The Waterfront Community in Huntington Beach: Luxurious Coastal Living Redefined

Nestled in the sun-kissed coastal paradise of Huntington Beach, California, The Waterfront community stands as a pinnacle of luxury living, offering an unparalleled blend of sophistication, convenience, and beachside serenity. This premier gated enclave, located just behind the Hyatt Regency Resort & Spa and a short stroll from the Pacific Ocean, is a coveted gem in “Surf City USA.” Developed between 2004 and 2006, The Waterfront comprises two distinct neighborhoods—Sea Colony and Sea Cove—totaling 138 upscale condos and townhomes. With its prime downtown-adjacent location and resort-style amenities, The Waterfront attracts affluent homebuyers, retirees, and investors seeking a slice of Huntington Beach’s iconic coastal lifestyle. As of March 3, 2025, The Waterfront’s real estate market reflects the city’s high demand and premium pricing, making it a standout in Orange County’s competitive landscape. In this blog post, we’ll explore the history of The Waterfront, its current real estate trends, housing features, community amenities, lifestyle appeal, and why it’s a premier residential destination in Southern California.

A Modern Coastal Legacy

The Waterfront community emerged during a transformative period in Huntington Beach’s evolution, a city incorporated in 1909 that has grown from an oil-driven outpost into a world-renowned coastal hub. By the early 2000s, Huntington Beach—famed for its surf culture and laid-back vibe—was experiencing a surge in development, driven by demand for luxury properties near its 10-mile shoreline. The Waterfront was conceived as a response to this trend, breaking ground in 2004 under the stewardship of two prominent builders: Christopher Homes, responsible for the 78 townhomes of Sea Colony, and William Lyon Homes, which crafted the 60 condos of Sea Cove. Construction wrapped up in 2006, delivering a gated community that redefined upscale living in the city.

Positioned between the Hyatt Regency and Hilton hotels, just north of Pacific City and a block from Main Street, The Waterfront occupies a prime spot in Huntington Beach’s western region. Its development capitalized on the area’s transformation into a tourist and residential hotspot, offering residents a pedestrian bridge over Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) for direct beach access—a mere five-minute walk to the sand. Designed with a contemporary coastal aesthetic, The Waterfront blends sleek architecture with resort-inspired landscaping, creating a private oasis steps from downtown’s bustling energy. Over the years, it has evolved into a tight-knit community, maintaining its allure as a luxurious retreat in one of California’s most iconic beach towns.

The Waterfront Real Estate Market in 2025

As of March 3, 2025, The Waterfront’s real estate market mirrors Huntington Beach’s broader trends—high demand, limited supply, and a premium on coastal proximity—while commanding top-tier prices reflective of its exclusivity. The median sale price for homes in The Waterfront typically ranges from $1.2 million to $2 million, depending on size, upgrades, and market conditions. This positions it well above Huntington Beach’s citywide median of $1.3 million, driven by single-family homes, but below the $2.5 million-plus starting.point for oceanfront properties along PCH.

Inventory in The Waterfront is exceptionally scarce, with its 138 units rarely yielding more than 1-3 active listings at a time. In February 2025, Huntington Beach reported 350 active listings citywide, meaning The Waterfront’s share is a tiny fraction—often selling out within weeks when available. Recent sales data from the past year shows a range of $1.2 million to $1.8 million, with a median around $1.5 million and $600-$800 per square foot, though premium units—like a four-bedroom Sea Colony townhome—can push past $2 million. Appreciation tracks Huntington Beach’s 7-9% annual rate, bolstered by its gated exclusivity, prime location, and upscale finishes.

Buyers include affluent professionals seeking a beachside retreat, retirees downsizing to luxury low-maintenance homes, and investors eyeing rental potential in a tourist-heavy area. Cash transactions dominate, particularly for larger townhomes or units with ocean views, reflecting the community’s appeal to high-net-worth individuals. Financing is more common for smaller condos, broadening accessibility slightly. The tight supply keeps The Waterfront a seller’s market, with well-priced listings often sparking multiple offers—sometimes 2-5% above asking—especially those with upgraded interiors or proximity to community amenities.

Housing Features in The Waterfront

The Waterfront’s 138 homes span two neighborhoods—Sea Colony and Sea Cove—offering a range of upscale condos and townhomes. Sea Colony, built by Christopher Homes, features 78 townhomes ranging from 1,840 to 3,459 square feet, with three- to four-bedroom layouts and two-and-a-half to three-and-a-half baths. Sea Cove, crafted by William Lyon Homes, includes 60 condos from 1,620 to 2,690 square feet, offering two- to three-bedroom configurations with two-and-a-half to three-and-a-half baths. Both neighborhoods showcase contemporary coastal design—open floor plans, high ceilings, and expansive windows—maximizing natural light and space.

Key features include:

• • Gourmet Kitchens: Granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and large islands, often with breakfast bars.

• • Master Suites: Spacious primaries with ensuite bathrooms featuring dual vanities, soaking tubs, and walk-in showers.

• • Private Outdoor Spaces: Ground-floor patios or upper-level balconies/terraces, some with ocean or courtyard views.

• • Fireplaces: Cozy gas fireplaces inliving rooms, adding warmth and ambiance.

• • Garages: Two- to three-car options in Sea Colony, one- to two-car in Sea Cove, with additional guest parking.

Many units have been upgraded since 2006, boasting hardwood floors, smart home systems, and energy-efficient windows. Sea Colony townhomes often feature direct garage access and larger layouts, while Sea Cove condos emphasize open-concept living with premium finishes. The gated entry and lush landscaping—palms, tropical plants, and brick pathways—elevate curb appeal, making The Waterfront a standout in Huntington Beach’s condo market.

Community Amenities and Lifestyle

The Waterfront’s resort-style amenities create a luxurious, vacation-like atmosphere, setting it apart from typical condo complexes. Residents enjoy:

• • Lagoon-Style Pool and Spa: A central oasis with cabanas, perfect for relaxation or gatherings.

• • Clubhouse: A modern space for social events, fitness classes, or private bookings.

• • Professional BBQ Stations: Outdoor grills for entertaining, surrounded by tropical landscaping.

• • Courtyards and Walkways: Scenic paths winding through the community, enhancing its resort feel.

Monthly HOA dues, typically $500-$600, cover these amenities, plus water, trash, exterior maintenance, and gated security, offering excellent value for the upscale experience. The pedestrian bridge over PCH provides direct beach access, a five-minute walk to Huntington City Beach or a short bike ride to the pier.

Living in The Waterfront means immersing yourself in Huntington Beach’s coastal lifestyle with urban flair. Residents are a block from Main Street’s surf shops, eateries like Simmzy’s, and nightlife at Perqs Bar. Pacific City, a mile south, offers upscale shopping and dining—think Old Crow Smokehouse—while the Bolsa Chica Wetlands (3 miles north) provide nature escapes. Mornings might start with a beach run or coffee at Saint Marc, afternoons with a poolside book or shopping at Fashion Island (10 miles away), and evenings with dinner at Ways & Means Oyster House or a sunset from a terrace. The 70°F climate keeps outdoor living central, while events like the Surf City Marathon or Fourth of July Parade—both nearby—enhance community vibrancy.

Why The Waterfront Stands Out

The Waterfront’s appeal lies in its luxurious offerings, prime location, and exclusivity within Huntington Beach’s pricey market. Here’s what sets it apart:

• • Beach Proximity: A five-minute walk to the sand rivals oceanfront homes at a lower cost ($1.2M-$2M vs. $2.5M+).

• • Resort Amenities: Lagoon pool, spa, and clubhouse outshine many condos, offering a vacation-like feel.

• • Gated Security: Provides privacy and safety in a tourist-heavy area, a draw for affluent buyers.

• • Luxury Value: Below Huntington Beach’s $1.3M median for single-family homes, it delivers upscale living affordably.

• • Downtown Access: Steps from Main Street and Pacific City, it blends coastal calm with urban energy.

Compared to Huntington Beach’s broader market—where single-family homes dominate at 46% of housing stock (NeighborhoodScout)—The Waterfront’s condo/townhome focus caters to those seeking low-maintenance luxury near downtown (1 mile) and the pier (0.75 miles). It outshines inland options with its coastal vibe and competes with pricier gated communities like Seabridge ($800K-$1M) by offering larger homes and a resort-style experience.

Challenges to Consider

The Waterfront has its quirks. The $1.2M-$2M range requires an income of $220,000-$370,000 annually with a 20% down payment, factoring in taxes (1% yearly), insurance, and HOA fees ($500-$600 monthly)—a hurdle for some. Traffic on PCH can snarl during summer, reflecting its coastal draw. The 2004-2006 build means some units may need updates (e.g., HVAC, plumbing), and parking is capped at two- to three-car garages, challenging multi-car households.

Inventory scarcity—often 1-3 listings—sparks bidding wars, with buyers facing competition. Noise from nearby PCH or downtown may affect quieter preferences, though the gated design mitigates this.

Investment Potential

For investors, The Waterfront is a coastal goldmine. Appreciation tracks Huntington Beach’s 7-9% rate, with flipped units—like a $1.6M sale in 2024—showing 20-25% returns post-renovation. Rentals thrive, with two-bedrooms fetching $3,500-$4,500 monthly and four-bedrooms $5,000-$6,500, driven by tourist demand and downtown proximity. Short-term rentals shine near the beach, though HOA rules may cap them—long-term leases are a safer bet. The Waterfront’s value and location ensure steady growth, making it a smart investment.

Conclusion

The Waterfront in Huntington Beach is a luxurious coastal retreat, blending upscale homes with resort-style amenities and an unbeatable location. As of early 2025, its market thrives on scarcity, prestige, and a lifestyle that captures Surf City’s essence. From sleek condos to spacious townhomes, The Waterfront suits affluent buyers—all drawn by its gated elegance and beach proximity.

Challenges like cost and competition are par for Huntington Beach, but The Waterfront’s rewards—ocean access, community luxury, and investment upside—shine bright. Whether you’re seeking a home, a getaway, or a rental gem, The Waterfront delivers. Partnering with a local realtor can unlock this coastal haven, turning a house hunt into a beachside homecoming.