Del Webb Lakewood Ranch: Is It Really the Best 55+ Community?

If you’re considering a move to a 55+ active adult community in Lakewood Ranch, you’ve probably come across three names: Del Webb Lakewood Ranch, Cresswind Lakewood Ranch, and the brand-new Del Webb Catalina. Each of these communities offers its take on resort-style living, but today, we’re taking a deep dive into Del Webb Lakewood Ranch—the original, well-established, and highly sought-after 55+ community in this area.

But is it truly the best? That depends on what you’re looking for. Let’s explore what makes Del Webb Lakewood Ranch one of the most desirable places to live for active adults and whether it might be the right fit for you.

The Location: Why Del Webb Stands Out in Lakewood Ranch

When people think about moving to a 55+ community, location is one of the biggest factors—and Del Webb Lakewood Ranch is in one of the best spots in Southwest Florida.

Nestled within Lakewood Ranch, Florida, this community offers the perfect blend of seclusion and convenience. Lakewood Ranch isn’t just another neighborhood—it’s a master-planned community ranked among the top in the nation, with more than 50 square miles of parks, trails, shopping, and entertainment.

del webb lakewood ranch

Living in Del Webb means you’re just minutes from:

Upscale dining and boutique shopping at Waterside Place and University Town Center (UTC)
Farmers markets and live music at Lakewood Ranch Main Street
Championship golf courses like Lakewood National and The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club
Top-rated medical facilities including Lakewood Ranch Medical Center and the soon-to-open Moffitt Cancer Center
Some of Florida’s best beaches, including Siesta Key, Lido Key, and Anna Maria Island

For those who love boating, fishing, or waterfront dining, Sarasota Bay is a short drive away, offering endless opportunities for outdoor adventure.

A Lifestyle That Goes Beyond the Home

One of the biggest draws of Del Webb is that it’s not just a neighborhood—it’s a lifestyle. When people think of moving to a 55+ community, they often imagine low-maintenance living, but Del Webb offers so much more than that.

This is a community built for those who want to stay active, social, and engaged, whether that means joining a pickleball league, taking fitness classes, or simply relaxing by the pool with a cocktail in hand.

At the heart of it all is the 21,000-square-foot clubhouse, where residents gather for events, activities, and everyday socializing. Here, you’ll find a state-of-the-art fitness center, an aerobics and yoga studio, a Wi-Fi café, and a game room with billiards and card tables.

And if you enjoy arts and crafts, you’ll love the creative studio, where residents come together for everything from painting and pottery to DIY home projects.

For those who love food and entertainment, the clubhouse features a catering kitchen for community dinners, and right outside, the famous Barefoot Bar—a casual, open-air bar where neighbors gather for happy hours, live music, and sunset cocktails.

This isn’t just a place to live—it’s a place where people come to thrive.

del webb lakewood ranch

Resort-Style Living, Every Single Day

What sets Del Webb apart is that every day here feels like a vacation.

The resort-style pool and spa is a focal point of the community, offering a place to swim laps, lounge in the sun, or simply float with a drink in hand. With plenty of shaded cabanas and a bubbling hot tub, the pool area rivals what you’d find at an upscale resort.

For those who love staying active, Del Webb offers a variety of sports courts, including eight pickleball courts, six tennis courts, and four bocce ball courts. Whether you’re an experienced player or a total beginner, there’s always an opportunity to join in on a match, take lessons, or simply watch the action from the sidelines.

And if the gym is more your style, the fitness center is fully equipped with cardio machines, strength-training equipment, and group fitness classes that range from Zumba and yoga to strength training and dance.

But staying active at Del Webb isn’t just about structured workouts—it’s about finding ways to enjoy life while moving your body. Whether it’s joining a walking group along the scenic trails, practicing Tai Chi by the lake, or signing up for a dance class at the clubhouse, there are endless ways to keep moving and feeling great.

A Community That Feels Like Family

Beyond the amenities, what truly makes Del Webb Lakewood Ranch special is the people who live here.

For many residents, moving here wasn’t just about finding a home—it was about finding a community. Whether you’re single, a couple, or moving from out of state, Del Webb offers an instant social circle, making it easy to form new friendships and connections.

From neighborhood block parties and themed dinner nights to trivia nights, book clubs, and group travel excursions, there’s always something happening. And if you have a furry friend, you’ll be happy to know that Del Webb is a dog-friendly community, complete with a fenced-in dog park and pet-friendly walking trails.

This is a place where neighbors become friends and friends become family.