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A Buyer’s Guide to Purchasing an Outer Banks Oceanfront Home

The Oceanfront Reality Check: Why This Isn't Your Average Guide

Most real estate guides start with the "dream"—the sound of the waves and the lucrative rental checks. While real, they aren't the whole story. Owning an oceanfront home on the Outer Banks in 2026 is a high-stakes investment requiring a different set of rules than buying a home anywhere else.

On the OBX, the Atlantic is your greatest amenity and your most persistent "tenant."

This guide is for the sophisticated buyer who isn't afraid of the facts. We skip the basics and dive into the real issues: erosion rates, the "salt air tax," and the regulatory hurdles of CAMA and COBRA zones.

What Does "Oceanfront" Mean?

Oceanfront means there are no other properties between you and the Atlantic. However, the Ocean floor contour varies significantly, resulting in different erosion rates. While some areas are stable, others—like Rodanthe, Buxton, and Kitty Hawk—can see up to 14 feet of erosion annually.

OBX Ocean Front Wash-Ins Caution: This is where you find "discounted" prices. These are often "Wash-Ins" where the land is disappearing faster than the mortgage is being paid.

Access, Dunes, and Gazebos

Rules vary by community. In some areas, you cannot build a walkway across the dunes to protect the natural line of Oceanfront Dunes. In others, a dune-top gazebo is permitted.

Private Beaches? Not in North Carolina. Unlike other states, you won't find private oceanfront beaches here; the "wet sand" beach is a public trust.

Flood Zones & CAMA Setbacks

Under FEMA Risk Rating 2.0, all oceanfront homes are now required to obtain flood insurance, regardless of their elevation. The premium is now tied to the property’s specific distance to the water and cost to rebuild.

CAMA Setback Requirements

The Coastal Resources Commission enforces setbacks based on structure size. For homes under 5,000 sq. ft., the minimum setback is 30 times the annual erosion rate from the first line of stable natural vegetation.

Official NC DEQ Setback Guide

The "Salt Air Tax"

The same storms that created the "Graveyard of the Atlantic" continue to batter oceanfront homes. Expect:

  • HVAC Corrosion: Specialized coatings are mandatory to prevent salt air from eating your condenser coils in under 5 years.
  • Upward Rain: In 50+ mph winds, rain moves horizontally and vertically. Even high-end windows can leak under these extreme pressures.

Beach Nourishment Alert

Major projects are scheduled for Summer 2026 in Nags Head, Avon, and Buxton. These projects widen the beach and protect your investment, but expect 3–6 days of construction activity if your property is in the active pumping zone.

View Erosion Maps | Flood Zone Breakdown

More Ocean Front Aricles
OBX Beach Nourishment OBX Oceanfront Flood Zones OBX Oceanfront Rental Ownership
OBX Oceanfront Access OBX Oceanfront Erosion OBX Oceanfront Erosion Maps
OBX Oceanfront Views OBX Oceanfront Insurance OBX Private Oceanfront Beaches
OBX Oceanfront Dunes OBX Oceanfront Wash Ins OBX Oceanfront Maintenance

Below Are All Of The OBX Ocean Front Houses Currently For Sale

Lightly used and lovingly cared for Ocean Front home in Beach Haven in The Village at Nags Head. Classic Old Nags Head style home secured behind strong protective dune with awe inspiring views of the Atlantic Ocean. True second home with current owners since 1997. Local caretaker. Five spacious bedrooms, three full baths, two half baths. Beautiful, warm, beachy pine floors in great room, en-suite bedroom, and mid level hallway. If you are looking for something different than a hard-ridden rental machine with lots of small bedrooms, mediocre pool areas, and tons of deferred maintenance on a skinny lot, this is the perfect home for you...and the perfect place to begin your Nags Head lifetime memories. Like nothing else on the market today. There are two large ocean front decks…one full sun upper deck and one shaded…both overlooking a custom concrete pool and the beautiful Atlantic Ocean. Mid-level porch wraps around north, west, and south sides of the house for pleasant outdoor sitting, no matter the weather. All furnishings included in sale. Cargo lift. Ample driveway with two turn-arounds and two underneath parking bays. Very large utility room in north carport. Central water and sewer. Perfect location… Easy walk to the Village at Nags Head Beach Club. The Village at Nags Head offers multiple beach accesses and two large sound access sites with parking, large pier, and kayak /canoe storage. Easy drive to some of the finest restaurants on the Outer Banks. Very convenient to numerous grocery stores. Shop at Outlets Nags Head, the Outer Banks Mall, one any of the numerous locally owned Beach Road shops. Ten minutes to the Manteo Waterfront and fifteen minutes to Oregon Inlet. Nags Head Golf Links is right across the highway. HUGE BONUS: All Polybutylene plumbing completely replaced in 2026!!!. Also, sprinkler system fully reviewed and repaired in 2025, new pool chlorinator in 2024, new drink cooler in 2023, new HVAC mid-level in 2021 and upper level in 2020, new mid and upper oceanside doors and frames in 2021, re-built back decks in 2020, replaced front door in 2020, master bathroom re-model in 2016. Roof is circa 2013.
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https://www.vacasa.com/unit/44534?adults=10&checkIn=06-07-2025&checkOut=06-14-2025 ROI 10%+! Beautifully Renovated! Oceanfront 5 Bedroom Ultimate Lux Home with high-end finishes, luxury furniture, plush bedding and elegant decor throughout. Hot Tub, Pool Table. Great beach home for your vacation memories! On the top floor, you'll love gathering in the open-concept living room, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, comfy seating, panoramic ocean views, and a flatscreen TV for movie nights. The gourmet kitchen is fully equipped with everything you need to prepare wonderful meals, and there's plenty of seating for everyone in the dining room and at the breakfast bar. Ship's watch offers dramatic ocean views and comfy seating for 4. Relax in the primary king suite with lush luxury bedding, panoramic ocean views, a walk-in ensuite custom tiled shower, flat screen smart TV, an electric fireplace and a private deck while your guests enjoy one of four additional bedrooms on the mid floor with plush new luxury bedding, new TV's and ocean views galore. The lower level offers a spacious game room, a BONUS bunk room, hot tub, and direct beach access. Linens, towels, and amenities provided for a seamless vacation stay.
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5 bd
5 ba
Rarely does a property offer the perfect trifecta of luxury, privacy, and proven financial performance. Positioned as the southernmost oceanfront estate in the legendary off-road community of Carova Beach, this 2018-built masterpiece sits on a sprawling pie-shaped acre where the wild horses roam free. Bordered by a southern easement for permanent privacy and direct beach access, this home enjoys 127 feet of ocean frontage and a sense of seclusion that is virtually impossible to replicate. Constructed with the coastal environment in mind, the exterior features low-maintenance vinyl shake impression siding and long-lasting PVC trim, ensuring the home remains as pristine as the day it was built. The interior is a masterclass in light and luxury, spanning over 3,023 square feet of living space adorned with engineered hardwood floors, custom tile baths, and abundant natural lighting. The experience begins on the ground level, which serves as an outdoor oasis featuring a large private fiberglass pool, a covered Tiki bar for relaxing after a day in the surf, and dual outside showers. Moving to the mid-level, guests are greeted by a second social hub in the sitting den, complete with a coffee station, wet bar, and wine cooler. This floor houses four spacious bedrooms, each with its own private bathroom. Three of these suites offer direct deck access, while the two oceanfront rooms provide spectacular views of the sunrise over the Atlantic. A soak in the mid-level hot tub offers the perfect conclusion to a day on the 4x4 beaches. The top level serves as the crown jewel of the estate, where a dramatic wall of windows and transoms highlights the tremendous, unobstructed ocean views. The great room features soaring vaulted ceilings, a cozy gas fireplace, and a chef’s kitchen designed for large-scale entertaining. This culinary space is equipped with a massive granite eat-in island, dual stainless steel refrigerators, dual dishwashers, and a separate prep area complete with a commercial-grade icemaker, wet bar, and wine refrigerator. The adjacent screened-in porch and sprawling East deck provide front-row seats to the breaking waves. This level also hosts the fantastic primary owner’s suite, where the bed is perfectly positioned to face a wall of glass overlooking the sea. The suite is rounded out by a walk-in closet and a luxurious dual-vanity bathroom featuring a walk-in tile shower with its own breathtaking ocean view. Beyond the aesthetics, this property is a robust investment located in the coveted X flood zone. It has served as a highly successful vacation rental with impressive income, despite the owners reserving considerable in-season weeks for their own enjoyment. Potential for even higher yields exists for the savvy investor. To provide total peace of mind, a pre-listing home inspection has already been performed and is available for review. With 2026 rental reservations already filling up fast, this meticulously maintained estate is a must-see for anyone seeking the pinnacle of off-road coastal living.
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5 bd
4 ba
Welcome to Peridot, an oceanfront gem located at 54169 Sandpiper Drive in Frisco, NC. This stunning 5-bedroom, 4.5-bathroom coastal retreat offers the perfect blend of relaxation, comfort, and breathtaking views. Nestled directly on the oceanfront, you’ll enjoy endless sunrises, soothing sea breezes, and the sound of the waves right from your deck. Designed for beach living, Peridot features expansive decking on multiple levels—ideal for soaking up the sun or gathering with family and friends. Unwind after a day at the beach in the hot tub, rinse off in the outdoor shower, and savor the easy coastal lifestyle this home provides. Inside, you'll find a bright and open living area with panoramic ocean views, a well-equipped kitchen, and inviting spaces throughout for entertaining or relaxing. Currently part of Resort Realty’s vacation rental program, Peridot is a proven favorite among guests and offers a fantastic investment opportunity or second home escape. Whether you’re watching the sunrise over the Atlantic or stargazing at night from the deck, this oceanfront haven captures the true essence of Outer Banks living. Peridot at 54169 Sandpiper Drive — where every day feels like a beach vacation.
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Welcome to your oceanfront retreat in the serene 4-wheel drive area of Carova Beach, where privacy meets luxury. This stunning beachfront home offers 5 bedrooms and 3.5 baths spread across 2270 square feet of meticulously renovated space. Originally built in 1987, a comprehensive remodel in 2016 transformed the interior with new drywall, paint, fixtures, plumbing, flooring, electrical, and updated furnishings, ensuring a modern coastal aesthetic throughout. Situated on a sprawling 45,000 square foot lot (approximately 1 acre), the property boasts a large, vegetated dune and expansive sandy beaches right at your doorstep. Enjoy ocean views from the expansive decks that span the width of the house on the ocean side and along the south side, perfect for relaxing or entertaining guests. An outdoor hot tub area enhances the experience, offering a tranquil spot to unwind while watching the wild horses that roam the area. Inside, the home exudes charm with nautical decor and abundant natural light. The ground floor features one of the five bedrooms, while the second floor hosts an ensuite bedroom with deck access, two additional bedrooms sharing a fully updated bathroom, and a cozy living space with a fireplace. The third level showcases the main living room with expansive windows and sliders for panoramic views, a well-appointed kitchen, a dining room, a half bathroom with laundry facilities, and another bedroom with an ensuite bathroom. Ascend to the bonus loft area, currently used as a sleeping nook, offering sweeping ocean views and a unique perspective of the living room below. This turnkey property is ideal for those seeking a primary residence, a second home, or an income-producing rental opportunity in a secluded beachfront setting. With recent upgrades including newer heat pumps, a well, and a septic field, along with the potential for a pool with proper permits, this home offers the ultimate blend of comfort, luxury, and coastal living.
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5 bd
4 ba
Oceanfront Oasis in much sought after Pine Island! Nestled in the highly sought-after, upscale community of Pine Island, this one owner oceanfront home offers so much potential! Whether you are looking for an investment property or a generational beach house, this 3,331-square-foot masterpiece delivers the ultimate Outer Banks lifestyle. Property Highlights Bedrooms: 5 (Including spacious en-suites) Bathrooms: 4.1 Square Footage: 3,331 sq. ft. Setting: Premier Oceanfront Interior Features Step inside to find a light-filled, open-concept reverse floor plan designed to maximize those breathtaking ocean vistas. The expansive great room features high ceilings, ample seating for gathering, and massive windows that frame the rolling waves. The kitchen is fully equipped to handle large gatherings, with plenty of counter space, and a breakfast bar that flows seamlessly into the dining area. With five generously sized bedrooms—including luxurious primary suites—there is plenty of space for family and guests to unwind after a day in the sun. Exterior & Amenities Step out onto the expansive multi-level decks to watch the sunrise over the water, or head down to the ground level for your own private resort experience. Private Pool: Cool off in your sparkling private pool while listening to the surf. Hot Tub: Soak under the stars in the bubbling hot tub. Community Perks: Enjoy the amenities of the upscale Pine Island community, known for its pristine, less-crowded beaches, community pools, playground, tennis courts, beach club, bike and jogging path, basketball court, and pristine landscaping. Agent Note: Pine Island is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious communities on the Northern Outer Banks, offering an unparalleled sense of privacy and luxury. Prime Location This home perfectly balances secluded beach living with convenient access to premier local amenities. You are just minutes away from everything you need: Pine Island Tennis Club: A quick 0.4-mile stroll down the road for a morning match. The Currituck Club: Only 3 miles away for world-class golfing on a Reese Jones-designed course. Harris Teeter: Just 3 miles away for incredibly convenient grocery runs and vacation provisioning. Don't miss your chance to own a slice of oceanfront paradise in one of Corolla's finest neighborhoods.
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5 bd
5 ba
HUGE PRICE REDUCTION!! Stunning OCEANFRONT home, 5 bedrooms, 5 full bathrooms and 2 half baths. PANORAMIC OCEAN VIEWS!!! It’s a full package dream home with a large 14 X 28 POOL, Hot Tub, ELEVATOR, Theatre and a Rec room with a pool table & kitchenette. The living area has an impressive open floor plan, cathedral ceiling, track lighting, granite surround gas fireplace, so many windows and sliders you will feel like you are on the beach. Stunning Brazilian Cherry hardwood floors throughout. State of the art, bright, open kitchen. Granite counter tops with a Brazilian Cherry Wood accent shelf, top of the line stainless steel appliances, 2 dishwashers and a large pantry. There are plenty of cabinets, drawers and counter space with island seating for 4. Spacious dining room with seating for 10. Gorgeous furnishings throughout the entire home. There is also an appropriately located powder room. Conveniently located on the top floor is a luxurious, spacious master bedroom with a gorgeous bathroom with an artistically tiled shower and jetted garden tub. The middle level features great ocean views, 3 large bedrooms, each with their own ensuite bathrooms as well as a den with a daybed with a trundle for a 6th sleeping area! All four of these rooms have their own convenient sliders to the decks. Wainscoting accents the roomy entrance foyer as well as the striking Brazilian Cherry Hardwood floors. The ample sized Game Room has a Pool Table. You won't have to go upstairs for refreshments since the kitchenette has a wet bar, a full-size refrigerator, and a microwave. Also on this level is the fantastic THEATRE ROOM where you can make many memories watching movies from the big comfy theatre chairs on the Big Screen! There is also a bedroom with two sets of bunk beds with a full ensuite bathroom as well as a conveniently located laundry room. Sought after under house entry from the carport area. The elevator adds even more convenience for luggage, groceries, or those needing help up and down the stairs! Step out back and the outdoor oasis provides fun in the Sun! The private backyard swimming POOL(14x28) is perfect. Bask in the sunshine on the poolside deck and enjoy an evening soak in the poolside hot tub! Easy beach access via the gate in the pool area leading straight to the beach walkway taking advantage of the association access rather than having to maintain your own. You also have direct access to the sound when you cross over Highway 12. Built by premier builder Olin Finch!!! NEW ROOF in 2022. Sold fully furnished. This home avoids the busy Saturday traffic day with a convenient Sunday turnover. Known as Mi Casa Su Casa #Duck 18. This rental machine took in a whopping $216K In Advertised Rentals in 2025 and is heavily booked so far for 2026. Seller has paid the annual fee of $900 for the Annual Maintenance Agreement. Example of what is covered is in Associated Docs. Also look in Associated Docs for RPD/MOG, Rental Printouts, Insurance and Expenses, Floor Layout, Bill of Sale, As Built Survey and County Permits etc. Keyless entry. EZ to Show!
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6 bd
6 ba
This oceanfront home offers panoramic water views and direct beach access. The top level features an open floor plan with a living area and fireplace, an updated kitchen with island and breakfast nook, a ship’s watch, and a large dining area. The primary suite includes a soaking tub beneath a stained-glass window, a dual-sided fireplace, and ample space for relaxation. The second floor offers four ensuite bedrooms, a welcoming foyer, a den/office, and a laundry room. The first floor is designed for recreation, featuring a game room with pool table and game table, a home theater with large screen and theater seating, and an ensuite bedroom with two single beds. A half bath adds convenience on this level. Outdoor amenities include a private pool overlooking the ocean, two outdoor showers, and new steps to the beach. Recent updates include a fortified roof with 25-year guarantee, updated kitchen cabinets and countertops, two high-capacity water heaters, three heat pumps, new beach access, fresh exterior paint with stainless steel bolts, and select updated furnishings. This property is well-maintained and offers excellent potential as a primary residence, vacation home, or rental investment.
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5 bd
3 ba
Wake up to stunning views of the Atlantic at this beautifully updated 5-bedroom, 3.5 bath oceanfront home in the sought-after Ocean Sands community of Corolla. Offered fully furnished and thoughtfully refreshed, this coastal retreat pairs panoramic water views with meaningful recent upgrades throughout. The home features all new appliances, new countertops, new ceiling fans in the bedrooms, new decking, and upgraded décor that gives the entire property a bright, modern feel while maintaining its relaxed beach charm. The top-level showcases sweeping ocean views, a loft-style sitting area, and access to the highest sun deck. Two spacious bedrooms are located here, including a private oceanfront suite with its own deck and a bath with double vanities. The second bedroom enjoys deck access and shares a full bath with the living area. The kitchen opens to the main living and dining spaces and connects easily to a screened porch for coastal breezes and outdoor dining. The mid-level offers three additional bedrooms and a full bath. Two bedrooms open directly to oceanfront decking and the hot tub, while the third is outfitted with two sets of bunk beds—perfect for guests. On the ground level, you’ll find dry entry, an additional family room, a half bath with access to the outdoor shower, and a dedicated laundry area. Beach access is just steps away, leading to wide, beautiful beaches. Centrally located near Corolla’s shopping and dining, this property is a proven rental favorite with repeat guests year after year—making it an exceptional investment opportunity or personal oceanfront escape.
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6 bd
5 ba
Welcome to Dolphina, a fortress of a home that provides limitless unobstructed vistas from Ocean to Sound, a rare opportunity to own on the Outer Banks. Thoughtfully designed to capture panoramic views, the top floor showcases nature through its expansive windows. The beach, surf zone, sweeping coastline, the vast Atlantic Ocean, and breathtaking Sun and Moon rises to the east. Covered porches allow all to view the dazzling sunsets over the undevelopable bird sanctuary, marsh and sound to the west. This well designed home features an open concept on the top floor connecting the living, dining and kitchen areas with high cathedral ceilings. The chef styled kitchen is beautifully appointed with custom tilework, elegant cabinetry, granite countertops, and casual bar seating. A hooded six burner gas cook top is surrounded by a suite of stainless steel appliances which include Dacor refrigerator, two wall ovens, two warming drawers, two microwaves, and two KitchenAid dishwashers. An under-counter mini fridge is also built into the cabinetry. An adjacent ocean-view breakfast nook offers a sanctuary to enjoy morning coffee with seating for four. Around the corner a you will find a wet bar and heavy-duty icemaker, perfect for serving refreshments to guests in the living area, and away from the kitchen activity. The living area features a grand fireplace, setting a theme of wildlife from around the globe that takes you throughout the home. Plenty of quality furniture and seating allow for all to the enjoy social events, the giant television or perhaps a turn at the high-powered telescope to take in the sights of the beach and ocean. The elegant dining room provides seating for eight, plus access to the soundside covered porches for all-weather outdoor seating. This home has been recently upgraded with a Stiltz personal elevator for safe, easy and attractive movement between floors, while not interrupting sightlines. The mid-level hosts three spacious, private en suite bedrooms. Two oceanfront king suites offer ocean views and covered deck access, while the sound-side suite captures peaceful afternoon light. The ground level includes three additional bedrooms: one with two queen bed, and another with a king bed share a full bath, while an animal-animated bunk room has access to a full bath in the hallway. There is a full-size laundry room with two washers and two dryers to add convenience for you and your guests. The ground floor also features a spacious and enviable theater room with full-service kitchenette, tiered platform seating and blackout curtains. On the ocean side a game room with pool table opens directly to the outdoor living area with pool and beach access, creating seamless indoor-outdoor enjoyment. Outside, the gated private pool serves as a stunning centerpiece and brings you to the recently upgraded dune walk over to the beach. Additional outdoor amenities include a private dune deck, hot tub, two outdoor showers, gas and charcoal grills, and generous lounging areas complete with furniture. In the front there are two separate parking areas, one complete with a private electric car charger. A proven performer, this highly desirable property has recently achieved over $250,000 in rental income, making it a rare opportunity to own a premier coastal home that excels as both a primary, second or rental performer. This home is located in a world-class location with unmatched privacy. The nearest public beach access is more than three miles away and provides expansive, uncrowded shoreline to enjoy while feeling virtually private. A private retreat and an exceptional investment. Located in the community of Pine Island, this home provides effortless access to the acclaimed restaurants, boutiques, and recreational opportunities of Corolla to the north and Duck and beach towns to the south.
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4 bd
2 ba
Highly sought-after location & classic beach living. Sitting alongside the Cape Hatteras National Seashore this OCEANFRONT home has a healthy, vegetated double dune line. The privacy of this oceanfront property tucked along sand dunes on a quaint, dead end street - is a rare find. Four bedrooms, two bathrooms and large deck space to enjoy seaside panoramic views; day and night. This beach cottage sits high on pilings to appreciate the views giving you additional outdoor space under the home. Centrally located on Hatteras Island in the Village of Avon. This owner-maintained home is your chance to own here on Hatteras Island. Convenient to local restaurants, shopping, and the Avon Fishing Pier. In the words of a realtor friend, “Kinnakeet Retreat is truly a treat!”
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7 bd
7 ba
Rise n’ Shine is a premier oceanfront retreat designed for both high-capacity hosting and intimate relaxation. Located on the private cul-de-sac of Lee Oneal Lane, the home offers a rare balance of seclusion and accessibility to local amenities. This beautiful seven ensuite bedroom oceanfront home sits next to an established dune line with plenty of outdoor & indoor spaces for everyone to gather or disperse. The lower entrance greets you with a good time. A comprehensive game room featuring billiards, foosball, and arcade games, complemented by a secondary kitchenette (refrigerator/freezer/wine rack). This level provides direct access to the private pool and hot tub deck. The laundry area is conveniently located on this level, in the hallway giving you plenty of options only steps away from changing loads of laundry. Two ensuite bedrooms are next to the laundry area. Middle level entrance leads to a welcoming front porch with ceiling fans leading to double doors and a large foyer to put down their items and take off their shoes. Four king-sized ensuites, including east-facing rooms with private deck access for a "bed and breakfast" atmosphere. The decks wrap from the north side to the entire east side with access to the swimming pool area. Many windows and doors bring in natural light, utilizing durable yet stylish beadboard throughout high-traffic areas (stairs, hallways, game room) to maintain a pristine coastal aesthetic despite rental use. The top-level "Great Room" and kitchen are engineered for visibility; the kitchen island is positioned so you can view the Atlantic Ocean while performing daily tasks. The great room has an electric fireplace for cozy winter months, two large leather couches fitting the space perfectly. An additional sitting area and half bathroom creates more space. The dining space overlooks the oceanfront deck off to the east and south down the coastline. This area is spacious with a multitude of windows to keep you gazing at the seaside skyline. Top level features a master king suite featuring a walk-in shower and direct sun deck access. The beach path is only steps away from the dune line leading you to the beach and Atlantic Ocean. Decking has plenty of room for everyone and guests around the hot tub, swimming pool and multiple seating arrangements. Rise n’ Shine sits on a cul de sac lot with plenty of space between homes. Lee Oneal Lane is situated close to the fishing pier, shops, and restaurants via the neighborhood's multi-use path as you bike out under the pines. Rise n’ Shine for a chance to own this seaside home.
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