The Surf & Science Research Outpost or SSRO features a fully self-sustaining ecosystem of fruit trees, rooftop gardens, and aquaponics to keep you well-fed and scurvy-free. Only a handful of researchers are picked to live on this outpost each year, and with its unparalleled access to vibrant coral reefs and state-of-the-art research facilities, this place is a marine biologist's dream.

You'll be sure to appreciate how the inverted pirate ship protects the lower deck from scorching midday heat, and how the swashbucklers' old rum bottles were recycled into a twinkling chandelier. While you ponder the charming example of shipwreck-inspired design, also note the many sustainable design choices that make this building a wonder of off-the-grid living. For example, two large water collection sails on the aft deck supply the irrigation systems and drinking water storage tank. A large rooftop solar panel array harnesses the equatorial sun's power and keeps the lights on.

Once you've put in some long lab hours studying coral polyp lifecycles you'll probably want to give your eyes a break. Feel free to have a skate on the in-house halfpipe or test out your new hypothesis on reef regeneration by taking a dive in "Kimo", the deep sea submersible. Maybe the wind conditions are perfect and the surf is firing? The SSRO comes fully stocked with a quiver of surfboards to make any lunch break the best surf session of your life.

This tropical lagoon dwelling is the ideal location for work and play; just remember to pack reef-safe sunscreen!