Living in Esplanade at Azario, Lakewood Ranch: Everything You Need to Know

If you're searching for luxury resort-style living with bundled golf in Lakewood Ranch, Esplanade at Azario is one of the communities that consistently makes my shortlist.

Built by Taylor Morrison, Azario combines beautifully designed homes, an award-winning amenity campus, and one of the area's most impressive bundled golf experiences. Unlike traditional private country clubs that require expensive initiation fees, many homes in Azario include golf membership with ownership, making it a favorite among buyers relocating to Florida. (Golf Course Home)

As a Lakewood Ranch Realtor, I've helped buyers purchase homes here, and it's easy to understand why this community has become one of the most desirable luxury neighborhoods in the area.

Where is Esplanade at Azario?

Esplanade at Azario is located in the northeastern portion of Lakewood Ranch in Manatee County.

Residents enjoy convenient access to:

• Waterside Place

• Lakewood Ranch Main Street

• University Town Center (UTC)

• Interstate 75

• Sarasota

• Bradenton

• Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport

• Gulf Coast beaches

Although it feels tucked away inside a private resort community, you're still within easy driving distance of shopping, restaurants, healthcare, entertainment, and everything that makes Lakewood Ranch such a popular place to call home. (Lakewood Ranch)

Homes in Esplanade at Azario

Taylor Morrison offers several collections designed to fit different lifestyles and budgets.

You'll find:

• Luxury Villas

• Single-Family Homes

• Golf Course Homes

• Lakefront Homes

• Preserve Homes

Most homes feature open-concept floor plans, spacious lanais, high ceilings, and modern finishes that appeal to both full-time residents and seasonal homeowners. (Sara Sells Sarasota)

What Makes Esplanade at Azario Different?

For me, Azario isn't just about golf.

It's about the lifestyle.

Residents enjoy access to:

• Championship 18-hole golf course

• Aqua driving range

• Resort-style pool

• Bahama Bar

• Culinary Center with multiple dining options

• Full-service spa and salon

• Fitness center

• Pickleball courts

• Tennis courts

• Walking trails

• Lifestyle director coordinating year-round events

• Gated community

Whether you're playing golf in the morning, meeting friends for lunch at the Culinary Center, relaxing by the pool, or attending one of the many social events, Azario truly feels like you're living at a luxury resort. (Lakewood Ranch)

Is Esplanade at Azario Good for Full-Time Residents?

Absolutely.

While many buyers purchase second homes here, Azario has become increasingly popular with full-time residents looking for an active social lifestyle.

You'll find:

• Retirees

• Professionals working remotely

• Couples relocating from northern states

• Seasonal residents

• Golf enthusiasts

• Buyers looking for luxury new construction

The community is active throughout the year, with fitness classes, clubs, organized events, dining experiences, and neighborhood gatherings.

Golf Membership

One thing many buyers don't realize is that not every home has the same membership.

Some homes include bundled golf membership, while others include social memberships that provide access to the amenities without unlimited golf.

This is something I always verify for my buyers before we make an offer because it can significantly impact both lifestyle and annual costs. (Golf Course Home)

HOA and CDD

Like most newer communities in Lakewood Ranch, Esplanade at Azario includes HOA fees and Community Development District (CDD) fees.

Those fees help maintain:

• The gated entrances

• Resort amenities

• Landscaping

• Recreation facilities

• Common areas

• Community infrastructure

Since fees vary depending on the home collection and membership type, I always encourage buyers to compare the total monthly ownership cost—not just the purchase price.

My Opinion as a Lakewood Ranch Realtor

I've sold homes in Azario, and one thing always stands out.

People don't move here just for the house.

They move here because they want a lifestyle that feels like they're on vacation every day.

If you love golf, social events, fitness, great dining, and resort-style amenities, it's hard to beat what Azario offers.

However, if you aren't interested in golf or the country club lifestyle, there may be other Lakewood Ranch communities where your monthly costs are lower and better aligned with how you'll actually use the amenities.

Finding the right neighborhood is just as important as finding the right home.

Who Should Buy in Esplanade at Azario?

I typically recommend Azario to buyers who:

• Want luxury new construction

• Love golf or country club living

• Enjoy resort-style amenities

• Want an active social calendar

• Appreciate maintenance-friendly living

• Are relocating to Florida for a year-round lifestyle

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Esplanade at Azario gated?

Yes. Esplanade at Azario is a gated community within Lakewood Ranch. (Lakewood Ranch)

Is golf included?

Some homes include bundled golf membership, while others include social memberships. It's important to verify which membership is attached to a specific property before purchasing. (Golf Course Home)

Who is the builder?

Esplanade at Azario is developed by Taylor Morrison. (Realtor)

Is Esplanade at Azario still building?

Yes. New homes continue to be released in phases, although many sections are now complete and occupied. (Realtor)

Final Thoughts

Esplanade at Azario has quickly become one of my favorite luxury golf communities in Lakewood Ranch.

It offers the rare combination of beautiful new homes, bundled golf opportunities, exceptional amenities, and a vibrant social atmosphere that appeals to both seasonal and full-time residents.

If you're looking for a neighborhood where your home feels like part of a private resort, Esplanade at Azario deserves a closer look.