Pelican Landing vs. The Colony: What's the Difference for Bonita Springs Homebuyers?

If you're exploring luxury homes or second homes in Bonita Springs, Florida, you've probably come across two names: Pelican Landing and The Colony.

Both offer beautiful surroundings, recreational amenities and convenient access to Southwest Florida's Gulf Coast. But they're not exactly the same, and understanding the differences can make your home search a lot easier.

I'm Bobbie Belber, a Bonita Springs real estate professional specializing in luxury and second homes. These are two communities I believe deserve a closer look, especially for buyers considering a seasonal residence.

Is The Colony Part of Pelican Landing?

Yes. The Colony is a distinct luxury residential community within the larger Pelican Landing master-planned development in Bonita Springs.

Although the two are connected, The Colony has its own residential neighborhoods, community identity and certain amenities and ownership considerations.

When comparing properties, it's important to understand which amenities and fees apply to the particular home you're considering.

What Types of Homes Are Available?

Pelican Landing: A Variety of Home Styles

Pelican Landing offers a broad selection of properties, including condominiums, villas and single-family homes.

For second-home buyers, that variety can be especially appealing.

Some buyers prefer a condominium with fewer exterior maintenance responsibilities. Others want a villa or single-family home with more private outdoor space.

The key is determining which property type fits your lifestyle, maintenance preferences and budget.

The Colony: A Luxury Residential Setting

The Colony is particularly appealing to buyers interested in upscale condominiums, luxury high-rise residences, villas and single-family homes.

Depending on the neighborhood, buyers may find properties with golf course, preserve or water views.

The Colony offers a distinctive residential atmosphere within the broader Pelican Landing setting.

Do Pelican Landing and The Colony Have Beach Access?

Both communities offer access to Pelican Landing's private beach park on Big Hickory Island through the community's beach transportation system, subject to current association rules and operating conditions.

For seasonal homeowners, having a beach experience connected to their residential community can be a significant lifestyle benefit.

I always recommend confirming the current beach access arrangements, operating schedules and association privileges for the specific property you're considering.

What About Golf?

Golf is one of the most important distinctions to understand.

The Nest Golf Club at Pelican Landing

The Nest is a private, member-owned golf club located within Pelican Landing.

It features two 18-hole Tom Fazio-designed courses, Hurricane and Gator.

Membership is separate from residential ownership, and you do not have to own a home in Pelican Landing to inquire about membership.

Buying a property in Pelican Landing does not automatically include a golf membership. Membership opportunities, availability and fees must be confirmed directly with the club.

The Colony Golf & Country Club

The Colony Golf & Country Club is associated with residential ownership in The Colony and has its own membership structure and requirements.

Golf membership is not automatically included with every home purchase.

Membership availability, eligibility, potential transfers and fees should be verified directly with the club before making a purchasing decision.

Bobbie's advice: If golf is a priority, investigate the membership situation before falling in love with a property—not afterward.

What Amenities and Lifestyle Can Buyers Expect?

Pelican Landing is known for its outdoor recreational opportunities, including tennis, pickleball, kayaking, sailing, fitness facilities, walking paths and community activities.

The Colony offers an additional layer of community-specific amenities and social opportunities, with access and privileges varying by property and membership.

For some buyers, the larger Pelican Landing lifestyle is exactly what they're looking for.

Others may prefer the particular residences, setting and amenities offered within The Colony.

Neither is automatically the better choice. It depends on how you plan to use your Florida home.

Are HOA and Condo Fees Different?

Yes, they can be.

Fees vary based on the individual neighborhood, property type and association structure. A property may be subject to more than one association assessment.

When evaluating a second home in Pelican Landing or The Colony, I recommend reviewing:

• Current association and condominium fees

• What those fees include

• Reserve funding and potential assessments

• Insurance responsibilities

• Rental restrictions

• Maintenance obligations

• Golf or other optional membership expenses

A property's purchase price is only one part of understanding the cost of ownership.

Which Community Is Better for a Second Home?

That depends on what matters most to you.

If you're looking for a wide selection of property styles and an active Southwest Florida lifestyle, Pelican Landing offers several options worth considering.

If you're focused on a luxury residence within a distinct community setting, The Colony may be particularly appealing.

But I would never recommend choosing solely based on the community name.

The specific neighborhood, property condition, fees, views, amenities and ownership requirements all matter.

Bobbie's Take

I believe one of the biggest mistakes second-home buyers make is focusing on the house before understanding the community.

A beautiful property can look perfect online, but the ownership costs, maintenance requirements or membership arrangements may not match what you had in mind.

Having spent approximately 30 years working as a real estate paralegal before becoming a Florida real estate professional, I've learned how important it is to understand the details before committing to a purchase.

And because I made the move from seasonal homeowner to full-time Southwest Florida resident myself, I understand the questions that come with buying here from another state.

My role is to help you look beyond the listing photographs and make a well-informed decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is The Colony inside Pelican Landing?

Yes. The Colony is a distinct luxury residential community within the larger Pelican Landing development in Bonita Springs.

Do Pelican Landing homeowners automatically receive golf memberships?

No. Golf memberships at The Nest are separate from residential ownership.

Can someone who doesn't live in Pelican Landing join The Nest?

The Nest has historically offered membership opportunities beyond Pelican Landing residents, subject to its current membership requirements and availability.

Do all homes in The Colony include golf membership?

No. Buyers should verify membership arrangements and eligibility for each property.

Is Pelican Landing good for seasonal homeowners?

It can be. Its range of property types, recreational amenities and community setting make it worth exploring for buyers looking for a Southwest Florida second home.

Thinking About Pelican Landing or The Colony?

Whether you're looking for a luxury condominium, villa or single-family home, I'd be happy to help you compare the options and understand what ownership involves.

Bobbie Belber
Premiere Plus Realty | The Miranda Group
Bonita Springs, Florida
239-287-6965
bobbie239homes.com

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