Heritage Bay at Barnegat is an intimate, active adult community nestled in Ocean County, New Jersey. Open exclusively to residents aged 55 or better, this peaceful neighborhood is comprised of 292 thoughtfully designed ranch-style homes. The community was built by Mignatti between 1997 and 2003, featuring single-family residences ranging in size from 1,149 to 1,756 square feet. Each home is carefully constructed to maximize comfort and convenience, offering two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and an attached one or two-car garage. Many of the homes include appealing features such as screen rooms, three-season rooms, patios, thermal windows, outdoor lighting, storage lofts in the garage, crown molding, extra shelving, nine-foot ceilings, and recessed lighting. Quite a few residences also offer scenic views of tranquil wooded areas.
Life at Heritage Bay at Barnegat is geared toward active retirees seeking both relaxation and engagement with neighbors and friends. The community’s 2,000 square-foot clubhouse stands as a hub for social and recreational activities. Residents can work out in the fully equipped exercise room, which features both weight and cardiovascular equipment. For quieter moments, the library provides a welcoming space to read, while a billiards room offers opportunities for friendly games. The atrium and sun room function as gathering places to catch up with neighbors, and the multi-purpose room easily accommodates a variety of social events and creative pursuits.
Outdoors, Heritage Bay at Barnegat boasts amenities that enhance its resort-type lifestyle. A refreshing pool invites residents to cool off during warm summer months, while walking trails lace through the beautifully manicured common areas for peaceful strolls or invigorating walks. Two bocce courts offer a chance for friendly competition, and nearby marinas with boat slips make it easy for those interested in boating to enjoy Barnegat Bay’s many aquatic activities. The community’s location is particularly advantageous, as it is just minutes from the Garden State Parkway, putting residents within easy reach of upscale shopping, historical sites, and a wealth of local attractions.
The surrounding Barnegat area enriches the Heritage Bay lifestyle with its unique blend of coastal beauty and historical charm. Residents can take advantage of over six miles of waterfront, offering ample opportunities for swimming, boating, fishing, and crabbing. Barnegat itself is known for its antique shops, museums, and scenic boardwalk, making it ideal for exploration and day trips. Healthcare facilities, including a local hospital and doctors’ offices, are conveniently located just five minutes from the community. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate being close to the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge, while popular destinations such as Tuckerton Seaport, Barnegat Lighthouse, Atlantic City, and the beaches of Long Island are all within easy driving distance. For those who love to travel, both New York and Philadelphia, along with their international airports, can be reached in about an hour and a half.
Heritage Bay at Barnegat places a strong emphasis on fostering a warm, tight-knit atmosphere. Social clubs and special interest groups abound, covering a diverse range of activities such as billiards, book club, bridge, card games, travel, and more. The established neighborhood not only provides a sense of community among residents but also extends a welcoming hand to newcomers. With reasonable HOA fees and a thoughtfully curated set of amenities, Heritage Bay at Barnegat offers a perfect blend of small-town feel and active adult living, making it an ideal setting for those seeking a comfortable, engaging retirement in Ocean County, New Jersey.