Oceanfront Communities
Living oceanfront is idyllic. Period. The sound of waves lapping against the shore from your porch, viewing the sunrise from the beach daily, and sand in your toes whenever you’re in the mood, are just a few dreamy propositions that prompt people to buy in oceanfront communities.
Saying yes to those things is easy. Knowing your priorities beyond a daily dose of salt air is the next step.
Consider your needs:
- Are you looking for a permanent residence or second home?
- Do you want to live in the U.S. or the Caribbean?
- Can you work from anywhere?
- Are you retired and hoping to surround yourself with like-minded people?
- Do you have a boat and need access to a marina?
- Is proximity to family a priority?
Knowing what’s important to you and your spouse is a great place to start your community search.
North to South
Before deciding exactly where you want to be, comparing tax information state-by-state is recommended. See our Choose Your Ideal Place Guide for more information.
Knowing the region you want to be in is a great place to start your search. While the most popular retirement destinations are in the southern U.S. and in the Caribbean, many choose to stay up north.
If you’re in the market for a coastal community that offers four seasons and proximity to cities like NYC or Washington D.C., oceanfront communities near Rehoboth Beach, DE, and Cape Charles, VA are excellent options. Both boast a peaceful and vibrant oceanfront lifestyle.
For those planning to head south, the list of beachfront options is long. North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia host numerous oceanfront communities on the outskirts of cities like Wilmington, Charleston, Beaufort, Hilton Head, and Savannah. Every southern town has its own culture, just as every community has its own lifestyle. So, take your time exploring areas of interest before deciding which region is right for you.
If you know you want to live in a 55+ community, then Florida is a great place start looking. From the Gulf Coast to the Atlantic, oceanfront communities are plentiful. And, then, there’s the Caribbean. Its magical, oceanfront destinations often seem entirely out of reach. But, in countries like Panama, Costa Rica, and Mexico, resort communities are abundant, and many are quite affordable. Check out our list of international communities for more information.
Research and Explore the Oceanfront Communities
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Click to explore the following oceanfront communities. Request information from multiple communities by selecting the checkboxes to the right and completing the form below.
Grande Dunes
Discover Grande Dunes, an expansive 2,200-acre master-planned community providing a distinctive coastal lifestyle to over 1,000 families. Nestled along the scenic Grand Strand, Grande Dunes showcases a diverse array of over 5,000 homes, villas, retail venues, and commercial spaces, spanning from the serene shores of the Atlantic Ocean to the tranquil expanses west of the Intracoastal Waterway, and from Water Tower Road to Grissom Parkway.
Enriching the Grande Dunes experience are many exclusive club amenities. Play at your leisure at the pristine courses at The Resort Club and The Members Club. Relax at the newly-renovated Ocean Club and its inviting pool complex overlooking the Atlantic, or perfect your serve at the Grande Dunes Tennis Center. Nearby, the Claire Chapin Epps Family YMCA offers additional recreational opportunities. On the shimmering waters of the Intracoastal Waterway, the Marina at Grande Dunes boasts 126 wet slips.
From stylish villas and spacious townhomes to luxurious single-family residences, these thoughtfully designed communities provide a blend of comfort, convenience, and coastal charm. Explore beautifully crafted homes with modern features, scenic surroundings, and access to outstanding amenities. Stay tuned for exciting new opportunities and additions!
In the heart of Myrtle Beach, Grande Dunes embodies the essence of coastal living amidst a backdrop of many golf courses, upscale shopping destinations, and vibrant entertainment venues. Whether you’re looking for a low-maintenance retreat or an elegant residence with ample space, there’s a perfect home waiting for you. Embark on your journey with us today by requesting more information.
Terrapin
Terrapin is a one-of-a-kind new home community that captures the relaxed spirit of coastal Carolina living. Thoughtfully designed to blend nature, comfort, and connection, Terrapin offers a sense of place that feels both welcoming and refined. Winding streets, mature trees, and scenic open spaces encourage walkability and outdoor enjoyment, while pocket parks and trails create opportunities to slow down and savor the moment. Every home is crafted by a hand-selected team of local builders known for their quality craftsmanship, attention to detail, and commitment to lasting value. Their diverse floor plans and timeless architecture allow residents to personalize their space while enjoying the benefits of a cohesive community design. At Terrapin, resort-style amenities bring neighbors together, from peaceful walking paths to planned gathering spaces that make every day feel like a retreat. Located in Leland, North Carolina, just minutes from downtown Wilmington and the Cape Fear beaches, Terrapin offers the perfect balance of small-town charm and modern convenience. Here, life moves at your pace—rooted in authenticity, surrounded by natural beauty, and inspired by a true sense of belonging.
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.
Buenaventura
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
River Landing
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.
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.
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.
Lakewood Ranch
Live the Florida lifestyle you’ve been dreaming of—with 30+ villages, each featuring distinctive homes, amenities, and features, Lakewood Ranch is designed to support every aspect of your life. New homes include townhomes, condos, attached villas, single-family homes and estates, with prices from the $300s to over $1 million.
We set out to build a community that is more than just the homes it’s made up of. Here, you’ll find all the shopping, dining, entertainment, education, healthcare, nature, and recreational options you could want to make the most out of every day. And the best part is that it’s all already here. You don’t have to envision it—you can simply start living it.
Our 48% open space plan and mixed-use component work together to provide each village on The Ranch with easy access to parks, trails, and recreational opportunities like three town centers, a sports campus featuring pickleball, Sarasota Polo Club, and The Farmers’ Market.
Just beyond our backyard you can enjoy Sarasota’s white sand beaches and arts scene, Tampa’s sports teams, and quick access to four airports.
ideal-LIVING has named Lakewood Ranch Best Health and Fitness Community and Best Golf Community. Lakewood Ranch has also earned the spot as the #1 multi-generational best-selling master-planned community since 2018.
Come explore Florida’s favorite place to call home. LakewoodRanch.com
What to expect at The Ranch:
• 30+ villages, 2 are 55+
• 3 town centers & 8 neighborhood shopping plazas with Publix Grocery stores
• 150 miles of multi-surface trails
• 10,000+ acres of lakes, parks, and preserves
• 60+ clubs and groups
• Over 200 shops and eateries
• 13 community parks
• 192 holes of golf
• 32 courts for racquet sports
• A-rated schools & higher education campuses
• Sarasota Polo Club
• Farmers’ Market voted #1 in Florida
• Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club
• 22 fields at Premier Sports Campus
• Sights and Sounds Performing and Fine Arts Series
Ready to discover it? Great. Request more information below to receive discovery tour packages
and specials. You won’t know until you go!
Cumberland Harbour
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.
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!
Dataw Island
There is a place off the South Carolina coast, near the charming town of Beaufort, where nature and luxury share center stage. Shaped by the Intracoastal Waterway and a rich Southern history, the SC gated golf community of Dataw Island is a pristine parcel of 870 acres waiting to be discovered.
The Dataw Island Club is the perfect choice for you. Golf and Social memberships are available for island residents. If you live in the area and are interested in joining the club. For membership information, call (843) 838-3838.
- “Top 100 Amenity Communities” – ideal-LIVING Magazine
- “Best in Value Golf Community” – Links Magazine
- “Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary” – The Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses
Their two championship golf courses, by Tom Fazio and Arthur Hills, wind their way through stunning Lowcountry landscape, complete with historic ruins, moss-draped oaks, and tidal marsh. Complemented by an array of sports amenities (Tennis, Pickleball, Croquet, Bocce) and social clubs too numerous to mention (arts clubs, yoga and fitness, special interest groups), members of Dataw Island find their days full of friendship, philanthropy, and fun!
Dataw Island is a luxurious and private residential golf community nestled in an unrivaled South Carolina landscape. Within the gates, there is 24-hour security. There’s vibrancy there, a constant bustle of activity that reflects the area’s rich wildlife and Dataw’s collaborative culture. Residents can walk, bike or travel by golf cart to social gatherings, functions and meetings.
From deepwater slips that lead to blue waters to the manicured golf courses named for legends; from an indoor lap pool to a whirlpool spa; from tennis lessons to Spanish lessons, Dataw Island is humming with leisure. Start the day sunny side up in your Lowcountry residence. Uncover cozy, shaded nooks perfect for soaking in the coastal breeze. Join neighbors for a Yacht Club meeting or challenge friends to a game of croquet on the lawn. From a calendar of social events to thoughtful gathering spots woven throughout, Dataw Island’s connected community is inspired by you.
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.
WaterSong at RiverTown
WaterSong offers a truly unique take on active 55+ living. As a charmingly styled and self-contained neighborhood, WaterSong is designed in harmony with the rest of master-planned RiverTown. Enjoy a one-of-a-kind setting on the banks of the St. Johns River, with gently lapping waves and ancient oaks beckoning you for a kayak ride, pier fishing session or amphitheater concert.
Two separate amenity complexes — RiverHouse and RiverClub — offer fitness, dining, social and recreational options, with pools, playgrounds, parks and trails galore. WaterSong also has its own exclusive, resort-style amenity center featuring a fitness center, social room, pool, hot tub, fire put, pickleball court, events lawn and more — plus a full-time activities director to lead the fun.
Within this gated, low-maintenance community, you can choose from thoughtfully designed villas or single-family homes. Our splendid variety of exterior styles and convenient features make everyday living more spacious, stylish and fun.
Logan Homes
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!
Discovering the Dream
So, you’ve thoroughly considered your options and you’re ready to explore regions of interest. Now for the fun part - discovery travel! Most oceanfront communities offer discovery packages that allow you and your spouse the opportunity to ‘live like a resident’. This is by far the best way to ensure that a community is right for you.