Latest news with #Gulf-front
Axios
23-06-2025
- Business
- Axios
Pinellas to spend $126M to nourish storm-battered beaches
Pinellas County commissioners on Tuesday pushed forward a $126 million project to shore up the county's critically eroded beaches. Why it matters: Beach nourishment, the process of dredging and piping in sand to widen and elevate a shoreline, is long overdue on Pinellas' storm-battered barrier islands. "That sand is not just there for the tourists. It's not just there for the beauty aspect of it," Commissioner Chris Latvala said. "It's there to protect infrastructure. It's there to protect people in their homes and livelihoods and lives." Driving the news: Commissioners approved 6-0, with Chair Brian Scott absent, New Jersey-based environmental construction firm Weeks Marine to carry out the project, which is slated to begin this year. The majority of the funding will come from tourism development tax revenue. The project area spans Upham Beach, Sunshine Beach on the northern tip of Treasure Island, and a stretch of Sand Key from Clearwater to Redington Beach, excluding Belleair Shore. Catch up quick: The county project bypasses a years-long stalemate with the Army Corps of Engineers, which since the mid-1990s had handled the bulk of the cost and work to nourish Pinellas beaches every five to seven years. Such projects require workers to temporarily access private land owned by Gulf-front property owners through an agreement called an easement. In recent years, the Corps reinterpreted its own rules and began requiring all property owners within a project area to grant public access to some of their land in perpetuity — and they mandated 100% participation. With efforts to sway the Corps so far unsuccessful, and with new urgency prompted by Hurricane Helene's destructive storm surge, county officials decided to move forward with their own project. Instead of the wide-ranging easements required by the Corps, the county asked residents to sign temporary construction easements that don't mandate public access. The latest: The county still lacks dozens of easements, with the vast majority in Indian Rocks Beach, Indian Shores and Redington Shores, public works director Kelli Hammer Levy told commissioners at Tuesday's meeting. Workers will skip or partially nourish those areas, she said. Yes, but: The county is still accepting easements and will continue to "right up to the last moment that we can," Hammer Levy said. What's next: Officials will continue to pressure the Corps for a solution, county administrator Barry Burton told commissioners, noting the county can't afford to nourish the beaches regularly.
Yahoo
02-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Newman-Dailey Introduces Father's Day Travel Ideas to Give Dad His Wish in Destin, Florida
A recent survey reveals that spending time with the kids is Dad's top choice for Father's Day and Destin vacation rentals allow Dad to kick back and enjoy everything he wants for the holiday weekend Father's Day in Destin, Florida Destin Vacation Rental Kitchen Destin, Fla., June 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Father's Day is June 15 this year, and many families are trying to determine what to get Dad for the holiday. A survey of 500 American Dads by YouGov revealed that most dads (58%) want to spend time with the kids followed by enjoying a meal at home (42%) and eating out (30%). To give Dad all of these things in a spectacular coastal setting, Newman-Dailey Resort Properties (NDRP) is introducing travel ideas for celebrating Father's Day in Destin, Florida. With a large selection of premier Destin vacation rental condos and homes, Newman-Dailey provides families with a home away from home for a special Father's Day celebration with the kids. 'We want to help families give Dad a very special getaway and memories that will last a lifetime,' said NDRP Founder and CEO Jeanne Dailey. 'Our vacation homes are ideal for families of all sizes. Our large luxury homes create the perfect space to bring together multiple generations so grandpas, dads, and uncles can all gather for Father's Day to grill out and spend quality time at the beach.' Many of Newman-Dailey's beach vacation homes are equipped for backyard barbecues and grill-outs. These rental homes often include a large backyard, private pool and a gas grill. Ranging from three to seven bedrooms, these large, luxury Destin rental homes can comfortably host up to 22 guests. By hosting Father's Day at a beach vacation home or Gulf-front condo with a fully-equipped kitchen, families can also serve Dad his favorite meal at home. If Dad is one among the 30% who wish to eat out, Destin is renowned for delicious coastal cuisine. Families can choose from a vast selection of restaurants along the Emerald Coast, serving dishes ranging from fresh seafood to Black Angus steak. Additionally, Destin is recognized for its variety of outdoor pursuits. From active to relaxing, there are plenty of activities in the Destin area to entertain Dad, depending on his interests. Known as the World's Luckiest Fishing Village, Destin offers an abundance of captains ready to take Dad on a chartered fishing trip. If golf is his game, dozens of Destin golf courses offer lush fairways and challenging holes for a fun day on the links. Nestled along the emerald green waters of the Gulf, watersports and boating excursions are plentiful. Families can visit Destin Vacation Boat Rentals to rent a pontoon boat for an enjoyable outing to Crab Island or rent jet skis for a more adventurous tour out on the water. For the Dad who wants to relax, most Newman-Dailey vacation rentals include seasonal beach service, ensuring two chairs and an umbrella are set up on the beach each day for his enjoyment. While a large percentage of dads (32%) say they did not want to receive any gifts, some dads noted enjoying receiving apparel and gadgets, Silver Sands Premium Outlets is home to many of Dad's favorite stores, including Greg Norman, Nike, Oakley, Adidas, Brooks Brother's, Columbia, Eddie Bauer, J Crew, Lacoste, Samsonite, Tommy Hilfiger and Under Armour. These outlet stores offer Dad's favorite merchandise at up to 60% off retail prices. For added savings, guests of Newman-Dailey enjoy exclusive discounts to area restaurants, activities, and attractions. If Dad enjoys a meal on the water, SunQuest Cruises is offering a special Father's Day lunch cruise, featuring a delicious three-course meal and spectacular views of the Choctawhatchee Bay. As a bonus, families staying with Newman-Dailey receive 20 percent off Solaris dinner cruises. With Newman-Dailey's wide range of beach vacation rental homes and Destin condos, families have many options for their Father's Day celebration. Ranked "Excellent" on TripAdvisor, Newman-Dailey Resort Properties manages hundreds of premier vacation rentals, including well-appointed condominiums at resorts, including Sanctuary at Redfish along Highway 30A, Hidden Dunes Beach & Racquet Resort in Miramar Beach, Emerald Dunes in Crystal Beach, and Jade East Condos in Destin. For more information, call 850-837-1071 or visit ### About Newman-Dailey Resort Properties, Resort Properties is a premier vacation rental, real estate sales and association management company located in Miramar Beach, Fla. Founded in 1985, Newman-Dailey is celebrating 40 years of welcoming guests to the beaches of South Walton and Destin, Fla. Recognized for excellence, integrity and professionalism, Newman-Dailey consistently receives the "Certificate of Excellence" for positive reviews on TripAdvisor. The Real Estate Division is consistently listed among the top 10 percent of real estate companies along the Emerald Coast for sales. For more sales or rental information, call 850-837-1071, or visit online at or Attachments Father's Day in Destin, Florida Destin Vacation Rental Kitchen CONTACT: Tracy Louthain Newman-Dailey Resort Properties 8508371071 tlouthain@
New York Post
08-05-2025
- Business
- New York Post
This former Florida fishing village is becoming the ‘Palm Beach of the Gulf Coast' — and a home to billionaires
Looks like this unassuming beach enclave is flexing its mussels. Once a modest fishing town known for its snowbird retirees, Naples, Florida has quietly reinvented itself as one of America's most exclusive communities. With its mix of Gulf-front mansions, cultural appeal and low-profile opulence, the city is drawing a steady tide of billionaires — and earning comparisons to Palm Beach in the process. 'It's a quiet enclave of luxury living,' Naples-based luxury realtor PJ Smith told the Daily Mail. 'The famous, uber-wealthy live in Naples under the radar and they love it.' 11 Once a quiet fishing village for retirees, Naples, Florida has transformed into a discreet yet opulent haven for the ultra-wealthy, earning it the nickname 'Palm Beach of the Gulf Coast.' UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images 11 Boasting pristine beaches, no state income tax and a charming old-world vibe, Naples now attracts billionaires. Jeff Greenberg/Universal Images Group via Getty Images Over the past few years, Naples has experienced a wave of record-setting real estate deals. Billionaire businessman David Hoffmann recently purchased an $85 million mansion originally built for a private owner. 11 Colored condos on the Cabana Bayfront in Naples. UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images But that transaction was eclipsed by a $225 million off-market sale involving a 15-acre compound with three separate estates — a new high watermark for Florida's housing market. In February 2024, a 17,000-plus-square-foot estate situated on 5 acres was listed for $295 million, earning the title as the most expensive home in America at the time. But in January, the price of the home was reduced to $210 million, where it still remains on the market. As ultra-high-net-worth individuals continue to descend on the Gulf Coast, Naples has gained a reputation as the go-to destination for those seeking both glamour and anonymity. In 2024, U.S. News & World Report named it the top place to live in the country, describing it as the 'preferred retirement spot for the rich, powerful and cold-averse.' 11 Celebrities like Judge Judy have moved to the community. Getty Images 11 Founders of Papa John's — pictured here — and Best Buy also call Naples, Florida home. Icon Sportswire via Getty Images 'It's a very culturally interesting place, but it's also very under the radar,' Angela Lutzi Dellatorè, a Naples luxury estate agent, told Daily Mail. 'The whole world is your oyster right here.' High-profile names such as Judge Judy Sheindlin, Best Buy founder Richard Schulze and Papa John's creator John Schnatter have all settled in the area. The city's most elite neighborhoods — Port Royal, Park Shore, Pelican Bay and Grey Oaks — feature private docks, beachfront access and championship golf courses. 11 Luxury beachfront estates have sold for as much as $225 million in this low-key paradise. Jeff Greenberg/Universal Images Group via Getty Images 11 In Naples, private airports, yacht-friendly docks and concierge services cater to high-net-worth lifestyles. The Ritz-Carlton, Naples Gated communities with tailored concierge services offer privacy, safety and ease of living for those who prefer to delegate the logistics of daily life. Dellatorè noted that Naples appeals to the ultra-wealthy because of its understated elegance. 'There are so many wealthy people that live here and they choose Naples because nobody pays attention,' she said. 'It's a very casual atmosphere.' Even casual comes with a price tag. 11 The city's most exclusive neighborhoods — like Port Royal and Pelican Bay — offer waterfront mega-mansions, private beach clubs, championship golf and top-tier security. The Ritz-Carlton, Naples 11 Naples also scores high on quality-of-life metrics: it's the happiest city in America, the Pickleball Capital of the World and a certified Blue Zone for longevity. marchello74 – Helicopter pads, members-only clubs, and waterfront estates are increasingly common. The downtown area has seen a boom in luxury development, including the debut of the high-rise Ascent at Metropolitan Naples, where apartments overlook the Gulf. Naples also offers lifestyle perks beyond real estate. The city is a designated 'Blue Zone,' recognized for its high concentration of centenarians. Residents prioritize health-conscious living, aided by restaurants and stores like Seed to Table that emphasize chemical-free produce. 11 Naples is also home to organic markets, top hospitals and plenty of fun in the sun. Jonah Hinebaugh/Naples Daily News/USA Today Network-Florida / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images 11 In Naples, helicopter pads and high-rises are becoming the norm for its billionaire residents. Jeff Greenberg/Universal Images Group via Getty Images 'Naples has been very much involved in trying to help people understand how they can live a long and healthy life,' said Dellatorè. Cultural offerings such as Artis–Naples and the Naples Philharmonic provide entertainment, while activities like boating, golf, tennis and pickleball cater to the city's active, affluent crowd. 'Boat slightly north and you have restaurants and shopping and museums and there's a fine arts center that has Broadway plays,' said Dellatorè. 'It's a very culturally interesting place.' While markets in other parts of Florida — like Miami — face slowing sales, price cuts and high deal cancellation rates, Naples remains buoyant. 'The collapse in demand in Miami's housing market is breathtaking,' wrote Nick Gerli, CEO of real estate analytics firm Reventure App, on X. In contrast, Naples continues to attract cash-rich buyers undeterred by volatility elsewhere. Whether it's the flip-flops-and-lunch crowd or those flying private to Europe, Naples has carved out a unique niche. As Dellatorè put it, 'The reason that people are drawn to this area has so much to do with the downtown area being right by the waterside.'
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Travel + Leisure
05-05-2025
- Travel + Leisure
This Is the Most Affordable Beach Vacation Destination in the U.S. Is in a Surprising Texas City
Planning a summer beach vacation might not be at the top of your to-do list right now—the wild prices of staples like eggs and milk mean that everyone has to be a little more budget-conscious this year. But a new study from finds that it is still possible to take an affordable beach vacation this year—it just might not be in the cities you usually associate with sandy shores, extra sunblock, and turquoise waters. The study named Pasadena, Texas, is the most affordable beach destination in the United States, among both big and small cities. Pasadena isn't super walkable, but for all other factors combined, it adds up to having the lowest costs across the board. Vacationers will spend an average of $1,549 for two people when staying in a hotel. Methodology The study evaluated large and small city beach towns to determine which destinations would make the smallest dent in your bank account. To create the ranking matrix, the report analyzed various factors, including what the costs would be for two adults in each location. This includes weekend dining costs, everyday expenses, airfare, hotel rates, vacation rental rates, walkability, and price volatility. This last one is important because it accounts for the seasonal price changes that many popular destinations have throughout the year. For many people, the Texas city might not jump out as an obvious beach destination. It is named after the significantly more well-known Pasadena, California, and is just down the road from the much more popular Galveston, Texas. But just because it doesn't have the name recognition of Miami or Malibu doesn't mean it doesn't have some beautiful coastline to enjoy. The city has access to several beaches, including El Jardin Beach Park and Sylvan Beach—and isn't too far from some famous barrier islands like Red Fish Island and Brother Island Beach. Pasadena is also only a short drive away from Houston, which means that you can also get some time exploring the city's vibrant art scene and maybe even catch a rodeo. If you're looking for even more Gulf-front beach towns on the Texas Coast, Travel + Leisure has you covered with a guide to the best Texas beaches. And if you're looking for other affordable beach destinations across the U.S., you'll find plenty in the study. For more small town affordability, you can consider Hialeah, Florida, or Elizabeth, New Jersey. For big city options, consider Long Beach, California, or Tampa.
Yahoo
16-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
For Florida real estate, the millionaire migration continues to intensify
For decades, Florida has been synonymous with retirement – a haven for snowbirds and retirees seeking refuge from harsh winters. Today, however, the state has evolved far beyond its traditional role, emerging as a premier hub for wealth migration in the United States. High-net-worth individuals and affluent young professionals from across the country and around the world are increasingly calling Florida home, drawn by its financial advantages, lifestyle offerings, and thriving luxury real estate market. Recent data underscores this transformation. During the COVID-19 era, Florida recorded a net gain of 1,786 young households earning $200,000 or more annually in 2022, making it the top destination for affluent Americans aged 26 to 35, according to a SmartAsset study. Over the broader COVID period, the state experienced an estimated net income gain of over $75 billion. This migration trend has only accelerated in recent years. The latest Henley & Partners 2024 USA Wealth Report confirms that Florida, along with Texas, is attracting a growing share of high-net-worth individuals while strengthening its luxury property markets. Interestingly, despite Texas being a top wealth migration destination itself, it also ranks among the top five states sending residents to Florida. While several factors contribute to Florida's appeal, its tax policies remain one of its most compelling advantages. The absence of a state income tax offers significant financial savings, particularly for high earners, business owners, and investors seeking relief from the high-tax burdens of states like California, New York, and New Jersey. Additionally, Florida imposes no estate or inheritance taxes, making it a strategic choice for long-term wealth preservation. When combined with the homestead exemption and the lack of a state-level capital gains tax, these incentives create a uniquely favorable financial environment. Beyond its tax benefits, Florida delivers an enviable lifestyle that continues to attract affluent buyers. According to Sotheby's International Realty's 2025 Luxury Outlook, the trend of millionaires on the move is intensifying, further solidifying Florida's status as a premier destination for the ultra-wealthy. The effects of wealth attraction are particularly evident along the Gulf Coast, where luxury developments are reaching new heights. Ultra-luxury Gulf-front condominiums now command prices as high as $5,000 per square foot – figures that seemed inconceivable just a few years ago. Such valuations, once exclusive to markets like New York City, Los Angeles, and Miami, underscore the area's growing appeal to an elite class of buyers. This influx of wealth has also fueled the rise of branded residences, a concept previously rare in our markets. This migration is not just a U.S. trend; it is a global phenomenon. The Henley & Partners Wealth Report estimates that 134,000 high-net-worth individuals relocated worldwide in 2024, surpassing initial projections. Within the U.S., this trend is expected to continue as an estimated $84 trillion in generational wealth transfers from the Silent Generation and Baby Boomers to their children and grandchildren by 2045, according to Investopedia. In response, the luxury market is evolving to align with the preferences and lifestyles of younger generations. Despite this surge in high-net-worth migration, Florida's total population has not seen a dramatic increase most recently as outward migration has accelerated at a comparable rate. According to Census Bureau, data for the year ending June 30, 2024, Florida grew at twice the national average, yet net migration declined by 90% from its 2022 peak. This slowdown reflects growing affordability challenges, rising insurance costs, and sentiment among some long-term residents that Florida's rapid transformation is altering the state's character. As a result, true population growth remained minimal, with nearly as many residents leaving as arriving. At present, Florida's overall growth rate is being reshaped by what appears to be an economic shift rather than a population surge. The state is experiencing a reconfiguration of demographics as wealthier individuals replace those leaving due to rising costs. This is perhaps unsurprising, given that median home prices in Florida have risen approximately 75% over the past five years. While Florida's population dynamics may be shifting, its economic and real estate markets continue to be transformed by an influx of high-net-worth individuals. As luxury migration drives demand for ultra-premium properties and upscale lifestyle offerings, the state's housing market and infrastructure are evolving to cater to an increasingly affluent demographic. Though affordability concerns have prompted some residents to relocate elsewhere, Florida's enduring appeal to the world's wealthiest remains strong. Whether this trend will redefine the state's long-term identity remains to be seen, but for now, Florida stands as a beacon for those seeking financial advantages, luxury living, and generational wealth preservation. Budge Huskey is chief executive officer of Premier Sotheby's International Realty. This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: BUDGE HUSKEY: What is Florida's attraction for the ultra wealthy?
