10 Most Walkable Cities in the South - Embrace the Charm of Walkable Towns
Authored by Emily Colin, our insightful list of the top 10 walkable southern towns takes you through the allure of pedestrian-friendly communities.
What Does 'Walkable' Truly Mean?
What does it mean for a town or city to be 'walkable?' Clearly, pedestrians need to be able to walk from one place to the next-there needs to be sidewalks and crosswalks, stoplights and signs. But walkability is about much more than infrastructure. It's about creating a sense of community-the idea that there is someplace worth walking to, and people that you'd like to see when you get there. In a truly walkable town or city, you can satisfy a wide variety of needs within 15 minutes on foot. You can buy food, take in a play or a show, shop, and enjoy a green space such as a public park or trail. And while you're doing all of this, you can connect with others who share your interests, even if it's as simple as waving or saying 'hello.'
From Millennials to retirees, we're experiencing a tremendous uptick in the number of folks who place a high value on living in walkable communities. In part, this is because of the many health benefits that walking has to offer; in part, it's because of the expense and inconvenience inherent in traveling by car. Beyond these tangible benefits, though, walkable communities have a sense of vibrancy, life, and charisma that is tremendously appealing. Traveling on foot, you notice things you might not have otherwise-an architectural detail here, a hidden alleyway, a used bookstore or a cozy coffee shop there. You take your time, appreciating what's around you rather than rushing from one activity to the next, living in the moment.
Top 10 Walkable Towns
Explore our top 10 walkable Southern towns and cities. Each with its unique personality, these cities promise an immersive, walkable experience that you'll cherish. Take your time, soak in the surroundings, and live in the moment. Let's set off on a walk to remember.
Charleston, SC
Travel + Leisure magazine just named Charleston the top city to visit in the world-and why not? Between its Southern charm, meticulously-preserved historic homes, beautiful harbor, thriving arts community, and burgeoning foodie scene, Charleston is a place that honors its past while embracing the future.
The walkable downtown is a pedestrian's paradise, from shopping on King Street-home to the Design, Fashion and Antique Districts-to strolling along Museum Mile. Architectural enthusiasts will find much to appreciate on The Battery and East Bay Street, Rainbow Row, and the French Quarter. Relax at scenic Waterfront Park, with its iconic pineapple fountain, stroll through historic City Market, and then grab a bite at one of the many restaurants-you really can't go wrong. Slightly North of Broad, FIG, and Husk are some of the best, and Kaminsky's desserts are to die for. Cap off the night with a show at Dock Street Theatre.
Asheville, NC
If healthy living, arts and culture, locally sourced food, and a little bit of quirkiness set your heart a-flutter, Asheville is the place for you. Located in western North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville's nod to a history museum is their Urban Trail, a 1.7-mile, 30-station scavenger hunt that gives visitors a glimpse into the city's past.
Be sure to browse Malaprop's Bookstore, or, if you prefer a glass of fine wine with your second hand paperbacks, check out Battery Park Book Exchange and Champagne Bar. Culture buffs will appreciate Asheville Community Theatre, the Asheville Art Museum, and Colburn Earth Science Museum. A short drive away, you'll find all the adventure you could ask for-zip lining, white water rafting, hiking, mountain climbing, and more. Shop at the Grove Arcade, or eat your heart out at the Over Easy Cafe, Bouchon, Farm Burger Asheville, or the French Broad Chocolate Lounge. These attractions and more make Asheville one of the region’s most walkable cities.
Wilmington, NC
Wilmington was voted Best American Riverfront in USA TODAY's 10 Best Readers' Choice Contest and small wonder. Front Street, downtown's main thoroughfare, is jam-packed with restaurants, boutiques, art galleries, and entertainment venues. Within a few blocks you'll find historic Thalian Hall, a beautifully-renovated venue that hosts musicals, plays, and films year-round; City Stage, an assortment of comedy clubs and music venues; and the Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College, home to touring Broadway shows.
History buffs will find plenty to satisfy, from the Bellamy Mansion and Burgwin-Wright House to the restored homes and cottages that line the shaded streets. Start your day with breakfast at the Dixie Grill, eat light with tapas at Circa 1922, stroll along the riverwalk, and wind down at Le Catalan French Café and Wine Bar, where you can savor chocolate mousse and a bottle of wine while watching ships pass down the Cape Fear River.
St. Augustine, FL
Ponce de Leon made St. Augustine famous, and it claims the distinction of "the oldest city in the U.S." Located on northeast Florida's First Coast, St. Augustine has a thriving historic district, complete with cobblestone streets, bed and breakfasts, pubs, eateries, and plenty of places to shop. In About.com's AboutTravel named it Florida's most walkable city.
Bustling St. George Street, located in the center of the historic district, is for pedestrians only-no cars allowed. In search of something more low-key? Try historic Saint Aviles Street. Downtown hosts the Castillo de San Marcos, a walk-in park and fortress that's stood since 1672. Occupying two acres in the heart of the historic district, The Colonial Quarter brings days gone by to life. Other attractions include Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, the Limelight Theatre, and the delectable food at The Floridian and the Spanish Bakery and Café.
Greenville, SC
There's a reason that National Geographic named Greenville as one of its top 20 "Must See" places and it's probably the same reason that the New York Times called it "a national model for a pedestrian-friendly city center." Just an hour's drive from Asheville, NC, Greenville's walkable downtown area is an alluring blend of public art, delectable food-don't miss The Trappe Door and the Tupelo Honey Café-unique shops, and green space.
Just a few short blocks from Main Street, you'll find Falls Park, home to a waterfall that's nearly 40 feet tall, the pedestrian-only Liberty Bridge, and the Reedy River. Along the river runs Swamp Rabbit Trail, an old railroad bed transformed into a 21-mile greenway for pedestrians and cyclists. Downtown is also home to the Greenville County Museum of Art, Greenville Little Theatre, the Carolina Ballet Theatre, and the Peace Center for the Performing Arts.
Savannah, GA
With the country's largest Historic Landmark District, Savannah has earned its badge as a pedestrian-friendly city. It's organized around 22 squares, where passersby can sit a spell in the shade of giant, moss-hung oaks-but when you're ready to get up, there's no shortage of things to do. Home to the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), downtown has over 18 historic house museums that are open to the public, including Flannery O'Connor's childhood home.
River Street, which meanders along the Savannah River, features former cotton warehouses that house a plethora of places to eat, shop, and browse. You'll find boutiques, galleries, the treasure-filled Paris Market and Brocante, and The Lucas Theatre on Broughton Street-as well as Leopold's Ice Cream, known for its marble soda fountain. Don't-miss eateries include Ms. Wilkes' Dining Room and The Olde Pink House, both Zagat-rated as Savannah's Best Southern Restaurants.
Fernandina Beach, FL
Located on Amelia Island, a barrier island off northeast Florida's Atlantic Coast, Fernandina Beach's National Register Historic District spans over 50 blocks and boasts over 400 buildings. It's home to The Florida House Inn-the oldest hotel in the state of Florida-as well as the Palace Saloon, the state's oldest continually operating drinking establishment.
The main drag, Centre Street, features two pocket parks where you can take in the sounds of local musicians after you've gotten your fill of browsing the historic district's many antique shops, boutiques, and galleries. Storytelling aficionados will get a kick out of the Amelia Island Museum of History, the first spoken history museum in the state of Florida. Dining hot spots include the Crab Trap, David's Restaurant and Lounge, The Happy Tomato Courtyard Café and BBQ, and Le Clos, a 1906 cottage where you can savor French cuisine by candlelight.
Sarasota, FL
TopRetirements.com rated Sarasota the country's ultimate city for retirees, booting Asheville out of the top spot for the first time since 2007. John Ringling of Ringling Bros' fame played a key role in developing the city, and his family mansion, Cà d'Zan, still stands today. The heart of downtown Sarasota is Five Points, where Main Street, Pineapple Avenue, and Central Avenue come together.
Nearby Palm Avenue is home to a variety of art galleries and antique stores, and there's great shopping to be had on Main Street, 1st Street, and Palm. Get your fill of drama and song at The Florida Studio Theatre and the Sarasota Opera House. Just a short drive away, you'll find The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art and the Marietta Museum of Art and Whimsy. Sample Peruvian food at Selva, taste fresh-caught seafood at Owen's Fish Camp, or go local at MADE restaurant, winner of several "best of" awards.
Athens, GA
Athens is widely known for its incredible music scene-it was the birthplace of the band REM, hosts several annual festivals, and offers a self-guided, 28-stop music walking tour. But this is not all it has to offer.
Forbes highlighted Athens in its "Best Places to Retire", and Money Magazine has also recognized it as a "Best Place to Retire." With its restaurants, shops, boutiques, and galleries, downtown Athens is very pedestrian-friendly. Culture buffs will flock to the Georgia Theatre, located in the heart of downtown, and Morton Theatre, a performance arts space that began its life as one of America's first African-American-built, owned, and operated vaudeville theaters. Don't miss The Tree that Owns Itself, an oak that can lay legal claim to the ground on which it stands. Foodies surrender to temptation at Creature Comforts Brewing Company, Big City Bread Café, Last Resort Grill, Clocked, and Weaver D's.
Beaufort, SC
Charming Beaufort, SC, pronounced 'Bu-fort', is home to a thriving historic downtown district and a beautiful waterfront. Southern Living named Beaufort a "small town we love," Coastal Living Magazine ranked it as #1 among America's Happiest Seaside Towns. It's not hard to see why-Beaufort embodies the relaxed spirit, coastal vibe, and Southern hospitality that defines the Lowcountry.
Wander along the downtown waterfront, shop for antiques at Lagniappe Lowcountry, browse at McIntosh Book Shop, or find the perfect piece of art at Salt Gallery. In the mood for adventure? Take a walking history tour, rent a kayak, or check out the dolphins and the salt marsh with one of Captain Dick's River Tours. Once you're back on land, grab a bite at Magnolia Bakery Café, Panini's on the Waterfront, Q on the Bay, or Saltus River Grill, a contemporary seafood restaurant with a stunning view of the Intracoastal Waterway.
Explore the Most Walkable Cities in the US
We invite you to explore these enticing walkable cities, perfect for a vibrant, health-focused retirement lifestyle. Choose from the communities below and receive detailed information to aid your next big decision. It’s time to make your dream of ideal living a reality.
Click to explore the following hiking and walking communities. Request information from multiple communities by selecting the checkboxes to the right and completing the form below.
Compass Pointe
Located on the southeastern coast of North Carolina, only 10 minutes from Wilmington, Compass Pointe is a gated, private community that offers an unmatched resort lifestyle. Every day feels like a vacation where you can relax by our award-winning pool, float along the lazy river, join one of 100+ community clubs, or get some exercise at our fitness center, indoor pool, or golf club. Come see for yourself why Compass Pointe was honored with the 2020 Best Health & Fitness Community and America’s Best Places to Live 2021.
Amenities:
- Private, Gated Entrance
- The Grand Lanai
- Resort Oasis Pool
- Compass Pointe Golf Club
- Clubhouse (under construcion) & Pro Shop
- The Pointe Wellness Center & Spa
- Indoor Pool
- Lazy River
- Tennis & Pickleball Courts
- Recreation Lawn
- Putting Greens
- Latitudes Restaurant and Bar
- Dog Park
- Cardinal Lake with Canoe & Kayak Launch
- Outdoor Amphitheater
- Sidewalks Throughout for Walking and Biking
- Golf Cart Paths Throughout
Future Amenities:
- Club Member Pool & Bar
- Club Member Fitness Center
- Club Member Golf Simulator
Cascades at Embrey Mill
Introducing the Cascades at Embrey Mill in North Stafford, Virginia. With a carefree, low-maintenance lifestyle and abundant amenities, this exclusive Active Adult section blossoms in the region’s most exciting community. Strolling on our miles of trails. Playing with Spot in the dog park. Swimming in one of our pools. Dining at our Bistro & Cafe. Picking fresh vegetables and herbs from our community garden. Enjoying how quickly neighbors turn into friends, and your community becomes the family outside your family. Our vibrant community spirit is really what makes living at Embrey Mill so special.
Additional Amenities Include:
• Exclusive 55+ clubhouse and amenities
• Embrey House clubhouse with pool, The Grounds Bistro & Cafe, and fitness center
• Knight Meeting House clubhouse with pool
• 285 acres of open spaces
• 15+ parks and playgrounds
• 10 miles of hiking/biking trails
• Dog parks
• Community garden
• Easy access to I-95, Quantico, and the entire Washington, D.C. metro area
Woodside
Enhanced by the region’s lucrative cost of living, mild climate, stunning natural beauty, and charming
Southern hospitality, Woodside’s 3,000-acre community is ideally located in one of the Southeast’s best-kept secrets, Aiken, SC.
Meticulously designed from concept to creation for discerning active-active adults, downsizing retirees, and anyone else with a taste for the finer things in life, Woodside’s location in one of Southern Living Magazine’s “South’s Best Small Towns” offers residents walkable access to the best of both worlds. On top of Woodside’s world-class amenities, including 4 championship golf courses, 2 clubhouses, more than 60 member-led social groups and clubs, 2 resort-style pools, a state-of-the-art fitness center, over 21 miles of hiking and nature trails, 7 landscaped parks and green spaces – including a Certified Butterfly Park – Woodside residents enjoy 10-minute access to downtown Aiken’s Gilded-Age avenues filled with exceptional local restaurants, designer boutiques, art galleries, and more.
Whether you envision yourself perfecting your swing on our Nicklaus Design course, dozing by the pool,
or creating new memories with friends you’ve yet to meet, life at Woodside is designed to deliver you a
home that extends far beyond your property line!
Flowers Plantation
This award-winning community in Johnston County is located minutes from Raleigh, but still very much away from the urban bustle. Bordered by US Hwy 42, Buffalo Road, and the Neuse River in Clayton, this master-planned community was the first of its kind in Johnston County and was awarded North Carolina’s Community of the Year in 2013 and 2014 by the North Carolina Home Builders Association.
Flowers Plantation now features more than 40 unique neighborhood developments, over 10 miles of walking trails, 50 acres of lakes and two elementary schools. When complete, the development will total nearly 7,800 lots with prices starting at $150K to over $600K. Wherever you are on your housing and life spectrum, Flowers Plantation has a place for you to call home.
“You don’t need a car here. The streets are all golf-cart friendly,” says Reid Stephenson, Flowers Plantation’s Chief Executive. “You can get your kids to school, come home from work, enjoy our parks and recreation, and make convenient runs to the grocery store-all without leaving the community.”
Living in Flowers Plantation is ideal for homeowners who want a comfortable, relaxing lifestyle.
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
K. Hovnanian’s Four Seasons at Baymont Farms
Located in Middletown, Delaware, K. Hovnanian’s® Four Seasons at Baymont Farms is a resort-style 55+
active lifestyle community featuring low-maintenance single-family homes. With endless amenities just
outside your front door and an ideal location offering plenty of shopping and dining to explore nearby,
you won’t need to go far to find your next adventure.
K. Hovnanian’s Four Seasons at Baymont Farms features a 6,000-square-foot clubhouse. It’s where you’ll
gather around the grand fireplace of the social lounge and bar area, or enjoy recreation of your choice in
the fitness center, game room, billiard room, card room or aerobics studio. The opportunities to relax,
socialize, and exercise continue outside, where you’ll find an outdoor pool and bar, pickleball courts and
walking trails.
K. Hovnanian Homes has decades of expertise curating exceptional active lifestyles for those 55 and
older. Their other active lifestyle communities in Delaware include K. Hovnanian’s Four Seasons at
Hatteras Hills in Magnolia, K. Hovnanian’s Four Seasons at Scenic Harbor in Lewes, K. Hovnanian’s Four
Seasons at Silver Maple—which was Delaware’s best-selling 55+ community from 2014 until its
completion in 2016.
Contact a Community Specialist to learn more about this amenity-filled community or schedule a tour of
one of the stunning model homes!
Lakeside at River Green
Lakeside at River Green is a new, gated active-adult neighborhood by John Wieland and his team at the JW Collection. Offering luxury, customizable one to three level single-family homes in a private neighborhood surrounded by natural scenic views, Lakeside at River Green truly is a unique environment for the age-qualified home buyer. Residents will enjoy amenities like pickleball, nature trails, a catch-and-release lake, and a 10,000+ sq. ft. neighborhood clubhouse in the Lakeside at River Green neighborhood.
Residents may also access the amenities available in the River Green master-planned community, which is located adjacent to Lakeside. River Green’s resort-style amenities include three swimming pools, soccer and playfields, lighted tennis courts and playgrounds, and its own newly renovated 10,000 sq. ft. clubhouse. Lakeside at River Green is just minutes from downtown Canton, the north metro Atlanta area, and top-quality healthcare services.
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, call to find out about the special Country Club Membership incentives. For membership information call (843) 838-3838. Ask about their vacation memberships!
The Dataw Island Club has completed its two year renovation of their golf courses. The Cotton Dike course, designed by Tom Fazio, was completely renovated in 2011, and the Arthur Hills designed Morgan River course has also completed its renovation.
“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
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.
The Home Place of Southport
Models Open Daily!
The Home Place of Southport is located in coastal North Carolina, just between Wilmington and Myrtle Beach. The community features 52 charming, brick low-maintenance homes with highly desired retirement smart features. At the Home Place of Southport, you’ll enjoy a low monthly HOA which includes lawn maintenance as well as Homeowners’ Insurance.
This new gated neighborhood offers single-family Villas and Garden Home Duplex designs, featuring the Beach Boca floorplan consisting of 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, a two-car garage, and a screened lanai with an optional bonus and bath. Prices begin in the $400s. The Beach Boca floorplan was recently awarded the Gold Award by the Wilmington/Cape Fear Home Builders Association in the 2023 Parade of Homes.
The community is located just a few minutes from the seaside town of Southport, North Carolina which is home to the North Carolina State 4th of July Festival, a historic waterfront, and dozens of restaurants and eclectic shops. The Home Place of Southport is an ideal community to enjoy an active, yet relaxed lifestyle. Call us today to schedule a visit.
Plantation Bay
Plantation Bay
Few communities offer the kind of abundance that has come to be expected at Plantation Bay. You won’t need your imagination to know what life will be like here in the charming seaside town of Ormond Beach, Florida, where an unhurried pace, year-round warm weather, no state income tax, and a lower cost of living offer superb value and a lifestyle second to none.
Plantation Bay is a distinguished community that stands out for its harmonious blend of thriving wildlife and state-of-the-art facilities. With the Founders Club, an impressive 40,500 square-foot full-service Golf and Lifestyle Center influenced by the charm of the West Indies, a second full-service clubhouse, the Prestwick Clubhouse, a grand 7,000 square-foot Spa and Fitness Center, well-lit Har-Tru tennis courts, pickleball courts, walking and biking paths, and two and a half championship golf courses, it is the perfect place for both living and leisure.
Plantation Bay offers dozens of award-winning one- or two-story homes starting at just under 2,000 sq ft. Choose the plan that best speaks to your taste, needs, and personality. Choose from spacious, low- maintenance one- and two-story townhomes, single-family custom homes, and custom estate homes by one of the country’s largest homebuilders celebrating over 40 years of building excellence. Request information about Plantation Bay below.
- Acreage– 3,600 acres (1,450 hectares) Gatehouse – Plantation Bay Golf & Country Club is a gated development with around-the-clock security.
- Club Structure – Homeowners may choose from a range of optional membership packages including clubhouse, fitness, sports, and full golf memberships. All memberships in Plantation Bay are optional, allowing you to indulge in only the activities you love.
- Golf – An established trio of well-maintained golf courses adds up to a unique private golfing experience, with a total of 45 holes set among gentle hammocks of moss-draped indigenous oaks, extensive practice facilities, a brand-new Pro Shop, and quality instruction by a PGA Professional staff.
- Clubhouse –Two full-service clubhouses, The Founders Club and the Prestwick Clubhouse provide a range of indoor and outdoor dining options, along with versatile event spaces suitable for business meetings, weddings, and private parties. The Founders Club is our newly completed 40,500 sq ft Golf and Lifestyle Center that brings a refreshing West Indies-styled flair to the community with an abundance of elevated amenities.
- Tennis – Plantation Bay’s robust tennis program features 10 lighted Har-Tru tennis courts with an active schedule of lessons, clinics, and league play, including special lessons and camps for youth players.
- Pickleball – Plantation Bay is proud to offer 10 dedicated Pickleball courts to play on, making it the go-to destination for everything Pickleball. From tailored lessons to friendly matches, and organized round-robins to holiday-themed tournaments, Plantation Bay is the ultimate setting to master the art of Pickleball.
- Recreation – Additional recreational amenities include basketball, and bocce ball courts, nature parks, and miles of private walking trails.
- Swimming – Members have access to a private swim pavilion with a heated lap pool, a zero-entry free-form pool, ample deck space including a tiki cabana bar, and regularly scheduled water aerobics classes.
- Spa & Fitness – Plantation Bay’s 7,000-square-foot spa and fitness center combines quality strength training and cardio machines with free weights, steam rooms, exercise classes, personal trainers, and a full menu of massage and beauty treatments.
- Shopping & Dining – From casual fare to haute cuisine, residents can experience a variety of dining options without leaving the development. The property is convenient to an extensive selection of shops, restaurants, and commercial services within easy driving distance.
- Area Attractions – Plantation Bay residents have easy access to nearby coastal communities and miles of wide Atlantic beaches. The property is about 30 minutes from Daytona Beach and Port Orange, 25 minutes from St. Augustine, 45 minutes from Jacksonville, and just over an hour from Orlando.
- Healthcare – Advent Health located about 15 minutes away provides 24-hour emergency care and a full range of inpatient and outpatient services. Additional healthcare options are available throughout the Daytona Beach-Port Orange area.
- Leases – Long-term leasing options are available.
Single-Family Custom Homes For Sale – Priced from the $500,000s
Custom Estate Homes For Sale – Priced from the $700,000s
Townhome Villas For Sale – Priced from the $400,000s
Disclaimer: Prices subject to change. Void where prohibited.
Cresswind Charleston
Cresswind Charleston brings the award-winning Cresswind active adult lifestyle to the Charleston area. This gated community is integrated within the thriving community of The Ponds while maintaining its own privacy. Cresswind features a full list of resort-style amenities, all located within a natural, Lowcountry setting.
Residents can take a short walk to the 12,000-square-foot clubhouse, enjoy pickleball and tennis or participate in activities at the event lawn and amphitheater. Additionally, homeowners have the opportunity to enrich their lives with cooking and yoga classes or bocce ball. Residents also can nurture their talent in the art room, play pool, swim in the resort-style pool, fish or kayak – and stay fit and healthy at a well-equipped fitness center.
Cresswind Charleston offers spacious homes featuring a wide range of personalization opportunities, designer choices, uniquely designed with careful attention to details. Single-family, ranch-style homes will include designer features, energy efficiency and designs complementary to active living. Tour nine designer-decorated model homes, open daily.
Amelia National Golf and Country Club
A Place to Call Home. Amelia National Golf & Country Club, a new home community in Fernandina Beach, FL, provides residents with some of the most sought after amenities. Manned, gated security, 18 holes of immaculate golf from master designer, Tom Fazio, practice facilities, brand new lighted tennis courts, fitness center with spa, and a charming French provincial county club featuring a resort-style pool are just a few of the amenities we offer.
- Manned, Gated Security
- Private Tom Fazio Golf Course
- Low Initiation Fee
- Practice Facilities & Pro Shop
- On Staff Golf Pro
- Use Your Own Golf Cart
- Brand New Lighted Tennis Facility
- On Staff Tennis Pro
- Clubhouse with Full Bar and Dining
- Community Pool with Hot Tub
- State-of-the-Art Fitness Center & Spa
- Homes with Golf & Preserve Views
Location, Location, Location
Amelia National’s close proximity to Amelia Island, the Jacksonville International Airport and the beach make it a highly desirable location for those looking for new homes in Fernandina Beach. Some of the finest restaurants, shopping and attractions are just a short drive from your front door. If you are feeling a little more adventurous, the heart of Jacksonville, St. Augustine and Georgia are easily accessible because of Amelia National’s convenient location just a few miles from interstate 95.
Homes that Meet Your Exact Needs
Luxury homes of grace, beauty and magnificent golf course views. ICI Homes has earned its reputation as Florida’s Custom Home Builder by offering in-house architectural services so you can design your new custom home from scratch or from a favorite plan you’ve found. Or if you’d prefer, you can select from our extensive portfolio of award-winning floors plans, all of which can be totally customized to suit.
Because ICI Homes has built thousands of homes, from affordable villas to breathtaking mansions, ICI Homes benefits from a volume purchasing advantage that ensures your home is built with the best quality materials at the greatest value for your money. Building a brand-new, one-of-a-kind home easy and surprisingly affordable, with home/lot packages starting from the $300’s.
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.
Briarwood
Step into this active 55+ community just minutes from the beach in Port Orange, Florida and be amazed at how affordable a resort lifestyle can be! You?ll discover friendly people, luxury amenities and homes for sale and rent. Our community offers a year-round calendar of social events planned by our Activity Director, two beautiful clubhouses, heated pool, lake for fishing, and so much more. Briarwood is among the award-winning family of Thesman Communities proudly offering affordable resort living since 1980.
Management and Sales offices are still open 7 days a week, 8-5. Please contact us for more information.
Virtual Tours now available! Feel free to watch our video playlist below. You can navigate to the next video by simply clicking the button to the right of the “share” icon.
Homes are shown by appointment only and social distancing and hygiene guidelines are strictly adhered to. Safety is our priority.
Also check out our other Thesman Communities:
Briarwood
Las Palmas
Las Palmas Grand
Las Vegas Meadows
Palmas Del Sol
Palmas Del Sol East
Sunrise Village
Village Green
Rarity Bay
The undulating vistas of the Smoky Mountains make for an idyllic backdrop to life at Rarity Bay on Tellico Lake. Situated approximately 40 miles southwest of Knoxville, this gated lakefront community offers space to grow and explore the iconic wilderness of the region.
At Rarity Bay on Tellico Lake, you’ll find a variety of real estate options, including homes, rentals, condos, and sites ready for development. The turnkey single-family homes are large, with sweeping views and plenty of space to spread out when guests inevitably come to visit. Pools, courtyards, patios and firepits make the outdoors an extension of your space. For those that make boating an everyday element of life, there are plenty of waterfront lots waiting for your custom-built dream home.
Water skiing, recreational boating, fishing and kayaking are all popular pastimes on Tellico Lake, and Rarity Bay offers over 10 miles of shoreline and a number of community docks for easy access. Golfers will delight in the par-72, 18-hole golf course, designed by DJ DeVictor and Peter Langham. The professionally maintained stables make it easy for equestrians to board their horses and offers lessons for the casual rider looking to take advantage of the 125 miles of riding (and hiking) trails.
Renovated in 2020, the 11,000 square foot Country Club is a social hub with a bistro and full-service bar. Just outside, you’ll find lighted tennis courts, pickleball facilities, and a swimming pool.
Tennessee’s low cost of living, 0.64% effective property tax, and lack of tax on salaries as well as income made on dividends are added bonuses to life in the Volunteer State. The real draw is what’s beyond your front door. So come to Rarity Bay and make the majestic Smoky Mountains and clear waters of Tellico Lake the backdrop for your vacation getaway, second residence or forever home.
Request more information about Rarity Bay.
K. Hovnanian’s Four Seasons at Victory at Verrado
High above the desert floor, overlooking Phoenix, sits K. Hovnanian’s Four Seasons at Victory at Verrado. This luxury 55+ active adult community is fortuitously surrounded by the White Tank Mountains and Skyline Regional Park, allowing residents to be immersed in the raw splendor of the American southwest while living in comfort and style.
Each of the five floor plans offered by K. Hovnanian’s Four Seasons at Victory have a natural flow from indoor to outdoor gathering areas, in addition to high-end finishes and materials used throughout. These spacious layouts include up to three bedrooms and approximately 1,924 to 2,288 square feet of living space.
The community amenities of Victory at Verrado are equally impressive as the homes found within. Luxe pools flanked by lounges and palm trees overlook craggy mountains. All your workout needs are seen to at the 7,000 square foot, state-of-the-art fitness center, and you can recover at the full-service spa. Two Championship golf courses designed by Ryder Cup captain Tom Lehman will provide hours of enjoyment. And for those oenophiles, the Victory Vineyard hosts wine tastings, guest vintner dinners, wine making classes, and an annual Crush party.
With its stunning scenery and endless amenities, Victory at Verrado is the ultimate in refined, active adult living. K. Hovnanian’s Four Seasons matches that standard with beautiful, thoughtfully designed houses, ready to become homes.
Sign up today to receive more information on the new offerings with K. Hovnanian’s Four Seasons at Victory at Verrado, and begin your journey to a better way of life.
Heritage Shores
The homes at Heritage Shores have been designed to maximize your lifestyle by incorporating the latest technologies that provide ease of maintenance and energy efficiency. There’s something for every taste and budget at Heritage Shores, with flexible main-level living home designs featuring villa homes and single-family homes. With virtually endless possibilities for personalizing your new home.
Additional amenities include: Full-Time Lifestyle Director, 18 – Hole Arthur Hills Championship Golf Course, State-Of-The-Art Fitness Center, Indoor and Outdoor Swimming Pools, Tennis, Pickleball and Bocce Ball, Fresh Air Exercise Circuit, Health & Wellness Center, 28,000 sq. ft. Clubhouse, Kayak Launch, On-Site Restaurants, Woodshop, Aerobics and Dance Studio, Arts and Creative Studio, Billiards and Card Room, Pro Shop, Dog Park, Performance Lawn, Outdoor Chess and Checkers Tables, Shuffleboard, and Many Classes & Clubs.
Call (302) 219-4177 for more information or to schedule a tour.
*Pricing and incentives are subject to change without notice and is available for a limited time only on new, full price contracts that close by or before January 31,2025, with the use of builder’s preferred lender and title company and cannot be combined with any other offers or incentives. Receive up to $15,000 on new villa homes and up to $20,000 on new single-family homes.
Carolina Colours
Carolina Colours brings to life the very best of small Carolina towns-past, present and future. A mere 30 minutes from the Atlantic Ocean, the waters of the Trent and Neuse Rivers converge to surround the vibrant waterfront town of New Bern, NC. Community amenities include the 25+-acre Carolina Lake, a Harris Teeter grocery, parks, trails and sidewalks, an Activity Campus with golf, fitness, tennis, swimming, pickleball and-for those quiet moments-rocking chairs.
Located in New Bern, NC, perhaps North Carolina’s most desired small town retirement destination for the past 25 years, CAROLINA COLOURS offers a variety of living environments and lifestyle choices. While typical homesites are of a size that many modern communities consider over sized, these half acre and larger sites have proven popular and have allowed numerous custom homes to be constructed, giving the core of the community an eclectic but attractive architectural composition, with trees abundant.
With quality custom builders ready to help you design and build on any homesite you purchase and with three regional/national builders constructing dozens of homes for sale that will be ready for occupancy in the summer of 2022, your choices of location within the community are varied. Carolina Colours Realty, located on-site, sells only new and resale properties within Carolina Colours and is staffed with agents that know all there is to know about the many properties and activities within the community and the New Bern area. In this period of high inflation, Carolina Colours still provides one of the best values in the coastal plain of North Carolina for those that want an attractive, planned community with numerous amenities and activities to fit any lifestyle. And for golfers, the Carolina Colours course is widely considered the premier layout in the region.
The Carolina Colours Golf Course has been very well received. The course is considered by many one of the most attractive and fairest tests of golf in the region, with six teeing alternatives allowing players from scratch golfers to beginners the proper challenge, with sufficient variety for those that play four times a week. Unlike many new courses that create a setting, the Carolina Colours course, designed by Bill Love, the long time chairman of the environmental committee of the National Association of Golf Course Architects, fits into a wooded, rolling landscape as though it belongs. Even non-golfers love to ride or walk its paths.
What sets Carolina Colours apart, however, is its incredible sense of community. From Friday night gatherings for drink and food at the Pavilion, the 16,000-square-foot community clubhouse, to seemingly endless scheduled activities, both active and passive, neighborhood gatherings, walking and biking, organized trips and more, the community welcomes newcomers with a smile and an open invitation to join with others as frequently as one desires.
New Bern, North Carolina’s first capital city, has its historical districts and quaint shopping areas right downtown, where the Neuse and Trent rivers converge, giving many an Annapolis feel. With abundant local marinas and the Intracoastal Waterway and Atlantic Ocean only about 30 miles away, water activities abound. And with a commercial airport and close proximity to major highways, New Bern is easy to get to. Once there, the quality of medical care and the numerous regional cultural and festival type events allows for a life that can be as active or inactive as suits any chosen lifestyle.
Fairfield Glade & Fairfield North
Fairfield Glade is perched high atop the Cumberland Plateau, and offers serene mountain beauty as it sits on the highest point between the Rocky and Smoky Mountains. One of the favorite features of this area is the moderate year round temperatures. The pleasant summer days and the cool summer nights can be attributed to the Cumberland Plateau’s 2,000-foot-elevation, allowing for more comfortable temperatures and much lower humidity than most areas of the south.
What to do with all the fabulous weather and beautiful scenery? Golfing, boating, fishing, hiking, walking, swimming, tennis/pickleball-the list of fun activities available is simply endless! Plus, an outdoor amphitheater and biergarten just opened to host live music, movies, food and community events – it’s a great gathering place for neighbors to come together.
The community offers multiple subdivisions with a wide range of home sizes, price ranges, and views that include mountain, lake, golf and protected woodlands. Another attribute is the incredible cost of living in Fairfield Glade – no state income tax on wages, very reasonable home prices, and extremely low property taxes and club dues.
Fairfield Glade is just 6 miles from the city limits of Crossville, a small town, but bustling with activities. Crossville’s central location on Interstate 40 has made it a hub for many outlying areas and has given rise to a booming retail environment, offering shopping, dining and entertainment choices. The community is also located right off I-40, less than an hour from Knoxville, and an hour and a half from either Nashville or Chattanooga.
Testimonial
“The biggest deciding factor for choosing Fairfield Glade was the people, both in the Glade and in the town. When we came to visit the first time, we had no appointment and no agenda – we just popped in and wandered around. Folks stopped us everywhere we went – Food City, the Wellness Center, Villa Pizza – and just chatted. No one was in a hurry, everyone was interested in our story, everyone had some tidbit to share. The same thing happened on our second visit, and then on every visit we made once construction started. We felt like we had become part of the community before we were actually part of the community.” Michelle and James Bayless
Fairfield Glade has 11 lakes and two marinas.
Winding Creek
Winding Creek is a new age-55+ lifestyle community for retirees and active adults in the south central Pennsylvania countryside.
Bordered by Killinger Creek and surrounded by quiet farmlands, Winding Creek residents enjoy life in a serene settings that’s still convenient to family, friends and business associates in New York, Philadelphia and New Jersey. The nearby town of Palmyra has grocery markets, pharmacies, restaurants and shops for your everyday needs, while all of the popular attractions in the Hershey area are just a short drive away. Top-quality health care services are available at the Penn State Health Milton Hershey Medical Center.
Developed by Landmark Homes, the regional leader in building communities for the active-adult lifestyle, Winding Creek is a low-maintenance community. Open floor plans with customizable details and energy-saving appliances are among the features that make every Winding Creek home distinctive. Amenities include a private community clubhouse for special events, plus a pool, pickleball courts and walking trails that make every day an adventure in healthy living.
Request more information below and get the latest news about your active lifestyle at an ideal location in Pennsylvania’s Winding Creek community.
Keowee Key
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.
Black Creek Chattanooga
At Black Creek, we’re building a community that embraces all that’s been forgotten about what defines a life well-lived.It’s a special place where generations, connection and nature become one. Imagine access to 1000s of acres of protected land that’s just footsteps from your door while living just 10 minutes from downtown Chattanooga, America’s “Best City Ever” where shopping, dining, entertainment as well as top hospitals are quickly within reach.
The Black Creek experience starts with Black Creek Club-a private club including restaurant, bar, swimming pools, fitness center, and tennis. Here, you can gather together and make life long connections. Our 18hole golf course is the only course in TN ranked in Golfweek’s Top 100 residential courses. If nature is your passion, take advantage of miles of nature trails through the surrounding mountains and paved pathways through the community, plus ponds for fishing. Just outside of Black Creek is Raccoon Mtn, perfect for biking, hiking and easy access to boat ramps on the TN River. We offer Home sites that complement the natural flow of the terrain and floor plans that are as diverse as the residents who live here. Experience Black Creek!
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!
The Isles of Collier Preserve
Final Phase Now Selling! Limited opportunities remain to buy a new home at The Isles.
Nestled within a pristine natural setting just minutes from Downtown Naples, Florida's preeminent new home builder is creating a colorful update of classic coastal living. Inspired by the timeless architecture and traditions of Old Naples, elegant new Minto homes overlook miles of scenic kayak and hiking trails. With over half of the 2,400 acres dedicated to lakes, nature preserves, and natural habitat, combined with outdoor-inspired amenities, The Isles of Collier Preserve is an extraordinary new active adult gated community where the magic of Old Naples and unspoiled nature still coexist.
Enjoy all aspects of an active lifestyle influenced by wellness at The Isles Club, featuring resort-style amenities such as a resort-style pool, state-of-the-art fitness center, tennis and pickleball courts, and a yoga lawn. After a scenic day exploring this beautiful community, sip on cocktails and savor coastal Florida flavors with family and neighbors at the resident-exclusive Overlook Bar & Grill, overlooking the Cypress Waterway.
The Isles is a master-planned community boasting 1,600 unique coastal-themed new construction residences for sale from the $500s, many with stunning water and nature views.
River Bluffs
A Unique Waterfront Community with New Homes from the $500s – $2.5M+ and available homesites starting at $150k.
Located just 10 minutes north of Downtown Wilmington, NC (by boat or car) sits River Bluffs, a gated community that overlooks the Northeast Cape Fear River. River Bluffs offers a wide variety of home plans, including affordable cottage-style homes for a growing family, single-level homes with retirement-smart features, low-maintenance townhomes, and even fully custom homes built by the area’s most prestigious builders. River Bluffs boasts a variety of luxurious amenities such as a 2,700-foot river walk with covered gazebos, 188 slip marina, miles of walking trails and parks, luxury pools, high-end fitness centers, tennis and pickleball courts, over 30+ resident clubs including kayaking, boating, an onsite restaurant, and much more.
Enhance Your Quality of Life by Moving to River Bluffs:
• No city tax and no traffic!
• Low county & state taxes. North Carolina residents enjoy some of the lowest cost of living expenses on the Eastern seaboard!
• Enjoy low HOA dues which include yard maintenance, trash service, recycling, and access to all community amenities.
• 4.75% flat income tax and 0% estate or inheritance tax.