Let’s get real here. We certainly understand why South Carolina would want to lay exclusive claim to the lowcountry. After all, it’s one of the most naturally beautiful, culturally rich regions in all of North America. But sorry, Charleston, you’re not the only place that has sea islands, long beaches and an inland geography characterized by lush forests and wetlands brimming over with wildlife. 

The geographical fact is, the lowcountry extends from the Santee River north of Charleston down past Savannah, Georgia, all the way to the St. Johns River that runs through Jacksonville. In fact, all you have to do is hop on Google maps and look at that stretch of the Atlantic coastline, and you’ll say to yourself, “Yep, that all looks pretty much the same.” 

Of course we also understand that the lowcountry is more than a certain kind of geography. It’s a unique intersection of cultures and cuisines. And we happily acknowledge that as you travel from South Carolina to northeastern Florida, the cultural tone changes. It’s still lowcountry, but it gets more relaxed. More beachy. Instead of the quaint formality of Charleston and Savannah, you find the laid-back vibe of Amelia Island. You could say that in Florida, the lowcountry trades in its bow tie and seersucker for board shorts and a pair of flip-flops.

Then there are the homes. As with other places around the globe, classic lowcountry homes are a direct response to local weather. A raised first floor was a defense against high water. Tall ceilings helped to keep the indoors cooler. And a big front porch provided a shady place for everyone to come together and enjoy a cold drink and some neighborly conversation. In Wildlight, we’ve created a fresh interpretation of lowcountry style. Here you’ll find plenty of porches and high ceilings. But the forms are simpler, more streamlined. With a contemporary flair that just feels … right.

Fortunately, what doesn’t change with Florida’s version of lowcountry is the yumminess of the food. The shrimp are just as fresh, the grits are just as creamy and the lowcountry boil is just as delicious and messy as anywhere else along this magnificent stretch of coastline. Maybe even a bit tastier. And around here, you can follow it up with a slice of made-from-scratch key lime pie.

Being a Good Neighbor to Nature

When building a community of new homes, it’s important to remember the homes that were already there – the natural habitats of local plants and animals. With proper planning and policies for conservation, even a city-sized development can be eco-conscious and help the surrounding wilderness to thrive.

Let it be
Wildlight is committed to protecting the natural environment. As part of that commitment, roughly half of our community’s 2,900 acres will be dedicated as a conservation habitat network upon build-out. This is land that will remain undeveloped so wildlife can live peacefully, and residents can enjoy the untouched beauty of natural wetlands, forests and more.

Not just for animals
Hiking and biking trails, water sports and other outdoor spaces and activities encourage residents to experience the surrounding wilderness. And as appreciation grows for the local flora and fauna, members of the community take it upon themselves to protect the environment as well. It’s a true symbiotic relationship from which everyone, every animal and every plant can benefit.

Planting the future
Trees are critical to the natural beauty and sustainability of the environment. In Wildlight, when trees must be cut down to clear space, new trees continue to be planted so the surrounding space will benefit from the natural shade, air filtering and habitats they provide for generations to come.

The great outdoors of North Florida.

Northern Florida is one of the most biologically diverse and naturally captivating areas of the country, so it’s no wonder residents like to get out and experience the surrounding wilderness. From hiking and biking to getting out on the water, there’s so much to do, it can be helpful to have a jumping off point.

Walk and talk with the animals

Step onto a hiking trail or greenway and you’re guaranteed to see and hear the variety of animals making their home among the trees and marshes of northern Florida. Blue herons, great egrets, osprey and eagles are just a few of the birds you might see overhead, along with squirrels, turtles and other creatures on the land. And it’s easy to find a path that will take you directly from the woodlands to the expansive vistas of a beach-two incredible experiences in one trip.

Plenty of parks for recreation

Beyond the inland trails and bike paths, there are dozens of parks to choose from just a few miles east on the Atlantic coast. Amelia Island offers a wide assortment of beaches, paths and water sports. And to the south, there are 23 city, state and national parks in the Big Talbot Island area alone.

Pick your place to kayak.

Coastal islands offer a choice of water sports, including kayaking on either the river side or ocean side of the shore. River kayaking is a more relaxing experience, where you’re likely to see a variety of marshland wildlife. Ocean kayaking puts you into more open waters, where you can experience the waves and breathe in the salt air. It can be a difficult choice, but the good news is there’s no wrong answer.