Coral Cay Community of Huntington Beach

Nestled within the serene expanse of Huntington Harbour, the Coral Cay Community in Huntington Beach, California, stands as a pinnacle of waterfront luxury and coastal elegance. This guard-gated enclave, one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in the city known as “Surf City USA,” features approximately 50 upscale single-family homes, many with private boat docks and breathtaking views of the main channel and surrounding bays. Built primarily between 1975 and 1978, Coral Cay offers a unique blend of spacious living, resort-style amenities, and a prime location that places residents steps from their own private beach and minutes from Huntington Beach’s vibrant coastal attractions. As of March 4, 2025, the Coral Cay real estate market reflects Huntington Beach’s high-demand dynamics, appealing to affluent buyers, boating enthusiasts, and investors seeking a slice of Southern California’s premier waterfront lifestyle. In this blog post, we’ll explore the history of Coral Cay, its current real estate trends, housing features, community lifestyle, and why it stands out as a jewel in Orange County.

A Waterfront Legacy Takes Shape

Coral Cay’s origins are deeply tied to the visionary development of Huntington Harbour, a transformative project that reshaped Huntington Beach’s coastal landscape in the mid-20th century. Huntington Beach, incorporated in 1909 and named after railroad magnate Henry E. Huntington, evolved from an oil-rich outpost into a thriving beach town by the 1960s, propelled by its surf culture and growing residential appeal. In 1963, developers embarked on an ambitious endeavor to dredge the wetlands near Anaheim Bay, creating five man-made islands—Admiralty, Davenport, Gilbert, Humboldt, and Trinidad—interconnected by a network of navigable channels and bridges. This project laid the groundwork for luxury waterfront communities like Coral Cay, which emerged a decade later to capitalize on the Harbour’s boating-centric allure.

Construction of Coral Cay began in 1975, with homes completed through 1978, designed to offer spacious, high-end residences within a secure, gated environment. Located just east of Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) and north of Coral Cay Lane, this community was envisioned as a premier destination within Huntington Harbour, distinct from the larger islands due to its smaller size and focus on luxury living. Unlike some Harbour neighborhoods with mixed housing types, Coral Cay features exclusively single-family homes, many positioned along the tri-channel waterways, offering direct access to the main channel and accommodating boats up to 55 feet or more. The name “Coral Cay” evokes a tropical, exclusive vibe, reflecting its status as a private oasis within a bustling coastal city.

Over the past four decades, Coral Cay has solidified its reputation as one of Huntington Beach’s most sought-after communities. Its 24-hour guard-gated entry, private beach, and proximity to coastal amenities—1.5 miles from Bolsa Chica State Beach and 2 miles from downtown’s Main Street—have kept it in high demand, blending waterfront serenity with urban accessibility.

The Coral Cay Real Estate Market in 2025

As of early 2025, the real estate market in Coral Cay mirrors Huntington Beach’s broader coastal trends—high demand, limited supply, and a significant premium on waterfront properties—while commanding prices that reflect its exclusivity and luxury status. The median sale price for homes in Coral Cay typically ranges from $3 million to $6 million, with some custom waterfront estates exceeding $7 million, far surpassing the citywide median of $1.3 million driven by single-family homes. This premium is driven by the community’s rarity (only about 50 homes), large lot sizes (5,800-9,128 square feet), and direct water access, setting it apart from inland neighborhoods and even some Harbour peers like Gilbert Island.

Inventory in Coral Cay is exceptionally scarce, with its approximately 50 homes rarely yielding more than 1-2 active listings at a time. In February 2025, Huntington Beach reported 350 active listings citywide, meaning Coral Cay’s share is a tiny fraction—often selling out within 30-60 days when available, faster than the city’s 41-day average. Recent sales data from 2024 is sparse due to low turnover, but comparable Harbour properties suggest prices ranging from $3 million for a renovated three-bedroom home (around 2,400 square feet) to $6.495 million for a six-bedroom waterfront estate (over 6,500 square feet), averaging $900-$1,200 per square foot. Appreciation tracks Huntington Beach’s robust 7-9% annual rate, fueled by its scarcity, private docks, and proximity to the beach (1.5 miles via PCH).

Buyers include affluent families seeking spacious waterfront homes, retirees embracing the Harbour lifestyle, and boating enthusiasts—many purchasing for docks accommodating vessels up to 55 feet or larger. Investors also target the community for its luxury rental potential, with homes fetching $8,000-$15,000 monthly, particularly during peak tourist seasons. Cash transactions dominate high-end sales, especially for waterfront properties with docks, reflecting the community’s appeal to high-net-worth individuals, while financing is more common for smaller homes. The tight supply keeps Coral Cay a seller’s market, with prime listings—particularly those on Coral Cay Lane with tri-channel views—often fetching multiple offers, sometimes 2-5% above asking.

Housing Features in Coral Cay

Coral Cay’s approximately 50 homes offer a range of architectural styles and sizes, shaped by their construction from 1975 to 1978 and subsequent renovations. Most residences are single-family homes, ranging from 2,400 to over 6,500 square feet, with three- to six-bedroom layouts and two-and-a-half to six bathrooms. Original designs feature contemporary coastal aesthetics—flat or low-pitched roofs, expansive windows, and open floor plans—while many homes have been updated with modern or Mediterranean-inspired elements, reflecting the community’s evolution into a luxury enclave.

Key features include:

• • Private Boat Docks: A defining trait, with many homes offering docks along the tri-channel or main channel, accommodating boats from 45 to 55 feet or more, ideal for boating, kayaking, or paddleboarding.

• • Expansive Interiors: Gourmet kitchens with islands, formal dining rooms, and living areas with fireplaces and high ceilings—often with lofts, bonus rooms, or wet bars in renovated homes.

• • Waterfront Outdoor Spaces: Large patios, decks, or terraces with pools, spas, and built-in BBQs, many featuring fire pits or panoramic channel views.

• • Master Suites: Luxurious primaries with ensuite baths (soaking tubs, dual vanities), walk-in closets, and private balconies overlooking the water.

• • Garages: Two- to four-car garages, often with additional driveway parking, catering to multi-car households.

Renovated homes boast upgrades like hardwood floors, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances (e.g., Wolf ranges, Sub-Zero refrigerators), and smart home systems. Waterfront estates often include unique features like curved glass stairways, 175-gallon fish tanks, or third-level decks, while smaller homes offer spacious lots with lush landscaping. Prices start at $3 million for renovated three-bedroom homes and climb to $7 million or more for custom six-bedroom properties with expansive docks and modern finishes.

Community Lifestyle and Features

Coral Cay’s lifestyle revolves around its waterfront setting and upscale amenities, fostering a luxurious yet relaxed atmosphere. Key features include:

• • 24-Hour Guard-Gated Security: Ensures privacy and safety, a hallmark of Coral Cay’s exclusivity.

• • Private Beach: A sandy, resident-only beach within the gates, offering a rare perk for swimming, relaxation, or small gatherings.

• • Tennis and Pickleball Courts: Lighted courts for recreational play, enhancing the resort-like feel.

• • Direct Harbour Access: Close proximity to the main channel, with docks and pathways for boating or waterfront strolls.

Monthly HOA dues, managed by Progressive Community Management (reachable at 949-587-7770), range from $500-$700, covering security, beach and court maintenance, landscaping, and common area upkeep—an excellent value for the amenities provided. Residents are 1.5 miles from Bolsa Chica State Beach—a short drive or bike ride—and 2 miles from downtown’s Main Street, featuring surf shops, eateries like 25 Degrees, and nightlife at Black Bull Chop House. Pacific City (2.5 miles south) offers upscale shopping, while the Bolsa Chica Wetlands (1 mile north) provide nature trails and birdwatching.

Daily life in Coral Cay is a luxurious blend of leisure and activity. Mornings might start with a paddleboard session from a private dock or coffee at Seacliff Village, afternoons with a swim at the private beach or a bike ride to Bolsa Chica, and evenings with dinner at Sushi on Fire or a sunset on a waterfront deck. The 70°F climate keeps water and outdoor living central, while events like the Huntington Harbour Boat Parade—viewable from many homes—enhance the festive spirit.

Why Coral Cay Stands Out

Coral Cay’s appeal lies in its waterfront exclusivity, intimate size, and prime Harbour location within Huntington Beach’s pricey market. Here’s what sets it apart:

• • Boating Paradise: Private docks for most homes rival larger islands like Trinidad, with tri-channel access for boats up to 55 feet.

• • Intimate Scale: With just 50 homes, it offers a cozier feel than Davenport or Trinidad’s expansive sprawls.

• • Coastal Proximity: 1.5 miles from the beach, it’s more affordable than oceanfront properties ($5M+).

• • Private Beach: A rare amenity among Harbour communities, enhancing its resort-like allure.

• • Luxury Value: From $3M-$7M, it balances prestige with accessibility compared to pricier peers.

Compared to Huntington Beach’s broader market—where single-family homes dominate at 46% of housing stock—Coral Cay’s waterfront focus and gated amenities outshine inland options. It rivals Gilbert Island with its private beach and tennis courts, offering a premium edge over condos like Portofino Cove.

Challenges to Consider

Coral Cay has hurdles. The $3M-$6M range requires an income of $550,000-$1.1 million annually with a 20% down payment, factoring in taxes (1% yearly), insurance, and HOA dues ($500-$700)—a steep entry. Traffic on PCH can snarl during summer. Older 1970s homes may need updates (e.g., electrical, plumbing), and parking is capped at two- to four-car garages, limiting multi-car households.

Inventory scarcity—often 1-2 listings—sparks bidding wars, with buyers facing competition. Flood risk along the waterfront is a concern, though mitigated by Harbour maintenance, and noise from boating or PCH may affect quieter preferences.

Investment Potential

For investors, Coral Cay is a coastal goldmine. Appreciation tracks Huntington Beach’s 7-9% rate, with flipped homes—like a $5 million sale in 2024—showing 20-25% returns post-renovation. Rentals fetch $8,000-$15,000 monthly, driven by tourist demand and Harbour proximity (2 miles to downtown). Short-term rentals shine with docks, though HOA rules may cap them—long-term leases are a safer bet.

Conclusion

Coral Cay in Huntington Beach is a waterfront paradise blending luxury, exclusivity, and coastal charm. As of early 2025, its market thrives on scarcity, private docks, and a location that captures Surf City’s essence. From spacious homes to a private beach, it suits affluent buyers—all drawn by its intimate scale and boating lifestyle.

Challenges like cost and competition are par for Huntington Beach, but Coral Cay’s rewards—harbor access, community amenities, and investment upside—dazzle. Whether you’re seeking a home, a boating retreat, or a rental gem, Coral Cay delivers. Partnering with a local realtor can unlock this coastal treasure, turning a house hunt into a waterfront homecoming.