St Francis Bay, South Africa

This quaint resort town may seem idyllic, but beneath the thatched roofs and seaside charm lies a persistent bureaucratic headache. In 2012, a devastating fire destroyed 76 homes, nearly all of them with the signature thatched roofs. While whales, dolphins, and over 200 species of birds can be spotted in the bay, the navigable Kromme River is a double-edged sword, linking the town to a system of canals. For those seeking a quiet, picturesque coastal escape, St Francis Bay may fit the bill, but the red tape and risk of natural disaster are important considerations.