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
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Click to explore the following beach communities. Request information from multiple communities by selecting the checkboxes to the right and completing the form below.
Villages of Citrus Hills
Terra Vista is Florida’s premier master-planned community featuring incredible resort-style retirement living just minutes from the spectacular Gulf Coast. This amenity-rich community is set in unique surroundings characterized by rolling hills, towering oaks, and moderating Gulf breezes.
The Villages of Citrus Hills stands as a truly unique departure from the traditional Florida lifestyle experience. Citrus Hills is amenity-rich, resort- style living, at its finest. The community is set in unique surroundings characterized by rolling hills, with an elevation up to 260 feet, towering oaks, and incredible landscaping. While one of the highest elevations in Florida the community is just miles from the Gulf of Mexico. Terra Vista at Citrus Hills offers a beautiful selection of customizable, single-family homes with a wide variety of world-class amenities just minutes from your door including: championship golf, first-class tennis, private dining and a spectacular spa and fitness complex.
At Citrus Hills you’ll discover Skyview, the region’s most elaborate country club, along with two other challenging 18-hole golf courses, two tennis centers, private restaurants and a 50,000-square- foot Spa and Fitness Center. Best of all Citrus Hills blends suburban charm with easy access to cosmopolitan Tampa Bay, Orlando and Ocala, so you are close to everything you want, yet far enough away from what you don’t want.
The Villages of Citrus Hills offers customizable single-family homes and detached villas from $400,000 – $1.5 million in a choice of beautiful neighborhoods designed to accommodate a wide variety of tastes and needs.
The Villages of Citrus Hills unquestionably is one of the Southeast’s most exciting resort-lifestyle opportunities. You must see it to believe it.
Aquamar Vilamoura – Portugal
Living and enjoying life in the Southern Region of Portugal – Algarve is a delightful experience that combines the best of both worlds: a relaxed, sun-kissed lifestyle and a vibrant, culturally rich environment. Here’s a description of what it’s like for people who call the Algarve their home:
Nestled along the southern coast of Portugal, the Algarve is a haven for those seeking a life of tranquility and beauty. Imagine waking up to the gentle rustle of palm trees and the scent of saltwater in the air. The region’s Mediterranean climate ensures that sunny days are the norm, allowing you to embrace outdoor living throughout the year.
Your days in the Algarve are filled with endless possibilities. You can start by savoring a leisurely breakfast at a seaside café, where the freshly baked pastries are as warm as the smiles from the friendly locals. As the day unfolds, you might choose to explore the stunning coastline, where golden beaches stretch as far as the eye can see, offering a serene backdrop for swimming, surfing, or simply basking in the sun.
For those with a penchant for culture, the Algarve offers a treasure trove of historic towns, each with its own unique charm. Stroll through cobbled streets lined with colorful buildings, discover ancient castles perched on hilltops, and immerse yourself in the rhythm of traditional Portuguese festivals and fado music that resonates with the soul.
Food lovers will find themselves in culinary paradise, with fresh seafood served at quaint beachside shacks and Michelin-starred restaurants alike. The Algarve’s cuisine is a tantalizing blend of flavors, where grilled sardines, succulent octopus, and aromatic cataplana dishes take center stage. And don’t forget to pair your meals with a glass of locally produced wine or a refreshing sip of medronho, the region’s famous firewater.
The Algarve isn’t just about leisure; it’s also about well-being. Spend your afternoons exploring nature reserves, hiking along rugged cliffs, or teeing off on world-class golf courses. The Ria Formosa Natural Park, with its intricate lagoons and birdlife, provides a peaceful escape for those who appreciate the wonders of the natural world.
Mirum Elounda Villas – Greece
Mirum Elounda Villas is an exclusive seafront complex of Mediterranean-style ultra-luxury villas set in a stunning boutique development facing the historical Spinalonga Island.
The villas feature open terraces, panoramic windows, landscaped gardens, and private heated swimming pools. Each villa is designed to take maximum advantage of panoramic sea views. The generously proportioned villas (5-6 bedrooms) sit on large plots of at least 4,000 sq m. All come with generous indoor-outdoor spaces that have a contemporary feel and inviting private pools. Each villa also has a gourmet kitchen, but you can request private chef dinners. Furthermore, the complex has direct access to a private beach and jetty.
Sample the Mediterranean lifestyle by renting one of Mirum Elonda Villas. With a seafront location, exclusive access to amenities and service from 5* Hotel, these rental villas provide you with the luxury vacation of a lifetime.
The Bluffs on the Cape Fear
Gated Riverfront Living, Boundless Joy in Nature
The Bluffs on the Cape Fear is a vibrant, master-planned community perched on a pristine stretch of the Cape Fear River. Just 15 minutes from the classic waterfront hometown of historic Wilmington, NC, The Bluffs is a private, coastal haven for the families who call it home.
The unique vision of The Bluffs is realized every day: natural woodlands and the unspoiled riverfront landscape are preserved and celebrated. Classically-styled coastal homes exist in harmony with lush woodlands, and the riverfront.
Our visionary developers created The Bluffs with access and abundance in mind. Accordingly, residents here enjoy a close-knit, active lifestyle with total access to the riverfront and an impressive collection of amenities. We invite you to experience the joy of our authentic riverfront community, The Bluffs on the Cape Fear, with our 3 day-2 night Discovery Package.
Amenity List:
– 50-Slip Marina with Scenic Boardwalk
– 2-Acre Riverfront Park with Boat & Kayak Launch
– Lakefront Clubhouse with Resort-Style Salt Water Pool
– Private Beach Club on Oak Island – with Full Ocean Access
– Winding Walking & Biking Trails
– Golf Cart Friendly Community
– Tennis & Pickleball Courts
– Fully-Stocked Lake
– Community Boat & RV Storage
– And soon, a New State-of-the-Art Fitness & Wellness Center
101 Park: The place to live or invest in Tulum – Mexico
Nestled in the heart of captivating Tulum, 101 Park is more than just a residential paradise; it’s a multifaceted condo project offering luxury living, dream vacations, and remarkable investment potential. These are not just condos; they are versatile spaces that you can call home, escape to for vacations, or harness as a unique investment opportunity. Developed by seasoned companies with a shared vision of a brighter, more authentic future, 101 Park beckons all those who choose to dwell or visit to embrace the art of living.
As a homeowner, you can immerse yourself in the lush serenity of 101 Park. It’s your sanctuary in paradise. You can make it your primary residence, a second home, or a combination of both. It’s your canvas to paint the life you desire.
But there’s more to 101 Park. Its strategic location in the globally renowned Tulum positions it as a prime asset for vacation rentals. Tulum attracts tourists from around the world, making it an ideal investment destination. When you’re not indulging in the luxury of 101 Park, you can choose to share it with others and earn returns through vacation rentals.
At 101 Park Tulum, we’re thrilled to announce that our extraordinary luxury residential project is now advancing into its third remarkable phase. Phase 1, having sold out, is soon to be delivered, while the availability of Phase 2 is swiftly diminishing.
Now, here’s the exciting news – we have just opened the doors to our eagerly anticipated Phase 3! This is your golden opportunity to join an exclusive community that’s not just about luxury living but also about exceptional investment potential.
Situated in the heart of Tulum, our magnificent project offers more than just a home; it provides a lifestyle where nature’s beauty meets modernity’s charm. And the best part? Our prime location ensures that your property value is poised to soar.
Don’t miss out on being a part of this thriving community and securing an investment that’s not only about luxury but also a future filled with opportunities.
Brunswick Forest
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.
Delamar
Welcome to Delamar, Hampstead’s newest premier waterfront community, where timeless coastal charm meets modern resort-style living. Perfectly positioned between the quiet serenity of Hampstead and the vibrant energy of nearby Wilmington, Delamar is designed for those who dream of building not just a home, but a lifestyle. Here, every detail has been carefully planned to capture the essence of North Carolina’s coast—wide stretches of Intracoastal views, luxury amenities that feel like a year-round retreat, and a sense of community that invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and truly live where others vacation.
From the moment you arrive, Delamar makes an impression. A private gated entrance ensures peace of mind, while the community’s waterfront setting provides the perfect backdrop for adventure and relaxation alike. Delamar is uniquely designed for those who feel most at home by the water. Beyond the shoreline, thoughtfully planned amenities create the feeling of a resort right outside your front door. A luxury amenity center with a fitness facility, resort-style pool, and club house is at the heart of the neighborhood. Residents can also enjoy tennis and pickleball courts, outdoor fire pits and grilling stations, golf cart paths, and tranquil spaces designed to bring neighbors together and families closer.
Delamar is also defined by its unbeatable location. Just minutes from public beach access and surrounded by direct Intracoastal access, it offers the ultimate in coastal convenience. Local dining, shopping, and entertainment are close at hand, and Downtown Wilmington is only a 30-minute drive away, placing you near the region’s cultural hub while allowing you to retreat to the tranquility of Hampstead whenever you choose.
Now is your opportunity to be among the first to call Delamar home. Homesites will be released in phases, with the first round available exclusively to reservation holders. To learn more about how to secure your reservation, visit DelamarNC.com. Delamar proudly partners with Bluecrest Homes the community’s exclusive builder, known for their craftsmanship, attention to detail, and deep understanding of coastal living. From spacious family retreats to elegant coastal escapes, these homes are built to enhance the natural surroundings. You can browse available floorplans and learn more about the building process at DelamarNC.com.
Hagood Homes Inc.
Hagood Homes’ focus is to create with care & integrity a superior living environment for our customers. We call it Live Better Design. Whether it be a custom design or a neighborhood plan, we design our homes in-house so that Hagood Homes is a part of the process from the start. Homeowners benefit from our constant attention to details, energy efficiency and personalized design services.
As one of the leading home builders in the coastal Carolinas, we know what today’s buyers want, and we can help bring your vision to life. We’ve been building custom homes throughout the Carolinas for more than 20 years. Our proven process and numerous customer testimonials are testaments to what buyers can expect in a custom Hagood home. If you’d like to learn more about our custom home building services or discuss modifying an existing plan, we’d love to connect!
K. Hovnanian’s Four Seasons at Kent Island
K. Hovnanian’s® Four Seasons at Kent Island is a resort-style active adult 55+ community offering waterfront, Chesapeake Bay living with new single-family homes and luxury elevator condominiums. After decades of anticipation, this community is finally open—and homes are selling fast.
Ten versatile single-family home designs offer from 2 beds, 2 baths, 1,693 square feet and a 2-car garage to 4 beds, 3.5 baths, 3,601 square feet and a 3-car garage, so you can find your perfect fit, whether you’re looking to downsize or keep plenty of space for family and friends to visit. Each of our single- family homes are finished in one of our designer-curated interior Looks, so your home is cohesive, stylish and fits your taste: Loft, Farmhouse, Classic or Elements. Three luxury condo designs offer elegance, spaciousness and a low-maintenance lifestyle with up to 3 beds, 2.5 baths, 2,602 square feet and a 1-car garage.
Set along the banks of Maryland’s Chester River and Macum Creek, K. Hovnanian’s Four Seasons at Kent Island offers stunning views and a wealth of outdoor recreation, including a canoe and kayak launch, a 450-foot in-community pier overlooking the Chester River and an in-community trail system, connected to the popular Cross Island Trail. From the game room and grand ballroom to the fitness center, yoga studio and sports courts to the resort-inspired indoor and outdoor pools, fire pit and waterside bar, you’ll find endless opportunities to socialize, exercise and relax at the 24,000 square foot Chester House clubhouse.
There’s even more shopping, dining and recreation to explore in nearby Washington DC, Baltimore and Annapolis—all just a short drive (or sail) away. Or, boat over to Maryland’s Eastern Shore to explore picturesque towns like Saint Michaels. With proximity to Route 50, excursions and commutes are a breeze!
Hampton Hall Club
Imagine for a minute you’re visiting the private club community of Hampton Hall in Bluffton, SC. You’ve gotten over the awe of the dramatic and picturesque Lowcountry landscape, and you’re starting to take in your surroundings. The first thing you’re probably going to hear is laughter. Depending on where you’re standing, it could be coming from the lakeside resort pool, or the Pete Dye golf course, or maybe one of the various dining venues. For while everything here is beautiful to look at and expertly maintained and cared for, the key component is fun and enjoyment.
We thought you should be prepared for that because, sure enough, the tennis pro will coax you on to the courts, or the threesome about to tee off will enlist you into completing their group. You see, the minute you pass through the gates at Hampton Hall, something changes. You are at once connected with this club and community. A place you may have never known existed, right up until the moment you fall in love with it.
We invite you inside the gates to tour Hampton Hall. Come see if you feel a connection with this Lowcountry private club community. Come see if Hampton Hall feels like home.
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.


















