Knight Island (the most northern island bordered to the north by Stump Pass), Don Pedro island (the "middle island), and Little Gasparilla island, the most southernly island, were originally three separate island, divided by passes. When the pass between Knight Island and Don Pedro, and the pass between Don Pedro and Little Gasparilla Island closed in (sometime in the 1960s) the islands became one, with more than seven miles of beach.
Palm Island Resort encompasses the northern two miles and is a private resort area, with golf cart or walking access only. Rum Bay Restaurant and a small resort shop are located at the resort.
The area of island you are staying on is known as Palm Island Estates and is approximately two and a half miles long, including Knight Island, and over the big bridge, Don Pedro Island. South of the road access, lies the Don Pedro Island State Park which is approximately 135 acres of natural, pristine land. You can access the state park by boat or a beach walk. There are bathroom facilities in the park area.
To the south of the State Park lies Little Gasparilla, an island accessible by private boat with approximately 300 homes, mostly part-time residents. Development there was started somewhere during the turn of the century. Some of the older "fish camps" still can be seen. Today, there are some exclusive homesites and two condominium communities.
Palm Island Estates is home to approximately 100 families who live here full time. There are approximately 225 existing residences, some used every weekend, others on a part time basis. Many owners rent their homes when they are not using them.
When Palm Island Estates was platted in the late 1950's, a bridge to the mainland was built. In the early 60's, the Intracoastal waterway was dredged and the bridge removed for good. There are approximately 750 platted lots in this area with 453 owners.
There are about thirty school aged children who live full time on the island. The parents "boat pool" them to school or they travel via ferry to the mainland to catch the bus at the landing.
There is a nice community spirit on the island. Hopefully you get the chance to meet a few of the natives and enjoy their company.
If you would like more information about the island, please give us a call. We live here and are always happy to share our little secret!
Tarpon Real Estate, Inc.
8725 Placida Road, Suite # 8
Placida, FL 33946
Office: (941) 697-7575
Fax: (941) 697-7422
Email: info@tarponrealty.com
