Boating, fishing, swimming, and other water sports are popular pastimes for many active adults. While these activities are frequently found in coastal areas, water-loving retirees can enjoy living inland when they choose a community that offers access to a lake!
When 55+ communities list scenic lakes as part of their amenities, they’re generally referring to very small lakes or large ponds that are mainly decorative. Scenic lakes and ponds may be stocked for fishing, but they’re not designed for motorized boats or other water activities.
However, there are also 55+ communities that include or are located beside larger bodies of water where boats are welcome. Access to lakes can vary within these communities; some have their own marinas, boat slips, or boat launches. They may also have fishing piers, lakeside picnic areas, and other special amenities.
If you’re interested in finding a great lakeside active adult community, here are just a few to consider:
Cresswind at Lake Lanier – Gainesville, GA
Mid $300s – High $700s
Cresswind at Lake Lanier was built by The Kolter Group alongside the shores of Lake Lanier. This 37,000-acre recreational lake offers a wide variety of water activities. Within the community, residents will enjoy access to Cresswind Landing, an onsite boathouse with boat slips and day dock options. Kayak rentals are also available.
Del Webb at Lake Oconee – Greensboro, GA
Low $300s – Low $600s
Located 75 miles east of Atlanta, Del Webb at Lake Oconee sits on the shores of one of the largest lakes in Georgia. Lake Oconee is a 19,000-acre lake that offers many water sports and activities. For easy access, the community has its own marina with 38 boat slips and a boat launch. Residents can also enjoy a beautiful lakeside pavilion with a grill and ample seating.
Trilogy at Lake Frederick – Lake Frederick, VA
Mid $400s – Low $800s
Not far from the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains, Trilogy at Lake Frederick offers tranquil living beside Lake Frederick. This 120-acre lake allows for canoeing, kayaking, and electric-powered boating. There are boat docks available throughout the community, and the lake is also stocked for fishing.
Frisco Lakes – Frisco, TX
Mid $300s – High $800s
Set on the shores of Lake Lewisville, Frisco Lakes offers beautiful waterfront homes and proximity to water recreation. Lake Lewisville’s 29,500 acres of navigable water provide ample opportunities for fishing, boating, and other water sports. Just one mile from the community, residents can arrange for boat rentals or boat storage at Hidden Cove Marina.
Royal Harbor – Tavares, FL
Mid $200s – High $800s
Royal Harbor may be located in Central Florida, but it still offers waterfront property and water-based activities on Lake Harris. Some properties within the community have private lake or dock access. A marina with several boat slips is located just across the highway from the community. Lake Harris is a well-known fishing lake that has more recently become a popular spot for water- and jet-skiing.
