Ray Bonello never expected retirement years to be this busy.
Sure, he and his wife moved to Florida for the sunshine, palm trees, and maybe a few quiet days by the pool. But once they settled into The Meadows, a retirement community in Tarpon Springs, their calendar started filling up fast.
Not with doctor’s appointments or chores, but with live music, pancake breakfasts, yoga classes, and community potlucks.
“There’s something every day. You might go to something during the day, and then there’s more in the evening.”
Ray Bonello
Independent living at The Meadows offers a different experience, one that stands out.
From 55+ Community Neighbors to New Friends
The Meadows has a way of turning neighbors into teammates. Ray and his wife arrived as residents. They were just happy to escape the Michigan winters and join an active adult community in Florida.
But it was only a matter of time before Ray found himself co-leading the lifestyle team alongside resident Deb Huettner. The lifestyle team schedules and runs the entertainment and activities in this resort-style retirement community. The HOA helps, too, keeping the entire community busy with social events.
Quiet moments are rare—just the way many residents prefer it.
“I retired here, so I want to enjoy part of my retirement,” Ray laughs.
Having two people on the lifestyle team means a better balance.
“With two of us splitting the duties I think it’s going to be a lot smoother, then we can enjoy the activities too.”
And there’s plenty to enjoy:
- Craft classes and quilting groups
- Weekly coffee socials
- Dinners followed by karaoke or dancing
- Holiday parties, outdoor movies, and live entertainment
It’s all included when you buy a manufactured home in this Tarpon Springs 55+ community. Homeowners have access to all the events and can be involved as much as they like. The retirement community also offers resort amenities like pickleball courts and a community swimming pool.
The Heart of The Meadows: Its People
For longtime resident Tricia Baylis, the real magic of The Meadows isn’t just the amenities the community offers, it’s the people.
Living elsewhere helped her understand what made The Meadows different.
Tricia left in search of a home with waterfront views after spending two years in The Meadows. The house she found was beautiful, but something was missing.
“The house was gorgeous. The community was terrible. No activities, not friendly, not The Meadows,” she recalls.
Just seven months later, she sold the waterfront home and returned to The Meadows. This time, she returned with a deeper appreciation for everything she had left behind.
What she realized is that even the most scenic views and ideal floor plans couldn’t replace the friendships, connection, and daily sense of belonging that The Meadows offers.
Tricia says it’s the social events that truly bring the community together. At her previous 55 and older community in Florida, social hours were rare—just once a month. But at The Meadows, the calendar stays full thanks to neighbors who volunteer their time and share their talents.
Residents support one another—not because they have to, but because they care.
“Everybody helps everybody. It’s a wonderful community,” Tricia said. “As far as I’m concerned, you can’t beat The Meadows.”
More Than a Pretty Place to Retire in Florida
The setting only adds to the appeal. The Meadows is tucked into Tarpon Springs, a Gulf Coast gem known for its natural beauty, Greek culture, waterfront restaurants, and walkable downtown.
Just a short drive from The Meadows, the historic Sponge Docks offer a glimpse into the town’s Greek roots. What began with sponge divers in the early 1900s has grown into a well-loved destination. Along the waterfront, the aroma of fresh seafood fills the air, while shops display handmade soaps, natural sponges, and traditional Greek sweets. Visitors to Tarpon Springs can stroll the docks, enjoy local cuisine, and experience the unique cultural charm.
Residents also enjoy easy access to nearby golf courses where they can connect with other 55+ active adults from surrounding planned communities.
“It’s quiet and we’re close to Clearwater and St. Petersburg,” says Ray. “It’s also safe— we joke that the Greek gods protect us from hurricanes.”
Perks of Living in a 55+ Retirement Community
For retirees weighing the cost of living in Florida, The Meadows offers more than sunshine. The community provides access to amenities like a fitness center, pool, hot tub, shuffleboard courts, and even cable and internet — all covered by lot rent.
New manufactured homes at The Meadows offer a more affordable alternative to traditional real estate. With a range of housing options available, residents can choose layouts and features that suit their lifestyle. These homes are energy efficient, without sacrificing quality or comfort.
Ray and his wife toured other 55 and older communities before choosing The Meadows, but something about Tarpon Springs kept pulling them back.
“We looked around retirement communities in Florida. But this one just felt like home.”
Where Life Keeps Moving at The Meadows
Finding the right place to retire can be challenging. Many retirees across the United States struggle to find the balance of staying active and independent without the restrictions of assisted living.
At The Meadows in Tarpon Springs, that balance happens naturally. Residents build meaningful relationships that offer both companionship and memory care benefits. Support is available when needed, allowing residents to remain independent longer.
Within the community, seniors can age in place surrounded by neighbors who truly care.
But The Meadows isn’t just focused on its own people living within the community. The Veterans Club is a proud part of the community, organizing food drives and supporting causes like Operation Shoebox, which provides essentials for homeless veterans. They also contribute to Fisher House, helping military families stay near loved ones who are receiving care at VA hospitals.
Inside the neighborhood, Veterans Club members are always lending a hand by helping prepare homes for hurricanes and placing flags outside every home on holidays. They even raised funds to restore the memorial plaza after Hurricane Milton damaged the flagpoles in 2024. Their efforts keep the spirit of service alive.
Residents at The Meadows spend retirement building friendships, leading events, and giving back through community involvement. All while enjoying the freedom of independent living.
The Next Chapter Starts in Tarpon Springs
Whether you’re drawn to the active lifestyle, the close-knit community, or the charm of Tarpon Springs, it’s easy to see why so many call The Meadows home.
Retirement in The Meadows feels like the right choice. Daily activities bring neighbors together, and the location offers the perfect mix of Gulf Coast beauty and small-town charm.
Make Tarpon Springs your home by touring The Meadows and discovering a 55+ community designed with you in mind.