Beach home bargain hunt: Coastal swaps for a fraction of the Hamptons
Beautiful beach pads that won’t break the bank
Who needs the Hamptons when you can find fabulous beach houses across America at a fraction of the cost? From the shores of New Jersey to Florida and Texas, these stunning properties offer an oceanfront oasis minus the hefty price tag. Take a look around these bargain beach homes in America's savviest seaside spots...
Hamptons house: Sag Harbor, New York, $3 million (£2.4m)
On the market for $3 million (£2.4m), this pricey pad in the exclusive Sag Harbor area of New York offers a luxurious waterfront retreat for the wealthy. With three bedrooms, the price tag doesn't stretch too far, though the private dock is a big bonus. Nevertheless, there's no need to empty your wallet to afford a characterful coastal home like this if you're willing to look outside of New York.
Margaret Rudd & Associates
Bargain house: Oak Island, North Carolina, $459,500 (£361k)
A great swap at an affordable price, this pretty yellow clapboard cottage on stilts is perched right on the beachfront and enjoys uninterrupted sea views. With three bedrooms and two bathrooms, there's plenty of space for a family and at just $459,500 (£361k), it's a real steal.
Margaret Rudd & Associates
Bargain house: Oak Island, North Carolina, $459,500 (£361k)
Inside, bright colours abound with a nautical theme of sunny yellow and azure blue. The cosy living room flows through to the kitchen and opens out onto a spacious deck, making it a sociable space to relax after a day of swimming and sunbathing. Laid with hardwood floors throughout, there are swathes of windows to maximise the dreamy views.
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Margaret Rudd & Associates
Bargain house: Oak Island, North Carolina, $459,500 (£361k)
When it comes to accommodation, there are two double bedrooms and a twin bedroom that is perfect for kids. At the back of the house, you'll also find a covered porch that extends the main lounge into an indoor/outdoor living space, so you can enjoy the fresh sea air even when it’s raining.
Margaret Rudd & Associates
Bargain house: Oak Island, North Carolina, $459,500 (£361k)
Steps away from the vast deck, a path leads directly onto the white sandy beach. Oak Island is a charming beach town separated from the mainland by an inland waterway. There are walking trails available in the Oak Island Nature Centre, plus a lighthouse with sweeping coastal views.
Hamptons house: Southampton, New York, $2.4 million (£1.9m)
This quaint three-bedroom home in Southampton has a whimsical pastel green facade, however, its listed price of $2.4 million (£1.9m) will set you back more than a few bucks. For all of the charm at a reduced cost, consider searching for a property in America's scenic southern states instead.
Bargain house: Crystal Beach, Texas, $545,000 (£428k)
Turning up the colour and slashing down the price tag, this bright three-bed beach house is nestled in the tranquil seaside community of Crystal Beach in the middle of the Bolivar Peninsula, 17 miles from the city of Galveston.
Bargain house: Crystal Beach, Texas, $545,000 (£428k)
Crisp neutral decor and warm wood floors flow throughout the open-plan living room, which encompasses the kitchen and dining area too. Large picture windows flood the home with plenty of light and draw in fabulous views across the Gulf of Mexico.
Bargain house: Crystal Beach, Texas, $545,000 (£428k)
Cosy and traditional, the master bedroom suite has its own private balcony so you can take in the sea air as soon as you wake up. Ideal for a family or those who enjoy hosting guests, there's also a twin room and a double guest room.
Bargain house: Crystal Beach, Texas, $545,000 (£428k)
The large deck has colourful retro seating and sun loungers – just imagine kicking back and sipping a drink at sunset here. What's more, you’re just a short stroll from the waterfront and the dazzling sand beaches.
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Hamptons house: Sag Harbor, New York, $3.9 million (£3.1m)
A colonial-style gem in the heart of Sag Harbor, this historic three-bed property dates all the way back to 1890. However, you'll pay a hefty price for this piece of history – $3.9 million (£3.1m) to be exact. But if you're open to something a little more modern on the shores of Mississippi, you could bag yourself a bargain...
Bargain house: Gulfport, Mississippi, $649,900 (£515k)
Inspired by colonial architecture, this stunning brand new home on the shores of Gulfport, Mississippi, is one of the best bargains we've spotted yet at a mere $649,900 (£515k). A great deal for a slice of luxury oceanfront living, this beautiful three-bed home is even more stunning inside, with a luxurious super-stylish interior.
Bargain house: Gulfport, Mississippi, $649,900 (£515k)
Inside, the property has been fitted out with luxury fixtures, like this smart white and grey kitchen with quartz countertops. A white subway-tiled splashback offers an industrial-inspired edge, while the decorative mural over the range cooker creates a stylish focal point.
Bargain house: Gulfport, Mississippi, $649,900 (£515k)
No expense has been spared in this opulent ocean home. The residence's four bathrooms are each done out to the highest of standards, with this scheme featuring an enormous walk-in shower with his-and-hers sinks. Elsewhere, the master suite includes a vast walk-in closet that'll accommodate the largest of holiday wardrobes.
Bargain house: Gulfport, Mississippi, $649,900 (£515k)
Outside, extensive wraparound decks on both the ground and first floor offer a tranquil place to soak up the Mississippi sun. Just a short walk from the white-sand beach, you can be swimming in the Gulf of Mexico in moments. Within close proximity of the centre of Gulfport and its array of eateries and retail stores, this well-located home offers the best of the city and the shore.
Hamptons house: Westhampton Beach, New York, $4 million (£3.2m)
Located in the millionaire's playground of Westhampton Beach, this quintessential white beach house is more of a palatial mansion. With four bedrooms and five bathrooms it's a steep ask at $4 million (£3.2m), but skip down the coast a few states and you might just stumble upon a real deal.
Bargain house: Oak Island, North Carolina, $739,900 (£583k)
Built in 1968 but redecorated inside and out, this beach house in North Carolina features extra protection against high tides thanks to its raised position and bulkhead wall. With a generous four bedrooms, it's an affordable coastal retreat where the whole family can relax and unwind.
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Bargain house: Oak Island, North Carolina, $739,900 (£583k)
Decked out in a bright coastal blue, the open-plan living room incorporates a formal dining area too. Picture windows draw in ocean vistas, while the kitchen has been recently revamped and fitted with new electrics and plumbing.
Bargain house: Oak Island, North Carolina, $739,900 (£583k)
With wood-effect clapboard cladding, the bedrooms continue the vibrant nautical colour scheme. There are three double bedrooms and one room featuring two sets of bunk beds – perfect if you’re accommodating children. The furniture also comes as part of the deal so you can move straight in.
Bargain house: Oak Island, North Carolina, $739,900 (£583k)
With direct access to the beach, the ocean is literally right on your doorstep and there’s plenty of room on the deck to soak up the views. Handy amenities nearby include a fitness centre, tennis and basketball courts, a restaurant, golf course and a playground. What more could you want?
Hamptons house: Quogue, New York, $11.9 million (£9.5m)
At 6,200 square feet, this five-bed luxury home on the water in the pricey Long Island village of Quogue is a real show-stopper, though at $11.9 million (£9.5m), it's way out of budget for the average buyer. Don't despair – there're plenty more affordable options if you're will to look further afield.
Bargain house: Avon, North Carolina, $750,000 (£592k)
This beautiful three-storey home has five bedrooms and a top-floor living area that really makes the most of the property's oceanfront position. Oozing curb appeal, it looks far more expensive than its meagre price tag of $750,000 (£592k).
Bargain house: Avon, North Carolina, $750,000 (£592k)
The open-plan kitchen, dining and living area has a vaulted ceiling with warm wooden beams that impart an airy, welcoming feel to the space. Luxury quartz worktops adorn the kitchen, while a large L-shaped island seats four people for more casual meals. Elsewhere on the same floor, you'll find the two master bedrooms which offer comfortable spots to slumber.
Bargain house: Avon, North Carolina, $750,000 (£592k)
The bottom floor is where the fun happens in this impressive games room, complete with a pool table, mini fridge and ice maker. Outside on the deck, you'll find a six-person hot tub, two outdoor showers and a covered barbecue area, while the beach is just a few steps away.
Bargain house: Avon, North Carolina, $750,000 (£592k)
This large deck has plenty of room to host guests overlooking the tranquil ocean vistas, while storm shutters will protect the house when the weather gets wild. Bustling Avon Pier is just a short walk away along with an array of shops and restaurants.
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Hamptons house: Westhampton Beach, New York, $5.5 million (£4.4m)
This contemporary five-bed has an undoubtedly amazing location overlooking tranquil Westhampton Beach. If your wallet can't stretch to the $5.5 million (£4.4m) price tag, you can still get a taste of stylish seaside living without splashing out millions.
Bargain house: Dauphin Island, Alabama, $850,000 (£667k)
Found on Alabama's idyllic Dauphin Island, this lovely five-bedroom house is surrounded by sugar-white sand. Its elevated position, raised on wooden stilts, guarantees fabulous views across the Gulf of Mexico. In a rush to relocate? Furniture is even included in the bargain sale price of $850,000 (£667k).
Bargain house: Dauphin Island, Alabama, $850,000 (£667k)
Inside, airy open-plan living abounds, with this stylish multi-purpose room framed by an impressive vaulted ceiling. The kitchen features granite worktops and top-of-the-range appliances, while French doors lead out onto an idyllic sun terrace.
Bargain house: Dauphin Island, Alabama, $850,000 (£667k)
A nautical theme carries throughout the home's interiors, with rustic pale blue wood cladding and an array of natural textures. Two of the bedrooms face the Gulf and have direct access to the deck. Upstairs, meanwhile, is a large loft space with its own bathroom and two sets of built-in bunk beds, so there’s plenty of room for guests for all ages.
Bargain house: Dauphin Island, Alabama, $850,000 (£667k)
The spacious porch has to be our favourite feature, with a comfy covered seating area and dining spot so you can enjoy the rush of the ocean no matter the weather. Home to several bird sanctuaries, Dauphin Island is a nature-lovers paradise, with access to the mainland available via a bridge
Hamptons house: Montauk, New York, $19.9 million ($15.8m)
Only 180 feet from the Atlantic Ocean, this stunning mansion seems to tick every box. However, with a mere three bedrooms, its colossal price of $19.9 million ($15.8m) does seem a little excessive. Outside of this exclusive New York enclave, you'll find costs are a little more reasonable.
Bargain house: Placida, Florida, $987,000 (£779k)
Located in the Palm Island Resort on the west coast of Florida’s peninsula, this gorgeous three-bed home make a great first impression with a stunning double staircase leading up to the grand first-floor entrance. Once more, at $987,000 (£779k), it won't leave you penniless.
Bargain house: Placida, Florida, $987,000 (£779k)
Perfect for parties, there’s a bright and spacious living area that leads through to a formal dining room, which can comfortably accommodate six people for dinner. Ceramic tiled flooring throughout the home remains cool underfoot, even on humid Florida days.
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Bargain house: Placida, Florida, $987,000 (£779k)
The traditional kitchen has a central island, offering plenty of space to cook up a storm – plus you can admire those spectacular sea views while you whip up a meal. The cream doors and granite worktops add a light and airy feel to the space, while a back-lit recess in the ceiling creates a sense of grandeur.
Bargain house: Placida, Florida, $987,000 (£779k)
The spacious deck offers ample room to relax and take in the view all year round in Florida’s perennially warm climate. With access to the resort’s amenities, you can make use of two restaurants, an internet café and fitness facilities.
Hamptons house: Southampton, New York, $3.5 million (£2.8m)
This stunning clapboard house in Southampton comes complete with three bedrooms, a wine cellar and a pool. However, priced at $3.5 million (£2.8m), the modern mansion is a stretch for the average family. Focus your house-hunting on a neighbouring state and you'll get far more for your money.
Bargain house: Surf City, New Jersey, $1.5 million (£1.2m)
With three decks and a hot tub, this three-bedroom house on Long Beach Island offers a taste of luxury beach living – minus the enormous price tag. As well as gorgeous living space, you'll also get your very own walkway across the sand dunes to the ocean, all for the lesser cost of $1.5 million (£1.2m). Where do we sign?
Bargain house: Surf City, New Jersey, $1.5 million (£1.2m)
The spacious living room oozes style, from the chic white wood furnishings to the contemporary spotlights. At the other end of the living room you'll also find a smart kitchen with white cabinetry and high-quality granite worktops. With direct access to a large deck, alfresco breakfasts will become the new norm.
Bargain house: Surf City, New Jersey, $1.5 million (£1.2m)
The master bedroom is a tranquil oceanside oasis, with views of the sea drawn in through the swathes of windows. There's an ensuite bathroom and a private deck too – a pretty spot for early birds to catch the stunning morning sunrise.
Bargain house: Surf City, New Jersey, $1.5 million (£1.2m)
From the numerous decks, you're guaranteed incredible views across the dunes to the Atlantic Ocean. Incredibly, this luxurious house was built in 1930 but was renovated in 2009 and has been well maintained over the years. Surf City is in the centre of Long Beach Island, which is connected by road to the mainland so you're never far from shops and amenities.
Hamptons house: Montauk, New York, $14.9 million (£11.8m)
Built in the late 1880s, this idyllic four-bedroom home in affluent Montauk, New York, is steeped in history. However, all this period charm comes at a staggering cost of $14.9 million (£11.8m). Outside of New York, you can pick up a home that's just as charming at a fraction of the cost.
Bargain house: Cape Charles, Virginia: $1.6 million (£1.3m)
Why spend millions on a home in the Hamptons when you can buy this stylish residence in Virginia for just $1.6 million (£1.3m)? Located in Virginia's popular Bayside Village, this bargain buy has spectacular views across Chesapeake Bay.
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Bargain house: Cape Charles, Virginia: $1.6 million (£1.3m)
With stunning views from every room and no shortage of state-of-the-art appliances, this four-bed property is built for entertaining. The fabulous open-plan kitchen and dining area is the ideal place to host a formal dinner party, with plenty of room around the central bar to serve canopies.
Bargain house: Cape Charles, Virginia: $1.6 million (£1.3m)
Decorated in a chic neutral palette, the lounge offers a great family space to relax and unwind after a day on the beach. You can cosy up in front of the fire on cold evenings or venture out onto the deck to enjoy the sunset.
Bargain house: Cape Charles, Virginia: $1.6 million (£1.3m)
Complete with a private boardwalk leading to the beach, the sunny terrace is the perfect spot to enjoy a coffee or a lazy late breakfast. Elsewhere, there's also an outdoor shower, separate guest quarters and a detached golf cart garage that's sure to be a hit with keen players.
Hamptons house: Southampton, New York, $27.5 million (£21.9m)
A stone's throw from Southhampton's sandy shores, you'll find some of the world's most luxurious properties, with equally as grand price tags to match. This five-bed palatial home, for example, will set you back a staggering $27.5 million (£21.9m). For a real bargain though, head to the south.
Bargain house: Orange Beach, Alabama, $1.85 million (£1.4m)
This spacious five-bedroom beach house may cost close to $2 million but it’s a bargain compared to the average Hamptons hideaway. With stylish accommodation and elevated decks across two floors of this charming home, there's no chance of missing out on those incredible sea views either.
Bargain house: Orange Beach, Alabama, $1.85 million (£1.4m)
The farmhouse-inspired kitchen has granite worktops, a wine cooler and an ice maker so you're well-equipped for hosting guests. On the top floor, you'll find an extra living room with a wet bar so you can serve drinks to your visitors while they admire the breathtaking vistas from the balcony.
Bargain house: Orange Beach, Alabama, $1.85 million (£1.4m)
On the first level of the home, you'll find this cosy living room leading into the dining area and kitchen. On the second level is a generous master bedroom with sea views, a separate dressing room and a bathroom with a large walk-in shower.
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Bargain house: Orange Beach, Alabama, $1.85 million (£1.4m)
The lower deck has a covered area and storm shutters so you can stay dry when the weather takes a turn. There's also a small outdoor kitchen area so you can entertain in style while your guests take in the sea views and the stunning landscaped garden. The house comes with furniture include too – what a bargain!
Hamptons house: Southampton, New York, $8.8 million (£7m)
With breathtaking sea views, this five-bedroom home in Southhampton is stunning, however, at $8.8 million (£7m), it's a big price to pay for breathing in the ocean air. Look toward the lone star state and you'll find your money stretches further.
RE/MAX Associates Northeast
Bargain house: Galveston, Texas, $2 million (£1.6m)
On the shores of the Gulf of Mexico, this spacious five-bedroom home for $2 million (£1.6m) has everything you could want from a beach house. With accomodation spread over three storey, there's ample space to soak up the sun and unwind.
RE/MAX Associates Northeast
Bargain house: Galveston, Texas, $2 million (£1.6m)
This stylish open-plan living area frames the tranquil sea views with stunning floor-to-ceiling windows. The home isn't short on luxuries either – there are two master bedroom suites, including one that opens out onto a deck, complete with a hot tub.
RE/MAX Associates Northeast
Bargain house: Galveston, Texas, $2 million (£1.6m)
With granite countertops, a wine cooler, ice maker and custom lighting, the spacious kitchen has everything you need to entertain. The best bit? The home comes fully furnished so you can move straight in without any hassle.
RE/MAX Associates Northeast
Bargain house: Galveston, Texas, $2 million (£1.6m)
The lower deck has plenty of room for sun loungers and a patio set, while the quaint swing offers the perfect vantage point to soak up uninterrupted ocean views. An island city with a historic pier, Galveston is a great place to take a punt on the arcades or bask in the scenery with a spot of walking, kayaking or fishing.
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