Florida’s Best 9 Islands to Call Home

Looking for an island getaway? You don’t have to go far to find paradise in Florida. Some of the country’s best island towns are in the tropical waters surrounding the Sunshine State. From Key West to Amelia Island, Florida’s island towns offer everything you could want for your day-to-day needs while living in a vacation destination. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to one of these island towns for your next home.

Key West

Nestled at the southernmost tip of Florida, Key West is a tropical oasis unlike any other. This urbanized island has world-famous attractions like Duval Street, the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, and the Southernmost Point in the continental US. Visitors come for the tropical vibes, lively nightlife scene, lobster season, and the famous Fantasy Fest, an annual ten-day street party for mature audiences. The proximity to Dry Tortugas National Park, with its untouched beaches and Fort Jefferson, is another iconic spot near Key West.

Key West is about four miles long and two miles wide. It’s one of the few places in the US you can snorkel coral reefs. Watersports are popular all over the island, as locals and tourists come for deep sea and shallow water fishing, sailing, and every other kind of water activity you can dream up. Some residents even live year-round on their boats in the island’s marinas.

As far as infrastructure, Key West is the seat of Monroe County. The island has schools, government offices, healthcare, and its own airport. However, it is a low-lying island, and its position in the Florida Straits makes it vulnerable to flooding from passing tropical storms. Locals have to be prepared for flooding and to be cut off from the mainland for weeks. Mopeds are a common way for locals to get around the island.

You can reach Key West by plane, boat, or a drive down US Highway 1, also known as the Overseas Highway, which includes the famous Seven Mile Bridge. Around 26,000 people call Key West home.

If you opt to live in Key West, you’ll have to be content navigating around tourist crowds. You can find quiet, residential enclaves away from the lively Duval Street and cruise ship port. The median home price in September 2022 was $1 million.

Islamorada

Moving north on the Overseas Highway, Islamorada is famous for its sport fishing, as it’s located in the heart of the Florida Keys’ Sportfishing Capital. Tarpon, bonefish, and permit are some of the most popular catches.

Islamorada is technically made up of six different islands: Plantation Key, Windley Key, Upper Matecumbe Key, Lower Matecumbe Key, Lignumvitae Key, and Indian Key. Much of the islands and surrounding waters are protected lands and parks. With its oceanfront properties and tropical breezes, it’s impossible to resist spending time outside. And with its laid-back lifestyle, you’ll never feel rushed or stressed while you’re here.

Islamorada is about an hour’s drive from Miami. The attractions include the Theater of the Sea, an educational marine park with dolphin encounters, sea lion shows, and snorkeling. The Islamorada Beer Company is one of the state’s most popular craft breweries. The shopping district on Upper Matecumbe has an upscale, small-town vibe, as it once banned all chain stores from the island. The boutiques and art galleries cater to the tourists who come for the nearby luxury resorts and fishing charters.

Around 6,000 people live in Islamorada. You’ll find a mix of accommodations on the island, from upscale resorts to camping sites surrounded by palm trees. Millionaire’s Row is located on Plantation Island, with custom-built oceanfront estates. The multi-island nature gives you bountiful waterfront living options but raises the median list price to $1.4M as of September 2022.

Key Largo

Just an hour’s drive from Miami, Key Largo is a laid-back island town with a relaxed vibe. It’s the first stop on the Overseas Highway and the longest island in the Florida Keys, at 33 miles. Even though it’s the largest, it’s not the most populated island in the Keys.

Abundant snorkeling, diving, or fishing awaits in the waters off Key Largo. Offshore is the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the first underwater park in the United States. Its coral reefs shelter a variety of marine life which you can view from glass-bottom boat tours, kayaking, and snorkeling. On land, you can explore the park’s hiking trails and picnic areas. Visitors also come to scuba dive the wreck of the African Queen.

Key Largo has 10,000 residents outside the park, so you’ll find restaurants, schools, medical buildings, and shopping centers. The locals like how the spread-out island provides pockets of tourism-free, quiet island living.

You will find an array of accommodations, from upscale condos and beachfront cottages to single-family houses and multi-million dollar mansions. The median September 2022 list price was $1.1 million.

Sanibel Island and Captiva Island

Sanibel Island and Captiva Island are two small island towns located off the southwest coast of Florida. Before Hurricane Ian made landfall nearby in 2022, these islands were renowned for their beautiful white-sand beaches and their abundance of shells. In fact, Sanibel Island has been ranked as one of the top shelling beaches in the world.

Sanibel is the first island accessible over the Sanibel Causeway from Fort Myers. Captiva sits at its northern corner. Together, they offer locals 15 miles of beach and 25 miles of bike paths on the Gulf Coast.

Sanibel is also home to JN “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, one of the largest mangrove ecosystems in the country.

Sanibel Island has drawn people for decades as a perfect place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The islands are famous for their slow pace and laid-back lifestyle, with golf carts heading down the road and friendly waves from locals. There are no high-rise buildings or traffic lights on Sanibel. As a turtle nesting habitat, it also has low lighting during nesting season for starry skies.

Sanibel Island and Captiva Island are beloved by locals and tourists, so while rebuilding takes time, expect Sanibel to rebound. Sanibel is accessible by bridge from Fort Myers, now undergoing reconstruction after Ian’s storm surge broke it in several spots. Captiva Island connects to Sanibel over the Blind Pass bridge. Around 6,000 people lived on Captiva Island pre-Hurricane. The median listing price before the hurricane hovered around $1.3 million.

Siesta Key

Siesta Key is a small island off Sarasota on Florida’s Gulf Coast. The island’s claim to fame is its world-famous white sand beaches, which are made of 99% pure quartz crystal. The unique sand structure is why Dr. Beach rated Siesta Beach the Best Beach in the US twice! The sand stays cool even in hot weather, making it a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.

The restaurants along Ocean Drive are popular with locals, like the Siesta Key Oyster Bar and Old Salty Dog. Events are held throughout the year, with the Siesta Key International Sand Sculptor competition bringing one of its largest draws. There’s an eclectic vibe here. Experience the weekly, free Siesta Drum Circle happening on the beach every Sunday night, or join in the Valentine’s Day Sunset Renewal of Vows.

Siesta Key is accessible by two bridges from Sarasota. Around 5,000 people live on the island, which connects to the mainland over two bridges. There’s a general store, restaurants, and some shopping, but the island is primarily residential.

Architectural styles vary from palatial oceanfront estates with private beachfront access on the southern end to bayside condominiums. The September 2022 list price was $1.2 million.

Anna Maria Island

Continuing north on Florida’s Gulf Coast, arrive at Anna Maria Island, an island town located off Manatee County. The seven-mile-long island is known for its broad, beautiful beaches, which are popular for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Three towns are on the island: Bradenton Beach, Holmes Beach, and Anna Maria.

The Anna Maria Historic District is a popular spot for shopping and dining, as is Bradenton Beach’s Bridge Walk. The island is also home to the Anna Maria Island Art League, which offers classes and workshops in various mediums.

Locals of this island oasis love the laid-back atmosphere, the historic coastal Florida architecture, and the lack of high-rise condos. The speed limit is 35 miles per hour, encouraging coastal sunset cruises. The proximity to the Tampa Bay area and cities like Sarasota, Bradenton, and Cape Coral.

Anna Maria Island is accessible by two bridges from Bradenton and one from Longboat Key. Around 8,500 people live on the island, which connects to the mainland over two bridges. You’ll find many historic coastal Florida homes, island townhomes, and some newer-built properties. The median list price in September 2022 for Anna Maria was $3.3 million. Bradenton Beach was the least expensive island community at a median of $1.5 million.

Saint George Island

Jumping far north to the Florida Panhandle, Saint George Island awaits off the coast of Apalachicola in Franklin County. With just 1,000 residents, 22 miles long and one mile wide, there’s ample room to spread out. If you want an uncrowded lifestyle in a pristine beach, this is it.

Its nine miles of sandy beach have prime shelling, shore fishing, and windsurfing conditions. The beaches often rank among the best in Florida because of their pristine condition and are what attract Florida locals tired of crowded beaches.

Several state parks preserve the low-density environment on Saint George Island, including Saint George Island State Park, which offer nature trails and is home to a variety of endemic coastal plant and animal species. The island is also home to the Saint George Island Lighthouse, which was built in 1833 and is one of the oldest lighthouses in Florida.

Living here, you can ditch the car and get around by bicycle. The island’s infrastructure is mainly geared around tourism, so you have some restaurants and stores to browse.

The island is accessible by car over the Saint George Island Bridge or by boat. The island has many vacation rental properties, particularly townhome-style row houses, but you can find single-family residences for sale. The median list price in September 2022 was $1.4 million.

Amelia Island/Fernandina Beach

Now let’s jump across Florida to the Atlantic Coast. Part of the Sea Islands Chain, Amelia Island is off the northeast coast of Florida and is accessible by a bridge at Fernandina Beach via Highway 200 or the south end over Highway A1A. It has 13 miles of pristine beaches along its length. Its colorful history includes claims by French, Spanish, and British colonial forces.

Modern Amelia Island is a popular vacation destination known for its luxury resorts and blue waters. Fort Clinch State Park, Amelia Island Plantation, and its several golf courses are prominent visitor draws. Amelia Island is known for its annual Jazz Fest and Pirate Week celebration.

The Amelia Island Lighthouse is the oldest structure on the island, but there are plenty of other places worth checking out, too, like the Palace Saloon – Florida’s oldest bar.

Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island has distinct Victorian-era architecture, as it was a winter resort and seaport for wealthy northerners. Its quaint downtown area has unique shops, ice cream stores, and cafes. Locals can access a Publix supermarket, Walmart, hospital, and other infrastructure without leaving the island.

Around 36,000 people live on Amelia Island. Jacksonville is the closest nearby city, at around 30 miles away. Real estate options include condominiums up to custom oceanfront estates. The median list price for a home on the island was $631,100 in September 2022.

Miami Beach

On the southern end of the Atlantic coast, Miami Beach is a world-famous island town located on a barrier island off the coast of Miami in southeastern Florida. The island itself doesn’t have a name, but it has several cities spread across its nine-mile length. This is the place for you if you’re looking for a highly urbanized island lifestyle.

The island is known for its balmy weather, white sand beaches, and luxury resorts. The vibrant nightlife scene is decades in the making, with numerous clubs, resorts, and bars lining historic Ocean Drive.

South Beach is the most popular spot on Miami Beach. It’s known for its Art Deco architecture, trendy shops, and restaurants. Residents can be self-sustaining, with grocery stores, schools, and medical centers on the island.

Other towns on Miami Beach include Surfside, Bal Harbour, Bayshore, and North Beach. Each has a different character, from the laidback residential enclaves of North Beach to the gated, luxury lifestyle at Bal Harbour.

Around 92,000 people live in Miami Beach. The island is accessible by four bridges spanning the Intracoastal, starting with the MacArthur Causeway from downtown to the Broad Causeway connecting North Miami. You’ll find a mix of homes on the island, but high-rise condos dominate. Many have spectacular views of the Miami skyline and the Atlantic Ocean. The median list price in September 2022 for the City of Miami Beach was $599,000, while Bal Harbour topped the island at $2M.

Frequently Asked Questions About Florida Islands

What island in Florida is only accessible by boat?

Cayo Costa is a barrier island off the southwest coast of Florida that is only accessible by boat. This pristine island is home to the Cayo Costa State Park, which spans approximately 2,506 acres and features nine miles of undeveloped coastline. Visitors can reach Cayo Costa by private boats, water taxis, or ferry services from nearby Pine Island, Gasparilla Island, Boca Grande, and Captiva Island.

Cayo Costa is a haven for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The island provides opportunities for shelling, swimming, fishing, and hiking through its tranquil trails. It is also a popular spot for camping, with designated camping areas that allow visitors to experience the island’s natural beauty up close.

The lack of roads and commercial development ensures a serene and peaceful environment, making Cayo Costa a unique destination for those seeking a more secluded and natural Florida experience.

Can non-residents go to Sanibel Island?

Non-residents can visit Sanibel Island. In fact, this quaint destination is praised by tourists from around the world, who often choose it as their vacation spot. No restrictions prevent non-residents from enjoying its beaches, nature reserves, and other attractions.

The Florida island is accessible via the Sanibel Causeway, which connects it to the mainland. Note that there may be tolls when using the causeway. If you ever travel to Sanibel Island, be aware of local regulations and guidelines, especially those related to the local conservation efforts.

What Florida island is 2 hours from Miami?

Here are some Florida islands located approximately two hours from Miami, along with their distances:
Key Largo
Distance: Approximately 63 miles
Travel Time: About 1 hour and 15 minutes
Marco Island
Distance: Approximately 105 miles
Travel Time: About 2 hours
Jupiter Island
Distance: Approximately 100 miles
Travel Time: About 2 hours
Peanut Island
Distance: Approximately 90 miles
Travel Time: About 1 hour and 40 minutes
Palm Beach
Distance: Approximately 71 miles
Travel Time: About 1 hour and 10 minutes

Is Marco Island a good place to live?

Marco Island is considered one of the best islands to call home in Florida. It offers a dreamy blend of luxury and laid-back coastal vibes. Nestled in Southwest Florida’s Ten Thousand Islands, Marco Island is known for its stunning beaches, delicious restaurants, and outdoor activities like boating, fishing, and golfing.

But this welcoming community is not only a vacation destination; it also has excellent schools and a safe, friendly environment, making it ideal for families and retirees. Whether you’re looking for a waterfront single-family or a cozy condo for investment, there’s something for everyone.

Is Palm Beach a Florida island?

Palm Beach, a city in Palm Beach County, is not technically an island but is often referred to as one due to its geographical features. It is a barrier island located on Florida’s Atlantic coast, separated from the mainland by the Intracoastal Waterway.

This narrow strip of land is approximately 14 miles long and varies in width. Palm Beach is known for its luxurious estates, upscale shopping, and beautiful beaches. While it’s surrounded by water on three sides, it is connected to the mainland by several bridges, making it easily accessible.

Live on a Florida Island

Florida’s island towns offer a unique and paradise-like setting that is perfect for a laid-back lifestyle. With their unspoiled beaches, lush vegetation, and abundance of outdoor activities, these beach towns are ideal for those who love the sun and the turquoise water. From Key West to Amelia Island, there is an island town that is perfect for everyone. Find your ideal getaway coastal home or live in a thriving city surrounded by tropical, crystal-clear water.