Renaissance at Manalapan is an upscale, intimate community in Monmouth County, New Jersey, designed specifically for active adults aged 55 and over. Built between 2000 and 2001 by Carlton Homes, this gated neighborhood offers a collection of just 127 detached, single-family homes. Residents here enjoy an exclusive environment that provides not only peace and privacy but also a strong sense of camaraderie and community. The community is strategically located, offering easy access to both the Jersey Shore and Atlantic City, as well as convenient train service to New York City, making it an excellent choice for those who wish to take advantage of nearby urban and coastal attractions without sacrificing the tranquility of suburban living.
The homes at Renaissance at Manalapan come in seven distinct models, ranging in size from 1,598 to 2,422 square feet. Each residence is thoughtfully designed with two or three bedrooms, two or three bathrooms, and attached one- or two-car garages. High-end touches such as gourmet kitchens, hardwood floors, and expanded living spaces are common throughout these homes. Some homes also feature basements, lofts, or both, providing additional space for storage or personalization. The development places an emphasis on low-maintenance living, with a homeowners’ association taking care of essential services including grounds maintenance, snow removal, trash collection, and upkeep of all communal facilities. Regularly scheduled community bus service is also available for errands and shopping trips, further enhancing the ease of daily life for residents.
One of the key attractions of Renaissance at Manalapan is its vibrant social atmosphere, anchored by a tastefully designed clubhouse. The clubhouse serves as a hub for both fitness and leisure, offering amenities such as a well-equipped fitness center, a sauna, a cozy library, a billiards room, a card room for group and individual activities, and a ballroom where social events are held. Outdoors, residents can unwind in the heated pool or participate in games of tennis, bocce ball, or shuffleboard with neighbors and friends. The community benefits from the presence of a full-time activities director who keeps the social calendar lively with a variety of clubs and activities, including a men’s club, a women’s club, and a traveling club. There are also groups centered around common interests like billiards and cards, ensuring that every resident can find opportunities to engage and make new friends.
Beyond the community’s gates, residents find themselves within walking distance of shopping options and public transportation. The area is rich in cultural and recreational destinations, with attractions such as Monmouth Battlefield State Park and Covenhoven House nearby, as well as performance venues like the Count Basie Theater and the PNC Bank Arts Center. Nature enthusiasts can explore Sayen House and Gardens and local farms for fresh produce and gourmet foods, while shoppers will appreciate proximity to the Freehold and Woodbridge malls. Residents are also less than 30 minutes from the Jersey Shore and just about an hour’s drive from New York City, offering exceptional opportunities for day trips and outings.
Renaissance at Manalapan fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment, where making new friends is easy through social clubs, scheduled events, or simple, friendly strolls around the well-maintained neighborhood. The community’s small size allows for meaningful connections among residents, and the support of a full activities program ensures that there is always something to look forward to. With its elegant homes, comprehensive amenities, and active social calendar, Renaissance at Manalapan offers an ideal setting for adults seeking a vibrant, low-maintenance lifestyle in a prime New Jersey location.