After traveling the world full time for 2 years we started searching for the perfect place to call home. We had zero work restrictions and considered anywhere in the world. After looking into tons of options we chose Nocatee, Florida and can honestly say that we love it!
Nocatee is a highly sought-after masterplanned community located in Ponte Vedra in Northeast Florida. This gorgeous development is situated between the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean, providing residents with endless opportunities for outdoor recreation.
We aren’t just biased either, Nocatee was ranked the best place to live in the state of Florida, according to rankings published in Newsweek magazine.
Here are eight reasons why we made the move and why we think you’ll love living in Nocatee too!
1. The Waterparks
One of the highlights of living in Nocatee is the community’s two water parks, Spray and Splash. Nocatee’s waterpark, Spray, is the perfect place to cool off on a hot summer day. The park features two new slides this year: the Island Plunge and the Twin Falls. The Island Plunge is a thrilling body slide that sends riders spiraling down on a mat, while the Twin Falls is a family-friendly tube slide that ends with a splash. In addition to the slides, Spray also has a large spray park area perfect for little ones that has dozens of spraying fountains, slides, and a dumping bucket that all kids love. The park also has a concession stand selling food and drinks. Splash Park, meanwhile, features large pools, a lazy river, waterslides, playground, a zipline and a splash pad. It seriously rivals any 5 star hotel amenities. SImilar to Spray, Splash has concession stands for food and a bar for alcohol.
Best of all, both parks are included in the community’s HOA fees! Whether you’re looking to take the kids for a fun summer day or relax in the adult’s only pool, Nocatee’s water parks have you covered.
2. Constant Events
Nocatee hosts a number of community events each week that are perfect for residents and visitors alike. One of the most popular is Food Truck Friday, which takes place a couple of times each month. The event features a selection of delicious food trucks, as well as live music and entertainment. Another popular event is the Nocatee Farmer’s Market, which takes place on Saturdays from 9am to 1pm. The market features a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and other items from local vendors. There are also weekly wine or bingo nights to get the family out and about within the community. In addition, Nocatee also hosts a number of holiday-themed events, including Christmas in the Park and Halloween in the Park. These events are a great way to enjoy the community atmosphere and get to know your neighbors.
3. Golf Carts and Bike Paths
One of the things that makes it so special is that residents can get around using golf carts! Nocatee has its very own golf cart paths connecting different parts of the neighborhood on a luscious green trails. This makes getting around the town a breeze, and you don’t even have to worry about taking your car out of the garage. You can simply jump in your golf cart and head on over to the store, restaurant, school, or wherever you need to go. And since there are separate trails just for golf carts, you don’t have to worry about being stuck in traffic. Our kids have loved our golf cart which makes it easy and fun to explore all that Nocatee has to offer.
4. Near the Beach
Who doesn’t love taking a dip in the ocean? You’re just a short drive away from local beaches, so you can enjoy sunbathing and surfing whenever the mood strikes! Plus, there are plenty of activities to do on beach days like fishing trips or kayaking tours.
5. Tight Knit Community
Nocatee feels like a tight knit community with everyone being friendly and helpful towards each other. It’s great for getting to know your neighbors and making friends. We have quickly been able to make friends here and love how everyone is always outside!
6. Safety and Freedom for Kids
We love that our kids can walk around freely without us having to worry about safety. Nocatee is a safe place with plenty of families, which means there’s always someone keeping an eye out. Our kids have been able to live like the 80s knocking on doors and riding bikes with their friends until the sunsets. Plus, they have great parks and playgrounds that our kids love spending time at!
7. Near Disney and Cruise Ports
If you’re planning a family vacation, then you’ll be glad to know that Nocatee is close to Orlando’s theme parks and cruise ports in the Port Canaveral area. It makes it so much easier to get away for a few days without having to drive too far.
8. Near St Augustine
We also adore living near St Augustine—St. Augustine, Florida is the oldest city in the United States, founded in 1565 by Spanish explorer Pedro Menendez de Aviles. The city’s rich history is on display at numerous museums and historical sites, including the Castillo de San Marcos, a Spanish fort built in the 1600s, and the Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse, which dates back to the 18th century. Visitors can also explore the St. Augustine Lighthouse, an iconic landmark that has been guiding ships since 1874. In addition to its many historical attractions, St. Augustine is also home to beautiful beaches, delicious seafood restaurants, and lively nightlife. We love going as a family to just walk the adorable streets and grab an ice cream!
Overall, Nocatee is an incredible place for families and we love living here! From the Waterpark and local beaches to its tight knit community atmosphere—it has it all. Plus, you’re never too far from Disney World or St Augustine if you want some fun and adventure. So, if you’re looking for somewhere special to call home then we definitely recommend checking out Nocatee in Ponte Vedra—you won’t regret it!
