Del Webb Catalina vs. Del Webb Lakewood Ranch: What’s the Difference?

If you’ve been researching 55+ communities in Lakewood Ranch, you’ve likely come across Del Webb Lakewood Ranch—one of the most established and well-loved active adult communities in the area. But now, there’s a new Del Webb community on the block: Del Webb Catalina.

Both are designed for active adults looking for a low-maintenance, resort-style lifestyle, but they have key differences that might make one a better fit for you than the other.

So, what sets them apart? And more importantly—which one should you choose?

Let’s break it down.

🏡 A Quick Overview: Del Webb Catalina vs. Del Webb Lakewood Ranch

At first glance, both communities look similar—the same builder (Pulte Homes), similar home styles, and both are gated, 55+ neighborhoods with resort-style amenities. But the details matter, and there are major differences that could make or break your decision.

del webb lakewood ranch

Here’s a quick snapshot:

Del Webb Lakewood Ranch: The Established Community

✔️ Built by: Pulte Homes
✔️ Number of Homes: ~1,300
✔️ New Construction Available? No—only resale homes
✔️ Price Range: $400K – $1M+
✔️ Amenities: Large, established clubhouse, resort-style pool, Barefoot Bar, tons of social clubs
✔️ Location: More central in Lakewood Ranch, close to Waterside Place & UTC
✔️ Social Scene: Highly active, established community

del webb catalina

Del Webb Catalina: The New Kid on the Block

✔️ Built by: Pulte Homes
✔️ Number of Homes: Estimated ~800
✔️ New Construction Available? Yes—brand-new homes
✔️ Price Range: TBD, but likely similar ($400K – $1M+)
✔️ Amenities: Modern clubhouse, updated facilities, still being developed
✔️ Location: Further east in Lakewood Ranch, quieter and more private
✔️ Social Scene: Still growing—new community feel

Now, let’s break these details down further.

🏗️ Del Webb Catalina Is Brand New—Del Webb Lakewood Ranch Is More Established

One of the biggest differences between these two communities is age—and no, we’re not talking about the residents!

🏡 Del Webb Lakewood Ranch is fully built out, meaning all homes are resale-only. You’ll be moving into a community that’s already well-established, with an active social scene and mature landscaping.

🏗️ Del Webb Catalina is brand new, which means you can still build from scratch. If you want to pick your lot, customize your finishes, and design your perfect home, this is your chance.

So, what’s the better choice?

✅ If you want an established community with a ready-made social scene, choose Del Webb Lakewood Ranch.
✅ If you like new construction and personalization, choose Del Webb Catalina.

🎾 Amenities: New vs. Established

Del Webb Lakewood Ranch: Resort-Style & Ready to Go

Del Webb Lakewood Ranch has one of the most impressive amenity packages of any 55+ community in the area, including:

21,000 sq. ft. clubhouse with a full social calendar
Heated resort-style pool & spa
Barefoot Bar (Yes, an on-site bar and grill—because why not?)
8 Pickleball courts, 6 Tennis courts, 4 Bocce courts
State-of-the-art fitness center & group fitness classes
Scenic walking & biking trails

It’s fully built out, meaning everything is up and running, and you can enjoy it from day one.

del webb catalina

Del Webb Catalina: Modern & Brand-New

Since Del Webb Catalina is still in development, we don’t have a full amenities list yet, but we expect:

A modern, brand-new clubhouse
Resort-style pool & spa
Fitness center
Tennis & pickleball courts
Walking & biking trails
A variety of clubs and social activities (once the community fills in)

So, which is better?

✅ If you want proven, well-established amenities, go with Del Webb Lakewood Ranch.
✅ If you prefer brand-new everything and don’t mind waiting for the amenities to be completed, Del Webb Catalina could be a great fit.

📍 Location: Where Do You Want to Be?

Both Del Webb communities are in Lakewood Ranch, but their locations are a little different.

Del Webb Lakewood Ranch: In the Heart of It All

Closer to Waterside Place, the lakefront town center with dining, shopping, and entertainment.
Near University Town Center (UTC), one of the biggest shopping and dining hubs in Sarasota-Manatee.
More central, meaning shorter drive times to local hotspots.

Del Webb Catalina: More Secluded & Quiet

Located further east in Lakewood Ranch.
Quieter, more private, with fewer crowds.
More room for future development—which could mean home values appreciate over time.

Which one is right for you?

✅ If you want to be close to shopping, dining, and entertainment, go with Del Webb Lakewood Ranch.
✅ If you prefer a more tucked-away, quiet location, Del Webb Catalina might be the better choice.

💰 Pricing & HOA Fees

Right now, Del Webb Lakewood Ranch homes range from the $400s to over $1.5M, depending on size, location, and upgrades.

Del Webb Catalina’s pricing is TBD, but expect it to be in a similar range, with some early buyer incentives for new construction.

What’s the better financial move?

✅ If you want to move in right away with predictable costs, Del Webb Lakewood Ranch is your best bet.
✅ If you want a potentially lower price with new-build incentives, Del Webb Catalina could save you money in the long run.

🎯 Final Verdict: Which One Is Right for You?

✔️ Pick Del Webb Lakewood Ranch if…
✅ You want a well-established, thriving community with a packed social calendar.
✅ You prefer resale homes over new construction.
✅ You want immediate access to all amenities—no waiting!
✅ You love the idea of being close to Waterside Place and UTC.

✔️ Pick Del Webb Catalina if…
✅ You want to build a brand-new home with the latest features and finishes.
✅ You prefer a quieter, more private location with room for future growth.
✅ You’re okay with waiting for the community to fully develop.
✅ You want the potential for home value appreciation as the area grows.

Still not sure? That’s where The 941 Lifestyle Group comes in.

🏡 Let’s Find Your Perfect Home in Lakewood Ranch!

At The 941 Lifestyle Group, we don’t just sell homes—we help buyers find the perfect 55+ community for their lifestyle. Whether you’re leaning toward Del Webb Lakewood Ranch, Del Webb Catalina, or another neighborhood, we’re here to guide you.

📞 Call/Text: 941-233-9722
📩 Email: adam@the941lifestylegroup.com
📺 Watch More on YouTube: @941LifestyleGroup

Thinking about buying or selling? Let’s chat. Because your best years are just getting started. 🚀

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