Best Lake Communities in North Carolina
by Robert Borges on May 20, 2020
Few things can bring a community together like being on a lake. Whether boating, fishing, kayaking, strolling along the beach or boardwalk, or simply enjoying the waterfront sunset, lake communities offer plenty of activities—with equal parts peace and tranquility. North Carolina is home to many lakes, and better still, lake communities with amazing lakefront homes. Here we break down some of the best lakefront retirement communities in North Carolina.
Bear Lake Reserve- Tuckasegee, NC
With miles of frontage on Bear Creek Lake, this 2,100-acre lake community in North Carolina sits comfortably nestled in the state’s western Blue Ridge Mountains. The Lake Club includes restaurants, swimming pools, and a fitness center—along with a 9-hole Nicklaus Design golf course, tennis courts, miles of hiking trails, parks, and more. With some of the best lakefront homes in North Carolina, this is an escape from city life, where families make new memories and build lasting relationships in an inspiring natural setting.
A glistening lakefront community in North Carolina, Connestee Falls is home to an 18-hole golf course and other established lifestyle amenities that are fully owned and operated by the residents. The 3,800-acre development has nearly half the land set aside in conservation areas including lakes, waterfalls, woodlands and hiking trails. Perfect for peace-seeking nature lovers, other amenities include a full-service community clubhouse, tennis courts, swimming and fitness facilities, on-site dining, and more.
Rivers Edge Golf Club & Plantation- Shallotte, NC
This gated lake community in North Carolina encompasses almost every luxurious amenity possible, including an oceanfront private beach club, amazing fitness facility, indoor/outdoor pools & hot tubs, pickleball & tennis courts, walking trails, clubhouse, 18 holes, restaurant, and more. Aside from being home to one of the most revered golf courses along the coast of the Carolinas, Rivers Edge features a 27-acre freshwater lake for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing.
Lakefront homes in this North Carolina community are set against the backdrop of not only pristine Lake Lure, but resort-style amenities and award-winning golf. Along with two championship mountain golf courses rated four stars by Golf Digest, Rumbling Bald makes it easy to stay connected with nature. With 21 miles of lake shoreline, members enjoy boating, kayaking, fishing, and a white sand beach. There are also numerous hiking and biking trails to explore and experience the beauty of the lake and mountains.
Pinehurst Country Club- Pinehurst, NC
Boasting 9 renowned golf courses, Pinehurst Country Club is one of the premiere golf destinations in the country located in the Sandhills of North Carolina. And on top of an array of resort-style amenities, the community features Lake Pinehurst where residents, members, and guests have access to the private, 200-acre lake to boat, fish, swim, and sunbathe. Kayaks and pontoon boats can be rented for a day on the water.
Designed to foster a coastal, wellness-centered environment, this North Carolina lakefront community provides the energy of a city amid miles of tranquil beauty. Set along the Cape Fear River, it’s a new kind of community that celebrates family, honors nature, and breathes new life into Southern heritage. Whether roaming free in the community’s many parks, kayaking in the 38-acre freshwater lake, enjoying a riverfront walk along the boardwalk, gathering with neighbors for an oyster roast, or watching the sunset on the waterfront, exploration happens here daily.
