U.S. Beach Keys Sold for Hundreds of Thousands
In Massachusetts' Martha's Vineyard, beach access rights known as 'beach keys' are being sold for hundreds of thousands of dollars, with prices rising sharply over the past two decades. These rights grant exclusive beach access without construction, and are part of a broader trend of rising real estate prices near top U.S. universities and historic properties.
Consensus
- Beach keys are being sold on Martha's Vineyard in Massachusetts.
- Beach keys grant exclusive access to a beach without the right to build on the land.
- Prices for beach keys have increased significantly since 2003.
- The price of access to Quansoo Beach rose from $200,000 in 2003 to $475,000 in 2025.
- The price of the Hancock Beach key rose to $650,000 in 2025.
- There is a growing trend of wealthy families buying property near top U.S. universities.
- Demand for historic properties in the U.S. is increasing.
Points of divergence
- Martha's Vineyard became a prestigious retreat and summer residence for the American elite, politicians, and Hollywood stars after the decline of whaling. — kommersant
- Travis Kelce, a National Football League star, purchased a mansion in Ohio for $5.35 million. — kommersant
Coverage (2 sources)
- WSJ learned about scheme for selling keys to beach in US for hundreds of thousands of dollars — Коммерсантъ
- In the US, 'beach keys' are starting to sell for hundreds of thousands of dollars — Вести