Walking out your back door straight onto the beach…
For most people, this is the ultimate daydream. But for savvy investors, it can also be a reliable income stream and a smart hedge against inflation.
Beachfront real estate has always commanded a premium. Demand keeps rising, but supply is limited. The result is that coastal property values appreciate at roughly twice the rate of inland real estate.
More than half of all tourists head to the coast—often paying double the nightly rate to do so—creating a powerful case for owning beachfront.
The challenge is affordability. The average price of a home near the beach in the U.S. is well into seven figures. But around the world, there are markets where you can still secure a true oceanfront home (and generate strong returns) for a fraction of that.
Let’s take a closer look at 3 hotspots where you can still buy the beach life for less…
Join us January 8. for our annual global index reveal.
Belize
If you’ve ever dreamed of a Caribbean getaway that pays for itself, Belize should be at the top of your list.
Our featured project here—on the island of Ambergris Caye—is a partnership with the world’s largest hotel brand. This master-planned resort community is in San Pedro, Belize’s vibrant beach town packed with restaurants, dive shops, and boutiques.
The project features a private stretch of white-sand beach, oceanfront pools, a rooftop sunset lounge, and full-service amenities including a spa, fitness center, and private pier. The vibe is Caribbean luxury without the Cancún crowds.
Most people get around here by golf cart or bicycle. Tourism in Belize surged 21% year-over-year in 2024, setting new records and prompting airlines to add more direct flights from the U.S. Rental demand here is poised to soar.
Studios and one-bedroom residences start at $349,900, with financing available. Comparable hotels on the island charge up to $500 a night, giving investors an idea of the strong rental returns expected.
Inventory is limited, and the developer is retaining a large share of units—a vote of confidence in future appreciation.
Spain
Two hours south of Valencia, the Murcia region offers one of Spain’s most attractive coastal investment plays.
At its heart is a luxury resort built around a massive manmade Crystal Lagoon—a turquoise centerpiece with beaches, islands, and water sports.
The resort offers multiple pools, a beach club, yoga, volleyball, and more. It’s 10 minutes from the calm waters of Mar Menor and surrounded by golf courses and year-round sunshine.
Investors who bought early have already seen impressive gains:
• Two-bedroom apartments that sold for €195,000 in 2022 now resell for €300,000 (up 54%)
• Villas once priced at €378,000 now fetch €550,000 (up 45%)
High-season rental yields reach €1,200 to €2,500 per week, and inventory moves quickly. For those looking to balance lifestyle and profit in Spain’s sunbelt, Murcia delivers both. Find out more about this development, here.
Mexico
Everyone knows Cancún, but Mexico’s Pacific coast is where the real opportunity lies right now.
Roughly 50 miles north of Puerto Vallarta, a government-backed tourism initiative led by FONATUR (the agency behind Cancún’s transformation) is reshaping a 200-mile stretch of pristine coastline. New highways, marinas, and luxury hotels like Conrad and One&Only are already underway.
In the middle of it all sits a low-density, eco-friendly ocean-view community where homes are already built—so you can see exactly what you’re buying. The development offers a warm sandy beach, full resort amenities, and on-site rental management.
Lots start around $80,000, while studios begin at $109,000. For investors seeking a blend of natural beauty and long-term growth potential, this is one of Mexico’s most promising beach markets.
It’s the rare combination of lifestyle, yield, and early-stage upside—without the crowds or overdevelopment of older tourist centers. Find out more here.
To smooth travels and successful property buys,
Sophia Titley
Editor, Overseas Property Alert
