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.
Via Montejo – Indico
Welcome to Indico Apartments, where modern living meets the charm of historic Merida. Nestled in the heart of this vibrant city, our apartments offer a perfect blend of contemporary design and convenience. Located in a prime area, Indico Apartments provide easy access to Merida’s cultural treasures, bustling markets, and trendy cafes.
Indulge in a lifestyle of comfort with our thoughtfully designed living spaces that feature sleek finishes and ample natural light. Whether you’re seeking a cozy one-bedroom or a spacious two-bedroom residence, each apartment at Indico is crafted with attention to detail and a commitment to quality.
Our residents enjoy a host of amenities that enhance daily life. Relax by the sparkling pool or unwind in the beautifully landscaped courtyard.
Convenience is key at Indico Apartments. With on-site parking, a dedicated management team, and 24/7 maintenance services, we ensure a hassle-free living experience. Embrace the urban lifestyle without compromising on tranquility.
Discover the allure of Merida from the comfort of Indico Apartments. Your new home awaits, where modern living and historical charm come together seamlessly. Welcome to a life of style and sophistication in the heart of Merida.
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.
Tuscan Village
Welcome to the Good Life. There has truly never been a better time to leave behind the hustle and bustle of the city and escape to the wide open spaces of the Texas Hill Country. Tuscan Village is Texas’ premier community for active adults 55+. Located within the prestigious Horseshoe Bay Resort Community, a renowned golf destination, Tuscan Village is perfect as an everyday retreat or home away from home.
At Tuscan Village, residents are invited to celebrate this chapter of life – fondly referred to as The Good Life. Offering low-maintenance Lock & Leave townhomes, villas, and golf estate homes, as well as an array of world-class amenities, Tuscan Village residents enjoy a socially-rich lifestyle just steps outside their front door. Move-in ready homes as well as homesites are available from the mid-$600s to $1.9M+.
The heart of the community, Club Salus, is the exclusive homeowner’s clubhouse conveniently located just steps from each resident’s front door. Club Salus offers a private space for residents to socialize and participate in health and wellness activities in the company of like-minded neighbors. The recently completed Phase 2 of Club Salus provides residents with additional gathering space for year-round socializing, events, and activities. Through strategic partnerships, Tuscan Village residents also enjoy membership opportunities at Horseshoe Bay Resort – including golf options to play at four private, renowned courses.
Whether you’re looking to downsize without compromise or find a weekend retreat without the upkeep, Tuscan Village’s low-maintenance homes deliver a lifestyle of leisure, luxury and convenience.
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.
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.
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.
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!
Tellico Village
Tellico Village is Eastern Tennessee’s premier active-adult community for retirees and remote workers of any age who want to enjoy the region’s finest collection of resort-style amenities.
Set on 4,800 acres around Tellico Lake in the Great Smoky Mountain foothills, Tellico Village is an outdoor recreation paradise. Three lakeside golf courses host a year-round schedule of league events, plus pro and amateur championships. The Tellico Village Yacht Club, one of three community marinas, offers complete boating services and lakefront dining. Fitness facilities, indoor and outdoor pools, tennis/pickleball courts, and 50+ miles of local hiking trails give residents a choice of healthy activities every day of the week. The 200+ Tellico Village social clubs and volunteer organizations make it easy for neighbors to become friends. At the same time, the on-site Summit Medical Center offers convenient primary care and physical-therapy services.
More than 2,300 buildable lots and waterfront homesites are available at Tellico Village. An impressive roster of 15 local builders offers a fantastic variety of floor plans with customizable options to create the new home of your dreams. There are also a number of existing homes on the market at any given time, plus rentals available for a week to a year while you check out all of the choices.
Located just 31 miles from Knoxville, Tellico Village residents are just a short drive away from the region’s finest night-life venues, cultural events, shopping centers, and top-rated health care facilities.
Request more information below, and you’ll be on your way to enjoying the good life at Tellico Village.
Osprey Bay
Flowers Plantation
Located just minutes from Raleigh yet tucked away from the hustle of the city, Flowers Plantation continues to thrive as Johnston County’s premier master-planned community. Bordered by US Hwy 42, Buffalo Road, and the Neuse River in Clayton, this award-winning development was the first of its kind in the region and earned back-to-back honors as North Carolina’s Community of the Year by the North Carolina Home Builders Association in 2013 and 2014.
Today, Flowers Plantation is home to more than 40 unique neighborhoods, two on-site elementary schools, and a private Thales Academy, along with over 10 miles of scenic walking trails and 50 acres of peaceful lakes. The community blends residential charm with everyday convenience thanks to two commercial districts: Flowers Crossroads, featuring a Harris Teeter, medical offices, dining, and boutique retail; and Flowers Marketplace, the newest retail hub anchored by Publix.
The community also offers luxury apartment living, townhomes, and newly built single-family homesites, providing flexible options for residents at every stage of life. With homes available for immediate move-in or purchase, there’s something for everyone. At full buildout, Flowers Plantation will include nearly 7,800 homes, with pricing ranging from the mid-$200s to over $700K.
Residents enjoy a vibrant lifestyle enriched by exceptional amenities. The clubhouse, fitness center, and resort-style pool—operated by the East Triangle YMCA—serve as a central hub for recreation, wellness, and community programs, right within the neighborhood.
Exciting new growth is on the horizon with the addition of The Waterfront District, a dynamic mixed-use area that will offer walkable access to dining, retail, recreation, and potential future residential opportunities—all centered around a scenic waterfront setting.
“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 ever leaving the community.”
Whether you’re raising a family, enjoying retirement, or somewhere in between, Flowers Plantation offers a connected, comfortable lifestyle with something for everyone to call home.
Wellen Park
Imagine more fun times at Wellen Park. From boutique shops to live music, all-day eateries to stunning sunsets, there are hundreds of ways to brighten your days. With beautiful residences and awesome amenities – not to mention amazing residents – each neighborhood is crafted so that the well life reigns supreme. Wellen Park is a vibrant community where everyday fun flourishes and the spirit of wellness thrives. That’s why living at Wellen Park truly feels like your best day ever, every day.
We invite you to stop by the Wellen Park Welcome Center to learn more about the community. One of our brand ambassadors will meet with you to answer questions and guide you through interactive touchscreen kiosks that display neighborhood amenities, home plans, Downtown Wellen shopping and dining, and regional attractions.
Hot Springs Village
Hot Springs Village spans 26,000 acres of the Ouachita Mountain foothills. The largest private, gated community in North America boasts amenities for both adventure and leisure including pickle ball courts, tennis center, and 9 year-round, championship golf courses. Lake-life is also delightful with 11 lakes and 2 beaches for swimming, boating, skiing, kayaking, and relaxing! The Coronado Fitness Center, spa, indoor pool, and 30 miles of scenic hiking and biking nature trails are other HSV “hot” spots. Multiple dining, churches, and over 200 active organizations are perfect for social opportunities. The HSV Police, Fire, and EMT Departments along with two manned security gates provide residents peace of mind! HSV is centrally located and only a 20 minute drive to historic Hot Springs, an hour to Little Rock, and a day trip to many surrounding parks and attractions! Hot Springs Village offers a large variety of home styles. New construction and custom designed home packages are also available– all including your choice of lake or golf front, mountain view, or just nestled in the woods. Come enjoy the affordable HSV good life; the longer you stay, the more you’re going to love us! Photos by Zac Franklin.
Ave Maria
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
Fawn Lake
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.
Babcock Ranch
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.
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.
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.
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.