
I am a new member of this community, having recently closed on multiple properties here in St. Johnâs County. As a young Black man, I was excited to explore the Beachwalk with my real estate agent after signing contracts. While recording videos for my family who will soon be moving here, I had an extremely unpleasant and discriminatory encounter.
A staff member named Brian was sitting outside chatting with two individuals and not engaged in any work. As soon as my realtor and I walked inside, he yelled across the way at us, âAYE Are you members here?, if not you need to get outâ The tone and delivery were not welcoming but confrontational, as if our presence alone demanded questioning. I immediately cautioned my realtor not to respond.
What makes this worse is that multiple other people none of whom looked like me were walking in and out freely without issue. Brian chose to leave his idle conversation and come check on us, the only two Black men walking in. The message was clear: our presence was suspicious, and we needed to be monitored.
After Brianâs interaction was finished, I was able to return to viewing the community. But the fact that this even happened is extremely discouraging. If this is a reflection of the culture of this community, then this place does not deserve to be invested in.
This was demeaning and deeply disappointing, especially as someone who has made a serious financial commitment to this community. In fact, I have more invested in the future of this place than the staff member who felt entitled to treat me this way. Another staff member who did know me apologized and offered to connect me with the community director. I declined at the time, but I do want it on record here.
Brianâs behavior was discriminatory, and I strongly believe he should not be representing this community. If people of color cannot enter spaces here without being shadowed, questioned, or singled out, then this is not a safe or welcoming environment to raise a family. I am genuinely reconsidering my investment because I will not raise my children in a place where they must walk with shadows on their backs that are not...
   Read moreCrystal Lagoon at Beachwalk feels like a little slice of paradise.
The clear, blue water is so inviting, and itâs a perfect spot to escape the heat, especially with the sandy beach areas making you feel like you're at a coastal resort.
Thereâs something for everyone, whether you want to lounge by the water, swim, or try out some water sports like paddleboarding.
Itâs also a great spot for families, with plenty of space to relax or explore.
The overall atmosphere is serene yet vibrant, and it's a refreshing change from a typical pool or beach day.
It feels like a mini getaway without having to travel far.
Plus, the surrounding areas have good food and drink options, so you can really spend the whole day...
   Read moreCrystal Lagoon at Beachwalk is essentially a dirty big pool that is starting to look dated and rundown, yet extremely pricey and expensive. By far the most expensive community in all of Saint Johns and North Florida when you add up all the HOA, CDD, and Beachwalk Clubhouse fees together and only getting more expensive as the cost of repairs and maintenance increases. The Clubhouse, restaurant, swim-up bar, and all the other amenities are mediocre and not family-friendly. Compared to the insanely high fees one pays to the Beachwalk Clubhouse, CDD, and HOA, I donât see the value and canât justify the cost. Avoid this community at...
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