Michelina: Cocoa Beach, Florida

COCOA BEACH DEVELOPER Clifford Ray is extremely proud of two major accomplishments. One is his adult daughter, Michelle, who is about to embark on a career after completing her graduate studies.

The other is a stunning, eight-story oceanfront condominium building in Port Canaveral that is named Michelina in honor of his beloved daughter. It is clear that Ray spared no effort in creating a building worthy of the name.

Michelina offers residents incomparable views of the Atlantic Ocean, the towns of Port Canaveral and Cocoa Beach and even shuttle launches from the nearby Kennedy Space Center. But that is just the beginning of the incredible lifestyle that awaits those who move into Michelina for vacations or for life.

Upon entering the building–actually two separate buildings divided by a breezeway decorated with mosaic and a soothing fountain–visitors realize they have passed into a paradise beyond compare, even in an area known for opulent living. Michelina offers only 39 homes, but the eight different floor plans and the opportunity for owners to customize their living space with the aid of a certified interior designer provide endless variations in creating a home that is a true masterpiece.

The units are all spacious–the smallest being a comfortable 2,088 square feet and the largest topping out at 3,400 square feet–and all offer three bedrooms, three bathrooms and private patios. Finishing touches include high baseboards and crown molding accents, high-impact glass for added protection against storms, granite countertops in kitchens and bathrooms, arched doorways and even columns that accent the elegance of each home. Homes at Michelina range from just under $600,000 for the smallest, ocean view condo (which includes furnishings) to $1.5 million.

On-site amenities include a beautifully landscaped pool and spa, a recreation area boasting a redwood sauna, a tiled steam room, a micro-gym and access to miles of sandy beach.

Michelina is conveniently located near the best the Space Coast has to offer, such as the legendary Cocoa Pier, where you can enjoy a burger or seafood along with live music. Residents are just an hour away from Orlando and its family-friendly offerings, including Sea World and Walt Disney World, and only minutes from the Kennedy Space Center and the cruise terminals of Port Canaveral.

It is often said that beauty is only skin deep, but Michelina’s loveliness permeates the entire building. There is only one way to fully appreciate the quality and attention to detail that is found in only a few places, and that is to get to know Michelina personally.

Barbara Patrick