A massive 15-acre man-made lagoon in Central Florida has become the focal point of the Mirada community in San Antonio, driving demand for new homes and transforming the area into a rapidly growing housing hotspot.
The Crystal Lagoon, located approximately 30 miles north of Tampa, is now the largest of its kind in the United States, surpassing the previous record holder in St. Johns County. The lagoon is roughly equivalent in size to 11 football fields or 150 basketball courts. Developers are working to keep pace with the influx of homebuyers, ranging from young families to retirees seeking a resort-like lifestyle.
Mira is slated to eventually feature up to 5,000 residences, with approximately 3,900 homes already occupied. The community offers a variety of housing options from multiple builders, including townhomes, family houses, and properties in a dedicated 55-plus neighborhood.
The development was recently recognized as the sixth top master-planned community in Florida for 2025 by John Burns Research & Consulting. Mirada is currently about 75 percent occupied, with its sister community, Epperson, nearing full occupancy at 94 percent.
Home prices in Mirada start around $250,000 for townhomes and can exceed $1 million for larger homes. For active adults, homes in the 55-plus neighborhood begin around $236,000.
The primary draw for residents is the lagoon itself, which offers clear waters, sandy beaches, paddleboarding, kayaking, an obstacle course, and a swim-up bar. Homeowners receive discounted access to these amenities, while day passes are also available to visitors.
Lisa Gibbings, Vice President of Corporate Affairs for Metro Development Group, stated that the lagoon is a significant factor in attracting buyers. "It creates an immediate sense of excitement because it's something people can't find in a traditional neighborhood," Gibbings said. She highlighted that the lagoon's appeal lies in its ability to offer something for everyone and foster a sense of community through its "Social Hub," which hosts over 300 events annually, including fitness classes, holiday celebrations, and community gatherings.
Beyond the lagoon, residents have access to amenities such as walking and cycling trails, dog parks, playgrounds, pickleball and tennis courts, bocce courts, fitness centers, and clubhouses. The 55-plus neighborhood includes a resort-style pool, a café and bar, and wellness facilities.
Metro Development Group first introduced the Crystal Lagoon concept with the Epperson community nearly a decade ago. The success of Mirada and Epperson suggests a growing buyer preference for lifestyle amenities that emulate coastal living.
The company plans to develop additional communities featuring Crystal Lagoons, including Sandal Key in Hernando County, which will also include a lazy river. Gibbings believes these developments indicate a shift in how buyers are approaching suburban living, with a focus on "the complete package – a beautiful home in a thriving community."