Northeast Florida's Best Retirement Communities for Active Adults
by Robert Borges on January 29, 2024
Northeast Florida (aka the First Coast) may not get the publicity of the more glamorous Florida hotspots like South Beach, but there are some gems--hidden and in plain sight--on Florida’s northeast coast.
Nestled in the scenic landscapes and charming cities of the region, Northeast Florida boasts a collection of top-tier active adult communities that redefine the concept of retirement living. From gated communities with world-class amenities to those offering proximity to golf courses, beaches, and cultural attractions, the choices are as diverse as the preferences of those seeking an enriching chapter in their lives. Join us on a journey through the top active adult communities in Northeast Florida, where the perfect blend of comfort, recreation, and community awaits those ready to embrace the next exciting phase of life. Here’s a list of the best active adult communities for those looking to retire in Northeast Florida.
Stillwater 55+ is an active adult community for retirees in St. Johns, FL, just 25 minutes from Jacksonville and St. Augustine. Nestled amid lush landscapes, this gated golf community offers a serene golf retreat within a close-knit neighborhood. The centerpiece is a meticulously designed golf course for enthusiasts of all levels. Enjoy afternoons perfecting your swing or exploring curated amenities like walking paths, a pool, and sports courts. Premium Florida homes by Lennar Homes provide modern comfort and elegance, creating the perfect backdrop for every moment in this age-restricted community. Embrace nature, fairways, and a warm community in your new chapter of life.
Reverie at Palm Coast- Palm Coast, FL
Experience Reverie, a new 55+ active adult community in Palm Coast, FL. Ideally situated on Route 1 just north of Palm Coast Parkway, residents enjoy easy access to golf courses, beaches, and a new hospital complex. This prime Northeast Florida retirement community offers a beautifully manicured gated entry, a central 4,000 sq. ft. lakefront clubhouse, zero-entry swimming, lap pool, spa, fitness center, and 6 pickleball courts. With homes ranging from 1,693 to 3,700 sq. ft, including 2- and 3-car garages, homebuyers can choose a homesite with water or preserve views. The community features 15 floorplans to suit diverse tastes and budgets. HOA fees cover landscaping, yard maintenance, and amenities access.
One of the best-selling communities in the country, the Nocatee retirement community in Northeast Florida blends an array of village-like neighborhoods with schools, commercial and retail property, and more than 5,000 acres of parks and nature preserves. Its broad range of services and amenities include a family-oriented aquatics center set in a 75-acre community park with two large swimming pools, two resort style water parks, fitness and sports facilities, tennis and pickleball courts and a 330-foot zip line ride.
WaterSong at RiverTown- St. Johns, FL
Explore WaterSong at RiverTown, a premier northeast Florida active adult community in St. John’s County. This exclusive 55+ master-planned oasis, strategically located off I-95 on CR 210, seamlessly blends an Old Florida ambiance with resort-style amenities against a scenic natural backdrop. Tailored for active adult retirees, WaterSong features a clubhouse, pools, fitness center, event lawn, and more. Residents enjoy exclusive access to a range of amenities, including RiverClub and RiverHouse facilities, hiking trails, and a fishing pier. With homes ranging from 1,431 to 2,554 sq ft, the WaterSong collection offers diverse floorplans, providing a perfect Florida retreat near Jacksonville, St. Augustine, and Atlantic Coast beaches.
Plantation Bay- Ormond Beach, FL
This 3,600 acre community in Northeast Florida is located midway between Jacksonville and Orlando in the charming seaside town of Ormond Beach. Aside from year-round warm weather and easy access to Interstate 95, Daytona Beach, Port Orange, and St. Augustine, residents are treated to world-class golf and other activities in this highly-amenitized community. Buyers can select a ready-to-build lot and create a fully custom home, or choose from an extensive portfolio of floor plans, all of which can be customized. Quick move-in homes are also available. All homes feature sturdy, energy-efficient construction, with two- or three-car garages, underground utilities and professional landscaping.
