Master-Planned and Gated Communities by the Beach

If you’re a lover of the sun, sand, and surf, a city near the beach may be the perfect place for you to retire. A beach-side lifestyle can be very enticing for those who enjoy the low-key, mellow atmosphere often found in these towns and cities. It’s hard to resist the temptation of retiring to a place where you can spend your days with your feet in the sand and the wind in your hair—so why fight it? Start looking now for the perfect coastal community that fits your personality and interests.

Which Beach Community Is Best For You?

Believe it or not, luxury communities by the beach are not all the same. Beach life varies depending on where you settle, so it’s important to think about the kind of lifestyle you want by the ocean. The East Coast already has a well-known and beloved reputation for seaside residences, but states like North Carolina or Virginia are going to have different atmospheres than communities in Florida. Retirement communities in North Carolina, like ones you’ll find in Wilmington, combine the beach lifestyle with a charming historic feel. Retiring in Savannah, Georgia, is much the same, where you’ll typically be only a few short miles from the beach or the city and its historic sites. If this is the kind of mixture you think about when you consider living at the beach, communities in these areas might be the perfect fit for you.

Further down the East Coast, retirement communities in Florida have a different beach vibe—and even access to different bodies of water, depending on if you choose to settle along the Gulf coast or the Atlantic coast. Some beach towns offer up more than just coastline when it comes to retirement communities near water. Orlando, Florida, for example, has inland lakes to take advantage of. Attractions like amusement parks also make it a prime location for visiting grandkids.

 

Keep in mind that seaside locations aren’t limited just to the south. Beach towns in northern states like Delaware provide different experiences, varying from beach to beach. Outside the US, beach communities in places like Playa del Carmen lend an exotic flair. So, while beach retirement may circle around one collective idea, it actually has many different facets, allowing you to live by the coast the way you want to.

 

It’s Not All About the Water

As with all retirement plans, other factors should be considered alongside the destination. Does the community offer other amenities you want and need to live comfortably when you’re not on the beach? If you’re looking to lead an active lifestyle, make sure you select a community that’s centered around active adult living. If you love to golf, communities with courses will keep your game at its best. A top priority of many retirees is being near exceptional healthcare facilities, if only for peace of mind. Cost of living and tax benefits also matter. You want your hard-earned money to go a long way, and some states are more forgiving in these areas than others. Weather, proximity to travel, and big city offerings are other things to include on your list.

Research and Explore Beach Communities

Search Filters:

Click to explore the following beach communities. Request information from multiple communities by selecting the checkboxes to the right and completing the form below.

FEATURED

Cumberland Harbour

St. Marys, GA
Homes: $350K - $2M Lots: $30K - $300K.

Located on a peninsula bounded by rivers and ocean we are Georgia’s Premier Coastal Community directly across from Cumberland Island National Seashore! Enjoy world-class amenities with pools, tennis, fitness center, parks and community docks. All protected by manned/gated 24/7 security for peace of mind. Located at the Southeastern-most point of Georgia we enjoy the mildest climate in the state. The metro area of Jacksonville, FL offers the finest in shopping, cultural activities, sporting events and health care that includes the Mayo Clinic. Jacksonville International Airport is 30 minutes from our frontgate.

The architecture in Cumberland Harbour is classic Low-Country Southern vernacular with wide porches, metal roofs, shiplap and vintage heart pine floors. Work with the region’s finest builders to create that one of a kind Dream Home. Choose from home sites with a wide variety of locations and price points. Our waterfront sites offer true deepwater access with the ability to put in your own private dock. Marshfront sites offer endless vistas and sunsets over the salt marshes. Our nature sites offer a live oak canopy perfect for relaxation on those Summer days. Play, Relax, Explore… Life lived better, Cumberland Harbour.

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FEATURED

River Landing

Wallace, NC
Homes and lots $300K - $750K+

Tucked away near the coast of Eastern NC is a picture-perfect community, complete with world-class club amenities while still maintaining the charm and ease of a small hometown. River Landing’s two championship golf courses are ideal for working on your game. Or perhaps you prefer exploring the outdoors along the scenic walking and biking trails? Whether you are starting a family or starting your retirement, River Landing has something for everyone. From enhancing your golf game to exploring the outdoors, the River Landing community offers a wide variety of activities for residents of all ages. A grand Clubhouse, Outdoor Pool, and expansive homesites are just some of the things you’ll find to enjoy.

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Buenaventura

Riviera Pacífica, Panama
Lots starting at USD $242,550 - Homes starting at USD $970,000 - Condos starting at USD $360,000

Buenaventura represents the gold standard for luxury living in Panama, making it an unrivaled destination for both discerning retirees and strategic real estate investors. Located on the stunning Riviera Pacífica, this master-planned community offers a unique blend of coastal elegance, world-class amenities, and a secure, serene environment that caters perfectly to those looking for a high-quality lifestyle or a robust asset.

A Paradise for Retirement

For those planning their retirement, Buenaventura provides a seamless transition into a life of comfort and leisure. The community is designed to be self-sufficient, offering residents everything they need within reach. The architectural essence of the projects, focuses on integrating modern luxury with the natural beauty of the Pacific coast.

In every corner of our charming beach and golf community, an essence of purity shines through. Premier amenities include a state-of-the-art sports center, a prestigious championship golf course designed by Nicklaus Design, with a second golf course by Robert Trent Jones Jr. currently under development, and a range of relaxing beach clubs for the entire family to enjoy. Cozy, elegant, and designed for comfort, Buenaventura is an invitation to experience refined coastal living from the heart.

World Class Amenities:

  • El Faro, Dunas and Puntarena Beach Club
  • Buenaventura Conservation Center
  • Marina
  • Golf Club
  • Sports Club
  • Las Cuadras Equestrian Club
  • Spa
  • Restaurants
  • 24/7 Medical Attention
  • International School

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FEATURED

Schell Brothers – Delaware Premier Home Builder

Rehoboth Beach, DE

At Schell Brothers, our mission is to bring happiness to ourselves and our homeowners by not only creating exceptional homes and communities, but also by providing an extraordinary home buying experience.

Located in the heart of Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, we pride ourselves on building homes that provide a healthier and more comfortable living environment for our homeowners. As a leading builder on the coast of Delaware, we specialize in new homes that offer a variety of architectural styles, innovative floorplans and extensive personalization in highly desirable communities in Sussex and New Castle Counties.

Award-Winning Homes. Our innovative floorplan designs are based on local experience, industry knowledge, and customer input. Your new home will include personalized features and specially crafted details, meticulously designed for comfort, aesthetics, and livability.

Extensive Personalization. Our design process provides you with all the tools and resources necessary to make choosing beautiful finishes fun and easy. In addition to spending a full day with one of our experienced design consultants in our award winning design center, you can also browse our Online Design Center to view inspiration photos and create collages of your favorite selections.

Energy Efficiency. We pride ourselves on building homes that that provide a healthier and more comfortable living environment for our homeowners. That is why we developed Schellter™ an advanced building science technology that delivers high performance and healthy living, and is included in our all of our homes. You will love the comfort, durability and, best of all, the savings our energy efficient homes provide.

Low Tax Living. Leave the taxing life behind! When you own a home in Delaware, you will pay no tax on social security benefits, personal property or sales tax. You’ll love the tax-free shopping and, the best of all, you’ll financially benefit from living in a state with one of the lowest property taxes in the nation.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT SCHELL BROTHERS AND DELAWARE COMMUNITIES
Let us know if you’re interested! We are ready to help you with your new home search. To learn more about us and our award-winning homes and communities in Delaware.

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FEATURED

Wellen Park

Venice, FL
Priced from upper $300K-$600K+

Imagine more fun times at Wellen Park. From boutique shops to live music, all-day eateries to stunning sunsets, there are hundreds of ways to brighten your days. With beautiful residences and awesome amenities – not to mention amazing residents – each neighborhood is crafted so that the well life reigns supreme. Wellen Park is a vibrant community where everyday fun flourishes and the spirit of wellness thrives. That’s why living at Wellen Park truly feels like your best day ever, every day.

We invite you to stop by the Wellen Park Welcome Center to learn more about the community. One of our brand ambassadors will meet with you to answer questions and guide you through interactive touchscreen kiosks that display neighborhood amenities, home plans, Downtown Wellen shopping and dining, and regional attractions.

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Zanzi Homes – Malta

Attard, Malta
Homes from $350K - $10M.

The best way to truly understand Malta is to experience it first-hand through our 6-Day Discovery Package. This personalised and carefully curated experience is designed for clients who wish to explore Malta as both an investment destination and a place to live, work, and enjoy life.

Over the course of a few days, you will gain meaningful insight into the property market, lifestyle, infrastructure, and overall opportunities Malta has to offer, helping you decide, with confidence, whether Malta is the right fit for your plans.

This Special Package Includes:

Pick-up and drop-off at the airport in Malta
6 days/ 5 nights in one of our carefully selected Four and Five-star Hotels
Breakfasts
Lunches
Guided Tours
Chauffeur Car

 

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Logan Homes
FEATURED

Logan Homes

Leland, NC

Coastal Living at Its Finest

Logan Homes mission is to build homes and develop communities where value, location and lifestyle come together. No matter what season of life you’re in, there’s a Logan Homes community and floor plan to fit every one of your needs. Based on your budget, personal style, desired amenities and preferred locations, the Logan Homes team is there to be your guide through it all, ensuring your experience is easy, simple and fun.

Logan Homes builds within a host of premier communities in the Southeastern parts of both North Carolina and South Carolina and Northeastern Georgia. Enjoy thoughtful plans and design features, curated by their professional in-house design team. In addition to a streamlined process, you will enjoy extra peace of mind with the Warranty Program, knowing the Logan Homes team will be there for you every step of the way.

Ready to get started? Explore communities and available homes on the Logan Homes website and contact Logan Homes today to get started on your new home journey!

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K. Hov Four Seasons Lakes of Cane Bay | Gated Community near Charleston SC
FEATURED

K. Hovnanian’s Four Seasons at Lakes of Cane Bay

Summerville, SC
pricing starting at lower $400s

Step into a lifestyle like no other at K. Hovnanian’s® Four Seasons at Lakes of Cane Bay, a new 55+ community in Summerville, South Carolina, offering exciting, amenity-rich Lowcountry living at its finest.

Enjoy the ease and relaxation of an active adult community while surrounded by a picturesque, 300-acre lake. Spend your days at the community’s 24,000-square-foot clubhouse with luxurious pools and lighted courts for tennis, pickleball and bocce. The on-site, full-time lifestyle director maintains a full schedule of activities including Zumba classes, yoga sessions, billiards, and more — you’ll never run out of fun things to do.

Our single-family homes offer exceptional comfort and style and feature spacious layouts perfect for entertaining and additional storage, well-appointed kitchens, private offices and covered patios on select floorplans. With up to 3 beds, 3.5 baths and 3,345 sq. ft., you’re sure to find your perfect fit.

K. Hovnanian’s® Four Seasons at Lakes of Cane Bay is perfectly located near downtown Charleston, so a quick drive will take you right to its historic streets, excellent shopping, and thriving restaurant scene. Or, take a quick day trip to one of the area’s five distinct beaches for a relaxing getaway. The community is also located within the award-winning Cane Bay Plantation, which offers shopping, dining, and retail options just a few miles away.

The mild weather of coastal South Carolina, a slower pace of life, lakefront living, nearby soft sandy beaches, friendly people and endless activities at your fingertips make the Charleston area one of the hottest retirement destinations in the United States. Plan your visit to K. Hovnanian’s® Four Seasons at Lakes of Cane Bay today and discover a diverse selection of beautiful brand-new homes, unbeatable community amenities and a vacation atmosphere that’s second to none.

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Active Adult Retirement Grantham NH | Eastman Community Association
FEATURED

Eastman Community Association

Grantham, NH
Homes, Condos: $135K - $1.5M Lots: $5K - $89K

Eastman Community Association – Four Seasons Paradise

The Eastman Community Association in Grantham, NH is an ideal active-adult and retirement destination. It’s also the perfect place to raise a family. Eastman is a sustainable, intergenerational community in the Dartmouth-Lake Sunapee Region of New Hampshire.

Ultimately, Eastman is a nature-lover’s haven. Tucked away in the pristine woodlands of New Hampshire’s Upper Connecticut River Valley, the Eastman Community Association encourages an active and connected lifestyle. Residents move to the rhythm of four distinct seasons. And, outdoor adventure is a central theme.

Eastman is centrally located, but just remote enough. It’s conveniently two hours north of Boston and three hours from Hartford. And, Lake Sunapee, New London, and Lebanon are just minutes away. As a result, residents have ample access to urban amenities. Cultural venues, medical facilities, as well as educational opportunities are all within reach.

New Hampshire’s Grantham Mountain offers a picturesque backdrop to Eastman’s 345-acre lake, and ample hiking trails. So, be sure to pack your boots!

Looking for more? Try 37 miles of cross country trails starting at the Eastman Cross Country Center. In summer, head to one of six beaches, kayak and canoe launches, or to the pool and fitness center year round. Eastman also boasts an 18-hole golf course, har-tru tennis courts and an award-winning restaurant as well.

All properties in Eastman are privately owned and include condos, single-family homes and undeveloped lots.

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FEATURED

Elounda Hills – Greece

Elounda, Crete 72100, Greece
Homes from $495k-$7M

Elounda Hills is a 138-acre integrated coastal destination on Crete’s northeastern shore, a fully realised residential and hospitality enclave conceived to redefine Mediterranean coastal living. Hospitality is fundamental to the residential experience at Elounda Hills, and the introduction of Greece’s first 1 Hotels & Homes resort reinforces the development’s commitment to a lifestyle centered on exceptional service, wellness, and mission-driven luxury. 1 Hotels & Homes has built its reputation on creating luxury experiences inspired by the natural world and rooted in a strong sense of place, values that align seamlessly with the vision for Elounda Hills. For residents, hospitality is woven into daily life, with personalized service, thoughtfully curated experiences, and access to world-class amenities creating a seamless extension of home while fostering wellbeing and a meaningful connection to the surrounding environment.

The masterplan brings together more than 130 branded residences managed by 1 Hotels & Homes across five distinct clusters —Hilltop, Marina Collection, Waterfront Villas, Mirabello Villas, and Terrace Villas— alongside a 129-key 1 Hotel & Homes. It also includes a vibrant marina village with a boutique second 1 Hotels & Homes property, a 64-berth private marina, two beach clubs, and a 2-kilometre waterfront promenade. Additional amenities feature a Bamford Spa, over a dozen dining concepts, botanical gardens, a curated retail piazza, and a 2,000m² wellness village.

Designed as a cohesive living ecosystem, the vision integrates year-round residences with five-star hospitality and an extensive wellness offering, all set within architecture that follows the site’s natural amphitheatrical contours. The layout prioritizes privacy, uninterrupted Aegean views, and a low-impact built form, reflecting Mirum Group’s environmental approach and the sustainability ethos of 1 Hotels & Homes.

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FEATURED

Retire NC

Raleigh, NC

North Carolina has always been recognized for its natural diversity and gracious hospitality, which now has made it into an extremely popular retirement destination. Choices abound for a healthy, happy retirement setting, whether you want to relax on the beach or enjoy the great outdoors in our mountains or stay busy in a bustling city. The North Carolina Certified Retirement Community designation means a city has completed a comprehensive evaluation process with requirements outlined by the North Carolina General Assembly. These Certified Retirement Communities are recognized for providing the amenities, services and opportunities retirees need to enjoy active and productive lives.

City of Reidsville

City of Reidsville

LIVE SIMPLY, THINK BIG isn’t just our tagline, it’s our way of life. We aren’t limited by
our size and neither are our dreams. Whether you want to spend your retirement volunteering,
spending time with friends or finally opening that small business you always dreamed of, you
can "Do What You Love in Reidsville"; Being "retired" doesn’t mean you can’t live out your
dreams, it means you now have the freedom to do it!
https://www.riseupreidsville.com/retire

Johnston County

Johnston County

Johnston County (JoCo) offers you more than you expect in retirement! Discover a blend of history, entertainment, dining, lodging, and outlet shopping, along with a generous helping of true southern hospitality. With a growing culinary and craft beverage scene, as well as revitalized downtowns, you don’t have to travel far from home to find what you are looking for. The unique communities that make up JoCo have one thing in common–a relaxed atmosphere and friendly people.
https://www.johnstoncountync.org/retire-joco/

Rumbling Bald

Rumbling Bald on Lake Lure

If you are looking to build or purchase in an exceptional mountain golf community, it’s time to look closer at Rumbling Bald on Lake Lure. You will find a few choice, undeveloped properties within our community at pleasantly affordable prices along with several spectacular homes in a variety of settings. You can come today; enjoy our lake and golf, and choose the opportunity to live in a remarkable community.
https://rumblingbald.com/living-here

Person County

Person County

Nestled in the northern piedmont of North Carolina, a short commute from the Triangle and southern Virgina, Person County is home to rolling hills, farmers markets, lakes, and trails. With two beautiful wineries, live music venues, historic general stores, and Uptown Roxboro, Person County values its history and community while embracing the new. No matter what you choose, life in Person County is homegrown, just for you.
https://itsbetterinperson.com/

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osprey landing
FEATURED

Osprey Landing

Southport, NC
Homes from the mid $300s

Welcome to Osprey Landing, a new single-family home community in charming Southport, North Carolina. In one of the most desirable coastal areas, Osprey Landing offers residents a relaxed lifestyle with a blend of seaside living and everyday convenience. Named “America’s Happiest Seaside Town” by Coastal Living Magazine, Southport is a historic city abundant with charming streetscapes and coastal beauty. The area offers stunning beaches, marinas, boating, fishing, shopping, exceptional dining, art galleries, golfing, and more! Within the community, Osprey Landing features an outdoor lap-size pool with a water slide, an open-air pool house Cabana, lawn maintenance, and more! Offering multiple home designs and types, single family land and home packages range from the mid $300’s to the high $600’s.

Visit www.billclarkhomes.com to explore your new home options today!

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FEATURED

Esplanade at St Marys

St Marys, GA
Starting in the upper $300's

Looking for your dream home near the Georgia coast? Esplanade at St. Marys is where it all begins. Nestled in one of the most desirable regions in the Southeast and set to open in 2026, this resort-style golf community offers everything you’ve ever wanted—golf, spa, culinary experiences, water access, and more.
Homes will range from the $400s to over $1M, but with demand already building, now is the time to act. Contact Atlantic Salt Realty today to secure your spot on the interest list and be among the first to receive VIP updates, floor plans, and pricing. This is a rare opportunity—don’t let it pass you by!
Esplanade at St. Marys will feature a stunning 18-hole championship golf course designed by C.W. Golf Architecture—blending coastal beauty with thoughtful course design. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or new to the game, this course will challenge and delight. A full-service pro shoppe, aqua driving range, and convenient snack shack add to the resort-level experience.

This isn’t just a place to live—it’s a place to thrive. Esplanade is built around connection, wellness, and everyday joy. From high-end dining to luxurious spa days, the lifestyle here is truly unmatched.

Planned Amenities Include:

  • Resort-style pool & cabanas
  • Signature Culinary Center
  • Bahama Bar & Fire Pit Lounge
  • Wellness Center & Full-Service Spa
  • Tennis, Pickleball, & Bocce Courts
  • Miles of Walking Trails
  • Kayak Launch on the St. Marys RiverBark Park for furry friends
  • Clubhouse, fitness center, & more!

With a dedicated lifestyle director, residents can expect curated events, culinary classes, wine tastings, fitness programs, concerts, and unforgettable social gatherings all year long.

Located in St. Marys, Georgia, just minutes from I-95, Esplanade offers quick access to Jacksonville, FL, Brunswick, and the Golden Isles including Jekyll Island and St. Simons Island. Enjoy big-city conveniences—world-class healthcare, airports, professional sports, and dining—without giving up the charm and serenity of small-town coastal living.

Esplanade at St. Marys is unlike anything else on the Georgia coast. It combines the tranquility of nature with the luxury of resort living and the connection of community. But with high demand and limited availability, this opportunity won’t last long.

Contact Atlantic Salt Realty today to learn more about this exceptional new community.

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FEATURED

Esprit at Avenir

Palm Beach Gardens, FL
Homes from the $800s to $1M+

Esprit at Avenir by Kolter Homes is a 55+ community for active adults seeking a refined South Florida lifestyle in the heart of Palm Beach Gardens. Residents are just minutes from pristine Atlantic beaches, championship golf, including the iconic PGA NationalResort & Spa, luxury shopping at The Gardens Mall, al fresco dining, cultural attractions and live entertainment. With Palm Beach International Airport less than 20 miles away, travel and weekend getaways are always within easy reach. Designed for those who value both sophistication and connection, Esprit blends contemporary living with resort- inspired experiences in one of the area’s most desirable locations.

Homes at Esprit at Avenir feature modern designs created for today’s active adults, offering comfortable, stylish spaces that support both everyday living and entertaining. The community features six unique floorplans ranging from 2- to 5 Bedrooms, with a wide range of personalization options. Thoughtful layouts and high-end finishes provide a fresh take on low-maintenance living, allowing homeowners to focus more on lifestyle and less on upkeep.

The lifestyle at Esprit at Avenir is crafted to elevate every day. Residents enjoy full country club living with resort-style pools, a full-service restaurant and bar serving craft cocktails and refined wines, and a cutting-edge fitness experience powered by EGYM, including recovery features like a cold plunge. A dedicated Lifestyle Director curates a robust calendar of social events, fitness programs and clubs, fostering connection and an active, engaging community.

Request more information today to discover an active adult lifestyle defined by comfort, connection and effortless luxury.

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Brunswick Forest NC | Best Places to Live in North Carolina
FEATURED

Brunswick Forest

Leland, NC
Homes & Townhomes: $300K - $800K, Homesites From $100K - 300K

Brunswick Forest, the Coastal South’s fastest growing community, is located on North Carolina’s Cape Fear coast, just minutes from historic Wilmington. This 4,500-acre retreat features a wide features a wide array of
neighborhoods, architecture, and price points.

World-class amenities include:
• 18 holes of golf at Cape Fear National
• Clubhouse, Restaurant & Pro-shop
• Fitness & Wellness Center with Indoor & Outdoor Pools
• Hammock Lake Park, Pool, and Fitness Center
• Reflections Fitness Center & Pool
• Town Creek River Launch
• Nearly 100 Miles of Walking, Biking & Nature Trails
• Tennis & Pickleball Courts
• Community Town Center with Shopping, Medical & Restaurants

If you would like to learn more about this vibrant, coastal community in North Carolina, you can request more information and compare this community with many others to find your ideal lifestyle, all you have to do is request more information. Discovery packages are available.

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Bay Creek

Cape Charles, VA
Homesites from the $100s

Located along the sparkling waters of the Chesapeake Bay, Bay Creek is a community where coastal living is defined by a deep appreciation of family, nature, and authentic shore experiences. Set upon 1,720 lush acres along the Chesapeake Bay, our community is a natural wonderland, enhanced with exceptional amenities and rich experiences. Distinctly designed homes and neighborhoods are set among hundreds of acres of lush nature preserves, waterways, and interconnected trails—the welcoming backdrop for your family’s next great adventure.

Bay Creek is the first golf resort in the country to feature Signature courses from two of the top names in golf: Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus. Both of these award-winning courses enhance the natural beauty of the land, employing acres of dunes, mature trees, and well-protected greens to create a challenging course for all skill levels. And with holes on the Chesapeake Bay and along Old Plantation Creek, it’s no wonder The Wall Street Journal ranks them among the “Top 100 Residential Golf Courses in the United States.”

This is coastal living at its most satisfying. A lifetime of memories will begin the moment you make this place home. ‘Home’ at Bay Creek is both varied and distinct. Ten exceptional neighborhoods each with unique character, offer homesites of varying views and sizes, elegant single-family homes, colorful cottages, townhomes, and large, scenic estates. So no matter what your perfect fit is, it’s easy to find yourself completely at home at Bay Creek. The best way to discover this incredible lifestyle, the charm of Cape Charles, and the magic of living on Virginia’s Cape is to experience it for yourself. Contact us to schedule your own Personal Real Estate Discovery Visit with a three-day, two-night getaway to Bay Creek.

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Plan your visit

At the end of the day, you don’t just want to live at the beach. You want to live at the beach with everything that makes living there ideal for you. Take the time to browse some of the best beach communities below, and then make your move.

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