There’s something about private islands that conjures up exotic fantasies. Everyone dreams of escaping to one, yet the reality is often different from the fantasy. Quite often, private island life is not as easy as it sounds. The island may be located in a politically unstable region. Or it may be so remote that security or lack of nearby medical facilities is a concern. Or infrastructure issues like electricity and water may often present a challenge. To be clear, it is rare to find a private island opportunity that flips all the switches necessary for a comfortable experience. And one of those rare opportunities has now come available.
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Meet Little Bokeelia Island, off the coast of Boca Grande on Florida’s Sun Coast. Just recently on the market, this pristine 100+ acre retreat features a fully furnished 6500 sq ft Mediterranean-style mansion with 4 bedrooms and 5 baths, including a self contained 3 bedroom guest wing. A nearby swimming pool is situated among lush tropical landscaping complete with a koi pond and waterfall. Winding golf cart trails meander around the island amid several Old Florida style outbuildings, including a caretaker’s home, a pool house, a museum and a guest cottage. Current owners refer to the structures as The Village, because of their use as a centralized gathering spot.
The museum is in honor of the island’s former owner, inventor Charles Burgess of Duracell battery fame. A friend and contemporary of Thomas Edison, the two frequently collaborated professionally, and Edison was a frequent guest, traveling from his nearby home in Ft. Myers to visit. Current owners have enjoyed Little Bokeelia for over 20 years as a seasonal retreat for their large extended family which includes 15 grandchildren who certainly must love holidays with the grandparents.
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Electricity is supplied by underwater cabling from the mainland and a backup generator system is in place in case of outages. Safe, potable water is not a concern, as the island has its own reverse osmosis water plant, capable of producing up to 40,000 gallons of water per day. Access to the island is available only by boat or helicopter, and there is a helipad on property in addition to multiple docks. Nearby Ft. Myers airport serves private jets of any size, up to and including jumbo jets, making travel to the island quick and convenient instead of a chore.
An added bonus is the possibility of future development on the island. Building rights have been granted in perpetuity for 29 waterfront lots, limiting the possibilities only to the new owner’s imagination. With 3 ½” miles of shoreline, private beaches, boat docks and unparalleled views and privacy, this rare gem can be had for a mere $29.5 million. Everything’s included except your suitcase.
