5 Distinctive Florida Coastal Homes, from St. Pete to Naples

On Sunshine Drive S in St Petersburg, The Willingham House stands within St Pete’s “Pink Streets” as a rare, inhabitable work of art. Designed and constructed by Al Willingham for his wife, Eleanor, the home takes the form of a dodecagon—twelve sides that set it apart as a truly singular custom residential masterpiece. Begun in August of 1970, its story is rooted in a simple brief: a Sunshine State address in the Sunshine City, with character, space, and—above all—sunshine. The result is described as voluminous and bright, a modern, one-of-a-kind interior experience unlike anything else nearby. Living here feels less like occupying a typical residence and more like stepping into a personal architectural narrative, where light and geometry shape the day.

On Sandhill Lake Drive in Sarasota, this residence is defined by a long list of upgrades—so extensive the complete inventory is provided separately. Inside, the foyer sets a composed tone with 10-foot ceilings, 8-inch doorways, Mohawk laminate floors, and crown molding throughout, creating clean lines and a sense of continuity from room to room. The layout begins with three bedrooms plus an office, offering flexibility for daily routines, quiet work time, and comfortable hosting. Practicality is thoughtfully handled as well: two separate garages provide three covered parking spaces, including one attached to the guest wing for added convenience and privacy. Here, the ease of a well-finished interior meets the simple pleasure of coming home in sunny Sarasota.

Along the Gulf front on Manasota Key, The Palms offers an intimate, 12-residence enclave with direct beach access just steps from your door. Set on the second floor, this 3BR/3BA condo captures Gulf views and pairs them with refined coastal finishes for an easy, relaxed backdrop to daily life. The residence comes fully furnished, streamlining the move-in experience and letting you settle in with simplicity. Owners enjoy dedicated under-building parking and a private heated pool shared exclusively within the community—thoughtful amenities that keep the focus on the water and the quiet rhythm of the shore. From this prime south-end location, it’s a short walk to dining and shops, balancing beachfront retreat with everyday convenience.

Along the water’s edge in SW Cape Coral, this modern courtyard-style Gulf-access home sits on a .32-acre corner lot with a distinctive ranch-style layout. Recently remodeled, it includes a detached guest suite with kitchenette, refrigerator, and a walk-in shower that also functions as a pool bath. The bright, redesigned kitchen centers on a Quartz waterfall island and countertops, paired with custom soft-close cabinetry, cathedral ceilings, and Samsung stainless steel appliances. A Jack-and-Jill bathroom smartly connects two guest rooms, while a guest—or flex—room opens to a generous sun deck overlooking the water and Florida sunsets. For boaters, an 8,000-pound lift adds ease to days on the Gulf. A two-car garage and curved driveway round out the setting, with Cape Harbour Marina and The Westin a short distance away.

Steps from the sugar-sand beach in the heart of Olde Naples, this charming condo at The Mariner places daily life on a distinctly coastal rhythm. Located directly across the street from the iconic Naples Pier and moments from world-famous Fifth Avenue South, the setting pairs morning walks along the Gulf with afternoons by the water and evenings spent among fine dining, boutique shopping, art galleries, and vibrant nightlife. Inside, the residence has been thoughtfully updated throughout for a move-in-ready retreat that still honors the neighborhood’s enduring appeal. Impact-resistant windows add peace of mind and energy efficiency, while additional private storage is a welcome advantage for beach living. Completely renovated walls, kitchen, and bathrooms create a clean, fresh, modern interior, and the original flooring remains—adding character and an authentic coastal feel that suits this historic beachside enclave.