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:
WaterSong at RiverTown
St Johns,
WaterSong at RiverTown is now open! As a Florida 55+ Active Adult Community, now is the time to enjoy a carefree active lifestyle centered on fun and enjoying life. Located along the banks of the St. Johns River, WaterSong features magnificent resort-style amenities. Find your dream home today!Read More...
FL
Palmer Ranch — Sarasota Lifestyle Communities
Lakewood Ranch, Florida
Endless recreational activities, country club living, tree-lined streets and the nation's top-ranked beach, Siesta Key, makes Palmer Ranch a popular and enriching retirement destination rivaling any area one is considering a move to.Read More...
FL
Villages of Citrus Hills - Florida Gated Communities
Hernando, Florida
Terra Vista is among Florida's most amenity rich country club lifestyles set in unique surroundings characterized by rolling hills and towering oaks.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
Latitude Margaritaville Daytona Beach
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
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
Wycliffe Golf & Country Club - Florida Golf Community
Wellington, Florida
In the heart of Palm Beach County, Wycliffe Golf & Country Club members enjoy a newly renovated 100,000 sq.ft. Clubhouse with casual and fine dining, two beautiful Championship golf courses, 15 Har-Tru tennis courts, 4 pickleball courts, fitness center & spa and an exhilarating social lifestyle. Most importantly, Wycliffe offers a warm, friendly embrace to new residents. We want everyone to feel like family. Even visitors! Come see if the Wycliffe lifestyle is right for you.Read More...
FL
Shell Point Retirement Community
Fort Myers, Florida
Shell Point® is an award-winning lifecare retirement resort located along the Caloosahatchee River in Fort Myers, Florida just minutes from Sanibel Island and the Gulf of Mexico. When you retire at Shell Point, you have the comfort of knowing that your needs will be taken care of - both now and in the years to come.Read More...
FL
Wellen Park
Venice, Florida
Wellen Park is a vibrant new gated community in Venice, Florida that offers new homes and resort-style amenities. Located in the fast-growing, master-planned community of Wellen Park, 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