Youth programs, safe streets and a built-in social life: what families should look for in a club community.
Country club communities are not only for retirees. Across Florida, many families choose club living for safe, walkable neighborhoods, a ready-made social life and activities for every age.
Look for an all-ages community
Start by confirming the community is not age-restricted. Then look at who actually lives there. Some all-age communities skew towards seasonal retirees; others have many young families year-round.
Youth programs
Ask the club what it offers children and teens, such as:
- Junior golf and tennis clinics
- Swim teams and pool programs
- Summer camps
- Family events and holiday celebrations
The Country Club at Mirasol in Palm Beach Gardens is one club that lists youth programs among its amenities.
Family-friendly amenities
Beyond the golf course, look for:
- Pools with shallow areas or splash features
- Playgrounds and open green space
- Casual dining where children are welcome
- Fitness centers with family hours or classes
Membership categories for families
Many clubs offer family or junior membership categories, and some allow adult children to join at reduced rates. Ask how guests, including visiting grandchildren, are handled.
Schools and commute
Check school assignments for the specific address, since they can differ within the same community. Drive the commute to work and school at rush hour before you buy.
Safety and walkability
Gated communities limit through-traffic, and many have sidewalks, paths and low speed limits. Ask about golf cart rules too, since carts are a popular way for families to get around inside some communities.
The bottom line
The best club communities for families combine a welcoming culture with real programming for children. Visit on a weekend, watch who is at the pool, and talk to parents who live there.
