When it comes to retiring in style, few places compare to Florida. The Sunshine State has been a top retirement destination for decades, and it’s easy to see why: year-round warm weather, endless recreational activities, no state income tax, and—of course—miles of sandy beaches. But if you’re specifically looking for the best place to retire in Florida near the beach, you’ll want to dig deeper than just “anywhere near the ocean.”
Each coastal city has its own unique flavor, lifestyle, and cost of living. Some are buzzing with nightlife and culture, while others are serene, low-key havens for relaxation. Whether your dream retirement looks like morning walks along the shoreline, afternoons fishing off the pier, or enjoying luxury amenities in a resort-style 55+ community, Florida has a destination for you.
Here’s a guide to the best places to retire on the water in Florida:
1. Sarasota – A Blend of Culture and Coastline
Why It’s a Top Place to Retire Near the Beach
Sarasota often tops lists of the best places to live and retire in Florida, thanks to its combination of natural beauty and cultural sophistication. Located on the Gulf Coast, Sarasota boasts award-winning beaches like Siesta Key, famous for its powdery white quartz sand, as well as Lido Key and Longboat Key, which are favorites for both sunbathing and water sports.
Lifestyle
Retirees can enjoy boating on Sarasota Bay or deep-sea fishing excursions in the Gulf. Also, golf enthusiasts have access to dozens of courses, including the prestigious TPC Prestancia and University Park Country Club.
Beyond outdoor recreation, Sarasota is equally known for its vibrant cultural life, with institutions such as the Ringling Museum of Art, the Sarasota Opera, and the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall attracting world-class performances and exhibitions. The city also supports a thriving local art scene, featuring dozens of galleries, community theaters, and annual events such as the Sarasota Film Festival, which draws cinephiles from across the country. Together, these features create an atmosphere where residents can enjoy both laid-back coastal living and the kind of cultural amenities usually found in much larger cities.
Housing & Budget
Sarasota offers a wide range, from luxury beachfront condos to affordable 55+ communities. While home prices are higher than in smaller Gulf Coast towns, there are plenty of options for varying budgets. The current median list price of a home in a 55+ community in the Tampa Bay Area is $320,000, according to 55places.com data.
Active Adult Communities in Sarasota, FL
- Cascades at Sarasota
- Esplanade at Skye Ranch
- Esplanade on Palmer Ranch
- Forest Lakes Village
- Glen Oaks Ridge
- Hammock Preserve on Palmer Ranch
- Hammocks at Bent Tree
- Lake Tippecanoe
- Lakeridge Falls
- Lakeshore Village
- Oakhurst
- Palm Aire
- Plaza de Flores on Palmer Ranch
- Rolling Green Golf Village
- Sandhill Preserve on Palmer Ranch
- Siesta Harbor
- Strathmore Riverside Villas
- Swifton Villas
- Tallywood
- The Isles on Palmer Ranch
- The Landings
- Village Green
- Village in the Pines
- Village Plaza
- VillageWalk of Sarasota
- Westwoods at Sunrise Country Club
- Whispering Sands
- Woodside Terrace
- Woodside Village East
- Woodside Village West
2. Naples – Luxury Coastal Living
Why It’s a Top Place to Retire Near the Beach
If you’re envisioning a resort-style retirement with high-end shopping, gourmet dining, and pristine beaches, Naples might be the perfect fit. This Gulf Coast gem is synonymous with luxury, offering upscale shopping districts like Fifth Avenue South and Third Street South, as well as world-class restaurants serving a diverse range of cuisine. Its white-sand beaches, including Naples Pier Beach and Clam Pass Park, are regularly ranked among the best in Florida, perfect for swimming, shelling, or simply soaking in the Gulf sunsets.
Lifestyle
Naples is paradise for active retirees who love golf, boating, and fine dining. The area is home to more than 90 golf courses, including prestigious clubs like Tiburón Golf Club and Grey Oaks Country Club. Boaters can take advantage of easy access to the Gulf Coast through Naples Bay and Port Royal’s luxury marinas.
When it comes to dining, options range from waterfront establishments like The Turtle Club to fine dining favorites such as Sea Salt. Many 55+ and luxury communities offer top-tier amenities like resort-style pools with cabanas, tennis and pickleball courts, state-of-the-art fitness centers, and clubhouses hosting wine tastings, cooking classes, and social events.
Housing & Budget
Naples is one of the pricier cities in Florida. However, for those seeking a luxury retirement lifestyle, the investment comes with high-quality living and unmatched coastal beauty. The current median list price of a home in a 55+ community in the Fort Myers–Naples Area is $539,900, according to 55places.com data.
Active Adult Communities in Naples, FL
- Esplanade at Hacienda Lakes
- Esplanade by the Islands
- Fiddlers Creek
- Heritage Bay
- Island Walk
- Lely Resort
- Moorings
- Pelican Bay
- Riviera Golf Estates
- The Isles of Collier Preserve
- Treviso Bay
- Valencia Trails
- VeronaWalk
- Vineyards
3. St. Augustine – Historic Charm on the Atlantic
Why It’s a Top Place to Retire Near the Beach
As the nation’s oldest city, St. Augustine offers more than just beaches. It’s a city steeped in history, where cobblestone streets wind past Spanish colonial architecture, centuries-old churches, and landmarks like the Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States. And yet, just minutes away, you’ll find miles of beautiful Atlantic shoreline at spots like St. Augustine Beach and Anastasia State Park.
Lifestyle
Retirees here enjoy a slower pace mixed with cultural experiences, such as guided walking tours through the Historic District, live reenactments at colonial sites, or browsing the Lightner Museum. Visitors and residents alike stroll along St. George Street, lined with unique boutiques, galleries, and restaurants that showcase the city’s Old World charm.
Cozy cafes and local favorites like The Floridian or Kookaburra Coffee provide welcoming spaces to gather with friends. The city also hosts annual events such as the Nights of Lights festival, when the entire downtown glows with millions of twinkling lights. For those who love history paired with ocean breezes, this is a winning combination that blends small-town charm with endless opportunities to learn, explore, and relax.
Housing & Budget
St. Augustine offers a wide range of options, with affordable 55+ communities as well as charming homes near the water. It’s generally more budget-friendly than South Florida. The current median list price of a home in a 55+ community in the Jacksonville Area is $539,900, according to 55places.com data.
Active Adult Communities in St. Augustine, FL
- Bridge Bay at Bannon Lakes
- Cascades at World Golf Village
- Freedom at San Salito
- Parkland Preserve
- Reverie at Silverleaf
- Reverie at TrailMark
- Summer Bay at Grand Oaks
- The Residences at World Golf Village
- Villages of Seloy
4. Clearwater – White Sands and City Convenience
Why It’s a Top Place to Retire Near the Beach
Clearwater is famous for its powdery white-sand beaches and lively Pier 60 boardwalk, where nightly sunset celebrations feature local artisans, street performers, and live music. Clearwater Beach consistently ranks among the nation’s top beaches, offering miles of pristine shoreline, gentle waves, and stunning Gulf sunsets.
Lifestyle
Clearwater is perfect for active retirees who enjoy kayaking through the mangroves at Caladesi Island State Park, paddleboarding in the calm waters of Clearwater Harbor, or strolling along the scenic Beach Walk promenade. The city offers retirees the best of both worlds: a laid-back beach lifestyle combined with easy access to Tampa Bay’s cultural and medical facilities, including world-class care at Morton Plant Hospital, as well as proximity to performing arts venues like the Straz Center in Tampa.
Community spirit thrives at events like the Clearwater Jazz Holiday and the Sugar Sand Festival, which showcases elaborate sand sculptures right on the beach. Dining options range from casual seafood spots like Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill to waterfront fine dining at Island Way Grill. Shopping and entertainment can be found at nearby venues such as Countryside Mall or the Cleveland Street District downtown. With its blend of outdoor adventure, lively community events, and coastal charm, Clearwater provides an ideal setting for retirees seeking both relaxation and engagement.
Housing & Budget
Clearwater has a mix of luxury waterfront condos and more affordable 55+ communities, making it accessible to a wide range of retirees. The current median list price of a home in a 55+ community in the Central Gulf Coast Area of Florida is $399,000, according to 55places.com data.
Active Adult Communities in Clearwater, FL
- Harbor Oaks Place
- Imperial Cove
- Imperial Pines Condominiums
- On Top of the World – Clearwater
- Village on the Green
- Villas of Lake Arbor
5. Venice – Affordable Gulf Coast Living
Why It’s a Top Place to Retire Near the Beach
Venice may not be as well-known as Sarasota or Naples, but it’s beloved for its charming historic downtown, where tree-lined streets are filled with boutiques, art galleries, and cafes. The city is also famous as the “Shark Tooth Capital of the World,” drawing collectors to Caspersen Beach, where prehistoric shark teeth wash ashore daily.
Lifestyle
Retirees appreciate that Venice offers a quieter, more relaxed alternative to its busier Gulf Coast neighbors while still delivering beautiful stretches of sand at Venice Beach and Nokomis Beach. Venice also offers golf at courses like the Venice Golf and Country Club or Capri Isles Golf Club, and fishing opportunities at the Venice Fishing Pier. Cyclists can explore the Legacy Trail, a scenic path stretching all the way to Sarasota, while nature lovers can birdwatch or hike at Oscar Scherer State Park.
Community events add to the appeal, with the annual Shark’s Tooth Festival, farmers markets, and concerts at the Venice Theatre—the second-largest community theater in the U.S. For retirees who dream of days spent beachcombing, biking, and enjoying a welcoming downtown, Venice is a coastal gem that blends relaxation with a strong sense of community.
Housing & Budget
Venice is more affordable than Naples or Sarasota, with a good selection of 55+ communities that still provide resort-style amenities. Many of these neighborhoods feature pools, fitness centers, and social clubs, giving retirees a luxury lifestyle without the higher price tag.
Active Adult Communities in Venice, FL
- Beach Manor Villas
- Brightmore at Wellen Park
- Caribbean Villas
- Lakes of Capri
- Plantation Golf & Country Club
- Venetian Falls
- Venice Woodlands
6. Fort Myers Beach – Laid-Back Island Vibes
Why It’s a Top Place to Retire Near the Beach
Fort Myers Beach is a barrier island community known for its relaxed atmosphere and wide sandy shoreline, stretching for seven miles along Estero Island. Unlike some of Florida’s busier coastal cities, Fort Myers Beach offers a more laid-back vibe, making it especially appealing to retirees who want to slow down while still staying connected to the water.
Lifestyle
Life on the island revolves around boating through the back bay, casting a line from the Fort Myers Beach Pier, or taking a kayak through the mangroves of nearby Matanzas Pass Preserve. Popular spots like Lynn Hall Memorial Park and Lovers Key State Park provide both bustling beach activity and quiet natural escapes. The island is also home to a colorful Times Square area, with open-air restaurants, live music, and local shops that give the community a charming, small-town feel.
Casual beachfront dining is a highlight, with favorites like Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille and The Salty Crab Bar & Grill serving fresh seafood with sunset views. The community also hosts annual events such as the Fort Myers Beach Shrimp Festival and Sand Sculpting Championship, bringing neighbors together in true island style. For retirees who crave a simpler, slower lifestyle centered around the sea, Fort Myers Beach offers the perfect mix of coastal charm and community spirit.
Housing & Budget
Fort Myers Beach offers condos, waterfront homes, and nearby 55+ communities at various price points. It’s generally more affordable than Naples but still provides access to the Gulf’s stunning waters. As previously mentioned, the current median list price of a home in a 55+ community in the Fort Myers–Naples Area is $539,900, according to 55places.com data.
7. Vero Beach – A Hidden Atlantic Gem
Why It’s a Top Place to Retire Near the Beach
Vero Beach offers unspoiled Atlantic beaches, a slower pace of life, and a strong sense of community. Unlike Florida’s larger coastal cities, it retains a small-town feel while still offering all the essentials for comfortable living. South Beach Park and Humiston Beach Park provide wide stretches of sand with fewer crowds, perfect for long walks, shelling, or simply enjoying the ocean breeze.
Lifestyle
The city is also known for its strong community involvement, with seasonal farmers markets, art shows, and neighborhood gatherings that make it easy for retirees to connect. Vero Beach blends coastal living with culture, offering the renowned Vero Beach Museum of Art, which features traveling exhibitions and a sculpture garden, and the lush McKee Botanical Garden, a historic tropical oasis with winding trails and water features.
Quiet beachside cafes like The Lemon Tree and waterfront dining at Riverside Cafe give locals a chance to unwind with ocean or river views. For active retirees, there are opportunities for kayaking along the Indian River Lagoon, golfing at courses such as Sandridge Golf Club, or enjoying performances at the Riverside Theatre, which brings Broadway-quality shows to town. It’s a great fit for those who want both relaxation and enrichment in a charming seaside setting.
Housing & Budget
The city is more affordable than South Florida hot spots like Miami or Fort Lauderdale, with 55+ communities and condos that make coastal living attainable. The current median list price of a home in a 55+ community in the Central Atlantic Coast Area of Florida is $390,000, according to 55places.com data.
Active Adult Communities in Vero Beach, FL
- Grand Harbor
- Harmony Reserve
- Isles at Waterway Village
- Lakes at Waterway Village
- The Willows
- Vista del Mar
- Vista Gardens
- Vista Plantation
- Woodfield
8. Destin – Emerald Coast Beauty
Why It’s a Top Place to Retire Near the Beach
Located in Florida’s Panhandle, Destin is famous for its emerald-green waters and sugar-white sand beaches. Nicknamed “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” the area is celebrated for both its natural beauty and its deep-rooted fishing heritage. While it does see an influx of tourists in summer, many retirees are drawn to its year-round mild climate, scenic shoreline, and abundance of recreational opportunities.
Lifestyle
Fishing, boating, and golf are at the heart of life in Destin. Anglers can join deep-sea fishing charters from the Destin Harbor, while boaters enjoy easy access to Choctawhatchee Bay and the Gulf Coast. Popular spots include Henderson Beach State Park, with its nature trails and protected dunes, and Crab Island, a sandbar gathering place perfect for boating and socializing.
Golf enthusiasts have plenty of options, from the award-winning Kelly Plantation Golf Club to Emerald Bay Golf Club, both offering stunning water views. HarborWalk Village adds to the appeal with waterfront shops, restaurants, live music, and annual events like the Destin Seafood Festival and Fishing Rodeo. For retirees, Destin offers not only an active lifestyle but also a welcoming atmosphere that makes it easy to forge new friendships and feel at home.
Housing & Budget
Destin’s housing costs vary, with luxury waterfront homes and more affordable inland options. There are also active adult communities nearby that provide resort-style living. The current median list price of a home in a 55+ community in the Florida Panhandle is $559,900, according to 55places.com data.
How To Choose Among the Best Places to Retire in Florida Near Beach
When deciding where to retire, consider the following:
- Lifestyle Fit – Do you want vibrant nightlife and culture (like Sarasota or Clearwater) or quiet, small-town living (like Venice or Vero Beach)?
- Budget – Luxury destinations like Naples and Destin can be pricey, but cities like Fort Myers Beach and Venice offer more affordable coastal living.
- Climate Preference – The Gulf Coast tends to be warmer and calmer, while the Atlantic offers breezier shores and slightly cooler winters.
- Community Options – Many beachside cities in Florida have 55+ communities designed for active adults, often with amenities like golf, pools, and fitness centers.
Florida’s coastline is dotted with incredible destinations that make retiring by the water more than just a dream. From the luxurious lifestyle of Naples to the laid-back charm of Fort Myers Beach or the cultural richness of Sarasota, there’s a destination for every type of active retiree.
55places.com Can Help You Retire in Florida Near the Beach
No matter where you choose, retiring near the beach in Florida means waking up to sunshine, enjoying outdoor living year-round, and embracing a lifestyle that feels like a permanent vacation. Ready to find your perfect coastal home? Connect with a local real estate agent through 55places.com, and let us help you explore the communities that fit your lifestyle and budget.
Retiring in Florida Near the Beach: FAQ
1. What are the best beach towns in Florida for retirees?
Popular picks include Sarasota, Naples, Venice, Clearwater, St. Augustine, Vero Beach, Destin, and Fort Myers Beach—each with a distinct vibe and price point.
2. Are there 55+ communities close to the beach?
Yes—many beach metros (e.g., Sarasota, Naples, Clearwater, Vero Beach) have numerous 55+ options offering resort-style amenities within a short drive to the shoreline.
3. Is Florida’s tax climate good for retirees?
Yes. There’s no state income tax, and Social Security/retirement income isn’t taxed at the state level. Property taxes and local sales surtaxes vary by county.
4. How expensive is homeowners insurance near the coast?
Expect higher premiums than for inland coverage, especially for windstorm coverage. Many owners also purchase separate flood insurance (not included in standard homeowners policies).
5. Do I need flood insurance if I’m near the beach but not oceanfront?
If your home is in a FEMA flood zone or you want extra protection, it’s wise. Lenders typically require it in high-risk zones; many retirees buy it for peace of mind.
6. How risky are hurricanes in Florida beach areas?
Coastal regions face seasonal storm risk (June to Nov). Look for newer construction, impact windows/doors, elevated homes, and robust community preparedness plans.
7. What are typical HOA/condo fees near the beach?
They vary from a few hundred to over $1,000/month, depending on amenities (pools, fitness, security, beach clubs) and building age. Review reserves, insurance, and special-assessment history.
8. Are Florida beaches public or private?
Most sandy shorelines have public access points, but some communities maintain private beach clubs or deeded access. Verify access, parking, and walkability before you buy.
9. What about crowds, traffic, and tourism?
High season (typically winter and spring) brings more visitors, higher restaurant waits, and busier roads, especially in iconic beach areas. Off-season tends to be quieter and more affordable.
10. Can I rent out my beach-area home when traveling?
Many 55+ and condo communities restrict rentals (minimum terms, wait periods). If rental income matters, confirm rules, permitting, and local ordinances before purchasing.
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