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THE ISLANDS LifeStyle

Living on the water is the very centerpiece of the Florida experience, the essence of what brings visitors here from around the world. With private backyard boat docks and miles of river and gulf waters to explore, The Islands on the Manatee River offers residents the ultimate boating lifestyle in a secluded, thoughtfully designed community. Moor your boat just outside your back door, launch your kayak or paddleboard for a gentle spin, or enjoy a refreshing beverage overlooking the river at day’s end while watching majestic birds circle overhead. Magnificent custom homes sited on ½-acre-plus waterfront lots, stunning natural surroundings, and amenities tailored to the enjoyment of the outdoors all combine to create the kind of simple, yet elegant, lifestyle that many only dream of.

waterfront Florida community clubhouse

THE RIVER LODGE

Residents enter The Islands on the Manatee River from the Fort Hamer Bridge via the community’s gated entry. Amenities include the waterfront River Lodge, where residents and their guests can gather to eat, drink, play games and watch collegiate rowing teams training on the river. In addition to a community dock and launch, the facility includes an inviting great room with a grand fireplace, a bar area, large-screen televisions, card tables, and a catering kitchen. An outdoor fire pit, barbecue areas and seating are provided for picnickers, as well. An expansive covered patio with an outdoor kitchen and a large deck area provides for watching relaxing sunrises. The business center at The River Lodge is equipped with WiFi, computer access, newspapers and magazines, and the fitness center offers cardio and weight-training equipment with a terrific view of the river. Residents of The Islands also have a choice of memberships in several private nearby country clubs that feature golf courses, tennis courts, fitness facilities and more.

manatee river kayaking

A RIVER RUNS THROUGH IT

Among the many desirable features of The Islands on the Manatee River is the community’s immediate access to water—both the peaceful Manatee River and the great expanse of the Gulf of Mexico. Private backyard boat docks provide the ultimate boating lifestyle, including sport fishing in the Gulf and fly-fishing in the Manatee. They’re also a great spot from which to launch your kayak or paddleboard or watch the sunset’s mirrored splendor. Welcome your guests to The River Lodge, a comfortable waterfront gathering place for residents equipped with community docks and a boat launch, as well as fire pits, barbecues, putting green and a bocce ball court. Imagine: at a moment’s notice, you could be floating along the gentle curves of the Manatee River, looking for pelicans, manatees, dolphins, and other contented residents of this secluded island paradise.
man swings club in sarasota golf community

WORLD CLASS GOLF

Florida’s sunny climate and lush green landscape provide the perfect setting for golf enthusiasts to practice their beloved sport all year long.  Within the gates of The Islands on the Manatee River is The Club at River Wilderness, a privately owned semi-private Golf & Country Club. The Club features an 18-hole championship golf course, fully equipped athletic center, lighted Har-Tru tennis courts, pickleball courts, Junior Olympic-size swimming pool, and a grand clubhouse featuring extraordinary dining as well as banquet and catering facilities.  They have a number of membership categories for you to consider and are certain to have one that will appeal to your lifestyle. 

To change things up, residents of The Islands on the Manatee River primed for a day on the links can choose from among scores of other beautiful and challenging world class golf courses nestled nearby, all designed to take full advantage of exquisite views of the natural surroundings in addition to their superb private country clubs.  

waterfront community sunset cocktails martinis

LIVING THE ISLANDS LIFE

With its abundant sunshine and temperate climate, Florida’s Gulf Coast area attractions include endless year-round opportunities for fun, recreation, learning and adventure, from parasailing in the warm waters of the Gulf and watching the Tampa Bay Buccaneers play at Raymond James Stadium to visiting the Florida Aquarium and exploring the Ringling Museum of Art. Residents of The Islands on the Manatee River can attend a play at the Asolo Repertory Theatre, enjoy a relaxing sunset dinner cruise, or take a day trip to one of the area’s many classic destinations, such as Walt Disney World, Everglades National Park or Miami’s South Beach. Whether you’re ready for a quiet day of beachcombing, a lively round of golf or a game of tennis, deep-sea fishing on a chartered boat, or treasure hunting at an upscale mall, you’ll find what you’re after within an easy boat ride or drive from home.