Lake Lanier’s Most Exclusive Gated Communities

If you’ve been dreaming of living on Lake Lanier in a gated neighborhood with luxury homes, resort-style amenities, and access to a community dock or private boat slip—you might assume there are plenty of options. Surprisingly, that’s not the case.

While Lake Lanier is surrounded by thousands of homes, only a handful are located inside gated lakefront communities. Most homes are single-family residences not tied to a neighborhood, and the quality can vary—think multimillion-dollar estates next to 1950s cabins that need a full renovation. That’s part of the charm, but if you’re looking for consistency, luxury amenities, and year-round residents, a gated community is your best bet.

I’m Sarah Maslowski with KeyPoint Homes Group, and I’ve helped clients from all over the country find their dream lakefront property here in North Georgia. Below, I’ll share the most exclusive gated neighborhoods on Lake Lanier, what makes each one unique, and what you need to know before buying.

Are There Gated Communities on Lake Lanier?

Yes, but they are rare. Unlike many lakes across the U.S., most of Lake Lanier’s shoreline is not lined with gated developments. These are safe areas in general, so gates haven’t always been considered necessary. But the few gated neighborhoods that do exist offer a unique lifestyle:

• Consistency in home design and upkeep.

• Restrictions that limit short-term rentals, meaning fewer weekend party houses next door.

• Amenities like clubhouses, tennis courts, and swimming pools.

• Docks and boat slips (though often limited and highly competitive).

Marina Bay – Gainesville

One of the most established and desirable lakefront neighborhoods, Marina Bay combines luxury with natural beauty.

• Lots & Homes: Large private lots, tree-filled surroundings, and a mix of homes from the early 1990s to newer builds.

• Boat Slips: A community dock with limited designated slips. You’ll typically need to buy a home that already includes one since the waitlist rarely moves.

• Amenities: A 14,000-square-foot clubhouse, resort-style pool, three tennis courts, and plenty of green space.

• Location: About 25 minutes from downtown Gainesville and 20 minutes from shopping along Dawsonville Highway.
  
  

👉 Pro tip: If you fall in love with a Marina Bay home, make sure you confirm whether a boat slip is included—it can make or break your lakefront lifestyle here.

Harbor Point – Gainesville

If you’re looking for resort-style living on the lake, Harbor Point checks nearly every box.

• Homes: Built mainly between 1998–2008, with some new construction as recent as 2021. Homes here are large—5,000 to 12,000 square feet—and often feature stunning views.

• Boat Slips: Slips are tied to homes and sell for about $60,000. They’re transferable, and you can get your money back when you sell your house.

• Amenities: Six pickleball courts, two tennis courts, a clubhouse with fitness center, basketball court, and even a restaurant.

• Location: About 15 minutes from Gainesville shopping and dining.
  
  

👉 Pro tip: Slips here are extremely competitive. If you want one, shop for homes that already have a slip attached.

Dockside Cove – Gainesville

Prefer something newer and more private? Dockside Cove is a smaller gated neighborhood with a boutique feel.

• Homes: Built starting in 2019, so most properties are modern and move-in ready.

• Lots: Larger, more private, with many homes offering wooded or elevated settings.

• Boat Slips: Deeded to homeowners, not managed by the HOA. Slips often sell privately between $40,000–$60,000.

• Amenities: No shared amenities beyond the community dock, but that keeps HOA fees lower.

• Prices: Recent sales have ranged from the high $800Ks to $1.5M.
  
  

 👉 Pro tip: Inventory here is limited, so when a home comes on the market, act fast—it might be your only shot for months.

Other Neighborhoods to Know

• Chestatee – Dawsonville: Not gated, but located next to a golf course with a clubhouse, community dock, and transferable slips. A great option if you want a neighborhood feel without exclusivity.

• Falcon Landing – Gainesville: A rare new-construction community on Lake Lanier built by DR Horton. Homes range from $500K–$600K and include boat slips—an almost unheard-of value at this price point.

How Much Do Homes in Gated Communities on Lake Lanier Cost?

• Marina Bay: $800K–$1.5M+, many resale homes need updates.

• Harbor Point: $1M–$3M+, estate-style luxury properties.

• Dockside Cove: $800K–$1.5M, newer construction, limited availability.

• Falcon Landing: $500K–$600K with slips, best value for new builds.

Should You Buy in a Gated Lake Lanier Neighborhood?

The answer depends on your priorities.

• Want consistency, luxury amenities, and fewer rentals nearby? Yes—choose a gated community.

• Want total privacy and your own dock without HOA rules? A stand-alone lake home may be a better fit.

Either way, Lake Lanier offers a range of options for every buyer—from million-dollar estates to value-driven new builds with boat slips.

Ready to Find Your Lake Lanier Home?

Lakefront living on Lanier is highly competitive, and the best properties don’t stay on the market long. My team at KeyPoint Homes Group specializes in helping buyers navigate Marina Bay, Harbor Point, Dockside Cove, and other exclusive neighborhoods.