In the world of endurance racing, Hurley Haywood is a name synonymous with unparalleled stamina and tactical precision. With five wins at the 24 Hours of Daytona, three at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, and two at the 12 Hours of Sebring, Haywood’s career was built on high-speed durability. It is only fitting, then, that his personal residence in St. Augustine, Florida, is a masterclass in “uncompromising craftsmanship.”
Now 77, the racing legend has placed his bespoke waterfront sanctuary on the market for $5.2 million. Having purchased the lot in 2012 for $725,000 following his professional retirement, Haywood spent years custom-building a property that balances the relaxed “Old Florida” charm with the rigorous structural standards of a high-performance machine.
Architectural Pedigree: A Cronk Duch Masterpiece
Designed by the renowned Cronk Duch Architects, the home is located in one of St. Augustine’s most coveted waterfront enclaves. The exterior presents a classic coastal facade—crisp blue and white paneling that feels both timeless and sophisticated.
Spanning 4,180 square feet, the interior rejects the “cookie-cutter” luxury often found in modern builds. Instead, it offers:
- The Grand Entrance: A foyer defined by soaring ceilings, curated art walls, and an elegant wooden staircase that sets a tone of refined coastal living.
- Exceptional Materials: The entire home is anchored by Carlisle wide-plank heart-of-pine flooring, a choice that adds a warm, historic weight to the bright, open-concept spaces.
- The Living Core: Black French doors serve as architectural frames for the natural light, leading from a cozy fireplace-centered lounge to the expansive outdoor terraces.
Culinary Excellence and High-Capacity Entertaining
For a man who spent his life in the fast lane, Haywood’s kitchen is designed for the slow appreciation of fine living.
- The Chef’s Hub: The open-concept kitchen features high-end appliances and custom cabinetry that flows into the family dining area.
- The Oenophile’s Corner: A sophisticated wet bar is equipped with a 140-bottle Sub-Zero wine cooler, perfect for hosting post-race celebrations or intimate waterfront gatherings.
- Cinematic Relaxation: The property also features a dedicated home theater with updated audio-visual equipment, providing a private screening room for the ultimate escape.
The Gearhead’s Dream: A Precision-Built Garage
Perhaps the most “Haywood” feature of the estate is the garage. Far more than just a place to park, the three-car space is a workshop designed for a connoisseur:
- Vehicle Lift: The main garage includes a professional-grade vehicle lift, allowing for the storage or maintenance of a private collection.
- Storage Systems: Extensive custom cabinetry ensures that every tool and accessory has a dedicated place, mirroring the organized pits of a championship racing team.
A Coastal Fortress Built for the Elements
While the home is aesthetically “refined,” its construction is “high-octane.” Built for peace of mind in a coastal environment, the specifications include:
- Durability: Concrete block construction, cementitious siding, and a metal roof.
- Hurricane Readiness: Impact-rated hurricane windows and a 26 kW generator supported by a 500-gallon buried gas tank.
- Sustainable Comfort: Foam insulation and two brand-new AC units ensure the tropical Florida heat remains strictly outdoors.
The Waterfront Compound and Guest Casitas
The property functions as a multi-generational compound, featuring two separate casitas with private access. These spaces are ideal for extended family, a home office, or a creative studio, ensuring total privacy for both the owner and their guests.
The exterior grounds are a tribute to the St. Augustine lifestyle:
- The Aquatic Center: A heated saltwater lap pool with updated equipment and a convenient cabana bath.
- The Private Dock: A newly constructed dock with concrete pilings, featuring both boat and jet ski lifts, providing immediate access to the Intracoastal waterways.
As Hurley Haywood transitions from his role as a resident to the honorary chief driving instructor at the Porsche Track Experience, this $5.2 million estate stands as the ultimate trophy—a home built with the same “True Grit” and attention to detail that defined his legendary career.