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

Cocolí, Panama
Apartments from 230k to 800k and houses from 990k in advance, lots from 300k

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!

 

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

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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55+ Community near Atlanta Newnan GA | Cresswind Spring Haven

Cresswind at Spring Haven

Newnan, GA
Homes from the $400s to $700s

Cresswind at Spring Haven is a 55+ community in the charming city of Newnan, GA, just 40 minutes southwest of Atlanta. As the fourth Cresswind active adult, new home community developed by Kolter Homes in the Atlanta area, Cresswind at Spring Haven will feature 700 homes at completion, plus a wide array of resort-style amenities.

Homebuyers can choose from four collections of 12 floorplans, ranging from 2- up to 5 Bedrooms and designed for optimal flexibility to create a home Built Around You. Kolter Homes offers a minimum of 25 structural options per plan so you can have the ability to add bedrooms, expand garages, second-floor bonus rooms and more. Plus, choose from hundreds of design personalization opportunities.

The community’s resident-exclusive clubhouse features a state-of-the-art Cresswind SmartFIT Training Center with EGYM smart circuit training, 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. In addition to the many on-site amenities, residents enjoy a regular calendar of lifestyle programs curated by a full-time Lifestyle Director, fostering an environment for connections, wellness and engagement.

Requesting more information below is your first step towards enjoying the award-winning active lifestyle offered by Cresswind at Spring Haven.

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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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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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Fawn Lake

Spotsylvania, VA
• Lots: $300,000 – $1.5 Million • Homes: $650,000 – $4 Million

Fawn Lake – Best Places to Live in Virginia

There are places to live in Virginia, and then there are the best places to live in Virginia. Fawn Lake is the latter. An idyllic lakeside living development nine miles west of historic Fredericksburg, VA, Fawn Lake spans 2,350 acres of lush, rolling hills. It features an Audubon Certified wildlife Sanctuary. And, Fawn Lake’s deepwater marina is available to all residents.

Best Lake Living Community in Virginia

In addition to the laid-back, nature-based lake lifestyle, Fawn Lake provides the security offered in a gated community. An Arnold Palmer designed golf course and a private country club are also perks. Fawn Lake is 288 acres deep with over seven miles of shoreline that runs alongside much of the course. Fawn Lake’s lush canopy of trees complement the distinctive homes and home sites within the gates. Lakefront retreats, golf cottages and wooded estate home sites alike add architectural diversity. There’s a uniqueness here that is unparalleled in surrounding Virgina communities. Fawn Lake’s proximity to culture and excitement found in large cities and small towns also adds substantial value.

More to Love at Fawn Lake

Boating, water-skiing, and fishing are among favorite pastimes in this ideal Virginia community. And, nature-lovers have found a piece of heaven here with more than ten miles of hiking and walking trails. Residents have been known to take a midsummer dip after a long hike at the lake beach. The community pool is also a great choice. Clubs, leagues and groups are abundant at Fawn Lake. So, if you’re the social type, you’re in luck. Additionally, schools, top area hospitals and shopping are all easily accessible. A fitness club is on site, and tennis, boating, kayaking, sailing, and a community clubhouse are available to all residents. Fawn Lake offers a wide variety of custom builders to suit your needs. Home prices range from the high $600s to $4 million.

It’s not hard to find the best fit at Fawn Lake.

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Southern Harmony

Murfreesboro, TN
Homes starting from the $500,000s

Now Open and new to the Nashville area, Del Webb Southern Harmony

Imagine thriving in the breathtaking countryside of middle Tennessee surrounded by rolling hills while soaking in the fresh air and warm sunshine. Now imagine discovering everyday conveniences minutes away, a lively social calendar, diverse clubs and interest groups, plus world-class amenities just steps away from home. All of this will be waiting for you at Southern Harmony, Tennessee’s premier active adult community.

Southern Harmony in Murfreesboro, TN offers an abundance of social and recreational activities, a mild four-season climate, and a collection of innovative, flexible floor plans coupled with Tennessee’s low cost of living. A private community clubhouse and resort-style outdoor amenities are relished by residents who enjoy an active lifestyle. But the best reason to make Southern Springs home is the home itself. Our thoughtfully designed, well-crafted homes offer purposeful design options for easier living.

At the heart of this dynamic, master-planned community is a 21,000+ Sq. Ft. Residents Clubhouse including a state-of-the-art fitness center, hobby and meeting rooms, large event room, indoor and outdoor pools, sport courts, arboretum, Veterans Park, event lawn and open-air performance pavilion. From games, to cooking class, to line dancing, and parties, there is something for everyone.

Southern Harmony is located minutes from the big city of Nashville and the beautiful Tennessee countryside with hiking, fishing, golfing, wineries and so much more to explore. Living just south of Nashville, you will be able to enjoy the Frist Museum, Grand Ole Opry, Cheekwood Botanical Garden, a concert at Bridgestone Arena, or cheer on the Tennessee Titans. Nashville International Airport is just twenty-nine miles from home. Experience exceptional healthcare close to home at Ascension Saint Thomas, Williamson Medical Center, and Alvin C. York VA Medical Center.

At Southern Harmony you will find well-crafted, new ranch homes in a low-maintenance setting. Choose from ten innovative floor plans with flexible indoor and outdoor entertaining space for hosting family dinners and neighborhood get-togethers. You can expect luxury features such as zero-entry showers, point-of-use storage, widened hallways, and open flowing spaces in every plan.

Join the VIP Interest List to gain advanced access to community announcements, building progress emails, information sessions, and events.

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keowee key

Keowee Key

Salem, SC
Homes, Townhomes, Condos: $200K - $1.5M

Looking for the perfect lifestyle community for retirement or to raise your family? Keowee Key has more of what you love. Golf, tennis, fitness center, swimming, boating and pickleball are just a few of the amenities this active, gated, lakeside community offers.

Located at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Salem, SC, and surrounded by the pristine waters of Lake Keowee, Keowee Key is a 1,600-acre community carved out of a forest of hardwood and pines. You’ll find a wide variety of home styles and price points available in a natural setting with mild seasons and an abundance of local adventure.

All homes in Keowee Key are custom-built, including lakefront, mountain or golf-course views. For a maintenance-free lifestyle, you’ll find ample condominiums, town homes and cottages. Choose a lakefront home with private dock or use one of 5 community docks with 324 boat slips, pontoon and kayak rentals, and a supply store.

The challenging 18-hole, par 72 George Cobb Golf Course, features four tee boxes to match all skill levels. A clubhouse with award-winning chef, lakeside leisure trail, three swimming pools, and a dog park, contribute to Keowee Key’s country club lifestyle.

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Homes Townhomes in Ave Maria FL | Ave Maria Community | Coastal Life

Ave Maria

Ave Maria, FL
Homes priced $215K - $700K

Ave Maria is an award-winning master-planned community that combines an active lifestyle with the charm and friendliness of a small town in the Gulf Coast region of southwestern Florida. The Collier County community encompasses multiple residential neighborhoods, schools, a town center with shopping and dining, office space, business parks, and recreational amenities located 20 minutes east of Interstate 75 near Naples, Immokalee and Bonita Springs.

One of the best-selling communities in the nation, Ave Maria features a resort-style water park and two expansive community parks with picnic areas, sports fields, playgrounds, tennis, bocce and pickleball courts. Residents also have access to quality K-12 education, 100 miles of nature, hiking and biking paths, a dog park, a fitness center, 2 championship 18-hole golf courses, and much more.

Real estate options within Ave Maria include several family-friendly neighborhoods of homes in a variety of styles- from single-family homes to condominiums, plus the Del Webb Naples 55+ active adult community

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Babcock Ranch

Babcock Ranch, FL

All towns aren’t created equal. In fact, most towns aren’t created at all. They just happen. The decade of careful planning that preceded the first turn of a shovel at Babcock Ranch is just one of the countless ways Babcock Ranch sets itself apart. With a seamless melding of modern technology and timeless hometown charm – all nestled within expansive natural spaces – America’s first solar-powered town provides a whole new way of life.

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Lakefront Homes McCormick SC | Savannah Lakes Village Community

Savannah Lakes Village

McCormick, SC
Homes: $200s to $900K plus, Lots from $20K - $300K

Savannah Lakes Village is on the 71,000-acre freshwater Lake Thurmond in McCormick, South Carolina with 1,200 miles of shoreline. The community boasts two championship lakefront golf courses with restaurants and pro shops, fiber-optic Internet to each homesite, a 23,000 square foot recreation center with 6 lighted tennis courts (4 HarTru and 2 hard surface), pickleball, bowling alley, indoor & outdoor pools, sauna, fitness room, private card rooms, library, 50+ social clubs, yoga studio, Rod & Gun Club, and so much more. This is active retirement in its truest form…

We are a short 45-minute drive to Augusta and a 2-hour drive from Atlanta. The community abuts three state parks and offers 100+ miles of hiking and biking trails. With no initiation fees or monthly minimums, low property taxes, and no special assessments, you can live an unexpectedly affordable luxury lifestyle.

Our preferred builders offer many custom home plans and lot-home packages to choose from at whatever price point and product type you may desire.

Come stay and play at Savannah Lakes Village. 2 nights for $199. Visit SavannahLakesVillage.com or call 864-391-5259 to book your tour.

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Latitude Margaritaville Watersound

Panama City Beach, FL
Homes starting at the $300s.

**Turn the Key to Paradise, Make the Move Today! Why delay the fun? Limited-time offers make it easy to start now!**

Latitude Margaritaville Watersound is located on Northwest Florida’s Emerald Coast between Pensacola and Panama City. It is just off of the Scenic Highway 30A corridor that runs along 20 miles of coastline with views of some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Latitude Margaritaville Watersound offers a unique living environment with access to the Intracoastal Waterway. This area, with its many small coastal towns, is the embodiment of the relaxed, beachy vibe that is at the heart of the Latitude Margaritaville lifestyle. There also are many outdoor recreational activities, ranging from boating and deep-sea fishing to hiking, biking, golfing and more. A full range of lifestyle components is nearby, including an enticing array of dining, shopping, entertainment, cultural and recreational opportunities as well as service businesses, medical offices, hospitals and more. The community’s initial phase is anticipated to include approximately 3,500 homes. The master-planned community, inspired by the legendary music and lifestyle of Jimmy Buffett, features four distinct home collections – the Conch Cottage Collection, Caribbean Villas Collection, and the Beach and Island Collections of single-family homes.

Floor plans range from 1,210 to 2,568 square feet under air.The casual-luxe Vista Collection was recently added to the single family collection. These homes feature two floors and are exclusively situated on the Intracoastal Waterway. Floor plans range from 3,095 to 4,048 square feet under air.

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Lake Arrowhead | Mountain Community near Atlanta GA | Golf Community

Lake Arrowhead

Waleska, GA
Single Family Ranch Style Homes from $300K - $500K.

Lake Arrowhead sits on a 540-acre lake surrounded by mountains, pristine wilderness, and championship golf. Enjoy Resort style living that includes a 24 hour manned, guarded entry, a 2-story marina pavilion, sports courts with basketball, fishing pier, 18+ miles of hiking trails, swimming pools, pickleball, tennis, boat rental slips, dry storage, and a Dog Park to name a few. We encourage you to browse our inventory of homes here, our photo gallery here, and our video gallery here. The great part about our location is that we are in close proximity to the State of the Art Northside Cherokee Hospital, have easy access to the interstates, fine dining, shopping and entertainment.  Our county taxes are the lowest in the state for residents 62 and older.

Something For Everyone, Mountain Cottages, Ranch Homes, Golf & Lake Villas, Townhomes

Lake Arrowhead’s Portfolio of Ranch Style Homes are selling in three Neighborhoods.
The Woodlands Ranch Style Homes start in the mid $300’s, Highlands Vista Ranch Style Homes and Golf Villas are starting in the $400’s.

Our Newest 2024 Neighborhood, Red Cloud Cabins offer Mountain Cabins starting in the Mid $300’s.

The newly released neighborhood of Franklin Elm offers Single Family Ranch homes starting from the $400’s.

The three remaining new neighborhoods Waterview townhomes, Marina Parc Villas Phase II and Fort Gibson will be released for sale in 2024.

We invite you to add your name to the VIP List to be among the first to know about exciting releases of new home opportunities this year or call us at 770-720-2700 for a private VIP Tour of the community.

Come visit us at our Sales Center now open until 6 pm!

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The Nation's Premier Relocation Event

The Best Places Expo

Join us at one of our upcoming shows in January 2026!

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.

Request information for your selected communities.

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