Are you looking to retire on Florida’s West Coast? The region is famous for its sunny beaches, vibrant communities, and affordable living options for retirees. Whether you’re after a quiet retreat or an active social scene, Florida’s West Coast offers a variety of neighborhoods to suit your needs.
In this guide, we will explore 15 hidden gem neighborhoods that are ideal for retirees, ranging from Sarasota to Venice. These communities offer new or newer construction homes, maintenance-free living, and a rich array of amenities. So, let’s dive into these top retirement communities that can offer a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and affordability.
1. Star Farms at Lakewood Ranch
Located in the northeastern corner of Lakewood Ranch, Star Farms is a new community by DR Horton. This neighborhood is designed with multiple age demographics in mind. What sets it apart is its Adventure Retreat amenity center, specifically catered to active older adults. With features like pickleball, tennis, bocce ball, and resort-style pools, it offers an affordable retirement option starting in the $400,000 range. The community promotes a social and active lifestyle, perfect for retirees looking for both affordability and vibrant community life.
2. Esplanade at Azario Lakewood Ranch
A Taylor Morrison development, Esplanade at Azario offers a luxurious and highly amenitized lifestyle. With both deeded and non-deeded golf options, retirees can choose how much they want to invest in golf activities. The community boasts resort-style amenities such as a day spa, restaurant, fitness center, and various social clubs. Villa homes start in the high $400,000s, making it a slightly more upscale option compared to Star Farms. This is an ideal choice for those seeking an elevated, resort-like lifestyle.
3. Sweetwater
If you’re looking for something quieter and more removed from the hustle and bustle, Sweetwater offers a more tranquil environment. With its gated villas specifically catering to older adults, this MI Homes community provides a peaceful retreat while still offering essential amenities like a pool and fitness center. Homes here tend to feel more elevated in design and finishes, making it a great option for those seeking a quieter, more refined community without excessive social obligations.
4. Cresswind Lakewood Ranch
One of the few 55+ communities in Lakewood Ranch, Cresswind by Kolter Homes focuses on single-family homes, starting in the $500,000 range. While it lacks an onsite restaurant, it makes up for it with resort-style pools, tennis, pickleball, and an active lifestyle program. The homes are beautifully designed with attention to luxury, making this a great option for those looking for a more upscale 55+ environment.
5. Del Webb Lakewood Ranch
The Del Webb brand is synonymous with 55+ communities, and the Lakewood Ranch location is no exception. Featuring everything from a resort-style pool to tennis, pickleball, and even a restaurant, this community is designed for active older adults. Del Webb is opening a new community, Catalina, which promises to offer the same level of amenities. The new construction homes will provide a fresh, modern living environment with prices starting in the mid $400,000s.
6. Lakewood National
For avid golfers, Lakewood National is a must-see. This Lennar community offers two 18-hole championship golf courses and a range of housing options from condos to single-family homes. Lakewood National is part of the PGA Tour’s Corn Ferry series, making it a great option for golf enthusiasts. In addition to its golf offerings, the community has a spa, resort-style pool, and a restaurant, all contributing to a luxurious retirement lifestyle.
7. Windward at Lakewood Ranch
Windward, located in the Waterside section of Lakewood Ranch, offers a great balance of amenities and a quiet, less hectic atmosphere. While the community is slightly less social than some of the others on this list, it still offers resort-style pools, tennis courts, and fitness centers. Its Sarasota address places it close to downtown Sarasota, making it perfect for retirees who want to enjoy the arts, culture, and proximity to the beach.
8. Esplanade at Sky Ranch
Another Taylor Morrison community, Esplanade at Sky Ranch, offers a unique blend of amenities tailored toward older adults. This gated community has its own pools and fitness centers, catering specifically to the active adult lifestyle. With homes starting in the mid $400,000s, it’s an affordable, amenity-rich option close to Sarasota’s downtown and beaches.
9. Talon Preserve on Palmer Ranch
Located in Nokomis, Talon Preserve is a newly developed, gated community by Divosta. With a focus on affordability and amenities, this neighborhood offers everything from tennis and bocce ball to a poolside bar and fitness center. The homes are available in both villa and single-family styles, with villas starting in the $400,000s. This community offers a peaceful setting while still providing easy access to Sarasota and Venice.
10. Sarasota National
Sarasota National offers a blend of golf and non-golf living options, making it an excellent choice for retirees who enjoy flexibility. With resort-style amenities such as pools, a spa, and various social activities, this Lennar-built community offers something for everyone. Prices start in the $400,000s for coach-style homes and go up for single-family residences. This community is perfect for those seeking a social, active lifestyle without committing to golf.
11. Island Walk at West Villages
Located in Venice, Island Walk is a well-established, gated community known for its vibrant social scene. It offers multiple pools, a fitness center, and various clubs and activities that keep residents engaged. While it doesn’t have golf, the amenities are top-tier, and it’s a great choice for those seeking resale homes with excellent value.
12. Brightmore
If you’re looking for a 55+ community in the up-and-coming Wellen Park, Brightmore should be on your radar. This active adult community offers everything from villas to single-family homes, starting in the $400,000s. Its standout feature is the stadium-style pickleball court, perfect for retirees looking to engage in competitive social activities.
13. Sunstone at Wellen Park
Sunstone, another M/I Homes product in Wellen Park, is perfect for those who don’t want to live in a 55+ community but still want a vibrant, amenity-rich environment. With villas and single-family homes available, Sunstone offers affordability without sacrificing quality. This community is ideal for retirees looking for new construction in a growing area.
14. Boca Royale Golf & Country Club
For retirees who want a mix of charm, proximity to the beach, and a golf-centric lifestyle, Boca Royale in Englewood is perfect. The community offers a mix of estate homes, single-family homes, and villas, with prices starting in the $400,000s. With an 18-hole golf course and close proximity to Manasota Key Beach, this is a great option for those seeking an established, beachside community.
15. Shellstone at Waterside
Our bonus pick is Shellstone, a newly developed community in Waterside at Lakewood Ranch. While it’s not gated, Shellstone offers maintenance-free living with beautiful lakeside views. The homes are expected to start in the $600,000s, with an array of amenities catering to active adults. Its proximity to downtown Sarasota and the beaches makes it an ideal choice for retirees who prioritize location and luxury.
Hidden Neighborhoods on Florida’s West Coast – Conclusion
These 15 hidden neighborhoods on Florida’s West Coast offer a wide range of living options for retirees. Whether you’re seeking resort-style amenities, a quiet retreat, or a vibrant social scene, these communities cater to every lifestyle and budget. Consider your needs and desires, and you’re sure to find the perfect spot to enjoy your retirement on Florida’s stunning Gulf Coast.
Also read: Venice’s Best Golf Communities, New Builds, & Established Communities
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