If you’re exploring the Gulf Coast to find the ideal beach town, Englewood, Florida, should be on your list. This guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview of Englewood, covering everything from its beaches to its neighborhoods, and help you understand why it’s such a beloved destination.
Introduction to Englewood
Englewood is a charming beach town situated on the Gulf Coast, straddling both Sarasota and Charlotte counties. Its unique location and diverse offerings make it an attractive spot for visitors and those looking to relocate.
Manasota Key
Overview of Manasota Key
Manasota Key is a barrier island off the coast of Englewood, renowned for its beautiful beaches. The key is divided into three main beaches: Manasota Beach, Englewood Beach, and Blind Pass Beach (also known as Middle Beach).
Manasota Beach
At the northern tip of Manasota Key, you’ll find Manasota Beach, characterized by its private estates and exclusive access. The beachfront homes here are highly sought after for their privacy and stunning Gulf views.
Englewood Beach
Englewood Beach, located further south, offers a more commercial vibe with a range of dining options, t-shirt shops, high rentals, and water sports rentals. This area is bustling with activity, making it a favorite for both locals and tourists.
Blind Pass Beach
Between Manasota Beach and Englewood Beach lies Blind Pass Beach, a quieter spot known for its serene environment. This beach provides a peaceful retreat with fewer crowds, making it perfect for those looking to relax.
Southern Manasota Key
Towards the southern end of Manasota Key, the homes become more modest, though still offering beach and canal access. This area is undergoing significant development, with older homes being replaced by luxurious estates and resort-style accommodations.
North Englewood
Overview of North Englewood
North Englewood spans from the Sarasota County line down to the northern part of Englewood. This area is known for its larger plots of land, often ranging from half an acre to several acres, many of which are situated along Lemon Bay.
Residential Landscape
The homes in North Englewood are a mix of older properties and newer developments. Some areas require homes to be built on stilts due to low-lying land, while other parts are seeing the emergence of gated and retirement communities.
Historic West Dearborn Street
The historic West Dearborn Street area is a commercial district undergoing revitalization. This district boasts a mix of older homes and businesses, with plans for further development to enhance its appeal. The presence of parks and recreational facilities adds to its charm.
South Englewood and East Englewood
Traditional Florida Neighborhoods
South and East Englewood are typical of traditional Florida neighborhoods. These areas were plotted years ago and feature a mix of older homes and new constructions. With no HOA restrictions, these neighborhoods offer affordable housing options.
Real Estate Developments
Builders are actively purchasing vacant lots and constructing new homes, particularly in East Englewood. The homes here are usually situated on quarter-acre lots, with prices ranging from $300,000 to $400,000.
Grove City
Historic Fishing Town
Grove City retains the essence of a historic Florida fishing town. Modest homes line the deep-water canals, making it a haven for fishing enthusiasts and kayakers. This area offers a blend of modest and high-end homes, catering to a diverse range of buyers.
Cape Haze and Placida
Overview of Cape Haze and Placida
Just south of Grove City lies the Cape Haze and Placida area. This region is characterized by its conservation areas and limited development, ensuring a tranquil environment.
Palm Island and Little Gasparilla Island
Palm Island and Little Gasparilla Island are unique neighborhoods accessible only by ferry. These islands feature traditional Key West-style homes, from modest resort-style condos to multi-million dollar estates, offering a secluded lifestyle.
Rotonda West
Deed-Restricted Community
Rotonda West is a large, deed-restricted community with several sub-neighborhoods. Many homes here are situated on golf courses or water bodies, providing scenic views and recreational opportunities.
Development History
Initially developed in the 1970s through the 1990s, Rotonda West faced setbacks due to limited canal access to the Gulf. However, the area is experiencing a resurgence, with numerous builders investing in new constructions.
Surrounding Neighborhoods
Adjacent to Rotonda West are Rotonda Heights, Rotonda Lakes, and Rotonda Sands. These neighborhoods are popular among builders and offer affordable new construction homes. The northern part of this area is outside the flood zone, adding to its appeal.
Gulf Cove and South Gulf Cove
Overview of Gulf Cove
Gulf Cove is a modest neighborhood located north of Englewood Road. Despite its Port Charlotte mailing address, many consider it part of Englewood due to its proximity and shared community ties.
South Gulf Cove
South Gulf Cove is distinguished by its deep-water canals with access to the Gulf. This area is attracting high-end developments, with homes ranging from $800,000 to over a million dollars. The network of canals and the ease of boating access make it a prime location for fishing and boating enthusiasts.
Conclusion
Englewood, Florida, offers a diverse range of neighborhoods and lifestyles, from the serene beaches of Manasota Key to the historic charm of Grove City and the modern developments in Rotonda West. Whether you’re looking for a private beachfront estate, an affordable family home, or a fisherman’s paradise, Englewood has something for everyone. With its rich history, ongoing developments, and vibrant community, Englewood stands out as a perfect place to visit or call home.
Also read: Unlocking Affordable Paradise in Oldsmar, Florida!
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