Forget Florida, Retire To Texas' Quaint City Near Austin Filled With Endless Outdoor Fun And Tasty Local Finds

While Florida may seem like a no-brainer when it comes to choosing a place to settle down for retirement, Texas is full of charming destinations that have drawn tons of retirees in recent years. If you're in search of a quieter lifestyle without sacrificing the conveniences of a major city, consider the lovely city of West Lake Hills. Here, you'll not only have access to some incredible outdoor recreation, but you can also cross the Colorado River to reach the bustling city of Austin and all of its amenities — it's only about a 15-minute drive.

West Lake Hills sits high in the hills surrounded by stunning natural scenery, where residents can enjoy a tranquil residential community despite the nearby metropolis. As a result, the cost of living is quite high; according to Forbes, this is where Austin's affluent choose to settle down.  Still, West Lake Hills is ranked the best place to retire in Texas by Niche. Located in Travis County, new residents can look forward to hot summers and mild winters, as well as almost 300 days of sunshine throughout the year. As a result, you'll have plenty of time to explore the natural areas that surround this charming city. From the lakes to the parks to the trails, nature lovers and active retirees will have no shortage of things to explore. 

Beyond nature, the city boasts quite the restaurant scene; from casual meals to more upscale dining experiences, there are eateries catering to a variety of tastes. Plus, the city has a population of about 3,200 residents, with nearly 25% being 65 years of age or older. As one resident describes on Niche, "It is extremely safe and hosts a neighborly and friendly environment."

Although West Lake Hills is mainly residential, there is no shortage of things to do within a short drive. Get involved with the local senior community at the South Austin Senior Activity Center, less than 7 miles from town, which offers everything from social events to exercise classes to museum excursions. In the mood for a live performance? Visit the Riverbend Center for the Arts, which hosts all kinds of events from theater to concerts. If you'd rather spend your time perusing local shops, there's the Village at Westlake, a shopping center in the middle of the city full of unique boutiques and charming eateries.

Speaking of eateries, another draw is the food scene. There are options for every mood. According to Tripadvisor, the top restaurant in the city is Laurel Restaurant, a chic yet cozy upscale Italian spot inside Hotel Viata. For a more relaxed option, enjoy American-style fare and a lengthy wine list at Grove Wine Bar and Kitchen, which features a welcoming tree-lined patio.

Since this is Texas, you also have plenty of barbecue options available. At County Line On the Lake, guests can enjoy views of Lake Austin as they dig into brisket or ribs. Housed in a former lake lodge, "the old-time roadhouse atmosphere hits you right when you walk in," a visitor reviewed on Google Maps. For barbecue fans who don't mind driving a bit, West Lake Hills is only about 40 miles away from Lockhart, an overlooked foodie city called the "Texas BBQ Capital."

Situated in the Texas Hill Country, West Lake Hills is perfect for retirees who love to surround themselves with nature. One of the best areas nearby is the Barton Creek Greenbelt. Spanning an impressive 1,000 acres and containing more than 12 miles of trails, nature enthusiasts will fall in love with this lush area full of stunning limestone cliffs. At the bottom of the greenbelt is where you'll find the spring-fed Barton Springs Pool, a cherished year-round swimming spot housed within Zilker Metropolitan Park in Austin.

For more fun on the water, there's the underrated West Lake Beach. Located along Lake Austin, a reservoir on the Colorado River, this is technically a park instead of a beach, although there are two swimming areas to choose from. West Lake Hills residents have easy access to the swimming areas, which don't require a hike to reach, unlike many other swimming areas around Austin, making this a good choice for seniors looking to spend a bit of time in nature. 

If you're looking for a bit more activity, head further west to the 227-acre Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve. Featuring about 3 miles of trails for walking or hiking, this is a great place for birdwatching, with species such as northern cardinals and western scrub jays noted in the area, as well as golden-cheeked warblers, a rare and endangered species. West Lake Hills is also only 5 miles from Mount Bonnell, a scenic overlook and one of Austin's oldest tourist attractions.