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.
Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa- Palm Coast, FL
Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa is a premier retirement community in Northeast Florida, just 30 minutes south of St. Augustine. Located in Palm Coast along the Atlantic Coast, this community offers resort-style amenities for active adults, including two top-tier golf courses designed by Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson, a "Top 25" tennis resort with Hydro-Grid clay courts, and a luxurious beachfront experience. Residents enjoy access to a marina, multiple dining venues, a Fantasy Pool complex, a full-service spa, and fitness centers. The community is close to St. Augustine, Daytona Beach, Jacksonville, and Orlando, offering diverse real estate options with ocean, golf course, and lake views.
Nocatee- Ponte Vedra, FL
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.
