Hello From

Pine Island!

 

 

“Where Old Florida Lives On.”

Anna Maria Island

Pine Island

 A Barrier Island in Lee County, Florida

 

Pine Island, Florida is the largest island off Florida’s Gulf Coast, nestled in Lee County and surrounded by mangroves, aquatic preserves, and a way of life reminiscent of “Old Florida.” Unlike other barrier islands, Pine Island has no beachfront; instead, it boasts a rural, agricultural, and fishing-oriented character. The island is home to small communities such as Bokeelia, St. James City, Pineland, and the vibrant artist enclave of Matlacha—a colorful fishing village known for its quirky art galleries, seafood shacks, and Old Florida charm.

Pine Island was hit hard by Hurricane Ian in September 2022. The storm caused extensive flooding, infrastructure damage, and widespread destruction, particularly in Matlacha, where the storm surge and wind tore through homes, businesses, and roads. Access to the island was temporarily cut off after the Matlacha Pass Bridge was destroyed, but emergency repairs and community resilience helped reconnect the area within days. The hurricane underscored both the island’s vulnerability and the strength of its close-knit population.

Today, Pine Island remains a haven for fishing, kayaking, birdwatching, and embracing a slower, nature-connected lifestyle—continuing to rebuild while preserving its unique cultural and ecological heritage.

Location & Size

Pine Island is located in Southwest Floridas Gulf Coast.  Situated in Lee County, west of Cape Coral and east of Captiva and Cayo Costa.

The Island is approximately 18 miles long and 2 miles wide, making it the largest island on Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Founded

Pine Island has a rich history dating back over 2,000 years, with the Calusa people establishing one of the largest and oldest native settlements in Florida at Pineland. The Pineland Archeological District includes shell mounds and other structures from this period .

ANNA MARIA WEATHER

Population

The greater Pine Island area is home to around 9,000 residents, though the population varies seasonally.

Known For

  • Fishing Heritage: A longstanding commercial fishing community, with many residents still engaged in the industry today .

  • Agriculture: Known for tropical fruit cultivation, including lychees and mangos .

  • Natural Beauty: Surrounded by mangroves and aquatic preserves, offering a rural and tranquil environment .

Cost of living

  • Median Household Income: Approximately $61,111 in Pine Island Center .

  • Median Home Value: Around $287,300 in Pine Island Center .

  • Median Rent: Approximately $1,246 per month in Pine Island Center

Things to do

  • Fishing & Boating: Explore the surrounding waters rich in marine life.

  • Calusa Heritage Trail: Visit the Randell Research Center to learn about the island’s indigenous history.

  • Local Art & Culture: Discover galleries and shops in the nearby community of Matlacha.

  • Wildlife Viewing: Enjoy birdwatching and nature trails throughout the island’s preserves.

Fun Facts

  • No Traffic Lights: Maintains a small-town atmosphere with no traffic signals.

  • Unique Ecosystem: Home to diverse wildlife, including ospreys, herons, and roseate spoonbills .

  • Hurricane Resilience: The community has shown resilience in recovering from significant hurricanes, including Charley in 2004 and Ian in 2022 .

Nearby Cities

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