Latitude Margaritaville Watersound – Panama City Beach, FL

Latitude Margaritaville Watersound – Panama City Beach, FL

• Home Price Range: $306,990 – $1,241,000 (based on current listings)​

• Home Square Footage: 1,210 – 4,048 sq. ft. (approximate range)​

• Homes for Sale: 46 homes currently listed for sale (new construction and quick move-ins)​

Latitude Margaritaville Watersound – Overview

Latitude Margaritaville Watersound is a 55+ active adult community in Florida’s Panhandle that embodies a laid-back, tropical lifestyle inspired by the music and spirit of Jimmy Buffett. Opened in 2021, this community is planned for approximately 3,500 homes in its first phase​. It is located near Panama City Beach, just off the scenic Highway 30A coastal corridor, an area famous for sugar-white sand beaches and charming seaside towns​.

Here, every day feels like an escape – neighbors become friends, live music and dancing are regular events, and the atmosphere is “no worries” and relaxed​

Residents 55 and better are welcomed into a vibrant environment where golf carts are a popular mode of transport and the community’s town center is the social hub of daily activity. In short, Latitude Margaritaville Watersound offers island resort living combined with modern homes and amenities, all tailored for active adults seeking fun, food, music, and escapism in retirement​

This community was developed through a partnership between Minto Communities, Margaritaville Holdings, and The St. Joe Company, bringing together award-winning homebuilding experience and a beloved tropical lifestyle brand.

The result is an active living paradise where residents enjoy low-maintenance homes, low HOA fees and no CDD fees​, and a full calendar of activities. The Emerald Coast location means that beautiful beach sunsets, boating, fishing, and nature trails are all part of the lifestyle. With its mild climate, friendly atmosphere, and never-ending lineup of events, Latitude Margaritaville Watersound has quickly become one of the most popular retirement communities in the region (it even ranked among the nation’s top master-planned communities in 2024).

For 55+ adults looking to retire where they can stay active and social, this community provides an ideal blend of recreation, relaxation, and Florida coastal beauty.

Latitude Margaritaville Watersound – Amenities

Residents of Latitude Margaritaville Watersound enjoy a wealth of resort-style amenities right within the community. At the heart of it all is the Latitude Town Square, a lively gathering place that features a terraced amphitheater and a thatched-roof bandshell with a full-size concert stage for live music performances​. There’s even a jumbo outdoor screen for movie nights or streaming big events, and a dance floor designed with a bit of “give” for enthusiastic dancers​. In other words, this community was built for fun and entertainment – from weekly concerts to dance parties under the stars.

Key amenities include:

• Latitude Bar & Chill Restaurant: A two-story on-site restaurant (with a rooftop “Overlook Bar”) serving Margaritaville-inspired food and drinks, complete with panoramic views of the Intracoastal Waterway​. It’s the perfect spot to grab a cheeseburger in paradise or a tropical cocktail while enjoying the scenery. There’s also a poolside bar fittingly named “Changes in Attitude” for snacks and drinks by the water​

• Paradise Pool Complex: A massive lagoon-style resort pool with a beach-entry zero-entry design​. The pool area is surrounded by cabanas and tiki huts, and even features its own “Tiki Island” in the middle of the pool​. Whether you want to swim laps or just float with a drink in hand, the Paradise Pool offers a true tropical oasis steps from home.

• Fins Up! Fitness Center: A state-of-the-art fitness center fully equipped for active adults. It includes an indoor lap pool and spa for year-round swimming, top-notch exercise equipment, a spin room, and space for aerobics and wellness classes​. Organized fitness programs and classes are offered regularly to help residents stay in shape and healthy.

• Sports Courts & Games: Outdoor recreation abounds with tennis courts and pickleball courts (lighted for night play)​, as well as bocce ball courts. There’s a sprawling games lawn featuring bocce and cornhole, plus a putting green for golfers to practice their short game​. Indoors, there are likely spaces for billiards and cards as part of the social areas. Whether you’re a casual player or in a competitive league, you’ll find plenty of options to stay active.

• Barkaritaville Dog Park: Pet lovers appreciate the dedicated dog park, humorously named Barkaritaville, where pups can run and play off-leash. It’s a great place for residents to socialize while their dogs make new friends​. There is also a planned Barkaritaville Pet Spa coming, which will offer grooming services in a fun doghouse-themed facility​.

• Boating & Waterfront Access: The community provides access to the adjacent Intracoastal Waterway. Residents can launch kayaks from the “Port of Indecision” kayak launch to explore local waterways​. For those who love boating and fishing, this is a unique amenity that brings nature right to your doorstep. (In fact, a full-service public marina is planned nearby as part of future development, which will further enhance boating opportunities​.)

• Business and Creative Centers: Latitude Margaritaville Watersound isn’t just about play – it understands residents may still have projects or creative hobbies. The “Telegraph Business Center” offers workstations and a boardroom for those who need a quiet space to work, meet, or handle personal business​.

• Coming soon is a “Workin’ N’ Playin’ Center” complex, which will house a Last Mango Theater (a multipurpose theater for movies, shows, and performances), a Hangar Workshop for woodworking and golf cart tinkering, and a “Clayground” pottery studio and arts & crafts room​. These facilities ensure that whether you’re into arts, crafts, or continuing education, you have the space and equipment to pursue your passions.

• Additional Amenities: The community’s Town Square area includes social lounges and gathering areas, and there are walking and biking trails throughout the neighborhoods​.

• A dedicated indoor multipurpose room or studio is available for dance classes, yoga, and club meetings (as indicated by the aerobics/dance studio in the amenities list)​.

• There’s also a multi-purpose field or lawn that can host festivals or farmer’s markets. Every detail – from the thatched beach umbrellas to the friendly staff and “License to Chill” vibe – reinforces that this is a place to enjoy life.

It’s worth noting that many of the amenities are already open, including the resort pool, fitness center, restaurant, and courts, and the community continues to expand its offerings. In short, Latitude Margaritaville Watersound provides world-class, resort-caliber amenities that support an active, engaging retirement. Residents often say it feels like living in a perpetual vacation resort – because that’s exactly the experience the community was designed to deliver.

Latitude Margaritaville Watersound – Clubs and Activities

One of the greatest strengths of Latitude Margaritaville Watersound is its active social scene. The community employs dedicated lifestyle coordinators (“Directors of Fun”) who organize a full calendar of clubs, classes, and events for residents. Whether you’re looking to stay fit, pick up a new hobby, or just have fun with neighbors, there are countless opportunities to get involved:

• Fitness & Wellness: Group exercise classes like water aerobics, yoga, spin, and Zumba meet regularly at the Fins Up! Fitness Center. There are also dance classes – including ballroom dancing lessons – making use of the community’s dance floor and ensuring you’ll be ready to dance the night away at the next concert​. Additionally, wellness seminars and health programs are offered to help residents maintain a healthy lifestyle.

• Social Clubs: Residents have formed clubs for nearly every interest. You’ll find a Book Club for the literary-minded, a Bunco and Bridge group for those who enjoy cards and games, and even a Car Club for auto enthusiasts​.

• Love exploring? Join the Beach Club or Travel Club and take group outings to local attractions – the community organizes trips to nearby beaches, bowling nights, and even casino trips to Biloxi or local gaming spots​. From gardening circles to photography clubs, if you have a hobby, you’re likely to find fellow residents who share the interest.

• Arts & Crafts: Thanks to the upcoming arts and crafts facilities, creative residents can participate in painting classes, pottery workshops, quilting groups, and more. Even before the new studios open, informal crafting meet-ups and classes are common – whether it’s holiday card making or learning to paint tropical landscapes. The planned Clayground Pottery Studio and craft rooms will further support these artistic pursuits​.

• Music & Entertainment: Given the Margaritaville DNA, it’s no surprise that music is a big part of life here. The community hosts regular live music events at the Town Square bandshell – from local bands playing oldies and classic rock, to tribute bands and of course some Jimmy Buffett tunes. There are outdoor concerts, dance parties, and karaoke nights where residents can sing along and dance under the stars. The amphitheater’s events are a highlight, often accompanied by food trucks or themed festivities. Residents can also enjoy movie nights on the jumbo screen or trivia and bingo nights at the restaurant. With the Last Mango Theater coming, even more organized shows, talent nights, and performances are on the horizon.

• Sports & Outdoor Activities: Many in the community organize their own casual sports tournaments and groups. There are pickleball leagues and round-robins (pickleball is hugely popular with the 55+ crowd), as well as tennis clinics and bocce tournaments. Golfers often get together to play at nearby courses or practice putting at the on-site green. Thanks to the kayak launch, there may even be a kayaking club that ventures out into local waterways together. Early morning or evening walking and biking groups take advantage of the community trails and scenic surroundings, combining exercise with socializing.

• Volunteering & Community Events: Residents don’t just play together – they also give back. It’s common to find volunteer committees or charity drives organized within the community (like toy drives, beach clean-ups, or fundraiser walks). The community spirit is strong; neighbors support each other and often form groups for causes like local food banks or pet rescues. Additionally, there are seasonal events such as holiday parties, cookouts, and Margaritaville-themed festivals (parrot hats included!). The lifestyle team ensures that each week is filled with options – you can be as busy and involved as you want, or just kick back and relax.

In essence, loneliness is not on the menu at Latitude Margaritaville Watersound. The plethora of clubs and activities means it’s easy for newcomers to make friends and for everyone to find their niche. Whether you prefer organized fitness and clubs or impromptu happy hours with neighbors on your front porch, this community fosters an atmosphere where staying active and socially engaged is simply part of everyday life. It’s an ideal setting for retirees who want not just a beautiful home, but a vibrant community to share their retirement years.

Housing Options

Homes in Latitude Margaritaville Watersound are designed for both style and easy maintenance, so residents can spend more time enjoying life and less on upkeep. The community offers a variety of home types and floor plans to suit different preferences, all showcasing an island-inspired, coastal design theme (think pastel exteriors, metal roof accents, and breezy porches). Buyers can choose from five distinct home collections​

• Conch Cottage Collection: These are the coziest single-family homes, offering a cottage-like charm. Cottages are typically on the smaller end of the range (around 1,200–1,500 sq. ft.), with 2 bedrooms and a den or 2-3 bedrooms, perfect for those who want a more compact, low-maintenance home. They often feature open great rooms, efficient kitchens, and screened lanais that extend the living space outdoors. Don’t let the size fool you – they’re thoughtfully designed to feel open and bright, ideal for couples or singles.

• Caribbean Villas Collection: The villas are paired homes (duplex-style) that share one wall with a neighbor, giving you the feel of a single-family home but often with a slightly smaller footprint and yard to maintain. Villa floor plans (such as the popular “Antigua” plan) offer around 1,500 – 1,800 sq. ft., usually with 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, plus a den​. They feature modern kitchens, spacious master suites, and attached garages. Many villa owners appreciate having a “lock-and-leave” lifestyle – exterior maintenance is handled by the association – making it easy to travel without worry. The villas are a great value choice while still enjoying all the Margaritaville style and quality.

• Beach Collection: The Beach collection includes single-family homes that are a bit larger, often 1,600 to 2,200 sq. ft. (approximately). These homes typically offer 2 to 3 bedrooms plus a den or 3 bedrooms and a hobby room, etc., giving a little more space for visiting family or entertaining guests. They come with two-car garages (often with space for a golf cart!) and more expansive living areas. Architectural touches like open-concept layouts, kitchen islands, and high ceilings make these homes perfect for hosting your new friends from the community. Many Beach collection homes also have beautiful covered patios or screened-in lanai spaces, so you can enjoy indoor-outdoor living in the Florida weather.

• Island Collection: The Island collection represents the higher end of the single-story homes, with floor plans ranging roughly 2,300 to 2,568 sq. ft. of air-conditioned space​. These are spacious 3+ bedroom homes with luxurious master suites, guest rooms for visitors, and often a flex room/den. The Island homes sit on larger lots, allowing for features like extended patios, summer kitchens (outdoor grilling stations), or private small pools/spas (if the owner adds one). They include upscale finishes as standard – think quartz countertops, gourmet kitchens with wall ovens, and spa-like bathrooms. If you want a bit more luxury and space on one level, the Island Collection delivers that “forever home” for your retirement.

• Vista Collection: A unique offering in Watersound, the Vista Collection are two-story luxury homes that can top out the community’s size range (up to ~4,048 sq. ft. under air)​. These homes are designed to maximize views – some Vista models overlook the Intracoastal Waterway or scenic wetlands, hence the name “Vista.” They often feature 4 bedrooms and 4+ bathrooms, with guest suites and loft living areas on the second floor. These homes come with all the bells and whistles: expansive great rooms, multiple outdoor terraces or balconies (imagine enjoying sunset views from an upstairs deck), and three-car garages or two-car plus golf cart garage spaces. The Vista Collection is ideal for those who want the most space – perhaps for multi-generational living or just to have plenty of room for hobbies and visiting family. Despite being larger, they maintain that island casual style – open, airy, and filled with natural light.

Across all home collections, quality construction and modern features are a hallmark. Homes are energy-efficient and built to the latest codes (important for storm safety). You’ll find features like impact-resistant windows or shutters, high-efficiency HVAC systems, and smart-home wiring. Inside, finishes include ceramic tile floors, granite or quartz countertops, and stainless steel appliances as standard in many models​. Many floor plans offer options to personalize your home – for example, you might turn a den into a hobby room or add built-in cabinetry in the great room. And of course, you can decorate in your own tropical style – but the neutral palettes and coastal touches mean the homes already feel like a beach retreat when you move in.

All residences are one-level living (except the Vista two-story plans) which is a big plus for older adults – no stairs to worry about in day-to-day life. Lawn care and landscaping maintenance are generally included in HOA services, so you won’t be out mowing the lawn in the summer heat. HOA fees in Latitude Margaritaville Watersound are noted for being relatively low given the extensive amenities, and importantly, there are no CDD (Community Development District) fees, which saves homeowners money compared to many other Florida developments​. This adds to the overall value of the community.

In summary, housing options range from cozy cottages perfect for a relaxed retirement to expansive luxury homes for those who want every comfort. Whether you’re downsizing or upgrading, you can find a home that fits your lifestyle and budget. All homes capture the “paradise” vibe with their design and allow you to age in place comfortably. With choices of attached or detached, small or large, every buyer 55+ can find their dream home in Latitude Margaritaville Watersound and enjoy the “license to chill” in style.

Healthcare Near Panama City Beach, FL

Access to quality healthcare is a crucial consideration for retirees, and Latitude Margaritaville Watersound is well-positioned near several excellent medical facilities. Panama City Beach and the greater Panama City area offer a range of healthcare options, from everyday clinics to full-service hospitals. Here are some notable healthcare providers and facilities convenient to the community:

• FSU Health – Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare Medical Campus: Just minutes from Latitude Margaritaville Watersound, a brand-new medical campus has recently opened near the intersection of Highway 79 and Phillip Griffitts Sr. Parkway​. This campus is a collaboration between Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare (TMH) and Florida State University’s College of Medicine. The first building, an 80,000 sq. ft. Medical Office Building, is now open, providing urgent care, primary care, cardiology, and pulmonary services to area residents​. It essentially brings doctors’ offices and an urgent care clinic right to the community’s doorstep – a huge convenience. Plans for this campus include a 100-bed hospital (slated to open by 2027) and additional specialty clinics​.

• For now, residents of Watersound can use the TMH Physician Partners – Primary Care and TMH Urgent Care facilities on that campus for routine health needs, and look forward to expanded services in the near future. Being so close to a healthcare hub focused on “successful aging” and senior health is a tremendous benefit.

• Ascension Sacred Heart Bay Hospital (Panama City): About twenty-five miles to the east (in Panama City proper) is Ascension Sacred Heart Bay, a well-regarded regional hospital. Ascension Sacred Heart Bay is a full-service hospital with 24/7 emergency care and a Level II trauma center, offering comprehensive medical and surgical services​. It has specialties in heart care, cancer care, stroke care, women’s health, and more​. This hospital has served the community for decades and is part of the larger Ascension network. For residents of Latitude Margaritaville Watersound, this hospital is roughly a 30-minute drive, providing access to high-level care like advanced surgeries or specialized treatments if needed. The hospital’s Panama City Beach emergency department (an extension of Sacred Heart) is even closer, located on Panama City Beach Parkway, for any urgent emergencies without going all the way downtown​. Residents can take comfort that major hospital services are within a short drive.

• HCA Florida Gulf Coast Hospital: Also located in Panama City (around 30 miles from Watersound) is HCA Florida Gulf Coast Hospital, another large acute-care hospital. This facility (formerly Gulf Coast Regional Medical Center) is a 223-bed hospital that has been providing healthcare for over 40 years​. Gulf Coast Hospital offers emergency care, a range of surgical specialties, an ICU, cardiology services, orthopedic care, and rehabilitation, among others. It’s part of HCA Healthcare, known for a wide network of hospitals. Having both HCA Gulf Coast and Ascension Sacred Heart Bay in the Panama City area means residents have options for hospital care, second opinions, and specialized physicians.

• Specialty Clinics and Medical Offices: In addition to hospitals, the Panama City Beach area has numerous medical clinics, specialists, and services. For example, there are clinics for veterans (VA outpatient clinic), dialysis centers, and physical therapy offices in Panama City Beach. Diagnostics and Imaging centers (for MRIs, X-rays, etc.) are also available locally. As the region grows – especially with St. Joe’s developments – more healthcare providers are coming to serve the population. The nearby Pier Park area has some medical offices, and along Hwy 98 you can find dentists, vision care, and other routine healthcare services.

• Pharmacies: Everyday needs like pharmacies are easy to meet. There are CVS and Walgreens pharmacies in Panama City Beach within a 15-20 minute drive, as well as a Publix supermarket pharmacy not far from the community. Some pharmacies even offer golf cart parking knowing the community’s preferences! Many offer delivery services or immunizations (flu shots, etc.), which is convenient for retirees.

• Future Healthcare Plans: It’s worth noting that the region around Latitude Margaritaville Watersound is actively developing a reputation as a “health and wellness corridor.” With FSU’s College of Medicine involved in the new campus, there may be innovative programs focused on senior wellness, telehealth services, and research on healthy aging. This could bring cutting-edge healthcare right to residents over time​. Additionally, the planned full-service marina and town center nearby may include urgent care or wellness spas as part of their offerings.

For any serious medical needs, residents will likely go to Panama City’s hospitals or up to larger cities if extremely specialized care is required (Tallahassee and Pensacola both have major medical centers, roughly 2 hours away). However, for day-to-day healthcare – checkups, prescriptions, minor emergencies – everything can be handled very close to home, which is a huge plus. Knowing that quality healthcare (and even emergency care) is readily accessible provides peace of mind for retirees at Watersound.

Nearby Healthcare Providers (with Official Websites):

• Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare – Panama City Beach Medical Campus (TMH Watersound campus) – Primary & Urgent Care now open. (Learn more on TMH’s website)

• Ascension Sacred Heart Bay – Full-service hospital in Panama City. (Visit Ascension Sacred Heart Bay)

• HCA Florida Gulf Coast Hospital – Full-service hospital in Panama City. (Visit Gulf Coast Hospital)

• Bay Medical Beach ER – Emergency department in Panama City Beach (an extension of Ascension Sacred Heart).

• Numerous Clinics & Specialists – e.g., PanCare Health (community health clinic), dermatology and dental offices along Panama City Beach.

With these resources, Latitude Margaritaville Watersound residents can feel confident that their medical needs will be well met, allowing them to focus on enjoying the good life in retirement.

Cost of Living in Panama City Beach, FL

When considering a move for retirement, the cost of living is an important factor. Panama City Beach, fortunately, offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to many coastal retirement destinations. Here are some key points about the cost of living in Panama City Beach (PCB):

• Overall Cost Index: The overall cost of living in Panama City Beach is around 95.4 (with the U.S. average being 100)​. This means that, on average, PCB is about 4.6% cheaper than the U.S. average cost of living. It’s also roughly 7.5% lower than the Florida state average​. In general, your dollar stretches a bit further here, especially compared to higher-cost Florida markets like South Florida or Naples.

• Housing Costs: Housing is often the biggest expense. PCB’s housing costs are somewhat higher than the national average, but still reasonable for a beach community. According to recent data, a typical home in Panama City Beach costs around $472,900, which is about 40% higher than the U.S. average home price​. However, remember that includes everything from modest condos to beachfront properties. In Latitude Margaritaville Watersound specifically, new homes start in the mid-$300s, which is a good value for a resort-style community​. Also, property taxes in Bay County (where PCB is located) are moderate compared to many Northeastern states, and Florida offers homestead exemptions that can reduce taxes for full-time residents. There are no CDD fees in Watersound’s community, which also saves homeowners money yearly. If you’re moving from a high-cost area, you may find you can get a lot more house for your money here.

• No State Income Tax: One huge financial perk – Florida has no state income tax. This is a big draw for retirees. Your retirement income (pensions, 401k withdrawals, Social Security) is not taxed by the state, which can lead to significant savings each year. This policy alone often improves the effective cost of living for many seniors. Additionally, there is no state inheritance or estate tax in Florida.

• Utilities and Groceries: These everyday costs in Panama City Beach tend to be at or slightly below national averages. Electricity rates in Florida are average, but your usage may be higher in summer due to air conditioning – however, mild winters mean low heating costs. Many newer homes (like those in Margaritaville) are energy-efficient which helps keep utility bills reasonable. Groceries and dining are about typical for the U.S. (some items may be a bit more since it’s a beach town, but big-box stores and supermarkets keep prices competitive). You’ll find Walmart, Publix, and Winn-Dixie in the area for grocery shopping. And when you don’t feel like cooking, there’s a range of restaurants from inexpensive local seafood shacks to upscale dining – overall, dining out is affordable, with many early-bird specials and happy hour deals in this tourist-friendly area.

• Healthcare Costs: Healthcare in Florida can be slightly below U.S. average costs. In PCB, healthcare services (doctor visits, dental, prescriptions) are priced around or just under national norms​. Many retirees also take advantage of deals at local pharmacies or use Medicare Advantage plans that have network providers in the area. The presence of multiple healthcare providers (as mentioned earlier) means there is competition, which helps keep costs reasonable. Plus, Florida’s lack of income tax can free up funds for medical expenses if needed.

• Insurance: One consideration in coastal Florida is homeowners insurance, which can be higher due to hurricane risk. Latitude Margaritaville Watersound is a bit inland (not directly on the Gulf), which helps, but you will still want coverage for wind storms. Budget for higher home insurance than you might pay in a non-coastal state. Auto insurance in Florida is around the national average, but it can vary by driver. Good news: Florida offers some additional homestead protections and generally lower sales tax (around 6-7%) which are in line with national averages.

• Lifestyle and Entertainment: One of the benefits of a place like Watersound is that a lot of your entertainment is provided by the community (and included in the HOA). You won’t need to spend a lot on recreation – the pools, fitness classes, clubs, concerts, etc., are all at your fingertips. Of course, if you golf at private courses or buy a boat, those come with costs, but many find they spend less in retirement on entertainment because so much fun is available for little or no extra cost. Dining and drinks at the Latitude Bar & Chill are priced reasonably (it’s meant for residents), and there are plenty of free or low-cost activities around (like walking on the beach, fishing, community events).

Overall, retirees in Panama City Beach enjoy a comfortable cost of living. Many find that things like housing and taxes are much more affordable than where they moved from. To put it in perspective, BestPlaces gives PCB a cost of living score of ~95, whereas a city like Miami is 123 – significantly more expensive. So you get the beach life without the South Florida price tag.

Latitude Margaritaville Watersound – Location and Accessibility

Latitude Margaritaville Watersound boasts an enviable location in Northwest Florida’s Panhandle, combining natural beauty with convenience. Here’s an overview of its location and how easily accessible everything is:

• Proximity to Beaches: The community is just minutes from the gorgeous beaches of the Emerald Coast. Panama City Beach’s west end is a short drive down Highway 98, so you can be on the white sand beaches of the Gulf of Mexico within about 15 minutes. In fact, Watersound is adjacent to the famous Scenic Highway 30A corridor, a 20-mile stretch along the coast dotted with quaint beach towns and state parks​. Seaside, Rosemary Beach, Alys Beach – all those picturesque communities on 30A – are your extended neighborhood, easily reachable for a lunch outing, shopping, or a sunset stroll. You truly have world-class beaches and coastal scenery right at your fingertips.

• Nearby Towns and Cities: The development is situated roughly halfway between Destin and Panama City. To the west, Destin (known for its harbor, fishing, and shopping) is about 40 miles away, making for a nice day trip. To the east, the heart of Panama City Beach (Pier Park area) is about 20 miles, and Panama City (the historic downtown) is around 30 miles. The community itself is in an area called Watersound (near West Bay), which is more tranquil and less developed than the busy tourist strips – meaning you get peace and quiet at home, but can easily drive to busier areas when you want. The small town of West Bay and Laguna Beach are also nearby communities. Essentially, you’re in a central location on the Panhandle, with access to multiple towns for variety.

• Road Access: Latitude Margaritaville Watersound’s entrance is on Highway 79 (also known as Arnold Road in PCB), which connects directly south to Highway 98 (Panama City Beach Parkway) and north to I-10 (via FL-20). This is a big advantage:

  • To get to the community, you don’t have to navigate a maze of local streets – you can get off the main highway and be home.

  • U.S. Highway 98 is the main east-west route along the coast, so you can take it east to Panama City Beach/Panama City or west toward Destin/Fort Walton Beach.

  • If you’re driving from out of state, you can take Interstate 10 (which runs across the Panhandle about an hour north) and then head south on Hwy 79 straight to Watersound. This connectivity makes road trips easy, whether you’re visiting family in other states or they’re driving to see you.

  • Within minutes of leaving the community, you’ll also find County Road 30A to the west, which is the scenic beach road.

• Air Travel: One of the major perks of this location is its closeness to Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP). This modern airport is only about 20 minutes north of the community (roughly 18 miles), straight up Highway 79. ECP offers direct flights to many major cities (Atlanta, Nashville, Houston, Dallas, Baltimore, etc., with airlines like Delta, Southwest, American, and United). Having an international airport so near is fantastic for retirees who plan to travel or have family come visit often​. No need for a long drive to catch a flight – you can be from your front door to the airport drop-off in under half an hour. Additionally, the airport area is developing with rental car services, making it easy for visitors. The St. Joe Company intentionally chose this area for Margaritaville in part because of the airport proximity, knowing how valuable that is​.

• Shopping and Everyday Conveniences: While Watersound feels tucked away, you don’t have to go far for shopping and essentials. Just down Hwy 98 in Panama City Beach (about 15-20 minutes) you’ll find Pier Park, a huge shopping and entertainment complex with over 120 stores, restaurants, a movie theater, and more. Pier Park has everything from Target, Walmart, and Publix to boutiques, plus fun spots like Margaritaville Restaurant and an IMAX theater. There are also closer shopping centers emerging as the area grows – for instance, a new Publix Super Market is slated to open even closer to the community as part of local development. For now, many residents use the Publix at Ocean Park Pavilion or Winn-Dixie for groceries, both about a 20-minute drive. Pharmacies, banks, and gas stations are on Hwy 98 or 79 nearby as well. In the quaint communities along 30A, you’ll discover local farmers’ markets, artisan shops, and beach outfitters. So whether it’s big-box convenience or small-town charm, you have access to both.

• Recreation and Attractions: Beyond the community’s own amenities, the surrounding area offers a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. The vast Point Washington State Forest and Camp Helen State Park are nearby, offering hiking trails, bird watching, and kayaking in coastal dune lakes. Golfers have several excellent courses within a short drive, including Camp Creek Golf Club (an upscale course in Watersound) and Holiday Golf Club in PCB. Fishing charters and boat rentals are available in Panama City Beach and Destin for deep-sea fishing adventures. Shopping and dining in the 30A towns (Seaside’s famous food trucks, anyone?) are a treat. Plus, community events like the 30A Songwriters Festival or Seaside’s art festivals are close enough to enjoy. You can tailor your retirement – be it more nature-focused, or dining out and entertainment – the location supports it all.

• Further Travel: If you plan to take cruise vacations, the Port of Mobile, AL is about 3 hours away and Port of Tampa ~6 hours – but importantly, Port Panama City has recently expanded and who knows, maybe cruises will depart there in the future. For now, most people drive to ports or use the airport to connect to bigger hubs. Interstate 10 gives a straight shot west to New Orleans (~4.5 hours) or east to Jacksonville (~4.5 hours) for metropolitan getaways.

Despite being in a less congested part of Florida, the accessibility is excellent. Residents often comment that they love being away from the heavy traffic and hustle of South Florida or Orlando, yet they have all they need within a short drive. And when family visits, there’s plenty for all ages to do – from waterparks in PCB to eco-tours in the Panhandle. Latitude Margaritaville Watersound’s location truly offers the best of both worlds: a peaceful retreat with a fun beach vibe, and easy connectivity to transportation and amenities.

Conclusion

Latitude Margaritaville Watersound stands out as an ideal retirement destination for those 55 and older who crave an active, fun, and relaxed lifestyle. In this community, every day can feel like a tropical vacation – but with all the comforts of home and none of the worries of maintaining a resort-like property on your own.

Here, you’ll find beautifully designed homes that suit your needs, whether you’re downsizing or seeking a spacious retreat for family visits. The combination of single-family homes and villas ensures there’s something for everyone, all sharing that signature Margaritaville charm. With a range of prices and sizes, you can find a home that fits your budget while still enjoying upscale touches and modern construction.

The amenities and social life are second to none. It’s not often you find a community where you can take a water aerobics class in the morning, join a friends’ lunch at a tropical clubhouse by noon, kayak in the afternoon, and dance to live music under the stars at night – all without leaving your neighborhood. Latitude Margaritaville Watersound offers exactly that. The energetic Town Square, resort pool, and multitude of clubs mean you will never lack options for staying busy (or relaxed, on the days you choose). It’s a place where neighbors become close friends through shared activities, and where newcomers are welcomed with open arms into the fun.

Location-wise, Watersound hits the sweet spot. You get the tranquility of a private, gated resort community amidst the natural beauty of Northwest Florida – but also quick access to shopping, healthcare, and travel. Whether you want to explore charming seaside towns, hop on a plane to see the grandkids, or simply enjoy the gulf breeze on your porch, this community makes it easy. The nearby new medical facilities and lack of state income tax are icing on the cake, giving peace of mind and financial perks to your retirement.

In conclusion, Latitude Margaritaville Watersound offers an unparalleled lifestyle for retirees. It captures the joy and freedom of the Jimmy Buffett “license to chill” philosophy and pairs it with the practical needs of active adults. Residents often say moving here was the best decision they ever made – it’s like joining a perpetual vacation with a built-in community of friends. If you’re looking to write the next exciting chapter of your life on the emerald shores of Florida, with a drink in hand and music in the air, Latitude Margaritaville Watersound just might be your perfect slice of paradise. Kick off your flip-flops and welcome to forever vacation!

Sources:

1. Latitude Margaritaville Watersound – 55+ Community Overview​

2. Latitude Margaritaville Watersound Amenities (Official Press Release)​

3. Latitude Margaritaville Watersound News – (Minto/St. Joe Press Release on 2,000th Home Sale)​

4. St. Joe Company – FSU/TMH Medical Campus Details​

5. Ascension Sacred Heart Bay – Hospital Information​

6. HCA Florida Gulf Coast Hospital – Overview​

7. Latitude Margaritaville Watersound Official Website​

There are currently 46 homes for sale in Latitude Margaritaville Watersound in Panama City Beach, FL. Click here to learn more.

Latitude Margaritaville Watersound Amenities

• Aerobics & Dance Studio

• Arts & Crafts Studio

• Bar

• Bocce Ball Courts

• Card Room

• Clubhouse/Amenity Center

• Fitness Center

• Indoor Pool

• Kayaking/Kayak Equipment

• Multipurpose Room

• On-site Retail

• Outdoor Patio

• Outdoor Pool

• Parks & Natural Space

• Performance/Movie Theater

• Pet Park

• Pickleball Courts

• Restaurant

• R.V./Boat Parking

• Spa

• Tennis Courts

• Woodworking Shop