Shore Bets

A trifecta of winning waterfront homes that make the most of summer.

BY MARIA LAPIANA

Back To Nature

This estate in Duxbury, Massachusetts, offers a special kind of waterfront experience: serene views of the Bluefish River tidal estuary and, to the north, a peaceful nature preserve with walking trails. A broad lawn leads from the main house to a private pier with two floating docks; launch your kayak or paddleboard to your heart’s content.

Professional landscaping surrounds the 6,300-square-foot home (with room for expansion) on two-plus acres. The property is dotted with mature plantings and styled beds. Stone pillars greet you on arrival from a private lane; an open courtyard and attached three-bay garage give the property a stately feel. On the water side, multilevel wraparound porches create outdoor living spaces and a vacation vibe. With a staircase winding up and around it, the vaulted foyer is grand but welcoming. A total of five fireplaces warm the home, which is filled with detailed millwork and quality finishes. The main house has six bedrooms, including an oversized primary suite. The 2,000-square-foot lower level features a recreation space (with wet bar) that opens onto the lawn. Stunning views own the day in this home, says listing agent Robin Markella Hallowell. Her two favorite vantage points: a main house

6 BEDROOMS

4 FULL BATHS

2 PARTIAL BATHS guesthouse

2 BEDROOMS

2 FULL BATHS

6,353 SQ. FT.

2.38 ACRES

$7,900,000 bright breakfast nook off the kitchen and the oh-so-comfortable family room.

CONTACT: Robin Markella Hallowell, Team Hallowell Devnew, Waterfront Realty Group, Duxbury, Mass., waterfrontrealtyma.com, 617-967-6331, MLS# 73079071 main house

5 BEDROOMS

6 FULL BATHS

1 PARTIAL BATH

8,802 SQ. FT.

1.69 ACRES $6,900,000

Bay Watch

Just imagine Narragansett Bay in your backyard, and you’re halfway to this expansive home that sits on the water in Portsmouth, Rhode Island. It’s the “captivating, ever-changing coastal theater” that gives this property its allure, says listing agent Alyce Wright. “It’s all about the light on the water, the boats on the water, the weather on the water.” The Shingle-style home features stunning westerly and southerly views of the bay and the Newport Bridge. The lot is slightly pie-shaped with its longest side on the water; the 8,800-square-foot house was designed in a corresponding albeit subtle V to maximize privacy and seclusion. There are four large en suite bedrooms on the second floor and a gracious primary suite on the first floor, the perfect spot from which to take in the views. With the exception of a marble-floored foyer, you’ll find maple hardwood floors throughout. Fine millwork includes extensive wainscoting, coffered ceilings, and built-in cabinetry. Geothermal heating and cooling systems are among the home’s energy-efficient features. This gated estate is adjacent to The Aquidneck Club, known for its golf course, tennis courts, marina, restaurant, and equestrian facilities.

CONTACT: Alyce Wright, Lila Delman/Compass, Newport, R.I., liladelman.com, 401-662-7993, MLS# 1328994