If you’re considering a move to Davie, FL and want the perfect blend of upscale living, family-friendly comforts, and a true sense of privacy, Long Lake Ranches might just be your next home. This gated community is known for its grand luxury homes, serene atmosphere, and the kind of welcoming neighbors that make settling in a joy. Here’s what it’s really like to live in Long Lake Ranches—and why so many residents fall in love with this unique neighborhood.
Unmatched Community Vibe
Long Lake Ranches has a reputation for being one of Davie’s most prestigious addresses, but the spirit among neighbors is down-to-earth and friendly. Residents often describe the vibe as “quiet luxury”—peaceful, safe, and ideal for families who prize privacy and community spirit.
- The gated entrances along Nob Hill Road and Hiatus Road offer a sense of security and exclusivity, but there’s nothing stuffy about the neighborhood. Kids ride bikes along tree-lined streets like SW 32nd Court and SW 36th Court, while parents wave hello during morning walks.
- Community events at the clubhouse on SW 36th Street bring neighbors together for seasonal celebrations, BBQs, and kids’ activities. It’s the kind of place where neighbors get to know each other by name.
Types of Housing
What really sets Long Lake Ranches apart are its sprawling estate homes, most of which were custom-designed and built in the early 2000s:
- Homes here sit on spacious lots—most are between one and two acres, allowing for plenty of privacy and room to play.
- Expect elegant architectural styles, such as Mediterranean and modern, with homes typically boasting 4 to 7 bedrooms, three-car garages, and resort-style pools.
- Many properties back up to shimmering lakes or lush greenbelts, providing unobstructed water views or a touch of nature right in your backyard.
Walkability and Getting Around
While Long Lake Ranches isn’t walkable in the classic “downtown” sense, it’s ideal for strolls, jogging, or biking within the secure boundaries of the neighborhood.
- Wide sidewalks and quiet streets like SW 130th Avenue make it safe for kids and adults to walk, bike, or skate without worrying about heavy traffic.
- The community clubhouse is a popular destination, especially with its tennis courts, fitness center, and kids’ playgrounds.
- For everyday errands and shopping, residents typically drive to nearby shopping centers along University Drive or to Weston, just a few minutes away by car.
Schools and Family-Friendliness
Proximity to excellent schools is one of the main reasons families flock to Long Lake Ranches. The neighborhood is zoned for highly rated Broward County public schools and has access to great private options, too.
- Children here typically attend Indian Ridge Middle School and Western High School, both known for strong academics and active extracurricular programs.
- Several top-rated private schools, including American Heritage School and University School, are within a short drive.
- With quiet cul-de-sacs and minimal outside traffic, parents can feel good letting their kids play outside or walk to a friend’s house within the neighborhood.
Parks and Green Spaces
Outdoorsy families will love Long Lake Ranches for its abundant green space and private lakes.
- The community’s own park area and walking trails wind around scenic lakefronts, offering peaceful views and spots to picnic or fish.
- The centrally located clubhouse features tennis courts, basketball courts, and an oversized swimming pool—popular with families, particularly in the summer.
- For more adventure, Robbins Preserve and Tree Tops Park are just 5-10 minutes away, offering horseback riding, hiking trails, paddle boating, and playgrounds.
Safety and Peace of Mind
Safety is a top priority in Long Lake Ranches, and it shows:
- 24/7 manned gates at both main entrances (Nob Hill and Hiatus) ensure only residents and invited guests can enter.
- The Homeowners Association employs roving security and partners with local law enforcement for extra peace of mind.
- The sense of security means residents are comfortable walking dogs late at night, jogging early in the morning, or letting kids play outside without worry.
Convenient Location Near Everything
Though Long Lake Ranches feels tucked away from the bustle, it’s actually well-placed for commuting and weekend fun.
- Downtown Fort Lauderdale and major employers in Broward County are just a 20–30 minute drive east on I-595.
- Top medical centers, including Cleveland Clinic and Memorial Hospital, are within 10–15 minutes.
- Shopping, dining, and entertainment options abound at Weston Town Center, The Shops at Pembroke Gardens, or Sawgrass Mills—each a short trip away.
- The proximity to major highways (I-75, I-595, and the Sawgrass Expressway) makes travel to Miami, the beaches, or Palm Beach a breeze.
What Residents Love Most
Ask people why they chose Long Lake Ranches, and you’ll hear a familiar list:
- “The space between homes is unbeatable—our backyard is our private oasis.”
- “It’s truly safe, which matters so much with small kids.”
- “We love the community events. Halloween here is epic for families!”
- “You can hear the birds in the morning, but still get to work or the airport quickly.”
- “Our neighbors are some of our closest friends now—it really is a community, not just a collection of houses.”
Should You Move to Long Lake Ranches?
Long Lake Ranches appeals most to families, professionals, and anyone seeking a luxury lifestyle in a secure, friendly environment. If you want large lots, beautiful homes, nature at your doorstep, and truly welcoming neighbors, this Davie gem is worth a closer look. Take a drive through SW 36th Street on a sunny afternoon and you’ll see kids playing basketball, golden retrievers bounding after frisbees, and neighbors pausing for a quick chat. For many, once they find Long Lake Ranches, they can’t imagine calling anywhere else home.