The luxury seaside property market is characterised by structurally limited supply and sustained international demand. The BARNES Top 5 Seaside 2025 is led for the first time by Palm Beach, ahead of St. Barts and the Hamptons.
1. Palm Beach, Florida | USA
With some 30 idyllic beaches on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean and more than 160 golf courses, Palm Beach Island is known as the haven of billionaires. Stretching 15 miles from north to south and just over a mile wide, it is connected to the mainland by highway bridges. The Palm Beach coastline is scattered with dream hotels, century-old homes among the country's most elegant, and private golf clubs including the famous Mar-a-Lago. Home to 10,000 residents, the island's real estate market is as exceptional as it is exclusive.
2. St. Barts, French West Indies
Saint Barthelemy, one of the most popular islands in the French West Indies, is the ultimate idyllic, luxury location. Its attractive climate, picturesque landscapes and gastronomy hold a powerful draw for the elite. The island's vibrant colours and luminous atmosphere blend seamlessly with a uniquely Caribbean interpretation of the French art de vivre. The market core revolves around properties priced between 7 and 12 million euros.
3. The Hamptons, New York | USA
The Hamptons form the northeastern tip of Long Island, in the State of New York. This former fishing area with its unspoilt splendour has been the summer retreat for wealthy New Yorkers since the 1970s. They come to enjoy 25 miles of white sandy beaches and the ever-present seaside charm. Whereas 2023 saw a sharp slowdown, 2024 marked an upturn with a significant increase in the number of transactions.
4. Cote d'Azur (Var/Saint-Tropez/Nice/Cannes), France
The Cote d'Azur is one of the most emblematic seaside destinations in the world. From Saint-Tropez to Cannes via Nice and the Golden Triangle (Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Beaulieu, Villefranche), it offers an incomparable range of experiences. Prices have stabilised after years of rises, a sign of remarkable maturity and resilience. American buyers have notably rekindled their love of the Var Coast in 2024.
5. Santa Teresa, Costa Rica
On the sands of the Pacific Coast, in the Puntarenas Province, Santa Teresa is an incredible confluence of jungle and ocean. This enchanting destination is teeming with pristine white sandy beaches bordered by lush tropical vegetation, creating a village atmosphere similar to that of Cap Ferret but with a unique jungle touch. Famed for its high profitability and exclusivity, Santa Teresa strikes the perfect balance between relaxation off the beaten track and discreet elegance.