Frequently Asked Questions About Shopping & Dining in Ponte Vedra Beach

What are the best areas for shopping in Ponte Vedra Beach?

Sawgrass Village, Nocatee Town Center, and the resort boutiques at Ponte Vedra Inn & Club and The Lodge & Club are three standout areas. Together they offer a mix of fashion, home decor, gifts, specialty shops, and services, all within a short drive of the beach.

Is Ponte Vedra Beach a good place for foodies?

Yes. Ponte Vedra Beach offers a diverse dining scene that ranges from chef-driven restaurants and resort dining rooms to casual cafes, family-friendly joints, and waterfront seafood spots. Fresh local ingredients, creative menus, and beautiful views make it an appealing destination for food lovers.

Do I need reservations for restaurants in Ponte Vedra Beach?

For casual weekday meals, walk-ins are often fine. For dinner on weekends, special occasions, or holiday periods, reservations are strongly recommended—especially for popular waterfront and resort restaurants or large parties.

Are there holiday markets in Ponte Vedra Beach?

Yes. Each year typically brings a mix of holiday markets and shoppes in Ponte Vedra Beach and nearby Nocatee. Sawgrass Village offers special shopping events. These are great places to find handmade gifts, seasonal decor, and local treats. Check current-year event calendars for exact dates and locations.

What are some must-see holiday events in Ponte Vedra Beach?

Favorite holiday experiences in and around Ponte Vedra Beach often include lighted boat parades along the Intracoastal, seasonal resort celebrations, family-friendly activities in local communities, and concerts or performances at nearby venues. Schedules vary, so always confirm details before you go.

Can I combine holiday shopping with exploring real estate in Ponte Vedra Beach?

Absolutely. Many visitors plan a long weekend that combines holiday shopping, dining, and events with neighborhood tours and consultations with a local REALTOR® to get a true feel for the Ponte Vedra Beach lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions: Ponte Vedra Beach Gated Communities

Are all beachside neighborhoods gated?

No. Several beachside areas are open access. If gating is essential, focus on Sawgrass Country Club, The Plantation, or gated condos like Ocean Grande and Belleza.

Which Ponte Vedra Beach communities include golf?

Marsh Landing and The Plantation feature on-site golf; Sawgrass Players Club is home to TPC Sawgrass, and Sawgrass Country Club has its own courses and beach club.

What price ranges should I expect?

From luxury condos (Belleza, Ocean Grande) to estate homes (Marsh Landing, Sawgrass, The Plantation). Request current comps and membership/fee sheets before touring.

Are golf carts allowed?

Many neighborhoods permit golf carts on internal roads. Always confirm each HOA’s rules and safety requirements.

How much are HOA fees in gated communities?

Fees vary by community and property type. Expect monthly or quarterly dues that cover gate operations, amenities, reserves, and common-area maintenance. Ask for the latest budget and reserve study.

Do any communities have CDD fees?

Most legacy Ponte Vedra Beach communities do not carry CDDs, but always verify per address—newer or adjacent areas may differ.

Is short-term renting (Airbnb/VRBO) allowed?

Policies vary. Many gated neighborhoods restrict rentals to longer minimums (e.g., 6–12 months). Get the written leasing policy and any application steps up front.

What about flood zones and insurance near the beach/ICW?

Parts of PVB are in special flood hazard areas. Lenders may require flood insurance. Request the property’s elevation certificate and discuss options with your insurer.

Condo vs. single-family—what’s different behind the gate?

Condos typically include exterior maintenance and building insurance in dues; single-family homes shift more upkeep and insurance to the owner. Review each budget, coverage, and reserves.

Are beach clubs or golf memberships included?

Only The Plantation at Ponte Vedra Beach includes club membership with ownership. Others require separate application and dues; some have waitlists or tiered options.

How secure are the gates (guard vs. virtual)?

Communities may use staffed guardhouses, roving patrols, or camera/virtual systems. Ask about visitor vetting, after-hours protocols, and license-plate capture.

Can contractors and deliveries access the gate easily?

Yes, with proper authorization. Many HOAs use visitor lists, QR codes, or one-time PINs. Confirm rules for work hours, heavy trucks, and weekend restrictions.

Are there boat/RV parking restrictions?

Most gated HOAs prohibit on-driveway storage of boats/RVs. Some allow screened or garage storage; others require off-site facilities. Check the ARC rules.

What are typical ARC/architectural review timelines?

Minor changes (paint, landscaping) can be a few days to a couple of weeks; major projects (additions, pools) often require full submittals and longer lead times.

Any age-restricted (55+) gated options in PVB?

Traditional PVB gated neighborhoods are not age-restricted. Nearby areas in St. Johns County do offer 55+ choices; ask for active-adult alternatives if needed.

Are special assessments common?

Healthy reserves help avoid them, but assessments can occur for major repairs or upgrades. Review recent meeting minutes, reserve balances, and planned projects.

Will schools change with rezoning?

Possibly. Always verify zoning for a specific address and ask about any pending rezoning proposals before you buy.

Which internet/cable providers serve gated neighborhoods?

Varies by street. Some HOAs include basic cable/internet in dues. Confirm provider options and speeds at the property level.

5) Communication Rhythm & Availability

Agree upfront on update frequency, preferred channels, and response windows. With higher-end listings and time-sensitive offers, cadence and clarity win negotiations.