Ask local realtor Kevin Mackin what he loves about Palm Island and his answer is simple. “It’s a family-oriented destination with a true old Florida neighborhood feel,” he says.
“First-time visitors to the island are surprised this type of lifestyle still exists in the United States, and tell me they thought they’d have to go to the Caribbean to find a similar way of life.”
Located off Florida’s sun-splashed Gulf Coast, between Manasota Key and Gasparilla Island (better known as Boca Grande), charming Palm Island is approximately seven miles long.
Accessible only by boat – or daily car ferry – the barrier island features fine white-sand beaches, spectacular Southwest Florida sunsets and a host of activities from beachcombing to boating, fishing, diving and sailing.
“Even though the ferry ride is only about three minutes long, you feel like you’ve arrived at a unique destination,” says Mackin.
Cars are permitted, but many people move leisurely around the island in golf carts, and sand roads are in keeping with the tropical theme.
Palm Island (also known locally as Don Pedro Island) isn’t only for family vacations. According to Mackin, it’s a solid long-term real estate investment.
Architecture styles pay homage to Key West and Grand Cayman – Palm Island is zoned single-family residential and non-commercial – and homes are entertaining and a tropical island design style. The home is listed for $1,979,000.
Neighboring 456 S Gulf Blvd. is a Key West-style family beachfront residence with sweeping views limited in number in order to preserve the natural beauty of the island and the privacy of its residents.
Beachfront lots and homes start from $450,000 and $1,250,000 respectively; waterfront lots are priced from $150,000 and homes from $500,000.
Mackin and Ellen Baker, broker associate at The Waterside Group (a division of Michael Saunders & Co. based in Englewood, Fla.), are co-listing two Palm Island residences.
450 S Gulf Blvd. is a delightful beachfront home, set on an acre with private deeded beach access, four bedrooms, three baths, balconies for outdoor of the Gulf of Mexico, four bedrooms, four baths, an open and airy floor plan and spacious verandas. The listing price is $2,499,900.
For more information, contact Ellen Baker, The Waterside Group, at 941-268-4999 or visit thewatersidegroup.com; Kevin Mackin at 941-769-0198 or visit palmislandspecialist.com.
Image Credits: PHOTO COURTESY OF THE WATERSIDE GROUP.