LExplore the Finest Land Preservation Communities
The nation's best land preservation communities are committed to the conservation of natural areas and wildlife habitat for future generations. If you're a nature lover who is considering retirement or relocation, a premier land preservation community may be the right destination for you.
Why choose a land preservation community?
Is your idea of a great day one that includes a long walk in an unspoiled natural area? Do you enjoy photographing wildlife in a pristine setting or canoeing on a lake that doesn't allow motor boats? How convenient would it be if a large tract of undeveloped land was located next to your residential neighborhood? If your retirement or relocation plans include spending more time in the great outdoors, a land preservation community should be at the top if your list.
What are the benefits of living in a land preservation community?
- Land Preservation Trusts. Also sometimes called conservation easements, land preservation trusts are usually created by the original property owners or by the community developers. Depending on the size of the community master plan, this can result in dozens or even hundreds of acres being left untouched in their natural state. The benefit to community residents is that they know this protected land will be free of future development and available for enjoyment in the years ahead.
- Community design. Land preservation communities often group their residential neighborhoods and amenity centers in specific areas that are separated by undeveloped land. Community residents can then enjoy more peace and quiet at home, relaxing nature views from the back porch and access to undisturbed areas that are walking distance from their homes' front door.
- Outdoor recreation. Residents in land preservation communities are naturally drawn to open spaces and woodlands. Whether your healthy exercise plan includes leisurely strolls or more vigorous hikes, most land preservation communities have many miles of pathways within their designated natural areas. Bike riders, birdwatchers, photographers and artists can also enjoy their favorite activities in these serene preserved spaces. If lakes, ponds and other wetlands are part of the conservation area, then kayaking, canoeing and fishing may be additional outdoor recreation options.
- Nature clubs. Social activities in land preservation communities are nearly always nature-oriented and community clubs are quick to form among like-minded neighbors. Members of these nature clubs volunteer their time to regularly inspect the protected areas, keep walking trails free of debris, monitor water and woodland quality, and engage in other healthy activities that keep these natural areas both pristine and accessible. Club members may also serve as guides for community visitors and organize field trips to nearby state and national parks.
Research and Explore Land Preservation Communities
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Click to explore the following land preservation communities. Request information from multiple communities by selecting the checkboxes to the right and completing the form below.
Portugal – The Agency Real Estate
“We can find your Portugal home throughout the entire country from Porto to Lisbon to the Algarve!”
Discover Portugal – A Premier Destination for Living & Investment
Portugal stands out as an attractive destination for those looking to live, invest, or expand their portfolio of properties and experiences. With its high quality of life, pleasant climate, thriving economy, and balanced lifestyle, the country was named Europe’s Leading Destination 2023 by the World Travel Awards.
Exceptional Quality of Life
Ranked as the 3rd safest country globally, Portugal offers a peaceful environment, excellent infrastructure, and a lower cost of living compared to other European capitals. It boasts top-tier healthcare, leading educational institutions, and a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere.
Connectivity & Infrastructure
Portugal is well-connected, featuring efficient metro systems, modern highways, and high-speed internet that surpasses European averages. Strategically located, it is just hours away from major European cities, making it ideal for tourism, investors, and global professionals. Additionally, 70% of the population speaks English, ranking sixth among non-native English-speaking countries worldwide.
A Thriving Real Estate Market
Portugal’s property sector has appreciated by 70% since 2010. Investors benefit from a stable market, competitive prices, and attractive financing options, whether acquiring a luxury residence, vacation home, or investment property.
Gastronomy
Portugal’s culinary scene is one of its treasures, known for fresh, authentic, and diverse dishes. Its cuisine blends Mediterranean, oceanic, mountain, and international influences, creating a unique gastronomic experience.
Healthcare
Portugal’s National Health Service (SNS) is ranked among the world’s best, providing high-quality healthcare to the entire population.
Port Ludlow
For retirees, active adults, and remote workers, Port Ludlow is an inviting resort-style community on the shores of Puget Sound in the state of Washington.
Westharbor Homes is building new Port Ludlow residences to the highest environmental standards with energy-saving appliances. In the Ludlow Cove Cottages and Olympic Terrace II neighborhoods, you’ll find a delightful variety of floor plans, including beachfront single-family homes, waterfront condominiums, and spacious villas with fairway views.
The amenities and activities at Port Ludlow start with play on the community’s 18-hole golf course, a scenic layout along the water and through the maritime forest. The 300-slip marina offers complete boating services and launches for kayaks and paddleboards. In addition, there are two community clubhouses with fitness centers, swimming pools, and tennis/pickleball courts. You can also enjoy 30+ miles of walking trails, more than 100 community social clubs, and genuine farm-to-table dining with fresh seafood always on the menu at the Fireside Restaurant.
The nearby towns of Chimacum and Port Townsend feature cafes, bakeries, artisan shops, and grocery markets, plus convenient health care services that include specialty practices. And just a 30-minute ferry ride away is the dynamic city of Seattle, home to some of the nation’s leading hi-tech companies, a thriving cultural arts scene, and major professional sports teams.
When you request more information below, you’ll be on your way to discovering the waterfront lifestyle in the Pacific Northwest at Port Ludlow.
Check out our 360 degree view of Port Ludow by clicking here!
Costa Rica Beach & Golf Community Oceanview and Sunset
Our Beachfront & Golf Community is a 134-acre, gated community that has 550+ existing residences and is renowned for its rich flora and fauna. The community provides private beach access to the 6km stretch of Whale Bay, Pacific Ocean waters. Costa Rica Beach & Golf Community Oceanview and Sunset, Costa Rica, is home to a spectacular golf course, ranked among the top in Costa Rica, nestled within lush tropical surroundings. The community is a bustling hub of year-round activity, catering to a diverse demographic with many varied interests. Residents have the opportunity to enjoy vibrant farmers’ markets, artisanal fairs, yoga sessions, aqua-fit, Zumba, golf, beach volleyball, pickleball and tennis. Our beachfront restaurant offers a perfect spot for relaxation and stunning ocean views to complement your meal.
Located in the Nicoya Peninsula, the community is in one of the world’s ‘Blue Zones’ and a Protected Biological Corridor that maintains the area’s environment & biodiversity. Surrounding towns provide dozens of Costa Rica’s best beaches, world-class surfing, 100’s of shopping options, 1,000’s of restaurants, and emergency & medical services. For thrill-seekers, there is no lack of adventuring options such as zip-lining, fishing, boating, horseback riding and exploring secret waterfalls and hiking trails.
As the community continues to grow, we welcome an increasing number of visitors and new homeowners each year. With the enriching culture of Costa Rica, symbiotically combined with the comforts of home, it’s easy to understand why so many have made this desirable choice as their place to live and visit. Contact our team today to learn how you and your family can become part of this thriving community.
Callawassie Island
Callawassie Island, located in the heart of the Lowcountry, is a private, gated island community offering world-class Tom Fazio golf and a full complement of amenities including a tennis center, clubhouse, pools, fitness center, and River Club. Secluded from the noise and congestion of the highway, Callawassie lies miles from Hilton Head and is also convenient to Beaufort and Bluffton (15 minutes away); historic Savannah, GA (a 30-minute drive); and the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (40 minutes away). A half-mile causeway provides a relaxing, slow-paced approach to the island, where peace and quiet are as plentiful as vibrant activity.
The community hosts numerous social events, activities and clubs connecting members by their passions for nature, art and giving back locally. Members take full advantage of the island parks, historical sites and recreation areas for enjoying remarkable views of undisturbed nature. Island dwellers have access to four community docks providing leased slips, kayak launches and excellent opportunities for fishing, crabbing and shrimping. The River Club, overlooking the Colleton River, is a warm gathering center with a library and fireplace, family swimming pool, and offers seasonal dining.
For those seeking a golfing experience like no other, the 27-hole, Tom Fazio-designed championship golf course is truly spectacular. Voted one of South Carolina’s top 50 courses, Callawassie recently enhanced the design with a four-million-dollar renovation in 2014. This renovation resulted in a brand-new pro shop with three Class A PGA Golf Professionals. The courses meander intimately along the waterways and salt marshes in a way that environmental regulations have made difficult for newer courses; visual interest is natural not manmade.
Callawassie Island is the first South Carolina gated community to have been designated a “Community Wildlife Habitat” by the National Wildlife Federation. This coexistence brings a true community balance with nature. The island is covered with live oaks and palmettos, egrets and herons, and encompasses a thriving salt marsh ecosystem.
Today, Callawassie is one of only four South Carolina communities holding this distinguished designation. The homes and homesites, including waterfront property, are among the best values in the area.
Ave Maria
Ave Maria is an award-winning master-planned community that combines an active lifestyle with the charm and friendliness of a small town in the Gulf Coast region of southwestern Florida. The Collier County community encompasses multiple residential neighborhoods, schools, a town center with shopping and dining, office space, business parks, and recreational amenities located 20 minutes east of Interstate 75 near Naples, Immokalee and Bonita Springs.
One of the best-selling communities in the nation, Ave Maria features a resort-style water park and two expansive community parks with picnic areas, sports fields, playgrounds, tennis, bocce and pickleball courts. Residents also have access to quality K-12 education, 100 miles of nature, hiking and biking paths, a dog park, a fitness center, 2 championship 18-hole golf courses, and much more.
Real estate options within Ave Maria include several family-friendly neighborhoods of homes in a variety of styles- from single-family homes to condominiums, plus the Del Webb Naples 55+ active adult community
SpringHouse Village
Welcome to SpringHouse Village – New Homes for Sale in our 55+ Community Near Salt Lake City, UT
Just outside Salt Lake City, Utah lies the Master Planned Community, Daybreak, and inside the Upper Villages is where you’ll find the exciting 55+ community of SpringHouse Village. With over 1,000 acres of fields, lakes, and parks, this community in South Jordan is the place for active adults who love the great outdoors. Everything is built with walkability in mind, so no matter where you live, parks and recreation are just minutes away by the community trails, sidewalks, and bicycle highways.
When you build at SpringHouse Village, you Get More Than a New Home! You get a new community with easy access to your clubhouse, pool, spa, pickleball courts, state-of-the-art fitness center, game room, golf simulator, demonstration kitchen, and miles of trails. You get new friends you instantly connect with because we are all over 55 and realize that now is our time to pursue passions, focus on health, and truly find meaning and purpose in life. You can experience new activities and events with your world-class Lifestyle Director, who designs personalized programs for you!
Riverlights
Nestled along the Cape Fear River in the coastal town of Wilmington, NC, Riverlights is a vibrant, master-planned community full of small-town charm. The perfect location makes all the difference – along the Cape Fear River and just five miles from historic Wilmington, rated the most charming beach town on the East Coast with award-winning restaurants and shops. When you live in Riverlights, your days radiate with the positive energy that happens when you live on the water in the Carolina sunshine.
There are plenty of opportunities to walk, run, or ride bikes along miles of trails, kayak in the 38-acre freshwater lake, or roam free in any one of the community’s many parks. Whether enjoying a riverfront walk along the boardwalk and dock, gathering with neighbors for an oyster roast, or watching the sunset on the waterfront, exploration happens here daily. Our Lakehouse clubhouse includes a zero-entry pool with lap lanes, a fitness center, and indoor and outdoor gathering spaces, including a firepit overlooking the lake. Our brand-new Riverhouse clubhouse features a resort style pool with lap lanes, four pickle ball courts, fitness center, plus gathering spaces with a scenic backdrop.
Riverlights has home options suited to any stage of life – from low-maintenance townhomes to luxury and single family homes – from six quality homebuilders The coastal North Carolina community offers 10+ beautifully decorated model homes open daily for walk-ins allowing home shoppers to get a feel for the lifestyle that awaits in Riverlights.
Horizon Homes of Wilmington LLC
Horizon Homes of Wilmington is a family-owned custom home builder in Southeastern North Carolina. Every Horizon home starts with your “wish list”. Robin Hackney, a Green Certified Professional with the National Association of Home Builders, designs every home with energy efficiency and sustainability in mind. Providing quality, energy efficient, custom homes designed around the individual wants and needs of their customers is what sets Horizon Homes apart. Send your “wish list” directly to Robin at BuyHorizonNewHomes.com and begin your dream home journey today!
Ready to live in a land preservation community?
Below you'll find overviews of the nation's finest land preservation communities. You can request more information about these featured developments, including details about the land set aside in preservation trusts or conservation easements.
If you want to know more, connect with community representatives and local experts who can answer your specific questions. Then plan a visit when you're ready to walk the nature trails and check out the other outstanding lifestyle amenities that are available in these premier land preservation communities.