serviced Casa Chameleon Residences offer the modern elegance and famed spirit of adventure that is synonymous with their namesake resort.

“We are delighted to unveil the new residences at Casa Chameleon Las Catalinas. These luxurious homes embrace the raw beauty of Costa Rica’s lush landscapes while offering the unparalleled sense of exclusivity and comfort that our properties are known for,” says Brent Reynolds of NRI and Casa Chameleon Hotels. “With meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to the community and sustainability, these residences redefine modern elegance in harmony with nature. We invite you to embark on a journey of refined living and unforgettable experiences, where pura vida is at your doorstep.”

The initial residences consist of four luxurious four and five-bedroom homes on the prime hotel hillside above Las Catalinas. This location offers spectacular panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Catalinas Islands, and the enchanting car-free town below.

Features of the homes include expansive outdoor living terraces, including private infinity edge pools; open great rooms connecting vast views of the ocean and sunsets with main living areas, the kitchen, and dining room; gourmet kitchens featuring premium appliances, cabinetry, and finishes; and outdoor showers and gardens, private garages, rooftop social areas.

Designed by Org Architects and outfitted with custom designer furnishings throughout, the new villas at Casa Chameleon Las Catalinas share in the casual luxury approach to living and entertaining that has defined the destination. Each flawlessly designed home highlights its natural setting, while at the same time, champions a lifestyle made possible by the services and amenities provided by Casa Chameleon.

Owners will enjoy all amenities of Casa Chameleon Hotel, including privileged access to the dining and other facilities. From the property’s award-winning restaurants to Casa Chameleon’s luxurious restorative treatments, open-air yoga classes, and rebalancing wellness programs and beyond. When in residence, owners, their families, and friends can enjoy “Casa Chameleon Discoveries”, a variety of curated local adventures and experiences arranged through the hotel. The talented concierge will also assist with dining reservations, provisioning homes, and even helping families with beach toys and chairs (the famed beach is accessed via a scenic pathway or by using a Casa Chameleon Golf Cart).

The hotel will also provide an array of services to deliver carefree ownership, both while owners are on property and away. When not in residence, the trusted staff will look after the Residences, preparing the homes for their owners’ return or renting them to guests as part of the Casa Chameleon’s hotel-managed rental program. Residence owners will have preferred access to other properties in the Nolan Reynolds International family.

In addition to the collection of design-driven villas, 15 two-, three-, and four-bedroom condominiums will offer the design standards and aesthetic of the hotel and homes, and will be the site of the Residences’ private amenities, which include a family pool, kids club, fitness offerings, and more. Designed by renowned architecture firm, Gensler Architects, all of the Condominiums have south-facing views overlooking Sugar Beach and the Pacific.

Las Catalinas is located on the Pacific coast of Guanacaste, Costa Rica’s northwestern most province; the region is well known for beaches, volcanoes, national parks, outdoor adventures, and sunsets. Casa Chameleon’s “backyard” has over 20 miles of world-class, single-track biking and hiking trails that peak scenic hilltops and descend into shaded valleys through the forest, home of monkeys, coatis, deer, and other local wildlife. The town of Las Catalinas is a safe, vibrant destination that caters to families and boasts excellent restaurants, shopping, beaches, fishing, and more.

casachameleonhotels.com/residences

As someone who has traveled the world visiting coastal resorts and residences, I am often asked how I define luxury. To me, luxury is time spent in a setting that fosters a sense of connection and tranquility. It embodies a meticulously crafted experience where every detail is thoughtfully considered and executed.

Recently, I spent a few days immersed in luxury at Mayakoba, a resort enclave located just north of the seaside village of Playa del Carmen, Mexico.

Imagine a sprawling 600-acre paradise where lagoons, lush jungles, and pristine beaches combine in a symphony of natural beauty. At the heart of this exclusive, gated oasis are its four award-winning hotels: Andaz, Banyan Tree, Fairmont, and Rosewood, each offering a distinct combination of carefully curated experiences and amenities.

But Mayakoba is more than just a temporary vacation retreat. It invites you to make it your home with its array of branded private residences, including the elegant Rosewood Residences Mayakoba, the serene Fairmont Residences Mayakoba, and the exclusive Fairmont Heritage Place Mayakoba.

Fairmont Residences: A Rare Real Estate Opportunity

Fairmont Residences Mayakoba represents a pinnacle of design in this exclusive community—and the last opportunity to own a piece of this paradise. With three newly constructed buildings, the final phase of homes offers a range of private residences and signature penthouses.

The thoughtful design and architecture of the homes at Fairmont Residences Mayakoba honor the natural environment surrounding them, with ample outdoor space and private plunge pools that perfect the indoor-outdoor lifestyle. The new interior design package, courtesy of Room 1804, infuses contemporary aesthetics into these homes. Each home features upgraded, fresh designs, with three- to four-bedroom homes ranging from 2,559 interior and 1,292 exterior square feet. Only two three-bedroom full-ownership residences remain, starting at US $2.19 million.

“When you purchase a home at Mayakoba, whether full or co-ownership, you buy a piece of an extraordinary resort destination. Buyers fall in love with Mayakoba the minute they step foot onto the property and are drawn to the exclusive luxury lifestyle the destination provides, from the homes’ impressive design and architecture to the world-class amenities, making it the perfect place for a vacation home,” says Tomas Capella, sales manager at Mayakoba.

Living the Mayakoba Dream: More Than a Home

Over the last three years, Mayakoba has been transformed through a significant $120 million refurbishment, enhancing the resort’s offerings and amenities. This upgrade by owners RLH Properties is a major event in the development’s history.

“Mayakoba is a destination where you can always find something new and exciting. We recently unveiled a fresh and contemporary redesign of the interiors at Fairmont Residences Mayakoba,” says Kappner Clark, chief marketing officer of RLH Properties. “The renovations and upgrades we make throughout the property allow Mayakoba to stand out among other resort destinations, continuously providing an experience like no other. In addition to the physical improvements to our properties,” Clark says, “we also always strive to innovate our programming offerings in order to explore new ways to engage guests and residents of all ages, such as the recent concert series with A-list Latin artists like Ricky Martin and Luis Miguel.”

Mayakoba offers an array of amenities like world-class restaurants, a LIV golf course, high-design spas, and multiple pools. And while I thoroughly enjoy the indulgences of spas, beach clubs, and lounging on daybeds, my Mayakoba favorites are centered around the natural beauty of the property’s many outdoor amenities.

I love the simple joy of grabbing one of the many beach cruisers available and pedaling around the resort, kayaking through the lagoons nestled in the mangroves, or whizzing around the shores on a sea scooter. The experience is almost dreamlike—one moment you’re enveloped in the lushness of the jungle, and the next, you’re feeling the sand between your toes.

Owning a residence in Mayakoba is not just about the property; it’s also about embracing a lifestyle. Wake up to birdsong, wander on sandy beaches, and immerse yourself in a community that values luxury and nature.

A Final Chance at Paradise

The last few residences at Fairmont Mayakoba represent more than just real estate; they are the final gems in this crown of luxury. For those seeking an exclusive, nature-intertwined sanctuary, Mayakoba awaits.

mayakoba.com, rlhproperties.com

Vie L’Ven, a luxury resort and residences with 280 units, has launched sales on the 90 private residences in the development. Slated for completion in 2028, the property is the project of Altree Developments, a Toronto-based, multi-generational, full-service development company that says Vie L’Ven is set to redefine luxury living in St. Maarten.  

Set on Indigo Bay, on the southwest, Dutch side of the island, Vie L’Ven will feature a collection of fully furnished residences, alongside a luxury five-star hotel. Designed by award-winning architectural firm HKS Architects, with interiors by Toronto’s internationally renowned, award-winning Studio Munge, the development is inspired by both French and Dutch cultures.

“Vie L’Ven seamlessly coalesces the influences of both French and Dutch cultures which are truly represented in this incomparable development through exceptional living, dining and wellness experiences,” says Zev Mandelbaum, founder of Altree. “Serving as a love letter to St. Maarten, Vie L’Ven encourages homeowners and guests to embrace living life to the fullest, while soaking in the island’s natural beauty and tranquility.” 

The residences will range from one-, one-and-a-den, and two-and-a-den-bedroom suites that will span from 600 to 6,000 square feet and will be available for purchase in a variety of layouts. Pricing ranges from $800,000 to over $2 million. Sales and marketing arebeing led by St. Maarten’s Sotheby’s International Realty.

The luxurious suites create a warm and welcoming atmosphere with a combination of playful patterns, energetic corals or oceanic blues, and woven textures all against a backdrop of soothing cream-white. Homeowners will have the option to upgrade with custom furniture packages, including full bedroom sets, living and dining room additions, and more.  

Exclusive amenities on a captivating islanfd

St. Maarten is one of the most culturally diverse destinations in the world, and is widely known for the friendliness of its people. Although petite in size, the island is easily accessible by air and sea and offers an experience for everyone, whether it be exhilarating nightlife, breathtaking views, prestigious sailing, and more. Upon completion, Vie L’Ven will be one of two five-star resorts on the island, and will provide residence owners and visitors a new standard of unmatched luxury.  

Embracing the island’s energy and diversity, Vie L’ven aims to provide a one-of-a-kind, world-class experience. Visitors and homeowners will be Immediately struck by awe-inspiring sculptural artwork, As well as touches of exquisite design: textural coral stone floors, natural oak, and more are implemented in the design and architecture to embrace the natural beauty of the setting.

Amenities will include three swimming pools, 24/7 concierge services, a kid’s center, event spaces, a superb fitness center and world-class spa with an outdoor experiential bathing garden and treatment spaces. The resort will also be home to three restaurants, including a signature restaurant, by a Michelin-starred artisan chef. 

Visit vielven.com for more information.