If you've ever dreamed of living in a community where the calm of waterfront views meets the comforts of suburban living, The Islands in Gilbert, Arizona, might just make your dreams come true. Tucked away between Elliot Road and Warner Road, with Cooper Road to the east, this unique master-planned neighborhood is more than just an address—it's a lifestyle. Here’s an honest, local’s look at what it’s really like to call The Islands home.
Community Vibe
The Islands is characterized by its peaceful, resort-like atmosphere, blending desert living with the tranquil aesthetics of over 80 acres of interconnected lakes and meticulously kept green spaces. Residents describe the vibe as “close-knit but not intrusive”—the kind of place where neighbors wave as they pass each other on the paths but still respect your privacy.
You’ll find plenty of social connection if you want it: The Islands Community Association hosts seasonal events like Fishing Derbies, Holiday Boat Parades, and the much-anticipated Fall Festival in Esplanade Park. The neighborhood’s three main subdivisions—Harbour, Catalina, and Key Harbor—tend to have their own mini-communities, but everyone seems to come together around the lakes, parks, or community center.
Types of Housing
One of The Islands’ biggest draws is its range of homes. You’ll find everything from single-level starter homes to spacious two-story waterfront estates with private docks. Most of the 2,000+ homes were built between the late 1980s and early 2000s, so you’ll see a mix of traditional Southwestern architecture—stucco exteriors, tile roofs, and big windows to take advantage of those sunny Arizona days.
- Non-waterfront homes are typically 1,500 to 2,400 square feet, with 3-4 bedrooms, tidy front yards, and quiet, winding cul-de-sacs.
- Waterfront properties on streets like S. Island Drive and W. Shore Drive are highly sought after, offering serene backyard vistas, private access to lake activities, and, in some cases, space for paddle boats or kayaks.
- Several well-maintained apartment communities and townhomes offer lower-maintenance living for singles, snowbirds, or young families.
HOA fees are reasonable for the area, especially considering the well-maintained common spaces and lakes.
Walkability and Accessibility
While The Islands isn’t officially designated as a “walkable” neighborhood by urban standards, it punches above its weight in terms of pleasant routes for strolling, jogging, or biking. Wide, tree-lined sidewalks wind through the community, with most streets leading to a park, lake, or picnic area.
- The multi-use paths circling the lakes are a big hit with morning joggers and families pushing strollers.
- Everyday conveniences like Bashas’ grocery store (at Warner and McQueen) and local coffee shops are just a 5-minute drive, with walkable errands possible depending on which pocket of The Islands you live in.
- Public transit is minimal, but biking to downtown Gilbert (about 2.5 miles north) or nearby parks feels manageable, especially by Arizona standards.
Schools and Family-Friendliness
The Islands is in the highly regarded Gilbert Public Schools District—a big draw for families. The nearest elementary school, Shumway Leadership Academy, is well-loved and walkable for many residents, while Mesquite Junior High and Gilbert High School are both just a short drive away.
- Numerous preschools and private schools cluster nearby for families with younger kids.
- The neighborhood is teeming with children—the pocket parks with jungle gyms, grassy fields, and basketball courts are a daily gathering spot for playdates and after-school energy burn.
Because so many houses back up to quiet cul-de-sacs or lakefronts, parents report feeling at ease letting kids play outside, knowing neighbors look out for each other in a friendly, low-key way.
Parks and Green Spaces
Greenery is one of the best features of The Islands. Even amid the Arizona desert, the community is brimming with shady spaces and lush landscaping.
- The Islands Community Park, at Islands Drive and Warner, is a central hub with play structures, ramadas for picnics, basketball courts, and open fields—perfect for soccer or throwing a frisbee.
- Esplanade Park features a covered playground and a picturesque spot for lakeside walks or just soaking up the view. It’s where most of the community events are held.
- The lakes themselves offer catch-and-release fishing, paddle boating, and calm scenery for sunsets walks.
Meticulously maintained paths make it easy to stay active or take the dog for a stroll without ever leaving the neighborhood.
Safety
Safety is one of the reasons families and retirees alike are drawn to The Islands. The community benefits from regular patrols by the Gilbert Police Department, and the active neighborhood watch helps ensure any concerns are quickly addressed. With its private-entrance feel, low traffic, and vigilant residents, crime rates are consistently low compared to other Valley neighborhoods.
Street lighting is ample, and the tranquil, residential layout means that traffic usually moves slow—even on main arteries like Islands Drive West and The Shores Drive.
Proximity to Downtown Gilbert and Major Employers
Living in The Islands means you’re less than 10 minutes from Downtown Gilbert, with its booming restaurant scene, weekend farmers’ markets, and entertainment options like the Hale Theatre and Heritage District. Your favorite spots—Joe’s Real BBQ or Postino East—are just a quick drive or easy Uber away.
Commuters enjoy easy access to major East Valley employers—Intel in Chandler, Gilbert Mercy Hospital, and Mesa tech campuses are all within about 20 minutes’ drive. Chandler Fashion Center for shopping, and the 60 and 202 freeways for getting around Greater Phoenix, are both nearby.
What Residents Love Most
Ask anyone who lives in The Islands what keeps them here, and you'll hear a few common themes:
- The peaceful, lakeside setting—perfect for morning coffee with a view.
- The family-forward, welcoming vibe, where kids play outside until sundown and neighbors become friends.
- The sense of pride and care that’s evident in every manicured lawn, planted flower bed, and sparkling lake.
Whether you’re an active retiree seeking scenery, a young family looking for stability and good schools, or anyone craving a little slice of Arizona tranquility, The Islands in Gilbert has a way of making newcomers feel right at home. It’s a unique blend of desert and water, suburban convenience, and tight-knit community—a place where life really is just a bit more peaceful by the lake.