LIVING IN JACKSONVILLE, FL -JACKONVILLE REAL ESTATE

If you’re planning a move to the Jacksonville area and want to be in St. Johns County—home to one of the best public school systems in Florida—Shearwater is a community you need to see.

This master-planned neighborhood blends active outdoor living, beautiful scenery, and resort-style amenities, making it especially popular with families, professionals, and anyone who loves being close to nature without giving up modern convenience.

Let’s take a closer look at what makes Shearwater one of Northeast Florida’s most desirable places to live.

Where Is Shearwater Located?

Shearwater sits in northwest St. Johns County, just off the 210 Corridor, which is currently being expanded to improve traffic flow.

It’s located:

• West of Nocatee

• Between SilverLeaf and RiverTown

• Near the St. Johns River, though not directly on it

This gives Shearwater a peaceful, nature-rich setting while still offering easy access to shopping, schools, and major roadways.

Resort-Style Living and Top-Tier Amenities

Shearwater was designed around the idea of living like you’re on vacation every day. The community is golf-cart friendly and packed with amenities that support an active, outdoor lifestyle.

Community highlights include:

• Two resort pools + a lazy river

• Four clay tennis courts

• One of the best fitness centers in the area’s master-planned communities

• Dog parks

• Clubhouse and social spaces

• Parks, athletic fields, and scenic lakes

Whether you’re working out, relaxing by the pool, or meeting neighbors at the clubhouse, Shearwater makes it easy to stay connected.

Miles of Trails and True Outdoor Living

One of Shearwater’s biggest advantages is how deeply it embraces nature.

Residents enjoy:

• 15 miles of trails and boardwalks

• Paths winding through preserved habitats

• Shaded walks under native trees

• A setting that feels far from busy city life—yet close to everything

Kayak and Canoe Access to Trout Creek

For outdoor lovers, Shearwater offers something rare:
direct kayak and canoe access to Trout Creek, which connects to the St. Johns River.

You’ll carry your kayak down a short trail, but the payoff is a true nature experience—often shared with turtles and local wildlife. Combined with the community’s extensive preserve land, Shearwater feels more like a nature retreat than a typical suburb.

Schools in Shearwater

Families are drawn to Shearwater because it’s in St. Johns County, one of Florida’s most respected school districts.

Current school zoning:

• Timberland Creek Elementary (K–5)

• Switzerland Point Middle School (6–8)

• Bartram Trail High School

What’s new:

A brand-new K-8 school opened on the southern end of Shearwater in Fall 2024.
As zoning updates continue, many newer neighborhoods—especially on the south end—are expected to feed into this school.

For relocating families, this makes Shearwater a strong choice for both current and future educational planning.

Homes, Growth, and Community Size

Shearwater is in the final phases of development.

• About 1,900 homes built

• Final build-out expected around 2,800–2,900 homes

With fewer phases left, buyers are seeing:

• More quick move-in homes

• Increased builder incentives

• Opportunities to secure prime lots before sell-out

Builder Incentives and Smart Buying Tips

If you’re considering new construction in Shearwater, here’s one of the most important things to know:

The builder’s sales rep works for the builder—not for you.

Having your own real estate professional:

• Costs you nothing

• Gives you an advocate

• Helps you:

  • Compare builders

  • Evaluate build quality

  • Understand lot premiums

  • Secure incentives

  • Avoid costly mistakes

In communities nearing completion like Shearwater, the right guidance can mean thousands of dollars saved and a smoother experience.

Is Shearwater Right for You?

Shearwater is a great fit if you want:

• A master-planned lifestyle

• Resort-style amenities

• Strong schools

• Miles of trails and outdoor recreation

• Kayak access and nature immersion

• A family-friendly, active environment

It may not be ideal if you’re looking for:

• Urban, walkable living

• Historic neighborhoods

• Zero HOA or CDD fees

• Immediate access to the beach

Thinking About Moving to Shearwater or St. Johns County?

Relocating to Northeast Florida is a big decision—and choosing the right community makes all the difference.

If you’d like:

• Current home availability

• Builder incentive updates

• A comparison of Shearwater vs. Nocatee, RiverTown, or SilverLeaf

• Honest insight into which neighborhood fits your lifestyle

I’d love to help.

About the Author

Greg DeTullio is a Florida-licensed real estate broker and founder of the Living in Jacksonville FL Team, with 10 years of experience, 200+ closed transactions, and 65 five-star Google reviews.

He specializes in Jacksonville relocation and St. Johns County new construction, serving Nocatee, SilverLeaf, RiverTown, St. Johns, EverRange, Ponte Vedra Beach, and surrounding Northeast Florida communities.