by Robert Borges on December 2, 2025
Ave Maria, Florida has rapidly become one of the most desirable master-planned communities in Southwest Florida. Founded in 2005 and centered around the iconic Ave Maria Oratory, this growing Collier County town blends small-town charm with modern living, resort-style amenities, and proximity to some of Florida’s most popular Gulf Coast destinations. Homebuyers wondering if “Ave Maria a good place to live?” consistently discover its unique combination of affordability, lifestyle, and community-focused design.
Located just east of Naples and near Everglades National Park, Ave Maria features thoughtfully planned neighborhoods, a walkable Town Center, top-rated schools, golf courses, parks, and miles of recreational pathways. Anchored by Ave Maria University and supported by a growing network of restaurants, shops, healthcare options, and year-round events, the community continues to rank among the fastest-growing developments in Southwest Florida.
Below is your updated guide to Ave Maria, Florida, including things to do, top lifestyle amenities, and the best communities near Ave Maria for those exploring the region.
What Is Ave Maria Florida Known For?
Ave Maria is widely known for its community-first lifestyle, affordability, and thoughtfully designed master-planned layout. Highlights include:
- Walkable neighborhoods for families and retirees
- A vibrant Town Center with dining, services, and retail
- Resort-style pools, fitness amenities, and recreation centers
- Golf courses, parks, and trails
- K–12 schools and Ave Maria University
- Year-round events, markets, and festivals
- Convenient proximity to Naples, Bonita Springs, and Fort Myers
This blend of convenience and charm gives Ave Maria its reputation as a well-rounded, welcoming place to live.
Is Ave Maria Florida a Good Place to Live?
Yes—especially for families, retirees, and buyers looking for new homes near Naples at more accessible price points.
Pros
- Strong home value growth and lower prices than coastal areas
- Resort-style amenities and master-planned design
- Low crime and family-focused environment
- Proximity to beaches, parks, golf, and cultural attractions
- Plenty of new construction options
Cons
- Beaches and nightlife require a 30–45-minute drive
- New-growth areas may include ongoing development
For many buyers, the combination of affordability, amenities, and small-town atmosphere makes Ave Maria one of Southwest Florida’s most appealing places to live.
Things to Do in Ave Maria, FL
Residents and visitors can enjoy a variety of lifestyle activities, including annual festivals, food and music events, farmers markets, weekly community gatherings, and recreational opportunities throughout the master-planned development. Outdoor lovers enjoy walking and biking trails, golf courses, fitness classes, and parks, while the nearby Gulf Coast offers beaches, boating, and nature preserves. The Town Center provides shopping, dining, arts events, and university-hosted activities, making Ave Maria a hub of small-town entertainment.
Ave Maria: The Flagship Master-Planned Community
The heart of the region is the Ave Maria master-planned community itself—one of Collier County’s fastest-growing developments. Designed for an active, connected lifestyle, it features:
- Multiple residential villages, including family-friendly and 55+ neighborhoods
- Top builders offering new homes with modern floorplans
- A vibrant Town Center with retail, restaurants, and services
- Two championship golf courses
- A resort-style water park, fitness centers, and miles of walking and biking paths
- K–12 schools, Ave Maria University, and state-of-the-art recreational amenities
- Convenient access to Naples, Immokalee, and Bonita Springs
Ave Maria’s blend of small-town atmosphere, newer homes, and robust amenities combine to create one of the premier lifestyle communities in Southwest Florida.
New Communities Near Ave Maria Florida
Located just minutes from Ave Maria, SkySail in Naples is one of Collier County’s standout new lifestyle communities. Centered around 246 acres of shimmering lakes, SkySail offers a serene, nature-forward atmosphere complemented by a lake house, fitness center, resort-style pool, tennis and pickleball courts, walking trails, a dog park, and water access for fishing and kayaking. Its convenient location near Fifth Avenue South, Gulf beaches, and championship golf courses make it a strong choice for buyers seeking a peaceful retreat close to Ave Maria.
The Isles of Collier Preserve — Naples, FL
The Isles of Collier Preserve is a gated Naples community inspired by the timeless architecture and charm of Old Naples. Spread across 2,400 acres—over half preserved for waterways and natural habitat—the community offers scenic views, nature trails, bike paths, and kayak access along the Cypress Waterway. Residents enjoy resort-style amenities at The Isles Club and waterfront dining at The Overlook Bar & Grill. With coastal-themed homes from Minto Communities and proximity to Naples Bay and 5th Avenue, the community blends luxury, nature, and convenience.
Located along the scenic Orange River, Verandah is a private golf community approximately 40 miles from Ave Maria. Residents enjoy a full-service golf clubhouse, tennis, a fitness center and day spa, a junior Olympic-size pool, and riverside dining and event spaces. With kayak access to the Orange River, proximity to marinas, and a peaceful natural setting, Verandah appeals to buyers seeking a relaxing yet active lifestyle near Southwest Florida’s Gulf Coast offerings.
Pelican Preserve — Fort Myers, FL
In nearby Fort Myers, Pelican Preserve is a 55+ active adult community known for its exceptional amenities and 27-hole championship golf. At the heart of the community is the 70,000-square-foot Plaza del Sol Town Center, offering fitness facilities, indoor and outdoor pools, restaurants, arts studios, sports courts, and social clubs. Surrounded by lakes and a 38-acre nature preserve with boardwalk trails, Pelican Preserve features a diverse lineup of home styles and quick-delivery options ideal for active adults seeking resort living.
FAQ: Ave Maria Florida
Is Ave Maria affordable?
Yes. Home prices are typically lower than in Naples or Bonita Springs, making it popular with families, retirees, and first-time buyers.
How far is Ave Maria from the beach?
Most Naples and Bonita Springs beaches are 35–45 minutes away.
Is Ave Maria good for retirees?
Absolutely. The area includes active-adult neighborhoods, golf, fitness, clubs, and plentiful community events.
Are there new construction homes in Ave Maria?
Yes. Ave Maria offers multiple new-home neighborhoods with modern floorplans from award-winning builders.
What is the weather like?
Expect warm winters, hot summers, and plenty of sunshine—classic Southwest Florida tropical weather.
Conclusion: Discover Ave Maria Florida and Nearby Communities with PCR
Whether you're drawn to the small-town charm of Ave Maria, Florida or interested in exploring the many exceptional communities nearby, Southwest Florida offers a wide range of lifestyle options for families, retirees, and active adults. From master-planned developments and golf communities to waterfront enclaves and 55+ neighborhoods, the region continues to grow with high-quality amenities and desirable new-home opportunities.
Explore all these communities and many more on Private Communities Registry (PCR), your trusted resource for discovering the nation’s top lifestyle and master-planned communities.
About the Author
With over 20 years of experience as a seasoned content creator, Robert Borges is the senior writer for Private Communities Registry (PCR), specializing in real estate trends and master-planned communities. He works closely with builders, developers, and real estate pros to create helpful content that guides homebuyers in finding the perfect community, ensuring they have the information needed to make confident, informed decisions.
