Watersound Fountains, a new 148-apartment resort-style independent living community, has officially opened its doors to residents in Inlet Beach.

• The community, developed through a joint venture between The St. Joe’s Company, Watermark Retirement Communities, and BRW Origins, is the first free-standing independent living community in Watersound.

Located near the Watersound Origins community and less than a mile east of Scenic Highway 30A, Watersound Fountains offers a variety of amenities, including a swimming pool, fitness studio, salon and spa, wellness center, indoor golf simulator, and outdoor putting green.

The community also features four signature restaurants that serve a range of fare, from steaks and wine to casual grab-and-go meals, all prepared in-house daily.

“We are so excited to welcome residents to our brand new community,” said Melissa Adams, Executive Director of Watersound Fountains. “For many residents, this marks the next phase of retirement, where they can relax and rediscover their passions – or find new ones. Our proximity to Watersound Origins also means mom and dad can be close to family while maintaining their independence and living a meaningful and fulfilling life.”

Residents can enjoy unique programs such as the 360Well program, which offers opportunities for health, education, and exploration, as well as enriching classes through Watermark University and daytrips organized through the Extraordinary Outings program.

• The community also offers a 24-hour concierge to assist residents with reservations to local restaurants, theaters, galleries, and concerts. Concierge-style healthcare, including onsite medical clinics and in-home healthcare services, is available through a partnership with Curana Health.

Over the next several weeks, the first 20 residents will move into the community, including Gerry Mayes, who has vacationed in the Walton County area for years and moved from Oklahoma to be near her family full-time.

“I love being near my children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and the amenities here at the community are wonderful,” said Mayes. “The staff is also so helpful and kind and I’ve loved meeting new people.”

Watersound Fountains is now open and taking reservations, with floor plans ranging from studio to two-bedroom apartments. For more information, visit https://watersound.watermarkcommunities.com.