Are you considering a move to Lakewood Ranch and curious about the Waterside community? You’re in the right place! In this guide we will provide an in-depth look at everything you need to know about Waterside, including each of its communities, geographical location, and all the exciting activities and amenities available. Let’s dive in!
Introduction to Waterside
Waterside is a distinct and vibrant community within the larger Lakewood Ranch area. Located on the Sarasota County side, Waterside stands out with its unique charm and prime location. Lakewood Ranch itself is a sprawling 50-square-mile community featuring a town center, multiple zip codes, and around 30 neighborhoods. While most of Lakewood Ranch is situated in Manatee County, Waterside is the southern portion nestled in Sarasota County. This geographic detail is essential as it places Waterside closer to some of the most attractive destinations on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Waterside Town Center
At the heart of Waterside lies its charming town center, Waterside Place. This area is set on a beautiful large lake, providing stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere. The town center is relatively new, with ongoing additions of stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Current offerings include restaurants, breweries, ice cream shops, and a recently opened Mexican restaurant. This central hub is accessible via golf cart, bike ride, or even on foot for many of the surrounding communities.
Geographical Advantage
Waterside’s location is one of its most appealing features. As the southwestern portion of Lakewood Ranch, it boasts proximity to several key attractions:
- Downtown Sarasota: Just a short drive away, offering cultural venues, dining, and shopping.
- University Town Center (UTC): A premier shopping destination.
- Beaches: Including Siesta Key, Lido Key, Longboat Key, and Nokomis Beach. These beautiful beaches are much closer to Waterside than the northeastern sections of Lakewood Ranch.
Community Characteristics
No Age Restrictions
All communities within Waterside are open to residents of all ages. There are no 55+ communities here, making it a vibrant and diverse area.
No Golf Courses
Unlike other parts, none of the Waterside communities feature golf courses. However, the absence of golf communities does not detract from the appeal, as there are plenty of other amenities to enjoy.
Maintenance-Free Living
All Waterside communities, except for Kingfisher Estates, offer maintenance-free living. This means homeowners can enjoy a worry-free lifestyle without the burden of yard work and exterior maintenance.
Gated Communities
Most Waterside communities are not gated, which is a stipulation within Sarasota County. The only exception is Windward, which is a gated community located at the corner of Lorraine and Fruitville Road.
Activities Directors
Four communities in Waterside have activities directors, making them the most resort-like with extensive amenities and social calendars. These communities are:
- Lakehouse Cove
- Shoreview
- Wild Blue
- Windward
Overview of Waterside Communities
Let’s take a closer look at each of the 11 communities within Waterside, starting from the most affordable to the most exclusive.
1. Avanti
Avanti by Pulte Homes offers both townhomes and single-family homes.
- Townhome Prices: Start in the $300s.
- Single-Family Home Prices: Start in the high $400s.
- Number of Homes: 166
- HOA Fees: Range from $100 to $200 per month.
- Amenities: Minimal, but maintenance is included.
2. Nautique
Nautique by MI Homes features townhomes and single-family homes.
- Prices: Start in the $400s.
- Number of Homes: 222
- HOA Fees: Range from $100 to $200 per month.
- Amenities: Pool, pickleball court, dog park, playground, and maintenance included.
3. Windward
Windward by Neal Communities offers affordable villas and larger single-family homes.
- Prices: Villas start in the $400s, single-family homes can reach up to $1 million.
- Number of Homes: 780
- HOA Fees: Range from $200 to $400 per month.
- Amenities: Gated, with activities director, pool, pickleball court, dog park, playground, and fitness center.
4. Emerald Landing
Emerald Landing by David Weekley Homes is a new community featuring townhomes and single-family homes.
- Prices: Start in the $500s.
- Number of Homes: 193
- HOA Fees: Range from $250 to $400 per month.
- Amenities: Pool, tennis court, dog park, and maintenance included.
5. Bungalow Walk
Bungalow Walk by Dream Home Finders is another new community offering single-family homes.
- Prices: Start in the $500s.
- Number of Homes: 225
- HOA Fees: Around $200 per month.
- Amenities: Clubhouse, pool, playground, and maintenance included.
6. Shellstone
Shellstone is an upcoming community promising luxury and extensive amenities.
- Prices: Start in the $600s, with lots up to $900,000.
- Number of Homes: 682
- HOA Fees: Around $400 per month.
- Amenities: Pool, tennis court, pickleball, playground, fitness center, and activities director.
7. Shoreview
Shoreview by Pulte Homes is known for its large lake and scenic views.
- Prices: Start in the $900s.
- Number of Homes: 300
- HOA Fees: Around $300 per month.
- Amenities: Fitness center, tennis court, pickleball, pool, and kayak launch.
8. Lakehouse Cove
Lakehouse Cove by Homes by Town is a premium community with ferry access to Waterside Place.
- Prices: Start in the $800s, with homes exceeding $2 million.
- Number of Homes: 626
- HOA Fees: Around $200 per month.
- Amenities: Fitness center, tennis court, pickleball, pool, and ferry service to Waterside Place.
9. Alcove
Alcove by Neal Signature Homes is a smaller, exclusive community.
- Prices: Start in the $800s.
- Number of Homes: 47
- HOA Fees: Around $500 per month.
- Amenities: None, but maintenance included.
10. Wild Blue
Wild Blue features a variety of custom home builders and offers luxury living.
- Prices: Median prices are high due to luxury offerings.
- Number of Homes: 500
- HOA Fees: High, reflective of extensive amenities.
- Amenities: Pool, tennis court, pickleball, fitness center, restaurant, bar, and activities director.
11. Kingfisher Estates
Kingfisher Estates by John Cannon Homes is an ultra-exclusive community.
- Prices: Custom homes start at $3 million.
- Number of Homes: 13
- HOA Fees: $250 per month.
- Amenities: None, not maintenance-free.
Conclusion
Waterside offers a diverse range of communities, each with its own unique features and price points. Whether you’re looking for affordable townhomes, luxury custom homes, or a vibrant community with extensive amenities, Waterside has something to suit every lifestyle. If you need more information or have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. We would love to help you find your perfect home in this beautiful part of Florida.
Also read: Exploring 19 Wellen Park Neighborhoods
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