5 Coastal Florida Retreats with Marina Access and Island Living

Along the water’s edge in Saint Augustine, this condominium is part of an exclusive enclave designed with boaters in mind. Each residence includes its own boat slip, creating an easy rhythm for days that begin on the dock and end back at home. From here, direct access to the St. Augustine ocean inlet puts open-water outings within simple reach, whether you’re heading out at sunrise or returning after an afternoon on the water. The setting balances a sense of privacy with a connected, coastal lifestyle—more retreat than typical city living, yet close to the texture and history of Saint Augustine. For anyone who measures home by time spent afloat, this is a place where the shoreline becomes part of everyday routine.

Along the water’s edge in Harbour Landings at Gulf Harbour, this entire-floor condominium balances privacy with a front-row seat to the 10th and 14th fairways and the shimmering lakes beyond. Natural light moves through an open-concept plan designed for easy entertaining, anchored by a remodeled chef’s kitchen with granite countertops, rich wood cabinetry, a designer backsplash with listello detail, an under-lit island, and stainless steel appliances including a new refrigerator and dishwasher. A wet bar with refrigerator and sink adds a polished touch. Two open-air lanais extend the living space—one oriented to tranquil marina views, the other oversized for watching golfers and native wildlife. The primary suite includes a seating area and a remodeled bath with seamless glass walk-in shower, freestanding soaking tub, dual granite vanities, and a custom walk-in closet, all complemented by hurricane protection and a private elevator.

Along the water’s edge in St. Augustine, this rarely available upper-level condo in the Marina Homes section of the Villages of Vilano pairs a coveted vantage point with an easy, updated interior. Overlooking the Intracoastal, the home frames the daily “congo line” of boats, exceptional birding and wildlife, and sunsets that can be enjoyed from the open-air deck as well as the living room and two master suites. The kitchen has been thoughtfully refreshed with Quartz counters, new appliances, soft-close cabinetry, high-end fixtures, and a wine refrigerator designed for 40+ bottles. Beyond the front door, the complex offers an oceanfront walkover, two pools, and tennis and pickleball courts—inviting days that move naturally between water, sky, and a relaxed coastal rhythm.

Steps from the emerald shoreline on Okaloosa Island, this newly built residence balances modern coastal ease with refined craftsmanship. Wide-plank engineered wood flooring, soaring 10-foot ceilings, and solid oak doors create a calm sense of scale throughout. The gourmet kitchen anchors daily life with quartz countertops, extended cabinetry, a 48-inch Forno gas range with double oven, and an oversized island designed for lingering conversations. On the first floor, the primary suite feels quietly restorative, paired with a spa-inspired bath featuring a floor-to-ceiling tiled shower, dual shower heads, and a floating double vanity, plus direct access to the backyard. Upstairs, a secondary living area opens to a covered balcony overlooking Santa Rosa Sound. A covered porch with tongue-and-groove ceilings and a summer kitchen sets the tone for evenings outdoors.

On a large corner lot in Vero Beach’s Hutchinson Island community, this spacious residence balances everyday comfort with easy outdoor living. A sparkling screened-in pool anchors the generous patio area, framed by well-maintained landscaping for a relaxed, at-home feel. Inside, the layout includes three bedrooms and two full baths, plus an addition that adds a fourth bedroom and third full bath—ideal for flexible living arrangements. A large family room with a wood-burning fireplace creates a warm gathering space, while cedar-lined bedroom closets bring a thoughtful, classic touch. Practical upgrades include high-impact windows and a high-impact patio door, along with a new roof and new AC ducts completed in 2025. Even simple routines feel elevated with these easygoing indoor-outdoor rhythms.