Florida's Gulf Coast offers exceptional resort-style communities featuring championship golf courses, luxury amenities, and maintenance-free living from Lakewood Ranch to Wellen Park. These master-planned neighborhoods provide everything from poolside restaurants and day spas to pickle ball courts and fitness centers, with home prices ranging from the $300,000s to over $3 million.
Living on Florida's Gulf Coast doesn't have to mean choosing between luxury and practicality. Across Sarasota, Venice, and surrounding areas, a collection of resort-style communities offers the perfect blend of upscale amenities, beautiful homes, and that coveted vacation lifestyle you can enjoy year-round. From championship golf courses to poolside restaurants, fitness centers to day spas, these seven communities deliver everything you'd expect from a five-star resort right in your own neighborhood.
Frequently Asked Questions About Resort-Style Communities
What amenities are typically included in these resort-style communities?
Most resort-style communities feature championship golf courses, resort-style pools, poolside restaurants and bars, fitness centers, day spas, pickle ball and tennis courts, and culinary centers. Many also offer maintenance-free living with professional landscaping and exterior home care included in HOA fees.
Do all resort communities require golf memberships?
No, several communities offer both bundled golf and non-bundled golf options. Communities like Esplanade at Azario and Sarasota National allow you to choose whether you want golf included in your dues or prefer to enjoy the resort amenities without the golf membership costs.
What's the typical price range for homes in these communities?
Home prices vary significantly by community and home type, ranging from paired villas in the high $300,000s to luxury custom homes over $3 million. Most single-family homes fall between $500,000 and $1.5 million, with condos and villas starting in the $300,000s.
Are these communities gated?
Most resort-style communities are gated for added security and exclusivity. The notable exception is Wild Blue in the Waterside District, which cannot be gated due to district regulations but still offers all the luxury amenities you'd expect.
Which communities offer new construction versus resale homes?
New construction is available at Esplanade at Azario, Calusa Country Club, Wild Blue, Talon Preserve, and Beachwalk. Established communities like Lakewood National and Sarasota National primarily offer resale homes, though occasional new construction opportunities may arise.
How close are these communities to beaches and downtown areas?
Proximity varies by location. Wild Blue offers 25 minutes to downtown Sarasota and 30 minutes to beaches. Talon Preserve and Beachwalk are approximately 5 miles from the beach, with Beachwalk being so close that it's actually closer to beach access than to a grocery store.
Are there 55+ communities with resort-style amenities?
Yes, several 55+ communities offer resort amenities including Del Webb (established and new Catalina location) in Lakewood Ranch, Cresswind in Lakewood Ranch, and Brightmore in Wellen Park. These communities feature the same luxury amenities with age-restricted living.
Lakewood Ranch: Esplanade at Azario
What Makes Esplanade at Azario Special?
Esplanade at Azario stands out as a premier Taylor Morrison community that offers the flexibility many buyers crave. The unique selling proposition here is choice – you can enjoy all the resort-style amenities without being locked into a golf membership if that's not your preference.
The community features an 18-hole championship golf course alongside comprehensive luxury amenities. Whether you choose a bundled golf home or a non-bundled option depends on your lifestyle preferences and how much you value having golf included in your monthly dues.
Resort Amenities That Define Luxury Living
The amenity package at Esplanade at Azario reads like a luxury resort brochure:
- Culinary center for cooking classes and social events
- Full-service day spa for relaxation and wellness
- State-of-the-art fitness center with modern equipment
- Poolside restaurant and bar for dining and socializing
- Pickle ball and tennis courts for active recreation
- Resort-style pool as the community centerpiece
Home Options and Pricing
Taylor Morrison delivers quality construction with home options designed for various lifestyles:
- Paired villas starting in the $400,000s
- Single-family homes ranging up to well over $1.5 million
- Golf course view homes with pools commanding premium prices
- Maintenance-free living included in all home types
The community appeals to buyers who want resort-style living with the option to participate in golf or simply enjoy the luxury amenities without the golf commitment.
Lakewood Ranch: Lakewood National
Championship Golf Meets Resort Living
Lakewood National represents the gold standard of bundled golf communities in the area. This community is good enough for the PGA, as evidenced by the annual Korn Ferry Tour events held on its championship courses.
The 36-hole golf facility provides variety that serious golfers appreciate – two distinct championship courses at your fingertips whenever you want to play. For golf enthusiasts, having two separate courses means you'll never get bored with your home course experience.
Established Luxury with Lennar Quality
As a Lennar community, Lakewood National offers the established feel that comes with a fully built-out neighborhood. While new construction opportunities are limited, the resale market provides access to this prestigious community.
Key features include:
- 36 holes of championship golf with PGA-level quality
- Resort-style pool complex with poolside service
- Full-service restaurant and bar for dining and entertainment
- Complete fitness center and day spa for wellness
- Bundled golf membership included in all homes
Pricing and Home Styles
The community offers diverse housing options:
- Condos starting in the $300,000s
- Coach-style homes in the $450,000s
- Single-family homes from the $500,000s to over $1 million
- Premium golf course homes with pools and exceptional views
Lakewood Ranch: Calusa Country Club
The New Construction Alternative to Lakewood National
Calusa Country Club serves as the sister community to Lakewood National, offering the same Lennar quality and similar amenities in a new construction environment. If you love everything about Lakewood National but want to build new, Calusa is your answer.
Currently under construction, Calusa will eventually mirror the amenity package that makes Lakewood National so desirable. While the full amenity center is still being developed, buyers can secure their place in this exclusive community now.
What to Expect at Calusa
The community will feature the same high-end amenities as its established sister community:
- Lennar construction quality with modern floor plans
- Resort-style amenities matching Lakewood National's offerings
- Similar pricing structure to Lakewood National
- New construction opportunities not available elsewhere
Important consideration: Unlike Lakewood National's 36-hole facility, Calusa will have a more modest golf offering, but still maintains the same luxury community standards.
Lakewood Ranch: Wild Blue
Luxury Without Gates in the Waterside District
Wild Blue represents a different approach to luxury living. Located in Sarasota County's Waterside District, this community delivers Lake Club-level luxury in a non-gated setting due to district regulations.
The community attracts discerning buyers who appreciate luxury but don't require gated access. The unique selling proposition is the combination of luxury amenities with superior geographical location – you're closer to downtown Sarasota and the beaches than any other community on this list.
Premium Location and Lifestyle
Wild Blue's location provides unmatched convenience:
- 25 minutes to downtown Sarasota
- 30 minutes to Gulf Coast beaches
- Walking distance to Waterside Place shopping and dining
- Close proximity to Lakewood Ranch Main Street and University Town Center
Luxury Builders and Pricing
The community features a carefully curated selection of builders:
- Stock Construction for more accessible luxury (around $2 million)
- Custom builders for mid-range luxury options
- Lee Wetherington for ultra-luxury custom homes
Home prices range:
- Entry-level luxury homes starting around $1.5 million
- Premium homes reaching well over $3 million
- All homes are single-family residences with luxury finishes
Resort Amenities Without Golf
Wild Blue focuses on non-golf luxury amenities:
- Full-service restaurant and bar
- Resort-style pool complex
- Sports courts for various activities
- Luxury clubhouse for events and gatherings
Nokomis: Talon Preserve
Beach Proximity Meets Resort Living
Talon Preserve offers something rare in new construction communities – proximity to the beach at just 5 miles. Located in Nokomis on the south side of Palmer Ranch, this gated community provides resort-style amenities with exceptional beach access.
The community appeals to buyers who want luxury amenities but prioritize beach lifestyle over golf. The central location provides easy access to both downtown Venice and downtown Sarasota, making it ideal for those who want to enjoy multiple areas.
Complete Resort Amenities Package
Talon Preserve delivers a comprehensive amenity experience:
- Poolside restaurant and bar for dining and socializing
- State-of-the-art fitness center for wellness
- Arcade room for family entertainment
- Pickle ball and tennis courts for active recreation
- Gated security for peace of mind
Home Options for Every Lifestyle
The community offers diverse housing to meet various needs:
- Paired villas starting in the $400,000s for low-maintenance living
- Single-family homes up to well over $1 million
- Preserve lots with natural views and privacy
- Water lots for premium positioning
- Large homes up to over 3,000 square feet
Venice: Sarasota National
The Original Lennar Golf Community
Sarasota National holds the distinction of being the first version of what would become the Lennar golf community model, predating both Lakewood National and Calusa. Located in South Sarasota County with a Venice postal address, this community offers flexibility in golf participation.
What makes Sarasota National unique is the choice between bundled golf and non-bundled golf sections. Like Esplanade at Azario, you can choose to participate in golf or simply enjoy the resort amenities without the golf commitment.
Established Community with WCI Heritage
Originally developed by WCI Homes, Sarasota National features the quality construction and thoughtful planning that made WCI famous. Lennar later acquired and enhanced the community while maintaining its high standards.
The community provides:
- Bundled golf section for golf enthusiasts
- Non-bundled section for amenity-focused residents
- Spectacular clubhouse built by the original WCI development
- South of Venice Island location for beach proximity
Wellen Park: Wellen Park Golf and Country Club
New Construction in the Hot Pocket of Development
Wellen Park Golf and Country Club sits in the most active development area of Wellen Park, where the majority of new construction is currently taking place. As another Lennar product, it offers the new construction version of the established golf community model.
This community appeals to buyers who like everything about Lakewood National and Sarasota National but want the opportunity to build new in a developing area with room for growth.
Lennar Quality in a Growing Community
The community features Lennar's proven formula:
- Resort-style amenities matching other Lennar communities
- New construction opportunities not available in established communities
- Similar pricing structure to other Lennar developments
- Room for community growth and additional amenities
Home pricing follows Lennar standards:
- Condos and villas starting in the $300,000s
- Single-family homes ranging up to $1 million
- Consistent quality across all Lennar communities
North Port: Beachwalk
The Ultimate Beach-Proximity Community
Beachwalk serves as the sister community to Talon Preserve, offering the same resort-style amenities in an even more secluded, beach-focused setting. The unique selling proposition is remarkable beach proximity – the community is actually closer to beach access than to a grocery store.
Located in a more removed setting, Beachwalk appeals to buyers who want to escape the hustle and bustle while maintaining luxury amenities. You're literally a bike ride away from beach access in Englewood, making this a beach lover's paradise.
Resort Living Without Golf
Like Talon Preserve, Beachwalk focuses on resort amenities rather than golf:
- Complete resort-style amenity package
- Beautiful community design matching Talon Preserve quality
- Gated security for privacy and safety
- Beach-focused lifestyle with easy access
Similar Pricing to Talon Preserve
Home options mirror the Talon Preserve model:
- Villas starting in the $300,000s
- Single-family homes up to over $1 million
- Various lot types including preserve and water lots
Bonus: 55+ Resort Communities
Del Webb: The Established Leader
Del Webb in Lakewood Ranch represents the established 55+ resort community model. With a proven track record and comprehensive amenities, it offers:
- Restaurant and bar for dining and socializing
- Resort-style amenities designed for active adults
- Various home types at different price points
- Established community with mature landscaping
Del Webb Catalina: The New Alternative
The recently launched Del Webb Catalina provides a new construction option for 55+ buyers who want the Del Webb lifestyle in a fresh setting. This community offers the same amenities and quality in a newer development.
Cresswind: Premium 55+ Living
Cresswind in Lakewood Ranch caters to buyers seeking premium 55+ living:
- Single-family homes only starting at $500,000+
- Higher-end positioning compared to Del Webb options
- Luxury resort amenities designed for discerning buyers
Brightmore: Wellen Park's 55+ Option
Brightmore serves as Wellen Park's only 55+ community, offering:
- Villas and single-family homes
- Resort-style amenities in a growing area
- Access to broader Wellen Park amenities and services
Why Choose Resort-Style Community Living?
Maintenance-Free Lifestyle
Resort-style communities eliminate the burden of home maintenance. Your HOA fees cover exterior maintenance, landscaping, and community upkeep, allowing you to focus on enjoying your retirement or active lifestyle rather than weekend chores.
Built-in Social Opportunities
These communities foster natural social connections through:
- Clubhouse events and activities
- Poolside dining and entertainment
- Sports leagues and tournaments
- Fitness classes and wellness programs
Premium Amenities at Your Fingertips
Rather than paying for club memberships elsewhere, everything you need is within your community:
- Restaurant-quality dining without leaving home
- Resort-style pools for daily relaxation
- Fitness facilities rivaling premium gyms
- Golf courses maintained to country club standards
Investment in Lifestyle and Property Value
Resort-style communities typically maintain strong property values due to:
- Comprehensive amenity packages that attract buyers
- Professional management maintaining community standards
- Desirable locations in growing areas
- Quality construction by reputable builders
Making Your Choice: Key Considerations
Golf vs. Non-Golf Communities
For golf enthusiasts: Lakewood National, Calusa Country Club, Sarasota National, and Wellen Park Golf and Country Club offer championship-level golf with resort amenities.
For non-golfers: Wild Blue, Talon Preserve, and Beachwalk provide all the luxury amenities without golf membership requirements or costs.
For flexibility: Esplanade at Azario and Sarasota National offer both bundled and non-bundled golf options within the same community.
New Construction vs. Established Communities
New construction advantages:
- Modern floor plans and energy efficiency
- Ability to customize finishes and features
- Warranty protection on home systems
- Latest building codes and technology
Established community advantages:
- Mature landscaping and developed amenities
- Proven community management
- Immediate availability and move-in
- Sometimes better value in resale market
Location Priorities
Beach proximity: Talon Preserve and Beachwalk offer the closest beach access at approximately 5 miles.
Urban convenience: Wild Blue provides the best access to downtown Sarasota and cultural amenities.
Golf community maturity: Lakewood National and Sarasota National offer established golf communities with proven track records.
Growth potential: Communities in Wellen Park offer the excitement of a developing area with room for expansion.
Understanding the Investment
HOA Fees and What They Cover
Resort-style communities typically have higher HOA fees than traditional neighborhoods, but they cover extensive services:
- Exterior home maintenance including painting and roof care
- Professional landscaping for both common areas and individual lots
- Amenity operations including restaurants, fitness centers, and pools
- Security services for gated communities
- Golf course maintenance in bundled golf communities
Bundled Golf Considerations
Bundled golf communities include golf membership in your home purchase and ongoing HOA fees. This provides unlimited golf access but means you're paying for golf whether you use it frequently or not. Non-bundled options allow you to pay only for the amenities you actually use.
Resale Value Factors
Resort-style communities typically maintain strong resale values due to:
- Consistent demand from active adults and retirees
- Professional community management maintaining standards
- Comprehensive amenity packages that attract buyers
- Quality construction by reputable builders
- Desirable locations in growing markets
Conclusion
Florida's Gulf Coast offers an exceptional collection of resort-style communities that truly allow you to live like you're on vacation every day. From the established luxury of Lakewood National to the beach-focused lifestyle of Beachwalk, each community provides a unique blend of amenities, location advantages, and lifestyle opportunities.
Whether you prioritize championship golf, beach proximity, urban convenience, or simply want comprehensive resort amenities without the golf commitment, there's a community perfectly suited to your vision of the ideal Florida lifestyle. The key is understanding what matters most to you – golf or no golf, new construction or established community, gated security or open access, and proximity to beaches versus urban amenities.
The bottom line: These communities represent more than just places to live – they're lifestyle investments that provide the vacation experience you've always dreamed of, right in your own backyard. With professional maintenance, world-class amenities, and built-in social opportunities, they offer the perfect blend of luxury, convenience, and community that makes Florida's Gulf Coast such a desirable place to call home.
Ready to Explore Resort-Style Living on Florida's Gulf Coast?
If you're considering relocating to any of these exceptional resort-style 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.
