Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch offer an unparalleled blend of coastal charm and luxury living on Florida’s Gulf Coast. The moniker “Cultural Coast” aptly describes Sarasota due to its rich artistic scene which features a symphony, opera, ballet, and over 30 art galleries and theaters. Such cultural diversity and density rival much larger metropolitan areas.
The region’s allure extends beyond its vibrant arts scene to its exclusive neighborhoods, which stand as true jewels in Florida’s real estate market. From Sarasota’s waterfront estates to Lakewood Ranch’s meticulously planned communities, where residents enjoy a self-contained lifestyle with upscale amenities. Lakewood Ranch, spanning both Manatee and Sarasota counties, offers a harmonious blend of luxury and convenience.
These communities epitomize sophisticated living while embracing the area’s exquisite natural beauty. Whether overlooking the Gulf Coast or nestled among lush tropical landscapes, each neighborhood offers a unique expression of Florida’s prestigious coastal lifestyle.
This guide explores the distinctive features of Sarasota and Manatee's most coveted residential enclaves, showcasing the pinnacle of elegance and exclusivity in Southwest Florida’s real estate market.
Residents love various aspects of these exclusive neighborhoods:
Harbor Acres
Harbor Acres beckons boating enthusiasts. “West of The Trail” in central Sarasota, this neighborhood features an eclectic mix of traditional “old Florida” homes and newer modern luxury estates attracting affluent buyers with its prime location and high property values. This prestigious community stretches along the bay and adds distinctive appeal. Many homes offer water frontage with stunning views of Sarasota Bay and the city skyline. Homes boast high-end amenities like private docks, swimming pools, and lush landscaping. Strategically situated on the mainland, eliminating the need for bridges to Sarasota Bay preserves the exclusivity and luxurious appeal for those seeking a tranquil, yet connected, lifestyle. This ambiance, combined with its close proximity to amenities like downtown Sarasota and Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, offers residents easy access to cultural venues, shopping, and dining options. Harbor Acres stands as one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in Sarasota by families, professionals, and executives.
- Prime location
- Elegant waterfront views and abundant boating access
- Friendly, neighborly atmosphere
- Prestigious reputation
- Diverse architectural styles, from historic to modern luxury estates
16528 Berwick Ter., Bradenton, FL 34202
Country Club East and Country club of Lakewood Ranch
The contribution of homes constructed by several award-winning builders sets this distinctive addition to Lakewood Ranch apart. This “green community” emphasis on wellness and sustainability adds significant appeal and acknowledges the lush natural treasure of this neighborhood. Residents enjoy access to golf courses, parks trails, and a vibrant city center with shops, restaurants, and entertainment.
The communities offer an exclusive lifestyle epitomized by members-only experiences, as well as world-class amenities and services. The range of high-end residences include smaller single-family homes to large luxury estates – many with private pools and lush scenic views – and offer residents an appealing sense of privacy. Situated within the award-winning Lakewood Ranch master-planned community, Country Club promotes an engaging social atmosphere with various activities, events, and recreational opportunities. As part of the wider Lakewood Ranch community, residents enjoy a luxurious, amenity-rich lifestyle in a prime location.
- Award-winning Lakewood Ranch development
- Gated communities offering privacy
- High-end homes with luxury features
- Luxurious stylish architecture clubhouses with social atmosphere, and dining
- Green community with energy-efficient homes
- Access to Golf Courses - World-class golf facilities with four 18-hole courses
- Extensive recreational amenities, including tennis, pickleball, and fitness centers
- Strong sense of community with various activities and events
Cherokee Park
A unique blend of natural beauty, historical charm, and a prime location makes this a historically desired neighborhood. Nestled between the stunning Sarasota Bay and the vibrant city center, Cherokee Park offers residents both tranquility and accessibility to urban amenities. Known for its lush, tree-lined streets and mature oak trees, residents enjoy life underneath a picturesque canopy unrivaled by newer developments. A diverse selection of architectural styles – including Old-Florida mansions, traditional homes and modernist designs – contribute to the neighborhood’s charm and exclusivity. The area’s prime location allows residents to enjoy easy access to Siesta Key Beach, downtown Sarasota’s cultural attractions, and local chic shopping districts like Southside Village. The proximity to highly-rated schools like Southside Elementary school further enhances this neighborhoods attractiveness. The stunning homes, unmatched landscape, convenient location, and desirable schools combine to make Cherokee Park a rare gem.
- Lush, tree-line streets with mature oak trees
- Diverse architectural styles, including modern and historic homes
- Premier location
- No HOA fees
- Proximity to highly-rated schools
St. Regis
The residences at the St. Regis Longboat Key Resort provide an idyllic blend of sophisticated design and an exclusive resort lifestyle. Luxury living and personalized service make St. Regis a premier destination. Nestled on an 18-acre beachfront property, the resort offers breathtaking gulf views with private terrace option available as part of many residences. Beautiful craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail, combined with renowned service elevate the lifestyle of residents. The holistic spa provides a range of treatments and amenities like vitality pools and an infinite-edge tub overlooking the ocean. Top-notch dining including seven chef-driven options, indulge every appetite and cater to every mood. With everything from a picturesque sunset lounge to customized spa experiences, this genuine coastal retreat enchants and provides a private oasis for relaxation and adventure.
- Luxurious 18-acre beachfront location with Gulf of Mexico views
- World-class amenities, including a 20,000-square-foot spa
- Top dining options and chef-driven restaurants
- Exclusive experiences like the St. Regis Butler Service
- Sophisticated design and exclusive resort lifestyle
Lido Shores
The historically unique architectural style that reflects the vision of designers like Ralph Twitchell and Paul Rudoph elevates this neighborhood. The imprint of the original Sarasota School of Architecture continues to stand with both mid-century modern homes and newer luxury estates, often featuring expansive layouts and high-end finishes. Beyond prime waterfront locations, residents value easy access to a vibrant shopping and dining district around St. Armands Circle, as well as nearby attractions. With frontage on Pansy Bayou, Sarasota Bay, and New Pass, waterfront properties provide direct access to deepwater boating on the gulf. A limited supply of properties contributes to the exclusivity and desirability of Lido Shores among affluent buyers.
- Luxury waterfront properties with beach access
- Mix of mid-century modern and luxury contemporary designers’ homes
- Exclusivity, natural beauty, and water views
- Coastal lifestyle
- Limited supply of properties
Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch feature truly opulent luxury properties with a dazzling array of options for all preferences. With an awareness of their preferred features and price range, I have assisted numerous clients in successfully purchasing some of the area’s most sought-after luxury properties in this area. If you are interested in some of the neighborhoods mentioned above or any other in the luxury real estate market, please feel free to email me at [email protected] or call me at 941.266.0529 with any questions.
Considering moving to Sarasota or Lakewood Ranch? Browse current listing on my website today to learn more about the neighborhoods and their amenities, as well as types of homes and properties in the area.
