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More people retire to Florida than to any other state. And for good reason: the Sunshine State’s white-sand beaches and palm-tree-lined streets are enough to make even the orneriest retiree smile. Whether you plan to retire to the region or not, there’s fun to be had checking out some of the most lavish Florida retirement communities and playing let’s-pretend.
This road trip itinerary takes you to 6 of the top retirement destinations in Florida, with several other major cities being easy add-ons if you’d like to do so. We’ve broken the list down by destination; you can decide for yourself how to split up the days, and where or when to sleep. Who knows—maybe you’ll fall in love with one particular area and change your mind! In any case, here are the 6 Florida retirement communities that’re must-visits.
After flying into Jacksonville and renting a car at or near the airport, this first Florida retirement community is just half an hour’s drive away! It’s a great feeling to start your trip off without too much driving up front. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. Ponte Vedra is part of the larger Nocatee area, and the town center there is a great place to stop for lunch. This retirement community also features a 38,000 square foot clubhouse and 15 acres of parkland and bike trails.
Your second stop, The Villages, is truly something to behold. This is one of the largest retirement communities in the world. It’s home to nearly 60,000 households of residents ages 55 and older. The community spans three counties, three zip codes, and over 20,000 acres—plus getting around it means navigating more than 100 miles of relaxed, golf-cart legal roads. Hundreds of retail establishments operate inside The Villages, so there’s plenty to do.
Now you’re heading west, towards the Gulf Coast. On the way, you’ll stop at Sun City Center, which is notable for being located in an unincorporated part of Hillsborough County. There is no official government overseeing this region; rather, the community is run by local volunteers. The area is home to 162 holes of golf, so bring your clubs.
4. Esplanade at Lakewood Ranch
Esplanade is always fun for day visits, because it’s designed to encourage outdoor living. As America’s largest green-certified community, the location attracts lovers of the outdoors, and many do end up spending all day outside enjoying the communal barbeque spaces, fire pits, lawns, playgrounds, sports courts, and lagoon-style pools. With everyone out in public all day, you’ll have a blast people-watching and picnicking. Just don’t forget the sunscreen.
5. Pelican Bay
You’ve finally hit the Gulf Coast. And what you’ll find at this community is unparalleled: three miles of beachfront that are only accessible by Pelican Bay residents. Full-time attendants keep the beaches very clean and maintained, and even set up lounge chairs and umbrellas. Oh, and cocktails are served in the evenings. If you weren’t already planning to retire to Florida, this is the community that might be dangerous to visit.
For your last stop, you’ll head across the state to the Atlantic Ocean. What could be better than comparing beachfronts, right? Although Valencia Falls isn’t directly on the beach, it’s close to it. You can improve your cooking skills in this community’s demonstration kitchen or relax at their spa after your Florida adventure!
That completes your tour of Florida retirement communities! Before you fly home, swing by Orlando and visit DisneyWorld! Unless, that is, you decide to retire immediately and never leave. We can’t say we’d blame you.
For more information about top retirement destinations across the United States, visit 55Places.com.
September 5, 2023
