Paradise on steroids
LOUISE BOLGER | SUN
Jewfish Key, off Longboat Key, is only accessible by boat.
If getting away from it all sounds like just the right thing, but you don’t want to get too far away from it all, there’s an island in Manatee County that could be just what you’re looking for.
People who boat in and around Longboat Key and Anna Maria Island know Jewfish Key as a great spot to throw out an anchor and enjoy the afternoon, but most boaters have never stepped foot on the private island, which remains a bit of a mystery. Well the 38-acre island shrouded in Australian pines is less a mystery than just another one of Florida’s pieces of paradise.
Jewfish Key is in Sarasota Bay between Longboat Key and Anna Maria Island with the fishing village of Cortez to its north. Technically, it’s part of Longboat Key, but its resemblance to Longboat Key is hard to find. First of all, there is a 17-acre designated nature preserve as part of the residential island, providing privacy for those looking for the peace and quiet only nature can offer.
The island has 13 buildable lots, all of which are approximately one acre, carved out of the 38 acres and currently there are six homes on the island, which is only accessible by boat. The views are outstanding from almost anywhere on the island, particularly when facing west, residents are looking at Longboat Pass and the beautiful sunsets beyond. Marine life is beyond abundant in the shallow waters surrounding the island with dolphins, manatees and all species of fish. Diving ospreys are in abundance as are shore birds and owls drawn to the nature preserve.
A short five- or 10-minute boat ride will get you from the mainland to the island which has two boat docks for residents. There are public utilities available, and the one road which is actually a footpath down the middle of the island is called La Lenaire Drive.
Real estate values in such a unique place can be hard to determine, since the lifestyle is not for everyone. However, recently there was a house on the market for $1,570,000 and another one that as of this writing was listed at $2,100,000. In addition there is a buildable lot available for $1,495,000.
The homes are, of course, elevated with lots of decks to take advantage of the water views and wildlife. The homes are generally a good size with at least three bedrooms and two baths, some with private docks and fireplaces and plenty of glass doors and windows.
Many of the homes are also available to rent, but they come with a big price tag. Based on my research, monthly rentals range from $16,000 to $21,000 depending on the season. And with the direction the rental market is headed, these numbers will undoubtedly go up.
If you’ve ever dreamed of living on a tropical island, Jewfish Key could make that dream come true. Remote, but not too remote; private, but not desolate; endless views and the ability to commune with nature. It’s basically paradise on steroids.