As retirement nears, many begin to dream of the perfect active adult community to call home – one that offers a vibrant lifestyle, top-notch amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere. Florida's Gulf Coast is a popular destination for retirees seeking a warm climate, beautiful beaches, and a wide range of communities to choose from. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at some of the top active adult communities in this region, spanning master-planned developments, affordable options, coastal proximity, and inland retirement.

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Master-Planned Development

1. Del Webb Lakewood Ranch

Nestled in the heart of Lakewood Ranch, Del Webb Lakewood Ranch is a mature and well-established community that offers a resort-style living experience. With homes ranging from $370,000 to over $3,000,000, this community caters to a variety of budgets and preferences. Residents can enjoy a 21,000-square-foot recreation center, a resort-style pool, pickleball courts, bocce ball courts, and more.

2. Cresswind Lakewood Ranch

Cresswind Lakewood Ranch, built by Kolter Homes, is an elegant alternative to Del Webb Lakewood Ranch. Offering homes from $500,000 to $800,000, this community boasts a level of luxury reminiscent of Toll Brothers and Homes by Town West. Residents can enjoy an exclusive clubhouse, pickleball courts, tennis courts, a dog park, and an on-site food truck court.

3. Del Webb Catalina

The upcoming Del Webb Catalina community, located just north of Lakewood Ranch, promises to be a new addition to the area. Expected to feature a 15-acre resort-style amenity campus on a 70-acre lake, this community will offer tennis courts, pickleball courts, a dog park, a resort-style pool, and an on-site restaurant and bar.

4. Esplanade at Wiregrass Ranch

Esplanade at Wiregrass Ranch, located north of Tampa in Wesley Chapel, is a 55+ community within the master-planned Wiregrass Ranch community. This community offers homes ranging from $427,000 to over $3,000,000, with a variety of single-story floor plans. Residents can enjoy a heated resort-style pool, pickleball courts, tennis courts, a fitness center, and an on-site café.

Affordable Retirement

1. Del Webb Bayview

Located in Parrish, Florida, Del Webb Bayview is an affordable alternative to the communities in Lakewood Ranch. With homes starting at $371,000, this community offers single-family homes and villas ranging from 1,400 to 3,300 square feet. Residents can enjoy a 22,000-square-foot clubhouse, a resort-style pool, a restaurant on-site, pickleball courts, and more.

2. Southshore Bay

Southshore Bay, located in Wimauma, Florida, offers an affordable option for those seeking proximity to the Tampa metro area. With homes ranging from $300,000 to $550,000, this community features a crystal water lagoon, sports courts, a fitness center, and a resort-style pool. While not directly on the coast, Southshore Bay provides a unique alternative for those seeking a budget-friendly option with amenities.

3. Del Webb Oak Creek

For those interested in the Naples area, Del Webb Oak Creek in North Fort Myers offers an affordable option. With homes starting at $356,000, this community boasts an 18-hole professional golf course, a resort-style pool, pickleball courts, and two clubhouses totaling 30,000 square feet. While it may be farther from the beaches, Del Webb Oak Creek provides a resort-style living experience at a more accessible price point.

Coastal Proximity

1. Brightmore at Wellen Park

Brightmore at Wellen Park, located south of Venice, Florida, is a standout community when it comes to coastal proximity. Just 12.5 miles from Venice Beach, Caspersen Beach, and Brohard Beach, this community offers villas and single-family homes ranging from 1,400 to 2,500 square feet. Residents can enjoy a clubhouse with a fitness center, a waterfront resort-style pool, pickleball courts, and a variety of lifestyle activities and events.

Inland Retirement

1. Del Webb Naples

Del Webb Naples, located in Ave Maria, offers a unique inland retirement experience. With homes starting at $340,000, this community features an 18-hole professional golf course, two clubhouses totaling 30,000 square feet, a resort-style pool, and amenities like tennis courts, pickleball courts, and a bar and grill. While not directly on the coast, Del Webb Naples provides a resort-style living experience with a focus on golf and an abundance of amenities.

2. Angeline

Angeline, a 6,200-acre mixed-use development in Pasco County, north of Tampa, is a one-of-a-kind retirement community. Emphasizing sustainability and efficiency, Angeline will feature a sustainable fruit and vegetable farm, miles of trails and pathways, a future K-12 STEM magnet school, and a town center with shopping, dining, and entertainment. Additionally, Angeline will be anchored by a 775-acre life sciences research park for Moffitt Cancer Center, offering medical facilities and commercial space.

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Florida's Gulf Coast offers a diverse range of active adult communities, catering to various preferences and budgets. Whether you're seeking a master-planned development with abundant amenities, an affordable option with access to nearby metro areas, a community with proximity to the coast, or a unique inland retirement experience, there is something for everyone in this vibrant region. As you explore these communities, consider your priorities, budget, and desired lifestyle to find the perfect fit for your retirement years.