Best Retirement Communities in Northeast Florida
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.
Whether you’re escaping the bitter cold weather, want to stay active year round or simply looking for a top-notch place to settle down, Florida retirement communities on the east coast have a lot to offer. Here’s a list of the best retirement communities in Northeast Florida.
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.
Parkland Preserve at World Golf Village- St. Augustine, FL
As its name suggests, this east coast Florida retirement community includes 150 acres of wetland preserves with miles of walking & biking trails throughout. There is also a park where residents and their canine friends can enjoy the pleasant surroundings. Activities revolve around the vast amenity center which includes a clubhouse, well-equipped fitness center, resort-style swimming pool, pickleball and bocce ball courts, and a firepit. Residents are also treated to nonstop activities and events for all interests and hobbies--coordinated by an onsite lifestyle director.
Freedom at Grand Reserve- Bunnell, FL
Nestled amid the 18-hole Grand Reserve Golf Course, residents of this Northeast Florida 55+ community are all about the active 55+ lifestyle. With the St. Johns River, Atlantic Coast, and numerous waterways within close proximity, boating, fishing, and other water adventures provide a plethora of nearby options for activities and recreation. And within the community itself, an outdoor free-form swimming pool exclusively for residents with a sprawling patio, plenty of reclining chaises for poolside lounging, a covered pavilion, and a firepit--in addition to a fitness center and regular coordinated social activities--make this among Northeast Florida's most desired retirement communities.
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.
