by Robert Borges on June 28, 2021
Few master-planned communities give residents the opportunity to stay active while still enjoying a relaxing and laid-back lifestyle like those situated on the water. Specifically, oceanfront communities come with a wave of incomparable perks all their own—the gentle sea breezes, the sunrises, the sunsets, the fresh seafood, the distinct sounds and smells…and so much more.
But finding the perfect oceanfront retirement community can be challenging. With great expectations (and often lofty budgets) potential homeowners have a well-defined checklist of everything their oceanfront community must have.
To help make sure you check the boxes before deciding, we’ve assembled a list of luxury communities defined by posh, elegance, and year-round beach vibes. Here are five of the most stunning oceanfront communities for active adults.
Brays Island- Sheldon, SC
Located between Charleston and Savannah, this 5,500-acre oceanfront community is set against a striking coastal Lowcountry backdrop. Acclaimed as “America’s Premier Sporting Community,” Brays Island offers a range of quality amenities, including hunting and shooting facilities, over 60 miles of equestrian trails, fresh and saltwater fishing, Har-Tru tennis courts with river views, and an 18-hole golf course designed by Ron Garl.
Grand Harbor- Vero Beach, FL

Grand Harbor is an oceanfront community located in Vero Beach, Florida. It offers a variety of residential options including golf-view condominiums, single family homes, marina front residences, and river front properties. Residents enjoy the resort-like amenities such as two championship golf courses, a private oceanfront beach club, and a marina. The community is known for its beautiful beaches and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean.
Grandview at Bay Beach- Fort Meyers, FL
Welcome to a a luxurious oceanfront community nestled on the southern tip of Fort Myers Beach, Florida. This 11-story gated complex boasts 58 waterfront condominiums offering panoramic views of the Estero Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. Residents can enjoy a resort-style lifestyle with amenities like a pool, spa, fitness center, club room, and even private guest suites. Step outside your condo and onto walking paths or lighted tennis courts, or relax by the fire pits and barbecue area. The best of Fort Myers Beach is at your doorstep, with waterfront shops, restaurants, and marinas within walking distance.
Bay Creek- Cape Charles, VA
Bay Creek is a premier oceanfront community along the Chesapeake Bay, offering breathtaking coastal living with world-class golf and stunning natural beauty. Spanning 1,720 acres, this gated community features miles of shoreline, lush nature preserves, and scenic waterways, creating the perfect backdrop for an active and adventurous lifestyle. Home to Signature golf courses by Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus, Bay Creek blends championship golf with spectacular bayfront views. With a variety of distinct neighborhoods, from elegant single-family homes to charming cottages and waterfront estates, Bay Creek is a true coastal paradise on Virginia’s Cape.
Cumberland Harbour- St. Marys, GA
Nestled in the historic seaside town of St. Marys, Georgia, Cumberland Harbour is a gated oceanfront community set on an 1,100-acre maritime peninsula with direct access to the open ocean. Surrounded by the St. Marys River, North River, and Intracoastal Waterway, this boater’s paradise offers endless opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing through scenic Low Country marshes. Residents enjoy a vibrant coastal lifestyle with top-tier amenities, including an aquatics center, fitness facilities, tennis and pickleball courts, and miles of nature trails. Featuring a Signature Home Collection inspired by Low-Country coastal design, Cumberland Harbour offers deepwater, marshfront, and nature homesites for custom and semi-custom homes in a breathtaking oceanfront setting.
Want to see more oceanfront communities? View the full list on PCR’s website here.