Sea Island

Tiny Sea Island—with a full-time population of less than 200—is one of the nation's wealthiest communities. Established by Howard Coffin, the wealthy Detroit auto pioneer who also owned Sapelo Island, Sea Island has been the domain of the well-heeled since 1928. The hub of activity is the very swanky Cloister, whose recent renovations made it even more exclusive (and expensive). Now a gated community, Sea Island is accessible only to registered guests and Sea Island Club members.