realestate

Billy Joel's childhood oyster farm retreat hits market for nearly $50M.

Billy Joel sells waterfront estate where he once harvested oysters as a young man.

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illy Joel is selling his massive waterfront estate in Centre Island, New York, for $49.9 million after completing a five-year renovation project. The 26-acre property, known as "MiddleSea," boasts over 2,000 feet of private beachfront, four separate homes, two swimming pools, and views of Long Island Sound.

    Joel first spotted the estate as a teenager while harvesting oysters to earn extra money for his working-class family. He thought he'd never live in such a house, but ended up purchasing it in 2002. The property's name is inspired by its location between Oyster Bay and Cold Spring Harbor, as well as Joel's favorite instrument, the piano.

    MiddleSea features four distinct homes: the Main House, a 20,000-square-foot red-brick mansion with five ensuite bedrooms; the Beach House, which sits on a strip of pristine beachfront; the Guest House, with three bedrooms and an attached four-car garage; and the Gate House, with its own pool, five bedrooms, and four bathrooms.

    The Main House boasts a chef's kitchen with stainless-steel appliances, a formal dining room with a marble fireplace, and a backyard with a waterfall feature and access to a floating dock. The Guest House has a living room with a fireplace and French doors that overlook the bay. Both homes have been renovated to maintain their classic charm.

    The property also features a private two-lane bowling alley in the basement of the Guest House, as well as a large family room over the attached garage. The Gate House has its own driveway, security gate, and swimming pool, making it suitable for use as a separate residence or space for live-in staff.

    MiddleSea's luxury amenities include high-end appliances, custom cabinetry, and Calacatta quartz countertops throughout the properties. With its stunning views of Long Island Sound and direct access to the water, this estate is a true gem on the market.

Photograph of Billy Joel's childhood oyster farm in Sagaponack, New York, on sale.