Lakefront Master-Planned and Gated Communities
Can you imagine never having to make a trip to spend the day at the lake because you live near one? It’s a dream that is easily attainable with lake communities.
Why Lake Living?
Offering both the tranquility and the adventure of being by the water, it’s easy to see the appeal of lakeside living. It’s the perfect destination for those seeking access to year-round water activities, acres of natural beauty brimming with wildlife, and a tight-knit community where neighbors instantly become friends.
Finding the Best Lake Community
Truth be told, there are plenty of great lake destinations all over the country. It’s up to you to decide which one is perfect for your plans. But before you run off to the nearest lake, pause and consider exactly where it is you want your new lake life to be. Think about your needs and priorities. Do you want to be near the city, or do you envision a more remote setting? Do you see yourself nestled in the mountains with access to a lake? Or in a lakefront retirement community at a lower altitude? These questions can help you narrow down your ideal location and guide you to the best lakes to live on.
If you’re a sun-seeker, lake communities in the south would be ideal for you. Obvious hot spots like Florida already draw people in with sunshine and warm temperatures year-round, and their impeccably designed lake communities make the Sunshine State even more desirable for retirement or relocation. Other southern states like North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia offer up idyllic lake settings, some mixed with the serenity and remoteness of the mountains. Tennessee and Arkansas can also be deemed as some of the best places to retire on the lake. Looking for something further west? Venture to Washington, Colorado, or California. Wherever you land, boating, fishing, swimming, and other outdoor activities will always be waiting right outside your front door.
Venture Out
With so many options around the country, finding a lake community can be overwhelming. But if you can pinpoint your major must-haves, compiling a list of potential lake destinations will be easy. Aside from lakeside activities, consider other amenities you may want. Avid golfers may want their lake community to also be a golf community, with an award-winning course amid gorgeous views. Other amenities may include tax-friendliness, proximity to cities for dining, shopping, and entertainment. Or you may be searching for a 55+ community with lakeside benefits.
Research and Explore Lake Communities Around The U.S.
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Click to explore the following lake communities. Request information from multiple communities by selecting the checkboxes to the right and completing the form below.
Tucan Country Club & Resort – Panama
Nestled in the heart of Cocoli, Tucán Residential Development is a testament to luxury living harmonized with nature’s tranquility. Spanning a lavish 74 hectares, this development is not just a residence but a lifestyle choice for those who seek the finest in living standards.
At Tucán, we offer a variety of living options, each tailored to meet the unique tastes of our discerning residents. From the majestic Palash Tower, the scenic views Forest Towers, the picturesque Splendor Village, to the charming Tucan Village, and a selection of residential land plots, we cater to your dream of building a personalized haven.
The complex, securely enclosed and monitored, stands as a sanctuary of peace and safety. It lies adjacent to a significant forest reserve in the canal area, immersing residents in a world where nature’s beauty is a daily background. Since its inception in 2004, Tucán has captivated attention with its elegant Mediterranean architectural style. This aesthetic charm is a blend of diverse cultural elements, including Spanish, French, Moroccan, Turkish, and Greek influences, creating an environment that is both opulent and welcoming.
Our commitment to maintaining a balance with nature is reflected in our design, preserving 80% of the space for medium-sized villas amidst lush greenery, ensuring each resident feels connected to the earth’s natural splendor.
The site’s historical significance as the former Horoko Golf Course adds to its allure. Transformed into an 18-hole golf course by Jeffrey Mayers in 2003, it stands today as one of the most exclusive and unique real estate developments, not just in Panama but globally.
The Tucan Country Club and Resort Real Estate development, situated near the iconic Panama Canal, adheres to the highest quality standards, coexisting with a rich natural environment. Here, centuries-old trees, rivers, lakes, and a diverse array of flora and fauna create a living painting that changes with the seasons.
Despite its proximity to Panama City, Tucán remains a paradise for exotic wildlife, offering majestic views and proximity to ecological trails, such as the 7 km TITI trail and the extensive Metropolitan Natural Park where you will fully enjoy nature
very close to cultural and leisure activities just one step away. The historic Casco Viejo, Panama City, with schools, hospitals, and more!
Retire 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 ReidsvilleLIVE SIMPLY, THINK BIG isn’t just our tagline, it’s our way of life. We aren’t limited by |
 Johnston CountyJohnston 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. |
 Rumbling Bald on Lake LureIf 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. |
 Person CountyNestled 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. |
River Dunes
River Dunes is an award-winning coastal retreat on the coast of North Carolina. You’ll find big water, big views, and big adventure here. River Dunes offers the best in coastal living and year-round boating, set in an unparalleled location with fourteen miles of shoreline on the big waters of the Pamlico Sound, Intracoastal Waterway and Neuse River. The award-winning master plan embraces gathering spaces, spectacular water views, and outdoor living. Traditional coastal architecture and a bustling Harbor Village draw upon the rich heritage of life on the coast. River Dunes is a place for enjoying the back porch with neighbors, the peace of an early-morning kayaking trip and fellowship on the docks in the afternoon. Enjoy luxurious guest accommodations, live music at the Pavilion and dining with friends.
The 400 slip Marina features floating docks, fuel, dockage and deep water access for boats up to 150′. The Harbor Village in the heart of the community offers dining, shopping, provisions, fitness, tennis courts, a day spa, accommodations, bikes, kayaks, trails and the new Design Center. The Harbor Club has a spectacular clubhouse with waterfront dining, pool, and hot tubs.
Retire Arkansas
Arkansas is home to diverse cities and communities, each with something unique to discover – from metropolitan areas to rural settings and adventure sports to relaxing retreats.
Nicknamed the Natural State, Arkansas’s dense forests, winding rivers, and dramatic mountain landscapes provide endless exploration opportunities. Kayak on the Buffalo National River, dig for jewels in Crater of Diamonds State Park, or take in the sweeping views at Hawksbill Crag or Whitaker Point.
Tucked in the state’s northwest corner, Fayetteville and Bentonville are home to several annual food, film, and music festivals, plenty of museums, and diverse culinary offerings. Historic sites abound in the state capital of Little Rock, the largest city in the state. Live music is a way of life in Arkansas and can be heard in both Little Rock and the Lower Delta region, especially in Helena-West Helena.
It’s clear to see why Arkansas is an attractive option for those looking to relocate or retire. In addition to its rich culture and picturesque surroundings, Arkansas has the third-lowest cost of living in the United States, but the seventh-highest quality of life. State income tax is 60% lower than the national average, and property taxes are around 0.60%. Additionally, military retirement pay is exempt from state income tax.
Although it’s not always easy figuring out how to move to another state, we can help.
Request your free Arkansas Relocation Guide. This handy guide contains a wealth of information for people considering relocating to or retiring in Arkansas. No matter where you choose to visit or relocate, you’ll find friendly and helpful people everywhere you go.
Eastman Community Association
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.
The Uplands 55+ Active Adult Community in Suncadia
Announcing a new way to live at Suncadia: The Uplands 55+. Exclusive to residents 55 and older, this new, private gated neighborhood will nestle high on a forested ridge overlooking the Cle Elum River valley. Creating the tight-knit feel of a private retreat — but with access to Suncadia’s resort amenities too.
The Uplands 55+ will be an intimate neighborhood of only 60 homes gathered around a private clubhouse, trails and a three-acre woodland meadow.
The community clubhouse will include indoor and outdoor gathering spaces including a pool, pickleball court and more. A large, protected meadow will provide another connection point for social events, nature walks and impromptu gatherings.
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.
Waterways
One of the best places to live in Georgia.
Nestled amid ancient moss-draped oak hammocks, winding freshwater lagoons and the salt marshes of coastal Georgia’s low country, Waterways is a private gated community with distinctive homes and modern amenities, just 30 minutes south of historic Savannah in Richmond Hill, Georgia. This surprising low country community offers luxury homes surrounded by a protected natural landscape.
Each Waterways neighborhood is designed with its own unique character and charm. Here, you’ll find a wide selection of interconnected neighborhoods, convenient access to community amenities, and homesites with lagoon, park, and wooded views. Homesites start in the 90s, townhomes from the 300’s and homes from the 400’s.
This is ideal living.
Just outside of Savannah, on the Georgia coast, there’s a master planned community that’s rooted in nature and built with modern amenities. Here, water’s influence is the center of the lifestyle, and health and wellness are valued along with days of adventure and exploration.Here, your family can escape from the noise of the world in a place where spontaneous get-togethers, outdoor activities, and the influence of water create a new rhythm of life.
The Waterways Marina Is Now Open….
Located along Redbird Waterway, the Marina features direct access to the Intracoastal Waterway, the Great Ogeechee River, and the Atlantic Ocean. Featuring dry slip storage, a ship store, and fueling and launching facilities, Waterways residents will have all they need for endless adventure. The center of our waterfront lifestyle is found at the Marina Village, with stunning views of golden marshes, dry slip storage spaces, along with fresh water boat slips for residents. Green spaces and events lawns will complement a curated collection of quaint retail shops and casual dining. Accessible from every corner of the community via Harbor View Drive, a road with spectacular views of glistening waters, Marina Village is sure to become the heartbeat of Waterways. Choosing the perfect place for your next adventure is about so much more than finding a home. Get a feel for the Waterways lifestyle with a Discover Waterways Visit, an immersive three day, two-night getaway. Schedule Your Visit Today!
Lake Tansi Village Resort
Lake Tansi Village is located just south of the city of Crossville, Tennessee, on the beautiful Cumberland Plateau. This community has so much to offer.
18 Hole Championship Golf Course – Voted #1 course on the Plateau
2 Swimming Pools (Includes 1 indoor pool)
Lakefront Beach and Boardwalk
Fishing Pier
Full-Service Seasonal Marina
Bike & Walking Trail
Recreation Center
Dances – Game Room – Ping-Pong – Miniature Golf – Tennis – Basketball – Horseshoes – Volleyball – Shuffleboard
Country Club Restaurant and Lounge
19th Hole Snack Bar
Arts & Crafts Department
Various Clubs
Three additional excellent fishing lakes
Lake Tansi Village is home to around 4,000 residents. Lake Tansi is the largest man-made lake on the beautiful Cumberland Plateau and residents enjoy fishing, swimming, waterskiing, plus the 18-hole championship golf course that is rated in the top 10 courses in Tennessee by Golf Advisor.
TNVacation.com/Retire TN calls Lake Tansi Village “one of the most affordable community villages in the country” and with its many activities, long list of amenities and low annual home owners fees it’s also one of the most enjoyable places to live.
Arden
With a Palm Beach County location and a unique collection of lifestyle extras, retirees and families are finding a premier Florida residential destination at Arden.
Arden’s lakeside clubhouse is home to a state-of-the-art fitness center, meeting spaces for community clubs, a tea and coffee bar, and a multi-tier pool complex with fountains and a splash pad. Nearby is the community dock with ramps for launching kayaks, canoes, and electric-powered fishing boats. Tennis and pickleball courts, playing fields, an event lawn, and 20+ miles of walking and biking trails are among the outdoor recreation offerings. But Arden’s signature amenity is its unique “Agrihood,” a five-acre community garden for growing organic fruits and vegetables, plus a big red barn for community events and family gatherings.
Arden features customizable single-family homes and villas by leading Florida builders like GL Homes, Lennar, and Ryan Homes. All of the Arden neighborhoods have been planned to make a natural connection to healthy living, with contoured green spaces to enhance privacy and a wildlife refuge directly across the boulevard.
Just outside Arden’s gates are convenient grocery markets, retail stores, and restaurants. Resort golf courses and white-sand Atlantic beaches are also nearby, along with all of the first-class medical centers, schools, and cultural amenities that you’d expect in the heart of Palm Beach County.
Request more information about Arden and discover why this one-of-a-kind Florida community may be the perfect fit for your Sunshine State lifestyle.
Estrella
Surrounded by majestic mountains and wide-open desert vistas, life in Estrella is a masterpiece of harmonious balance. Dynamic, yet serene, Estrella offers young couples, families, and retirees a resort-inspired lifestyle with state-of-the-art amenities.
Estrella features the Presidio and Starpointe Residents’ Clubs, the Casa Lucero Welcome Center, fitness centers, resort-style pools, a waterpark, a splash pad, lap pools, more than 65+ miles of trails, and over 50+ community parks. With sports courts for basketball, tennis, volleyball, and pickleball, over 72 acres of lakes with complimentary usage of kayaks, paddle boats, and sail boats, award-winning Nicklaus Design champion golf course, restaurants, dining, shopping, great schools, on-site and nearby medical facilities all nestled among the Sierra Estrella Mountains, Estrella offers an unmatched lifestyle all for a low $125 base HOA fee.
Active adults can find refuge in their own gated community, CantaMia 55+ with the fully amenitized CantaMia Village Center, including its own resort-style pool, indoor lap pool, demo kitchen, art studio, cafe, dog park, pickleball courts, and event-scheduling.
Cresswind at Lake Harris
Cresswind at Lake Harris by Kolter Homes is a resort-style, 55+ community in Tavares, Florida, also known as “America’s Seaplane City”. This Central Florida new-home community offers convenient access to the Florida Harris Chain of Lakes, by boat and land. Nearby, residents have short drives to Downtown Tavares and Mount Dora, plus just 45 minutes to Orlando. New homes are designed for active adults featuring a collection of flexible floorplans with hundreds of design and structural personalization options at the on-site design studio.
Cresswind at Lake Harris is the only new 55+ community on the Harris Chain of Lakes and gives residents access to a variety of water activities and recreational opportunities. The future resident-exclusive clubhouse will feature a state-of-the-art Cresswind SmartFIT Training Center powered by EGYM, art studio, event area and several indoor and outdoor gathering spots. Additional amenities include an outdoor pool with sundeck, tennis and pickleball courts, walking trails, dog park and community garden.
Homebuyers can choose from various floorplans designed for optimal flexibility to create a home Built Around You. Cresswind at Lake Harris features three collections of 13 floorplans, ranging from 2- to 5 Bedrooms. Kolter Homes offers a minimum of 25 structural options per plan, so you can have the ability to add bedrooms, expand garages, fitness or study spaces and more.
Requesting more information below is your first step towards enjoying the lake lifestyle offered by Cresswind at Lake Harris.
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!
Plan your visit to a lakefront community
Finding the perfect place to call home has never been more important, and we’re here to help. Take a look at the lake communities below and note the ones that stand out to you. Once you’ve chosen a few, make plans to book a discovery tour to take a closer look at those areas. It’s the best way to really know if a community is the perfect fit for you. After that, your only other step is to soak up the luxury of living by the lake.