Waterside is the upscale Sarasota County section of Lakewood Ranch featuring 11 distinctive maintenance-free communities surrounding a vibrant Town Center built on a picturesque lake. With its strategic southwest location, Waterside offers the shortest commute to downtown Sarasota, beaches, and University Town Center of any Lakewood Ranch development while providing diverse housing options from $300k townhomes to multi-million dollar custom estates.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterside in Lakewood Ranch
What makes Waterside different from other Lakewood Ranch communities?
Waterside is the only section of Lakewood Ranch located in Sarasota County, providing residents with a different tax structure and school district than the majority of Lakewood Ranch communities in Manatee County. It's also uniquely positioned as the southwesternmost portion of Lakewood Ranch, making it significantly closer to downtown Sarasota, the beaches, and University Town Center than other Lakewood Ranch neighborhoods.
What types of amenities does Waterside offer?
Waterside features a lakefront Town Center called Waterside Place with restaurants, retail shops, an ice cream parlor, a brewery, and a Mexican restaurant. Most communities include pools, fitness centers, pickleball courts, and playgrounds. Four premium communities (Lakehouse Cove, Shoreview, Wild Blue, and Windward) offer full-time activities directors who organize social events and community gatherings. One community (Lakehouse Cove) even provides a ferry service directly to Waterside Place.
Are there any age-restricted or golf communities in Waterside?
No, unlike some other areas of Lakewood Ranch, Waterside does not have any 55+ or age-restricted communities. Additionally, none of the Waterside communities feature golf courses. If you're looking for golf communities or age-restricted neighborhoods, you'll need to explore other sections of Lakewood Ranch.
Are Waterside communities gated?
Of the eleven communities in Waterside, only Windward is gated. According to local regulations, most Waterside communities cannot be gated due to Sarasota County stipulations. Windward is somewhat separated from the main Waterside hub, located at the corner of Lorraine Road and Fruitville Road.
What is the price range for homes in Waterside?
Waterside offers diverse housing options ranging from townhomes starting in the $300,000s to custom luxury estates priced at $3 million and above. Most single-family homes in the area start in the $500,000-$800,000 range, with mid-range options available in communities like Shoreview, Lakehouse Cove, and Wild Blue.
The Unique Appeal of Waterside in Lakewood Ranch
Waterside represents the newest and most strategically located section of the award-winning Lakewood Ranch master-planned community. What sets this area apart is its position as the only portion of Lakewood Ranch situated in Sarasota County, creating a distinctive identity compared to the Manatee County areas of Lakewood Ranch.
The heart of Waterside is its charming Town Center known as Waterside Place, which continues to develop as a vibrant lakefront destination. This picturesque hub features an expanding selection of dining options, including a brewery, ice cream shop, and a recently opened Mexican restaurant. The area is designed to be accessible via golf cart, bicycle, or even on foot from many of the surrounding residential communities.
Prime Geographic Location
One of Waterside's most compelling advantages is its geographic positioning. As the southwesternmost section of Lakewood Ranch, it offers significantly better access to:
- Downtown Sarasota - Just a short drive away
- Gulf Coast Beaches - Including Siesta Key, Lido Beach, Longboat Key, and Nokomis
- University Town Center (UTC) - Premium shopping and dining destination
- Major highways and thoroughfares - For convenient regional travel
This strategic location creates a uniquely convenient lifestyle that combines the master-planned benefits of Lakewood Ranch with proximity to the cultural and recreational amenities of Sarasota.
Waterside Place: The Lakefront Town Center
Waterside Place serves as the social and commercial hub for the Waterside communities. Situated on a large lake with stunning water views, this new Town Center is still evolving but already offers:
- Restaurants and cafes with waterfront dining
- Specialty shops and boutiques
- Community gathering spaces
- Regular events and farmers markets
- Water activities accessible from the lakefront
The Town Center is designed to be the heart of the community, providing a walkable destination where residents can gather, shop, dine, and enjoy the Florida lifestyle.
Understanding the Waterside Geography
Waterside occupies a distinct section of Lakewood Ranch, bordered by:
- University Parkway to the north
- Fruitville Road to the south
- Lakewood Ranch Boulevard to the west
- Lorraine Road (and now extending east beyond Lorraine with Shoreview and Wild Blue) to the east
This well-defined area falls entirely within Sarasota County, distinguishing it from the majority of Lakewood Ranch communities located in Manatee County. This county distinction affects property taxes, school districts, and certain community regulations.
Key Features Common to Most Waterside Communities
Before exploring each individual neighborhood, it's important to understand some consistent characteristics found throughout most Waterside communities:
No Age Restrictions
Unlike some sections of Lakewood Ranch, none of the Waterside communities are age-restricted or designated as 55+ communities. This creates diverse, multi-generational neighborhoods.
No Golf Communities
While Lakewood Ranch as a whole offers several excellent golf communities, none of the Waterside neighborhoods feature on-site golf courses. However, numerous public and private golf options exist throughout the greater Lakewood Ranch area.
Maintenance-Free Living
With the exception of the ultra-exclusive Kingfisher Estates, all Waterside communities offer maintenance-free living, with landscape maintenance included in the HOA fees. This creates a convenient, low-maintenance lifestyle.
Open Communities
With just one exception (Windward), none of the Waterside communities are gated. This is reportedly due to Sarasota County regulations specific to the Waterside development.
Activities Directors in Select Communities
Four premium communities feature full-time activities directors who organize social calendars and community events:
- Lakehouse Cove
- Shoreview
- Wild Blue
- Windward
These communities tend to offer more resort-style amenities and a more active social environment.
Complete Guide to Waterside Communities (From Most Affordable to Most Exclusive)
1. Avanti by Pulte Homes
Housing Options & Price Points:
- Townhomes starting in the $300,000s
- Single-family homes starting in the high $400,000s
- 166 homes total in the community
HOA & Amenities:
- HOA fees starting in the $100s (varies by property type)
- No community amenities
- Maintenance-free living included
- Non-gated community
What Makes It Special: Avanti offers the most affordable entry point into the Waterside lifestyle, with well-built Pulte homes in a convenient location. While it doesn't offer amenities within the community, residents enjoy proximity to Waterside Place and all the attractions of the broader area.
2. Nautique by M/I Homes
Housing Options & Price Points:
- Townhomes and single-family homes available
- Single-family homes starting in the $400,000s
- 222 homes total in the community
HOA & Amenities:
- HOA fees in the $100s to low $200s range
- Basic amenities including:
- Community pool
- Pickleball court
- Dog park
- Playground ("Tot Park")
- Maintenance-free living included
- Non-gated community
What Makes It Special: Nautique offers an excellent value proposition, providing some nice amenities while maintaining affordable HOA fees. The M/I Homes construction offers quality at a reasonable price point, and the medium-sized community creates a neighborly atmosphere.
3. Windward by Neal Communities
Housing Options & Price Points:
- Attached villas starting in the $400,000s
- Single-family homes available (some exceeding $1 million)
- 780 homes total in the community
HOA & Amenities:
- HOA fees in the $200-400 range
- Extensive amenities including:
- Resort-style pool
- Pickleball courts
- Dog park
- Playground
- Fitness center
- Full-time activities director
- Maintenance-free living included
- Gated community (the only gated option in Waterside)
What Makes It Special: Windward stands out as the only gated community in Waterside, offering security along with an extensive amenity package. Its location at the corner of Lorraine Road and Fruitville Road places it somewhat apart from the main Waterside hub but provides excellent access to major roadways. The full-time activities director ensures a vibrant social calendar.
4. Emerald Landing by David Weekley Homes
Housing Options & Price Points:
- Townhomes and single-family homes available
- Homes starting in the $500,000s
- 193 homes planned for the community
HOA & Amenities:
- HOA fees in the $250-400 range
- Amenities will include:
- Community pool
- Tennis court
- Dog park
- Maintenance-free living included
- Non-gated community
What Makes It Special: As a brand new community just breaking ground, Emerald Landing offers the opportunity to get in early on Waterside's growth. Its location provides excellent walkability to Waterside Place, and David Weekley's reputation for quality construction makes this an attractive option for those seeking new construction.
5. Bungalow Waterside by Dream Finders Homes
Housing Options & Price Points:
- Single-family homes starting in the $500,000s
- 225 homes planned for the community
HOA & Amenities:
- HOA fees around $200 monthly
- Amenities will include:
- Clubhouse
- Community pool
- Playground
- Maintenance-free living included
- Non-gated community
What Makes It Special: This newer community offers excellent proximity to University Town Center while still providing quick access to Waterside Place. Its location near University Parkway makes it ideal for those who want convenient access to shopping and dining options outside of Lakewood Ranch.
6. Shoreview by Pulte Homes
Housing Options & Price Points:
- Single-family homes starting in the $900,000s
- Approximately 300 homes in the community
HOA & Amenities:
- HOA fees in the $300s
- Extensive amenities including:
- Resort-style pool
- Fitness center
- Tennis courts
- Pickleball courts
- Kayak launch pad for lake access
- Maintenance-free living included
- Non-gated community
What Makes It Special: As one of the first single-family communities built in Waterside, Shoreview offers beautiful lake and preserve views. The community surrounds a large lake, providing many waterfront properties. While mostly resale at this point, it remains a highly desirable location with excellent amenities and Pulte's quality construction.
7. Lakehouse Cove by Multiple Builders
Housing Options & Price Points:
- Homes by Homes by Town, Arthur Rutenberg, and Lee Wetherington
- Semi-custom and fully custom options available
- Homes starting in the $800,000s
- Approximately 626 homes in the community
HOA & Amenities:
- HOA fees in the $200s
- Premier amenities including:
- Resort-style pool
- Fitness center
- Water activities
- Ferry service to Waterside Place
- Full-time activities director
- Maintenance-free living included
- Non-gated community
What Makes It Special: Lakehouse Cove stands out for its exceptional waterfront setting and the unique ferry service that transports residents directly to Waterside Place. The community offers a mix of semi-custom and fully custom homes from respected builders, with some inventory homes and a handful of lots still available. Its mature landscaping and established feel make it one of the most desirable communities in Waterside.
8. Shoreview
Housing Options & Price Points:
- Newly developing community by Homes by Town and Lee Wetherington
- Semi-custom and fully custom options available
- Smaller homes starting in the $600,000s
- Premium water view lots from $400,000s to $900,000s
- Approximately 682 homes planned
HOA & Amenities:
- HOA fees planned in the $400s
- Premier amenities will include:
- Resort-style pool
- Extensive fitness facilities
- Tennis and pickleball courts
- Playground
- Various water activities
- Full-time activities director
- Maintenance-free living included
- Non-gated community
What Makes It Special: As one of the newest communities in Waterside, Shoreview offers an exciting opportunity to build from the ground up with respected builders. Located east of Lorraine Road, just north of Fruitville and south of Wild Blue, this community promises to deliver a resort-style living experience similar to Lakehouse Cove. Its position as a developing community offers potential value compared to more established neighborhoods.
9. The Alcove by Neal Signature Homes
Housing Options & Price Points:
- Single-family homes starting in the $800,000s
- Only 47 exclusive homes in the community
HOA & Amenities:
- HOA fees in the $500s
- No community amenities
- Maintenance-free living included
- Non-gated community
What Makes It Special: The Alcove offers an intimate, boutique community experience with only 47 homesites. While it doesn't provide community amenities, the Neal Signature Homes are known for their elevated finishes and custom options. Located on the west side of Lakewood Ranch Boulevard, it offers a more secluded setting while still providing convenient access to Waterside Place.
10. Wild Blue by Multiple Premium Builders
Housing Options & Price Points:
- Luxury homes by Stock Signature, Arthur Rutenberg, John Cannon, Lee Wetherington, and Anchor Builders
- Semi-custom to fully custom options
- Lot sizes from 65 to 100 feet wide
- Homes typically $1 million and up
- Approximately 550 homes planned
HOA & Amenities:
- Higher HOA fees
- Resort-level amenities including:
- Premier clubhouse
- Resort-style pool
- Tennis and pickleball courts
- Fitness center
- On-site restaurant and bar
- Full-time activities director
- Maintenance-free living included
- Non-gated community
What Makes It Special: Wild Blue represents one of the most luxurious communities in Waterside, featuring an impressive roster of premium builders. The community stands out for its on-site restaurant and bar, a rare amenity in residential communities. The diverse selection of builders allows for significant architectural variety and customization options, creating a distinctive neighborhood aesthetic.
11. Kingfisher Estates by John Cannon Homes
Housing Options & Price Points:
- Ultra-luxury custom estates
- Homes starting at $3 million and up
- Only 13 exclusive homesites available
HOA & Amenities:
- HOA fees around $250 monthly
- No community amenities
- Not maintenance-free (the only non-maintenance-free community in Waterside)
- Non-gated community
What Makes It Special: Kingfisher Estates represents the pinnacle of exclusivity in Waterside, with just 13 homesites available for ultra-luxury custom homes by John Cannon, one of the region's premier builders. Located on Kingfisher Lake with stunning water views, these estate-sized lots provide the canvas for truly exceptional custom homes. Unlike other Waterside communities, homeowners here maintain their own properties, allowing for more personalized landscaping and outdoor spaces.
Living in Waterside: Lifestyle Advantages
Proximity to Sarasota's Best Attractions
Waterside's geographic position creates significant lifestyle advantages for residents. Compared to other sections of Lakewood Ranch, Waterside offers notably shorter drive times to:
- Siesta Key Beach - Consistently ranked among America's best beaches
- Downtown Sarasota - Cultural hub with theaters, art galleries, and dining
- St. Armands Circle - Upscale shopping and dining destination
- University Town Center - Premier mall and shopping district
- Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport - Convenient travel access
For those who value access to Sarasota's cultural scene, beaches, and shopping districts, Waterside's location presents a compelling advantage over other Lakewood Ranch areas.
The Lakewood Ranch Lifestyle with a Sarasota Address
Waterside offers the unique combination of Lakewood Ranch's master-planned convenience with a Sarasota County address. This distinction means:
- Sarasota County schools instead of Manatee County
- Different property tax structure (typically higher in Sarasota County)
- Access to Sarasota County services and facilities
- Sarasota County building codes and regulations
This can be particularly important for families with school-age children or those who have specific preferences regarding county services and governance.
Maintenance-Free Living
With the exception of Kingfisher Estates, all Waterside communities offer maintenance-free living, where landscape maintenance is included in the HOA fees. This creates:
- More free time to enjoy Florida's lifestyle
- Easier seasonal residency for those who split their time between Florida and elsewhere
- Consistent neighborhood appearance with professional landscaping
- Simplified homeownership with fewer maintenance responsibilities
This feature particularly appeals to busy professionals, active retirees, and seasonal residents who prefer to spend their time enjoying amenities rather than maintaining their properties.
Community Activities and Social Opportunities
The four communities with full-time activities directors (Lakehouse Cove, Shoreview, Wild Blue, and Windward) offer particularly robust social calendars and community engagement. These might include:
- Regular community gatherings and events
- Clubs and interest groups
- Holiday celebrations
- Fitness classes and activities
- Neighborhood traditions
These organized activities help new residents quickly integrate into the community and foster a strong sense of neighborhood identity.
Choosing the Right Waterside Community for Your Lifestyle
For First-Time Homebuyers or Budget-Conscious Buyers
Best Options: Avanti, Nautique Why: These communities offer the most affordable entry points into the Waterside lifestyle, with townhomes starting in the $300,000s and single-family homes from the $400,000s. While amenities may be more limited, residents still enjoy the Waterside location advantages and maintenance-free living.
For Families with Children
Best Options: Nautique, Emerald Landing, Bungalow Waterside Why: These communities offer family-friendly amenities like playgrounds and pools at moderate price points. Their locations provide good access to Sarasota County schools, and the non-age-restricted nature of all Waterside communities creates a multi-generational environment.
For Active Adults Seeking Resort-Style Living
Best Options: Windward, Lakehouse Cove, Shoreview, Wild Blue Why: These communities feature full-time activities directors and extensive amenity packages. The social calendars and resort-style facilities create an active, engaging lifestyle perfect for those who want to make the most of their Florida experience.
For Luxury Home Buyers
Best Options: Wild Blue, Kingfisher Estates Why: These premium communities offer the highest level of customization and luxury, with estate-sized lots and prestigious builders. Wild Blue provides extensive resort amenities including an on-site restaurant, while Kingfisher Estates offers the ultimate in exclusivity with just 13 homesites.
For Those Seeking New Construction Opportunities
Best Options: Shoreview, Emerald Landing, Bungalow Waterside Why: As newer communities still in development, these neighborhoods offer the opportunity to build from the ground up or purchase new inventory homes. This allows buyers to customize their homes and be among the first residents in these emerging communities.
Ready to Explore Waterside?
If you're considering relocating to Waterside or anywhere else on Florida's beautiful Gulf Coast, the Zachos Realty & Design Group is here to help. With over 40 years of local expertise and a unique combination of real estate knowledge and award-winning design vision, we can help you find the perfect property that matches your lifestyle needs.
Contact us today:
- Phone: 941-500-5457
- Email: [email protected]
- Sarasota Office: 205 N Orange Ave Suite 202, Sarasota, Florida 34236
- Venice Office: 217 Nassau St S, Venice, FL 34285
Visit our YouTube channel "Relocation Experts | Florida's Gulf Coast" for more insider guides to Florida's Gulf Coast communities.
