Plan Your Fall Coastal Getaway

As fall approaches, there is no better time to escape to a seaside destination that still offers up fresh saltwater air without the seasonal crowds. Fortunately, the Christie’s International Real Estate network spans both coasts and beyond, so we spoke with some Christie’s International Real Estate Affiliate owners and agents in coastal destinations to get their expert opinion on what they love about the places they call home – and sell homes.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Joanna Dresser with LandVest Christie’s International Real Estate and Doug Grattan with Christie’s International Real Estate Atlantic Brokerage are both partial to Cape Cod. Dresser, a Mattapoisett, Massachusetts resident, noted that during the off-season, the towns within the Cape are far more manageable to navigate as there is less traffic. Adding that the water is still warm into October, she said “Cape Cod National Seashore is a must!”

A resident of the Cape since 2005, Grattan said, “The ocean air everywhere makes for a very positive vibe.” Some of his favorite towns include Chatham, Provincetown, Nantucket and Osterville. For a stay that is second-to-none, he recommends the Chatham Bars Inn or the White Elephant on Nantucket. Grattan added that Provincetown – or P-Town, as it’s affectionately known – is a renowned mecca for artists, musicians and actors and features world-class dining including The Mews Restaurant & Café.

Newport, Rhode Island

Newport natives Leslie Hogan and Matt Hadfield are the co-owners of Hogan Associates Christie’s International Real Estate, and their affinity for Newport goes beyond their love of the local real estate market. According to Hogan and Hadfield, there is plenty to do throughout autumn, including the Newport International Boat Show and Bowen’s Wharf Seafood Festival – which serves up the area’s most celebrated seafood dishes. The Vanderbilt Hotel offers exquisite lodging for your stay, and Hogan added Thames Street Kitchen (tsk) is the perfect spot for locally sourced fare with a unique twist on classic cuisine.

Northern New Jersey

Head “down the shore” to discover the quaint Northern New Jersey gems of Rumson, Fair Haven, Sea Bright, Little Silver, and Red Bank. Elaine Eadon, with Christie’s International Real Estate Northern New Jersey, recommends as much outdoor activity as possible when visiting the area and said surfing, boogie boarding, fishing, crabbing and boating remain popular in autumn. For those who prefer the land, Gateway National Recreation Area offers 27,000 acres filled with activities, including the still-functioning Sandy Hook Lighthouse – now an over-200-year-old National Historic Landmark.

If you’re looking for places to stay, Eadon suggested the Oyster Point Hotel on the Navesink River and said Anjelica’s in Sea Bright features not-to-be-missed, authentic Italian cuisine.

The Sunshine State

From West Palm to the Panhandle, Florida is home to a number of beautiful destinations. Born and raised in West Palm Beach, Liz Nunes with Illustrated Properties Christie’s International Real Estate said there’s a plethora of options in the area. Just south of Jupiter in Juno Beach, the Loggerhead Marinelife Center focuses on turtle research, rescue and rehab. In Jupiter, the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum is a popular attraction. For those visiting from Chicago, Nunes recommends 1000 North, an upscale restaurant owned by the legend himself, Michael Jordan.

If it’s the Gulf of Mexico you prefer, WaterColor, Seaside or Rosemary Beach are the places to be. Adam Miller with Christie’s International Real Estate Go to the Beach said Midwesterners have always been attracted to the panhandle oasis “for its slower pace, impeccable white sand beaches and emerald water.” Miller added that The Pearl or WaterColor Inn both offer charming accommodations in these newly-designed, urban-based seaside towns.

Northern California

Head up the jaw-dropping Highway One for the ultimate Northern California experience. From breathtaking views in Big Sur to surfing in Santa Cruz, Tom Brezsny of Christie’s International Real Estate Sereno says you won’t be disappointed. He added the outdoor adventures along the coast are endless whether you choose to kayak in Elkhart, hike the Corralitos Wine Trail or bike to the Point Pinos Lighthouse. If you have a penchant for golf, look no further than Pebble Beach.

Known for their outstanding accommodations, as well as fine wine and cuisine, Hyatt Carmel Highlands and Bernardus Lodge & Spa are both great options for some R&R after your excursions.