A Nature Lover’s Dream: Relocating to Florida’s Nature Coast
Dream Big
What is the first thing that comes to mind when you think about Florida lifestyles?
You’re likely thinking beaches, perfect weather, and spectacular theme parks. While those are all good and valid reasons for spending your retirement in Florida, Florida’s Nature Coast on the Gulf side of the state, offers another side to the Sunshine State. It’s where you’ll find nature’s varied palette, one full of adventure, wildlife, color, and outdoor opportunities.
A Storied History
The rich history of Florida’s Nature Coast is still available for exploration. As can be seen on maps and in guides, Native American shell mounds and other ruins are speckled across state and local parks throughout the region.
Likewise, in nearby towns and cities, you can step back in time, once again, when exploring Antebellum-era homes.
Many of these 18th century mansions have been transformed into museums, and are now full of historical treasures that delight tourists and residents alike.
An Abundance of Trails
Trails carve through the Nature Coast, connecting a plethora of State and National Parks. The Rails to Trails program, intended to repurpose defunct railroad tracks, has expanded the Florida trails system extensively.
Two of the most popular trails in the area are the Nature Coast State Trail and the Withlacoochee State Forest Trail. Visitors can walk, jog, or take in the scenery on horseback. Both are ideal for cyclists as well. Rent a cabin at Fanning State Park (a bargain at $100 a night with two bedrooms and a full kitchen) or camp at nearby Manatee Springs State Park. Cycle along the gorgeous trails for a day or two to see a whole new side of Florida.
If you’re an avid canoe or kayak paddler, you’re in luck. The Suwannee, Waccasassa, or Withlacoochee rivers offer paddlers authenticity and raw beauty one may not have access to otherwise.
Rare Wildlife Species
While you’re traversing the trails of the Nature Coast, be on the lookout for one of 19 rare or endangered species. The number of wildlife sightings might surprise you.
One of the most popular endangered species in the area, overall, is the West Indian Manatee. These graceful sea mammals migrate to the warm waters along the Nature Coast every winter. You can float alongside them through the springs surrounding the Crystal River in early spring. Or, you can view them from dry land at Homosassa Springs State Wildlife Park.
Catch of the Day
The Nature Coast is widely considered the tarpon fishing capital of world. So, naturally, charter boats buzz along the coast daily. And, early morning paddlers with their fishing rigs in tow, are perched in kayaks and canoes along the waterway.
In addition to superior fishing opportunities, stone crabs and scallops are also plentiful along the Gulf. Whether you prefer to dive for scallops yourself, catch stone crab from a boat, or buy both from local vendors, fresh seafood is always in stock.
Plan a trip to the Nature Coast, but, please be warned. You’re quite likely to fall in love.
If you find yourself in this predicament, and you’re interested in exploring housing and community options in the area, head to the Villages of Citrus Hills. They offer the best of both worlds.
Request More Information from:
SweetBay
Panama City, Florida
Alongside more than five miles of bay-front shoreline in northwest Florida lies the perfect coastal community. A place where the best of nature meets the best of neighbors. A place where every square foot of your home, your neighborhood and your favorite gathering spot was overseen with masterful planning and architectural design. At SweetBay, we see things differently.Read More...
FL
Tidewater by Del Webb
Estero, Florida
The 55+ active adult community of Tidewater by Del Webb, perfectly situated in Estero, offers award-winning amenities and extraordinary lifestyle. Experience for yourself the two-story, coastal inspired clubhouse, with elegant community gathering room, state-of-the-art fitness center, group fitness studio, several activity rooms, 2nd floor balcony and catering kitchen. The famous Del Webb active adult lifestyle awaits at Tidewater.Read More...
FL
Minto at TwinEagles
Naples, Florida
Minto is proud to bring over a half-century of achievement to Naples by introducing magnificent single-family and estate home to the premier country club community of TwinEagles. Priced from the low $500s to over $1 million, these masterfully crafted residences are a sensational value. And that value is even more amazing once you discover that a golf membership is included in the price of every new Minto home!Read More...
FL
Encore at FishHawk Ranch by David Weekley Homes
Lithia, Florida
Grab a workout buddy and hit the gym or satisfy your competitive side with a spirited game of bocce or pickle ball. Meet on the great lawn for yoga or lounge by the sparkling pool.Read More...
FL
The Isles of Collier Preserve - Florida Gated Communities
Naples, Florida
Nestled within a pristine natural setting just minutes from downtown Naples and the vibrant 5th Avenue shopping and dining district, Florida's preeminent homebuilder is creating a colorful update of classic coastal living. Inspired by the timeless architecture and traditions of Old Naples, elegant new Minto homes will overlook miles of scenic kayak and biking trails.Read More...
FL
Lakewood Ranch | Best Places to Live in Florida
Lakewood Ranch, Florida
At Lakewood Ranch, it's all about the good life. Health, family, and fun are the focus. And, there's an activity to fit every lifestyle. The community hosts 54 holes of golf, a country club with two clubhouses, and tennis and athletic centers. Additionally, it's home to the Sarasota Polo Club and seven world-class polo fields. Lake Ranch polo tournaments attract players from around the world. Still, the list continues with a 75-acre premier sports campus, A-rated schools, and a hospital and preventative medical clinic.Read More...
FL
LakePark at Tradition - Florida 55+ Communities
Port St. Lucie, Florida
This new age restricted community offers luxury single-family and villa homes in Port St. Lucie, one of the "Top 10 Best Places to Retire" in the U.S. according to Portfolio.com. Capturing the heart of small town America while offering resort-style amenities to create a maintenance-free, vacation inspired lifestyle.Read More...
FL
West Villages Florida
Venice, Florida
West Villages Florida is a vibrant new gated community in West Villages, Florida that offers new homes and resort-style amenities. Located in the fast-growing, master-planned community of West Villages, we offer new homes that will complement this beautiful Sarasota County area. Get ready to enjoy the Southwest Florida lifestyle and great weather all year long. Choose from an array of thoughtfully-designed Paired Villas and Single Family Homes with unique curb appeal. Amenities will include a clubhouse, pool, tennis, pickleball, bocce, full-time Activities Director and events, parks and more. You'll love living just minutes to Downtown Venice, award-winning beaches and I-75. Quick move-in homes are available.Read More...
FL
Amelia National Golf & Country Club - Florida Gated Golf Communities
Fernandina Beach, Florida
Tom Fazio golf and country club affords golfing, tennis, resort-style swimming pool, snack-bar, lounge and fine dining, gym, walking trails and 24-hour manned and gated guardhouse. Three miles from Amelia Island, close to beaches, historic-district and marina.Read More...
FL
Latitude Margaritaville Daytona
Daytona Beach, Florida
You've earned a life where every day feels like an escape. Find your paradise at Latitude Margaritaville, the 55-and-better community where fun and relaxation meet. Located in the heart of world-famous Daytona Beach, Florida - Latitude Margaritaville is a place where life rolls easy, neighbors are friends, and the party never ends. Inspired by the legendary music and lifestyle of singer, songwriter and best-selling author Jimmy Buffett, your new home in paradise features exciting recreation, FINtastic dining and live entertainment.Read More...
FL
Del Webb Nocatee
Ponte Vedra, Florida
Del Webb Nocatee is a 55+ Active Adult Community in Ponte Vedra FL. Experience the epitome of resort-style living while living near pristine beaches and world-class golf. There is always an activity within reach..Read More...
FL
Island in the Sun
Clearwater, Florida
Nestled in Clearwater, Florida, Island in the Sun 55+ Manufactured Home Community offers resort style living all year long. Our location is ideal because its a few minutes drive to breathtaking white sandy beaches, distinguished restaurants, exciting shopping centers and minor league baseball. With amenities designed around the active senior, you can stay fit while building life-long friendships. Take an invigorating swim or join friends for a dip in the spa. Meet up with your neighbors for a game of bocce ball, pickleball, shuffleboard or even a game of pool in our billiards room.Read More...
FL
Plantation Bay Golf and Country Club — Florida Golf Communities
Ormond Beach, Florida
An abundance of sparkling new facilities take this prestigious private community to luxurious new heights, with two clubhouses, a magnificent 7,000-square-foot Spa and Fitness Center, 10 tennis courts and 45 holes of golf to challenge and delight players of all levels. Plantation Bay is the perfect place to get pampered, stay in shape and play, all right in your back yard.Read More...
FL
Cresswind at PGA Village Verano
Port St. Lucie, Florida
Cresswind at PGA Village Verano is a 55+ gated neighborhood within the gates of PGA Village Verano. This new age-restricted neighborhood features four unique floorplans, exclusive to Cresswind at PGA Village Verano. Cresswind neighbors enjoy access to Club Talavera's amenities including a 27,000 sq. ft. Social Center and 13,000 sq. ft. Fitness Center, as well as its own neighborhood pool and pool house. The social clubs and full-time Lifestyle and Activities Director make it easy to try new activities along with meeting your neighbors and lifelong friendsRead More...
FL
Marina Pointe
Tampa, Florida
Designed by master developer BTI Partners, Marina Pointe features luxury condominiums and are located in the heart of South Tampa's premier waterfront community. In addition to being just minutes away from the vibrant downtowns of Tampa and St. Petersburg, Marina Pointe residents can also walk to shops, a waterfront restaurant, and bars and cafes in the Westshore Marina District's retail center.Read More...
FL
