Discover Southwest Florida. All it takes is one visit to Southwest Florida’s Gulf Coast and you’ll never want to leave. With a laid-back beach atmosphere, palm-trees galore and affordable real estate you’d be foolish to want to live anywhere but here. Unincorporated Greater Pine Island is made up of five communities (Bokeelia, Pine Island, St. James City, Pineland and Matlacha). Each community has their own unique “Old Florida” character, marinas, galleries, shops and casual seafood restaurants.
Even with Pine Island’s small town atmosphere, no stoplights and palm and mango farms, it’s the largest island in Florida. Per the 2000 census, Pine Island’s population is roughly 9,000. However, the population varies seasonally as the area is a haven for snowbirds. Pine Island is located just 45 minutes from Southwest Florida International Airport in Fort Myers. It sits near Sanibel and Captiva on the Gulf of Mexico, and is popular for its “country waterfront” atmosphere. Unlike your average sandy beach, Pine Island’s beaches are fringed with mangroves. Because legislation prohibits high-rise developments, Pine Island will remain a quaint, secluded area for years to come. Truly a tropical paradise! St. James City The most “developed” area of Pine Island is St. James City. And even though you’ll find half of Pine Island population here, St. James City offers a flip-flop wearing casual island environment year round. It’s a compromise between a peaceful waterfront and suburban America. Galt Island Located off the West Coast of Florida, Galt Island is a true island getaway. You will enjoy a lot of privacy with the estate-sized home sites, gated entries, deed restrictions, and private roads. Each property has docking capabilities and a breathtaking view. The rest of the island is conservation area where you can enjoy the island’s beauty and nature. If you want entertainment, the City of Palms is just a short distance away where you can find shopping, restaurants and nightclubs. Fort Myers With a population of roughly 48,000, and a newly revitalized downtown area, this is where the “action” is. Living in Fort Myers provides a beautiful climate all year round, with warm winters and even warmer summers. The city is just a short distance from the water, but surrounded with great shopping, restaurants, and schools to meet your families needs.
Matlacha
With a population of only 735, Matlacha is a prime destination for serenity on the water. Located on the east side of Pine Island, this Old Florida village is popular for great fishing and home to the Matlacha Bridge known as “The Fishingest Bridge in the World.” Here you’ll find art galleries, island boutiques and fresh from the Gulf seafood restaurants all within walking distance. If you’re looking for traditional Florida, with cozy cottages and a colorful atmosphere, Matlacha is your escape.
Bokeelia
On the north end of Pine Island, is tranquil Bokeelia. The history of this town spans from pirates to Spanish settlements. The breezy town of Bokeelia has an abundance of fruit farms and palm trees farms, giving it a tropical feel. Including an 18-hole golf course, fishing pier, and several marinas you will be sure to find peace in Bokeelia.
Sanibel
Lay back and relax on Sanibel Island. Stick your toes in soft white sand, swim in clear blue water or join in the fun of gathering more seashells beyond your wildest dreams.When you are finished relaxing, enjoy Sanibel’s restaurants, golfing and recreation, canoeing and theatrical productions.
Fort Myers Beach
Like the rest of South Florida, Ft. Myers Beach is known for its great fishing, entertainment, weather and beaches. Ft. Myers Beach has also been tagged as the safest beach in the world, because of its shallow water and low undertow. The seven-mile beach is a great place for families.
Cape Coral
Cape Coral is the largest city in Southwest Florida. With over 400 miles of navigable waterways, Cape Coral has more canals then anywhere in the world. It’s easy to stay involved in Cape Coral by joining one of the many community clubs. Never lacking in entertainment, the city holds annual activities such as Oktoberfest and is home to the Sun Splash Family Waterpark.