The communities of the area are as varied as the tastes of the people who invest here. This information is from Viva Productions - VallartaRealEstateGuide.com.

Airport - Valley

Ixtapa is a town just outside of Puerto Vallarta more or less east of the airport. For those who haven´t been there, the turn-off to Ixtapa is marked where the major speed bumps cross the road at the intersection with signs not only for Ixtapa but also for the university and Las Palmas. Interestingly enough, Ixtapa was a much larger town than Puerto Vallarta at the time Vallarta became a municipality in 1918. Just outside Ixtapa was the land owned by the Montgomery Fruit Company, major exporter of bananas from 1924 to 1935. During this period of 11 years, workers came from the entire region, including Mascota, Talpa de Allende and Compostela.

The area is also known for the archaeological digs sponsored by the Centro Universitario de la Costa. Led by investigator Dr. Joseph Mountjoy, the area is believed to have been settled as early as 600 B.C. Ixtapa continues to function primarily as an agricultural and farming center, even as it becomes one of the bedroom communities of the Banderas Bay region.

PROS
• Fast-growing area, solid investment with low prices, payments available
• New highway to Guadalajara passes through Ixtapa
• Cooler climate surrounded by trees and greenery
• View of valleys and mountains
• Close proximity to airport, central bus station, shopping, university

CONS
• Lack of services despite infrastructure
• Area tends to receive municipal services after urban areas
• Scarcity of cultural activities
• Not close enough for beach tourism
• One main highway leads in both directions

Amapas - Conchas Chinas

Some say the best view in all of Banderas Bay is from the hills of Conchas Chinas. Whether or not the hyperbole is accurate, the view is incredible. For many, that´s the primary reason for living in this exclusive zone just south of Vallarta´s South Side. But it´s not the only reason. A major consideration is always resale value, and Conchas Chinas has it in spades with some of the most expensive properties along the entire coast located here. In the following table of pros and cons, consider these comparisons.

PROS
• View of town and Banderas Bay
• Stable value of land and properties
• Location close to town, yet in another world
• Most properties have parking garages and street parking is plentiful
• Direct access to beach from lower Conchas Chinas properties
• Neighborhood association very strong
• Strict building codes

CONS
• Lots of stairs in most properties
• Very few homes have yards
• No playgrounds for children, although streets are generally safe
• Prices may be out of the range of many
• Strict building codes may make remodeling prohibitive

The majority of people buying Conchas Chinas oceanfront properties are post-retirement. The home is usually not their primary residence, so it doubles as a family vacation spot and source of rental income. Rentals are very successful in this area, both on the beachfront and along the winding streets of nearby Amapas and the hills of Conchas Chinas. The larger villas and condominiums on the hills are very popular with group rentals, many returning year after year for their annual conventions or conferences.

Construction varies from the earlier period in the ‘50s and ‘60s to the newer residences of the current decade higher on the hill. An advantage is that it´s one of the more stable areas for withstanding earthquakes, as the homes are built on rock. It doesn´t get more solid than that. The Vallarta style is common, with large, open terraces facing the view, frequently with swimming pool or Jacuzzi. Although yards aren´t common, many have been built in or around the trees of the jungle, offering shade. Palapa roofs are popular as well, some of them quite expansive, offering protection for entertaining guests. Even though original wall colors were white, it´s becoming more popular to paint the adobe walls pastel colors such as peach, tangerine, yellow or nectar.

Early architects were pioneers in style and construction, such as Guillermo Wulff, associate of legendary director John Huston. Others are José Díaz, Oscar Montiel, Cachi Perez and Arturo Ramos. The hacienda style creates walls around an interior courtyard, nearly always with a fountain or water element. Several levels take advantage not only of the views, but also of the hillside terrain. Some of the larger homes even have tennis courts, while several beachfront homes offer private beach access with showers and changing rooms.

The entire area of Conchas Chinas, whether it´s the beachfront or the hillside or closer Amapas, is the most exclusive residential area on the coast. As building continues further north, it only throws into striking contrast the advantage of living so close to Puerto Vallarta, where the best restaurants are at your fingertips. Entertainment continues to offer a variety of theater, movies, musicals and other shows for evenings spent on the town, a major consideration for group rentals.

A variety of properties are available including condominiums, lots, villas and even entire buildings. Costs generally begin from just under a half million to over $4 million USD.

Bucerias - La Cruz

In the northern curve of the bay, a couple of towns each with its own history have stood up to the test of time and now take their place in the movement of developments not only of infrastructure but also of additional projects with a focus on integrating the character of the town itself. Both Bucerías and La Cruz de Huanacaxtle share history as traditional fishing towns and as such, were historically slower in opening possibilities for projects from the outside. But after the construction of the four-lane highway to connect the entire region from just beyond the turn-off to Punta de Mita and Nuevo Vallarta across the Ameca River, it´s only been a matter of time.

PROS
• Good deals still to be had for both land and older home re-sales
• Fantastic renter market
• Market extends to include both national and international
• Quicker access to markets north of Banderas Bay
• Terrain offers easier construction possibilities
• Views are spectacular along coastline and on hills above
• Growing number of restaurants, clubs and shops
• Small town character is still genuine
• Long stretch of beach considered one of best on bay

CONS
• Out of loop of busy social whirl of Vallarta
• Lacking some urban infrastructure
• Small town life not for everyone
• Highway cuts right through town creating upper and lower side

Bucerías was just a dusty bus stop on the route north even just seven or eight years ago but its development has sometimes outpaced even that of Vallarta. Nevertheless, re-sales of older homes and villas are still on the market now and then for those ready with the money in hand. Many of the homes can be either remodeled or expanded for the growing rental possibilities in this growing town. On all sides new stores, banks, businesses, restaurants and other services indicate the expectation of a solid future.

The state of Nayarit stepped up to the plate last year with the announcement of the development of a malecón to connect Bucerías with La Cruz to the north and Flamingos to the south. Already many beachside restaurants take advantage of this walking beach, the longest on the bay. While many continue to serve traditional seafood and other local specialties, others have opened to serve the developing gourmet palate of the town. One of the major annual events is the Virgin of Peace, celebrated with a weeklong period of street fairs, stands with local specialties and other wares, fireworks, carnival rides and a street dance. But the finale is definitely worth the trip: the virgin arrives with babe in arms on January 24 from the sea via a flotilla of colorful decorated fishing boats.

La Cruz de Huanacaxtle is nearly beyond recognition if you haven´t visited there in the last two years. Under construction are a number of new developments, chief among them the mega-project of the new marina. Consisting of a total of 368 slips, only 100 slips are available for long-term lease which allows the remaining 268 availability for daily rentals. A modern fueling station in addition to jetties and other services will provide the boaters all they need for both long- and short-term stays. A curved malecon will front the bay with shops, boutiques, restaurants, clubs, a yacht club and a boutique hotel adding gracious character to this classy marina.

On both sides of town developments are under construction with numerous options for accessible condo living as well as ocean front and ocean-view homes and villas including Punta Esmeralda and Brisas. The more established Vallarta Gardens received another injection of energy with the addition of Blue. The popular beach area around Manzanilla will be home to a new beach club with private access to a new area on the rolling hills north of the well-established Real del Mar.

While Real del Mar offers oceanfront and ocean-view custom homes at a very high end, the new development of La Joya Huanacaxtle will feature low-rise condos ensconced in the natural landscape of the jungle in the hillside with walking paths, gardens and every natural advantage. Just beyond Real del Mar is another area before reaching Destiladeras that is in plans for development, ostensibly to include another golf course, but plans remain to be announced.

El Centro

There´s no doubt that living in the heart of downtown is attractive for many who move to Puerto Vallarta specifically for the romantic life suggested by walking along the Malecón on a sunny Sunday, surrounded by the friendly faces of Mexico. The description alone rings the bells. Or curls the toes as they dig in the soft sand. But what is life really like on the streets in the hills above downtown?

The majority of the homes are from another century. Oh, that´s right, nearly everything is from another century, another millennium. Never mind. Anyway, old can mean full of character or it can mean complete with wrinkles. With spaces for rain water to accumulate or just plain fall through the cracks. True, this is not specific to downtown, relating to construction issues rather than to zone. As usual, we offer a list of advantages and disadvantages to help you make your decision.

PROS
• Colorful, truly Mexican area to live, with genuine character in the streets, the homes, the people, the entire surroundings.
• Access to some of the best restaurants in the country.
• Very close to most cultural activities, parades, concerts, events.
• Generally very friendly neighborhoods with extended families.
• Good access to shopping.
• Close proximity to classes, learning centers, workshops on the island.
• Ease of city transportation almost anywhere.
• Good beach access.
• Views from the hills above downtown are excellent.

CONS
• Can be noisy.
• Close proximity of neighbors; smaller lot size.
• Events can cause the temporary detour of vehicles and public transportation.
• Parking can be problematic during heavier seasonal periods.
• Older buildings can have structural, electrical or plumbing problems.
• Rebuilding or renovating may require specific permits.
• Hilly streets above downtown frequently experience water run-off.

The heavy bus traffic through downtown on Morelos going south and Juárez going north is a reality that hasn´t changed despite repeated promises, surveys, reports and corroborations that the situation is untenable. So don´t hold your breath that it will change any time soon. But, one day, we´ll be surprised by a smoother traffic pattern allowing not only easier access for vehicles, but an increased measure of safety for pedestrians.

Hotel Zone

For native Vallartans, this area along Ave. Francisco Medina Ascencio lined with majestic palm trees has marked the northern entrance to the city. The avenue was named after Governor Francisco Medina Ascencio, who extracted the promise to finish the road from his friend, President Gustavo Díaz Ordaz. The avenue later played an important role in welcoming President Nixon and President Díaz Ordaz to Puerto Vallarta in 1970. It was a time of great progress, in two short years providing a new international airport, a city-wide electrical system, a new port for ships and the completed road from Compostela in the northeast. Now, with several full-fledged developments, the Hotel Zone is rapidly becoming more residential.

The Hotel Zone may not be for everyone. Remember the adage “location, location, location” as you review the pros and cons below.

PROS
• Close to everything, including shopping, schools, gymnasiums, cinema, hotels, restaurants
• Transportation easily available, including city bus and car rentals
• Proximity to airport, main bus station, marina and tour boats
• Broad gamut of health services available, including state-of-the-art hospitals, clinics and spas
• Many activities are centered here
• Accessible range of prices

CONS
• Traffic increasingly heavier, although the new bridges have certainly relieved some of that
• Marathon events and other races inevitably take place here due to the location of the sports stadium
• Parking can be problematic
• Main road can be long and un-shaded in spots for those who like to walk
• Crossing main road can be hazardous
• Area lacks Mexican character

The Hotel Zone tends to be very active due to the location of the completely renovated Estadio Agustín Flores Contreras, complete with a running track, skate board park, baseball diamonds, soccer fields, an aerobics court, exercise machines, basketball courts and a number of organized activities for all ages. Several marathons are held throughout the year, primarily from the stadium to the Holiday Inn, while recently the triathlon ventured from the nH Krystal Vallarta across the Pitillal River. Speaking of the river, its banks are a traditional outdoor running path and are receiving an upgrade from the Fluvial Vallarta developers.

In addition to the growing number of services, restaurants and stores of the traditional Plaza Caracol, the recently inaugurate Plaza Peninsula offers additional numerous options for dining, shopping, banking and other important services. Underground parking at no charge is another plus for the increasingly popular plaza. Once complete, a path for strolling among the trees along the banks of the Pitillal River will provide a pleasant break from the strikingly modern plaza.

Investment opportunities are varied in this flourishing area with rentals, residential areas, zones for businesses and areas for public activity. The infrastructure comes with the package, adding enormous value to the buyer.

Just a hop away are the quiet, settled residential areas of Las Gaviotas and Versalles, where a number of single-family dwellings offer space including actual yards, established trees and gardens.

Marina Vallarta

Marina Vallarta began with a dream of creating a new level of life on Banderas Bay where sailboats, yachts and fishing craft count on a safe harbor. Life lived on the water allows a particular point of view. Banderas Bay, protected not only by its natural curve but also by Cabo Corrientes to the south, the Sierra Madre to the west and the north, affords not only protection but breathtaking views in any direction. The Martínez Güitrón brothers from Guadalajara started building Marina Vallarta in the eighties based on a designed community including residential sites, a shopping mall, a school, condominiums, first-class hotels with landscaping throughout. Work on the marina itself with 450 boat slips began in 1986 and by 1990 the marina was in full swing even though it was 1993 before it was completed ahead of schedule.

Relying on local brokers as well as local residents, we´ve put together a list of advantages and disadvantages.

PROS
• Quiet, beautiful landscaped surroundings
• Variety of new residences available in wide price range
• Close proximity to marina, golf course, shopping at two plazas, American School, Ameri-Med, international airport, restaurants, galleries
• Some beachfront properties available as well as on golf course
• Decent transportation to downtown
• Good outdoor areas for running, access to gyms, spas with modern facilities

CONS
• Access funnels through Plaza Neptuno entrance, exit or Plaza Marina entrance, exit
• Concurrent construction in area
• Primarily non-Mexican in flavor

Availability in Marina Vallarta has increased manifold in the last few years. Reasonably priced family residences, right on the golf course, with access to the ocean, opened up a new possibility of security to many families. Mid- to high-end investment possibilties are innumerable including moderate to deluxe residences.
This is one of the comfortable areas with a number of single-family dwellings, primarily located on or around the golf course. Streets are winding, lawns are well-kept and sidewalks line most of the lanes. An easy-access allows walking, driving or bicycling to the nearby beach. Since the area is well established, trees are tall, providing a pleasant shade while gardens are lush and colorful. It´s an area that for many reasons continues to be popular for newcomers with families and retirees.
Activities are centered on the water, with the world-class marina of 555 slips, available for seasonal or year-round mooring. Fishing charters are available for those who don´t own their craft or left it moored at home. Sailboat outings take you quickly across the bay to Los Arcos, a rock formation south of downtown with scuba diving or snorkeling, or in the other direction towards Punta de Mita where the Marietas Islands offer even better diving. Close proximity to water tours allows easy access to the whaling activity during the winter season.

If you´re land-centric, the golf course will keep you occupied with your feet well-planted on cushy, green grass. Watch for crocodiles that populate the water traps, even though your caddy is well-trained to respect the creatures. Birds and other winged wonders fly overhead and into the trees.

At night, there´s nothing more pleasant than walking along the malecón of the marina. Yachts and sailboats lazily rest in the slips while the water reflects the lights of the shops and restaurants along the promenade. Check out the view from the top of the lighthouse, one of the marina landmarks. From up high, you can see the sea on one side and the mountains on the other with the city nestled along the curved shoreline. Have a drink and enjoy the sunset from on top of the world.

North Shore

One of the fast-growing areas of the North Shore is a region called Costa Banderas just between La Cruz de Huanacaxtle and Punta Mita. Larger in area, Costa Banderas includes a number of new developments as well as a couple of established ones that are taking on a second wind as prices rise on this fantastic stretch of sandy beaches and coves. While some areas offer beachfront, others provide oceanfront or ocean-view with numerous options for a luxurious but laid-back lifestyle.

PROS
• Some of the highest-end properties in Banderas Bay region
• Security, privacy and safety are prime concerns
• Basic infrastructure completed within most residential areas
• High rental value
• Isolation from traffic, outside concerns
• Great golf, outdoor activities
• Access to sailing, fishing, water sports
• Safe investment
• Fantastic beaches and marvelous coastline

CONS
• High initial investment
• Neighborliness not easy due to terrain, spacing of properties
• Infrastructure for many services still in process of construction
• Distance from social life, restaurants, cultural whirl of Vallarta

If you may have noticed, the majority of the pros and cons are similar to those of Punta de Mita since the areas share similar terrain as well as climate and infrastructure. Nevertheless, since Costa Banderas includes a number of different high-end developments, the infrastructure for each one is being handled individually which also makes it move more slowly. Security is a main concern as properties reaching several millions of dollars are not uncommon.

Also similarly to Punta Mita, most developments are designing constructions that blend with the terrain while minimizing landscaping to maintain the natural surroundings as much as possible. The newer homes tend to have as much living space outdoors as indoors with spectacular views of the bay and beyond. The respect of the environment makes Costa Banderas a favorite for weddings and other special events. While transportation for groups can stretch the budget, privacy is guaranteed as are safety and security concerns.

Beginning from Destiladeras Beach, due for a major project soon, the first development is an area of fractional beachfront homes with ocean front homes for sale as well. Los Veneros offers a center for events and activities at the world-class beach club with a project in the works for ocean-side condominiums, perhaps the only ones in the planning for this primarily low-density area. El Farallon is the most established with large high-end luxury homes providing good rental returns. Some large lots are still for sale for those looking to build.

Punta del Burro is a private enclave that developed some 25 to 30 years ago with casual beachfront homes that went for under $30,000 USD. A rejuvenating wind is blowing through the area with property values increasing to half-a-million and more. The privatized area is surrounded by Costa Banderas with plans for typical village to be built behind it. Designs include shopping, restaurants, a small pueblo as an anchor similar to those in La Cruz on the one side and El Anclote on the other. While still not under construction, another golf course is also planned for this area.

Paradise Cove follows on the coast, all the lots sold out to home builders. Pontoque consists of oceanfront and hillside lots priced comparatively moderately from 1/2 million to 1/2 million USD. Several large parcels of coastline are under consideration for developments by two major hotel corporations, but rather than developing another major resort, the word is that boutique hotels at the very top end fit in more appropriately with the environment and character.

El Banco provides beachfront homes on spectacular lots with ocean views while further inland a lake is being created to provide additional options for lakefront homes. A deluxe boutique hotel will be built with management by a former member of the Rosewood hotel group.

Nuevo Vallarta - Flamingos

As one of the fastest growing, most successful investment regions in the state of Nayarit, Nuevo Vallarta doesn´t sweat the small stuff. First of all, their new governor is pro-tourism and investment, facilitating federal-state transactions. The area consistently ranks in the top five vacation destinations in the country. Investment opportunities, both national and international, continue to expand over time. Despite the time difference of one hour between Nayarit and Jalisco, time is rarely an issue, since most tourist-related businesses follow the Vallarta clock or Jalisco time.

Nuevo Vallartans will point out a number of pros for their northern region, while considering the cons quite miniscule.

PROS
• Peace and quiet of natural surroundings
• Flat, smooth beach safer for children and great for walking
• Great for families
• Very little traffic, good infrastructure
• Proximity to golf, water, marina, many homes interconnected by waterway
• Yacht club, beach clubs and great spots for drinks and dining
• Accessible prices on properties

CONS
• Lack of cultural center
• Not very walkable and distances can be considerable
• Quite high taxi fares to Puerto Vallarta at night
• Difficulty connecting with neighbors due to seasonal nature of residency

For those who are active outdoors, there are a number of popular activities very well represented in Nuevo Vallarta. Tee off at three world-class golf courses, Mayan Palace, Paradise Village´s El Tigre and the world-renowned Flamingos course. Sail into the bay and tie up right at your very own dock if you own the right property, whether at several condo developments or some of the private villas and homes along the inlet. A 300-slip marina awaits your yacht, with full services next door. The dolphin facility and research center and turtle protection reserve bring the natural resources of the area into direct contact with the public.

With some of the finest beaches along the Pacific coast, Nuevo Vallarta was designed to take advantage of the natural beauty of the coast, with lush growth, privacy and luxury prime among considerations. Not far off the coast are the Marietas Islands, where birds live in a protected habitat and snorkeling and diving provide underwater views to rival anywhere along the coast. The Paradise Plaza shopping center is a comfortable mall housing a supermarket, a number of restaurants, shops, cyber cafes, banks, a health center and other businesses.

Residences in Nuevo Vallarta take advantage of the open spaces by venturing into a modern design not necessarily anchored to Mexican style or architecture. For some, that may be a drawback, but for those who prefer all the modern conveniences, properties rise into the sky along the coast and spread their wings as much as the large lots allow. Paradise Village continues to develop its overall concept, with hotel, condominiums, the Playa Royale, a marina, spa, golf course and a sports club and beach club. Besides condominiums and other luxury residences, consider any of the private homes, haciendas and villas that offer not only a living option, but also great rental possibilities as well.

Riviera Nayarit

Once you continue beyond Banderas Bay, the mountains hide the remainder of the Pacific Coastline until you zigzag through them to once again connect with the shore. While it´s not the first town, nevertheless Sayulita is recognized worldwide for good surfing. And that was long before Internet cafes joined the shops, boutiques and galleries of growingly chic Sayulita. Next on the coast is the Mexican pueblo of San Pancho (San Francisco) where not only do you find gourmet but polo, beaches and boutique hotels. And finally, the popular Lo de Marcos, where Mexican families find their spots on the beach during busy holidays.

PROS
• Genuine character to each of the towns
• Growing population allows for decent investment opportunities
• Increasingly popular for rentals, both national and international
• Artist colony attracts consumers which increases business
• Good surfing including classes for those new to the sport
• Can´t beat the polo with a stick
• Fantastic beaches
• Boutique properties and villas for vacationers
• Variety of price ranges for investors

CONS
• Distance from airport and Puerto Vallarta
• Lack of services such as supermarkets, hospitals and variety of restaurants
• Infrastructure such as drainage, water, gas and decent streets slower to come by
• Day-trippers take all the parking during the busy season
• Small town life not for everyone

Rural Mexico shows a sophisticated face in the small towns north of the Punta de Mita peninsula. While a highway connects to Sayulita through the developing area of Litibú on the north side of Punta de Mita, the main highway (Mexico 200) takes a winding route through the mountains to arrive once again at the coast. New entrances have been built from the highway to access each of the three major towns mentioned. Visit each one to discover its particular character. Since the area faces the Pacific Ocean rather than the bay, breezes tend to be more constant throughout the season, reflected in the open architecture of the homes.

Sayulita is primarily known as an art community with a growing foreign presence effecting not only prices but availability of services. Villas, boutique hotels and colorful residences are some of the options for rentals. The main beach is fronted by businesses, restaurants with beach palapas, stores, a cyber café and a well-developed beach campground with security, clean showers and other facilities. Right on the beach you´ll find the surfing school with classes easily arranged for all ages and abilities. Walking around town you´ll discover art galleries, more boutiques and chic local restaurants and cafes. During the annual Sayulita Days of the last week of February, local events include live music, street dancing, stands with handcrafts and other wares as well as samples of local cuisine.

San Pancho (San Francisco) is a more rural town accessible once again off the main highway by bus or private vehicle. One main street lined with restaurants, cafes and shops leads into town dead-ending at the beach where parking is allowed for day-trippers. Options for rentals include a boutique hotel in town, a larger resort hotel on the north end and a number of private villas and homes. Unique to this coast are the exhibition polo grounds with regular Saturday matches from November to May. During San Pancho´s annual birthday September 26, expect a week-long series of events including street stands with local cuisine, a religious procession honoring patron saint San Francisco de Assisi, a parade on horseback including the polo club and local charros and finally, fireworks, live music and a street dance.

Lo de Marcos is primarily a market for nationals, arriving throughout the season by chartered bus from destinations such as Guadalajara, León, Mexico City and beyond. Numerous inexpensive hotels and beach cabins fill to capacity while streets are lined with stands offering local fare and wares. Most rental options tend to be quite average but standards are rising as investments continue in this growing town. Lots and parcels of land are still available for investors.

South Shore

Combine the boundless green jungle with the surf-splashed rocks of a coast interspersed with private coves, add a place to view the constantly changing palette of the bay, and you have the South Shore, where rugged, low-density residences, as well as villas and other homes, dot the coastline on the curving road toward Barra de Navidad.

Many forms of adventure are abundant here, including mountain climbing, birding, scuba diving, snorkeling, whale watching, several canopy tours and any number of trips into the jungle and mountains by horse, all-terrain vehicle or even on foot. A rustic spa is hidden off the main road in nearby El Nogalito. Home to several hotels and time-share condominiums, the South Shore is nevertheless primarily residential.

This month, the list of pros and cons comes from homeowners in Sierra del Mar, one of the area´s exclusive residential enclaves.

PROS
• Views of the bay provide a constant manifestation of change
• Lush jungle and rugged landscape make it greener and cleaner
• Very low-density, with protection from further high-rises
• Security and safety in limited access developments
• Return on investment
• High rental prospects
• Close to downtown and restaurants
• Peace and quiet

CONS
• Curving highway can be a traffic hazard
• Prices may be prohibitive for many
• Not as easy to be neighborly
• Some older homes need re-construction
• Construction and re-construction costs are high due to the terrain
• Lack of schools
• Lack of political support for public needs such as roads

The South Shore was home to the Garza Blanca development, one of the first resorts so popular after Puerto Vallarta appeared on the international circuit. Despite the failure of the resort´s recent attempted reconstruction, the Garza Blanca Villas on the hillside above offer the atmosphere of a Mexican village in protected safety. After the filming of “Night of the Iguana” in Mismaloya, the coast became de rigeur for jetsetters on boats and yachts, as the highway at the time presented a rugged trip. It still maintains that character due to the difficulty and expense of building, which requires an investment beyond the reach of many.

A growing number of low-density projects include some of the most exclusive properties on the entire coast, offering both homes and condominiums, available on the beach or the hillside. Numerous high-end low-density projects have entered the market for those looking for either investment or residential.

Residents attest to the tranquil life they enjoy on the South Shore. “It´s close to town, where we can eat at the best restaurants and do all our grocery shopping, but we come home and we´re off the beaten track and away from the noise.” Due to the terrain, not just any architect will consider this challenging coast where the construction below may out-price the visible structure. Homes are spectacular, taking full advantage of the views while respecting the views of neighbors, if there are any nearby. With the winding coastal highway so close to the shoreline, not many find footing on the edge, but there are some areas with homes just below the road. Up in the foothills, the growth of trees forms a frame and gives a reference point for this amazing world.