New construction homes within minutes of Florida's pristine Gulf Coast beaches are increasingly available at various price points. From affordable villas starting in the $200,000s to luxury estates over $1 million, these 10 communities offer hurricane-code compliant construction, modern amenities, and enviable beach proximity without the maintenance concerns of aging properties.
Frequently Asked Questions About New Beach-Proximity Communities
How close are these communities to Gulf Coast beaches?
All communities featured in this guide are within 7 miles of a Gulf Coast beach, with some as close as 2 miles from the shoreline. BeachWalk by Manasota Key and Seaflower (coming soon) offer the closest proximity at just 2-3 miles from beaches in Englewood and Bradenton, respectively.
What price range can I expect for new construction near Florida beaches?
Prices vary significantly based on location, amenities, and builder. The most affordable options start in the $200,000s for paired villas in Coco Bay (Englewood), while luxury single-family homes in communities like Aqua start over $1 million. Most communities offer mid-range options between $400,000-$700,000.
Do these communities have amenities comparable to beachfront condos?
Yes, most communities featured offer resort-style amenities including pools, fitness centers, pickleball courts, and social spaces. Several communities like Talon Preserve and BeachWalk even include on-site restaurants and bars. These amenities often exceed what's available in many aging beachfront condos, with lower maintenance fees.
Are these communities in flood zones or hurricane evacuation areas?
While proximity to the coast always carries some weather-related risks, all new construction communities must meet Florida's rigorous hurricane building codes (among the strictest in the nation). Each community has different flood zone designations, with homes typically built at elevations designed to mitigate flooding concerns. Specific evacuation zone information should be verified for each property.
Is golf cart transportation feasible from these communities to the beaches?
Some communities, particularly BeachWalk and the upcoming Seaflower development, are close enough to beaches that golf cart transportation is practical. However, local regulations regarding golf cart use on public roads vary by municipality. Communities further inland typically require automobile transportation to reach the beach.
Will these communities increase in value over time?
Historical trends suggest that new construction homes near Florida's Gulf Coast beaches tend to appreciate well over time. Properties in earlier development phases typically offer the best long-term value, as prices generally increase as communities approach completion. Location, quality of construction, and community amenities all influence appreciation potential.
Can I purchase with a builder's representative or should I bring my own realtor?
While you can purchase directly through a builder's sales office, using an independent realtor typically costs you nothing (builders pay the commission) while providing valuable negotiation assistance, market expertise, and an advocate focused solely on your interests. Realtors with builder relationships often secure better pricing and incentives than buyers can achieve on their own.
Best Bang for Your Buck: Magnolia Bay by Meritage
Distance to Beach: 7 miles to Nokomis Beach and Venice Island
Magnolia Bay stands out as the best value proposition among new construction communities near Florida's Gulf Coast beaches. Located just east of I-75 in the Nokomis corridor, this Meritage Homes community delivers impressive features at a starting price point in the $300,000s.
What Makes Magnolia Bay Special?
What differentiates Magnolia Bay from similarly priced communities is the level of included features. While priced similarly to D.R. Horton and Lennar homes, Meritage offers noticeably upgraded standard finishes including:
- Higher-quality luxury vinyl plank flooring
- Premium tile options
- Quartz countertops as standard features
- Enhanced architectural details
The community offers both single-story and two-story home designs across two different series, with more than 10 floor plans available. Home sites feature a variety of settings including preserve views, pond views, and traditional neighborhood layouts.
Magnolia Bay Amenities
Despite its accessible price point, Magnolia Bay doesn't skimp on community features. Residents enjoy:
- Gated security
- Resort-style swimming pool
- Basketball courts
- Pickleball courts
- Tennis facilities
- Playground for families
- Event lawn for community gatherings
- Fitness center with modern equipment
For homebuyers seeking maximum value without sacrificing quality or amenities, Magnolia Bay represents an exceptional opportunity to live within easy reach of both Nokomis Beach and historic Venice Island.
Luxury Lifestyle: Talon Preserve in Palmer Ranch
Distance to Beach: 6-7 miles to Nokomis Beach and Venice Island
Talon Preserve, developed by Del Webb/Pulte, elevates the typical master-planned community experience with a focus on luxury amenities and social engagement. Located west of I-75 in the prestigious Palmer Ranch area, this community offers a more upscale alternative while maintaining reasonable proximity to Gulf Coast beaches.
Talon Preserve's Unique Advantage
The standout feature of Talon Preserve is its extensive social infrastructure. Unlike most communities in the area, Talon Preserve boasts:
- On-site restaurant and bar within the community
- Newly completed poolside Tiki Bar
- 18,000 square foot clubhouse complex
- Robust social calendar with organized clubs and activities
- Full-time activities director coordinating events
This social focus creates a resort-like atmosphere that particularly appeals to active adults and retirees seeking a vibrant community experience.
Home Options at Talon Preserve
Talon Preserve offers diverse housing options to accommodate various preferences:
- Maintenance-free villas starting in the $400,000s
- Single-family homes starting in the $500,000s
- Over 15 different floor plans across various price points
- Mix of single-story and two-story designs
For buyers who prioritize amenities and social engagement over absolute proximity to the beach, Talon Preserve provides an attractive balance of luxury, community, and reasonable beach access.
Ultra-Luxury: Aqua by Medallion Homes
Distance to Beach: 6 miles to Bradenton Beach
For luxury homebuyers who won't compromise on quality or amenities, Aqua by Medallion Homes represents the pinnacle of new construction near Florida's Gulf Coast beaches. Located in Manatee County between State Road 70 and Cortez Road, this exclusive community is redefining upscale coastal living.
The Blue Lagoon Experience
Aqua's most distinctive feature is its spectacular 4-acre man-made lagoon with crystal blue waters. This remarkable amenity:
- Provides a beach-like experience within the community
- Offers various water sports opportunities
- Creates a stunning visual centerpiece for the development
- Provides waterfront living without ocean-front prices
Luxury Home Offerings
As the most luxurious community on our list, Aqua doesn't compromise on quality:
- Single-family homes starting over $1 million
- Luxury townhomes starting at $799,000
- Spacious townhome designs exceeding 2,000 square feet
- Premium finishes and features throughout
- Medallion's renowned attention to architectural detail
Important Note: Phase 1 of Aqua is nearly sold out, with limited inventory currently available from the builder. Phase 2 is expected to launch in Q2-Q3, bringing additional single-family home options to market.
Boutique Community: Tiberón by Taylor Morrison
Distance to Beach: 6 miles to Nokomis Beach, 7 miles to Venice Beach
Named after the Spanish word for "shark" (fitting given Venice's reputation as the Shark Tooth Capital of the World), Tiberón offers a more intimate community experience while maintaining excellent beach proximity. This Taylor Morrison development provides a boutique alternative to larger master-planned communities.
Small Community Appeal
Tiberón's smaller footprint creates several advantages:
- More intimate neighborhood feel
- Less traffic and congestion
- Quicker access to community amenities
- Potentially faster completion timeline
Tiberón Home Options
Taylor Morrison brings its reputation for quality construction to this community with:
- Homes starting in the $500,000s
- Floor plans up to 3,500 square feet
- Larger lot sizes than many competing communities
- Premium finishes and thoughtful design elements
Charming Community Features
While more modest in scale than some mega-communities, Tiberón includes thoughtfully designed amenities:
- Community swimming pool
- Dedicated dog park
- Planned butterfly garden
- Walking trails and green spaces
For homebuyers who prefer a more intimate neighborhood setting with premium construction quality, Tiberón represents an excellent option in the Nokomis/North Venice corridor.
Builder Variety: Vistera in North Venice
Distance to Beach: 6 miles to Nokomis Beach and Venice Island
Vistera stands apart from other communities on this list through its multi-builder approach. Instead of the uniform design aesthetic common in single-builder communities, Vistera features three distinct builders creating architectural diversity throughout the neighborhood.
Multi-Builder Advantage
The presence of three different builders—M/I Homes, Neal Communities, and David Weekley Homes—creates several distinct benefits:
- Greater variety of architectural styles preventing a "cookie-cutter" appearance
- More floor plan options across different price points
- Opportunity to compare different builders' approaches within one community
- Competition between builders potentially leading to better value
Home Options at Vistera
The multi-builder approach translates to exceptional variety:
- Neal Communities offers paired villas starting in the $400,000s
- Neal's single-family homes on generous 57-foot lots
- M/I Homes specializes in larger two-story designs
- David Weekley brings its distinctive architectural style
- All builders offer elevated finishes above standard builder grade
Community Amenities
Vistera doesn't compromise on amenities despite its multi-builder approach:
- Resort-style community pool
- Fitness center with modern equipment
- Yoga lawn for outdoor wellness activities
- Event lawn for community gatherings
- Game room for social interaction
For buyers seeking greater design variety and the ability to compare different builders' approaches, Vistera offers a unique opportunity in the North Venice market.
Budget-Friendly: Coco Bay by Lennar
Distance to Beach: 5 miles to Englewood Beach
For budget-conscious buyers who prioritize beach proximity without the premium price tag, Coco Bay by Lennar in Englewood delivers exceptional value. This community represents the most affordable new construction option within close range of Gulf Coast beaches.
Unbeatable Price Points
Coco Bay's affordability is truly remarkable in today's market:
- Paired villas starting in the $200,000s in the Island Lakes section
- Single-family homes starting in the $300,000s
- Larger homes (approximately 2,000 square feet) available in the $400,000s in the Palm Lake section
- Both sections offer lake views for many homesites
Community Sections
Coco Bay is divided into two distinct sections:
- Island Lakes - The more affordable section featuring the paired villas and entry-level single-family homes
- Palm Lake - Featuring larger single-family homes on more generous lots
Note: While currently separated, these sections will eventually connect via internal roadways as development progresses.
Standard Amenities
Despite its budget-friendly price point, Coco Bay includes desirable community features:
- Gated security
- Community swimming pool
- Fitness center
- Children's playground
- Pickleball courts
- Bocce ball courts
Location Considerations
It's worth noting that Coco Bay's exceptional affordability comes with a tradeoff in location. While just 5 miles from beautiful Englewood Beach, the community is in a less developed area with fewer nearby shopping and dining options. This makes it ideal for buyers who prioritize beach access and value over urban conveniences.
Larger Lots: Casata Lakes by M/I Homes
Distance to Beach: 5 miles to Nokomis Beach and Venice Island
For homebuyers who value space and privacy without excessive amenities or HOA fees, Casata Lakes by M/I Homes offers an appealing alternative. This boutique community of approximately 150 homes focuses on delivering larger lots and homes rather than extensive shared amenities.
Spacious Living Appeal
Casata Lakes differentiates itself through:
- Oversized homesites compared to typical new construction
- More distance between neighboring homes
- Opportunity for expanded outdoor living spaces
- Lower HOA fees than amenity-rich communities
M/I Homes Quality
M/I Homes brings its reputation for quality construction to this community:
- Elevated standard finishes throughout
- Attention to architectural detail
- Energy-efficient building practices
- Customization options beyond typical production builders
The community's location provides excellent access to both Nokomis Beach and Venice Island, offering the perfect balance of coastal proximity and residential privacy.
Closest Beach Access: BeachWalk by Manasota Key
Distance to Beach: Just 2 miles to Manasota Beach
For buyers who place premium value on beach proximity, BeachWalk by Manasota Key is unmatched among new construction communities. Developed by Del Webb/Pulte, this impressive community is located just 2 miles from the pristine shores of Manasota Beach.
Unbeatable Beach Proximity
BeachWalk's location creates unique lifestyle advantages:
- Just minutes to reach Gulf Coast beaches
- Quick access for spontaneous beach visits
- Potential for golf cart transportation to the shore
- True beach lifestyle without beachfront prices
Comprehensive Amenities
Despite its more remote location, BeachWalk doesn't compromise on amenities:
- On-site restaurant and bar
- Resort-style swimming pool
- Comprehensive fitness center
- Pickleball and tennis courts
- Full-time activities director
- Robust calendar of social events and clubs
Del Webb/Pulte Quality
As a Del Webb/Pulte community, BeachWalk offers the same high-quality construction and design options found in Talon Preserve, but with significantly better beach proximity.
Location Considerations
It's worth noting that BeachWalk's location, while ideal for beach access, does place residents further from major shopping centers and urban amenities. As Ryan mentions in the transcript, "you're actually closer to a beach in BeachWalk than you are to shopping in a Publix." This makes it perfect for buyers who prioritize beach lifestyle over urban conveniences.
Golf Course Living: Boca Royale Golf & Country Club
Distance to Beach: 3 miles to Manasota Beach
For homebuyers seeking the classic Florida lifestyle combination of golf and beaches, Boca Royale Golf & Country Club offers the perfect solution. This established community recently underwent significant renovations to its championship golf course, creating an exceptional opportunity for new construction in a mature golf community setting.
Premier Golf Experience
Boca Royale's standout feature is its recently renovated 18-hole championship golf course:
- Completely redesigned and upgraded in late 2023
- Multi-million dollar investment in course improvements
- Ongoing upgrades to the clubhouse facilities
- Optional golf membership (not mandatory for residents)
The optional nature of the golf membership is particularly appealing to homebuyers who appreciate living on a golf course but don't necessarily want to pay premium membership fees.
Neal Communities New Construction
Neal Communities currently offers new construction options within Boca Royale:
- Paired villas starting in the $400,000s
- 14 different home design options
- Mix of golf course, preserve, and standard homesites
- Neal's reputation for quality construction and design
Comprehensive Amenities
Beyond golf, Boca Royale offers extensive community features:
- On-site restaurant and bar
- Multiple swimming pools throughout the community
- Fitness facilities
- Tennis and pickleball courts
- Social activities and clubs
Wellen Park Connection
Boca Royale is considered part of the broader Wellen Park development, placing residents within approximately 9 miles of downtown Wellen Park and its growing array of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
Coming Soon: Seaflower – The Ultimate Master-Planned Experience
Distance to Beach: 2-3 miles to Bradenton Beach
While not yet selling homes, the upcoming Seaflower development promises to revolutionize the concept of beach-proximity living on Florida's Gulf Coast. Located near Bradenton Beach, this ambitious project will combine residential, commercial, and recreational elements in a comprehensive master-planned community.
Village Center Concept
What sets Seaflower apart is its integrated Village Center featuring:
- 140,000 square feet of retail shopping space
- Publix grocery anchor
- Diverse restaurant offerings
- Office spaces
- Hotel accommodations for visitors
- True live-work-play environment
Multiple Builder Approach
Like Vistera, Seaflower will feature multiple premier builders:
- David Weekley Homes
- Pulte
- M/I Homes
- Several additional builders expected to join
This multi-builder approach will create greater architectural diversity and price point options throughout the community.
Diverse Housing Options
Seaflower plans to accommodate various lifestyle preferences:
- Maintenance-free villas for simplified living
- Traditional single-family homes in various sizes
- Luxury estate options
- Apartment offerings for non-buyers
- Hotel accommodations for visitors
Unbeatable Location
At just 2-3 miles from Bradenton Beach, Seaflower will offer:
- Biking distance to Gulf Coast beaches
- Potential golf cart transportation to shoreline
- Walkable access to daily shopping needs
- Reduced need for automobile transportation
Investment Opportunity
While not yet available for purchase, Seaflower represents a potential opportunity for forward-thinking buyers. As Ryan notes in the transcript, "as new construction communities open, typically the best price points are up front" as builders often discount early phases to compensate for construction disruption.
Interested buyers should monitor this development for sales launch announcements, expected in the coming months.
Working with a Realtor for New Construction
A common misconception among homebuyers is that purchasing directly from a builder saves money by avoiding realtor commissions. In reality, using a realtor for new construction typically costs buyers nothing while providing significant advantages:
- Builder Relationships: Experienced realtors maintain relationships with builder representatives that can lead to enhanced incentives and upgrades
- Price Negotiation: While base prices may be fixed, realtors can often negotiate on upgrades, lot premiums, and incentives
- Market Knowledge: Understanding which communities and builders offer the best value for specific needs
- Contract Protection: Ensuring builder contracts protect buyer interests
- Independent Representation: Builders' sales representatives work for the builder; your realtor works exclusively for you
The Zachos Realty & Design Group Advantage
For relocating buyers unfamiliar with Florida's Gulf Coast communities, working with a locally raised expert like Ryan Zachos offers additional benefits:
- Born and raised in Sarasota with extensive knowledge of the region
- Family connections spanning from Venice Island to Lakewood Ranch
- Experience selling across the entire Gulf Coast region
- Established relationships with builders and vendor networks
- Intimate knowledge of neighborhood nuances that aren't obvious to newcomers
Ready to Explore New Construction Near Florida's Gulf Coast Beaches?
If you're considering relocating to any of these beach-proximity communities 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.
