Pine Island (Lee County, Florida)
Pine Island is the largest island in Southwest Florida, located in Lee County. Situated west of Cape Coral and north of Sanibel Island, it's renowned for its fishing, boating, and relaxed, old Florida lifestyle. Unlike its more developed neighbors, Pine Island retains a rural character, largely due to the absence of high-rise buildings and extensive commercial development.
Geography: Pine Island encompasses approximately 17 miles in length and 2 miles in width. It's surrounded by Pine Island Sound, Matlacha Pass, and Charlotte Harbor. The island is relatively flat, with a subtropical climate characteristic of Southwest Florida.
Communities: The island is divided into several distinct communities, each with its own unique character:
- Matlacha: Technically a separate island connected to Pine Island by a bridge, Matlacha is known for its colorful art galleries, seafood restaurants, and fishing cottages.
- Pineland: Located on the western side of the island, Pineland is home to the Calusa Heritage Trail, an archaeological site showcasing the history of the Calusa Indians.
- Bokeelia: Situated at the northern end of Pine Island, Bokeelia offers stunning views of Charlotte Harbor and is a popular spot for fishing and boating.
- St. James City: Located at the southern tip of the island, St. James City is a residential area with a mix of waterfront homes, canals, and fishing charters.
Economy: The economy of Pine Island is primarily based on tourism, fishing, agriculture (particularly mango and tropical fruit cultivation), and local businesses catering to residents and visitors.
History: Pine Island has a rich history, dating back to the Calusa Indians, who inhabited the island for centuries. Evidence of their presence can still be found in shell mounds and archaeological sites. Later, the island was settled by farmers and fishermen.
Points of Interest: Popular attractions include:
- Calusa Heritage Trail
- Randell Research Center
- Fishing charters and boating excursions
- Numerous art galleries and studios in Matlacha
- Local restaurants specializing in fresh seafood
Hurricane Ian Impacts: In September 2022, Pine Island sustained significant damage from Hurricane Ian. The bridge connecting Pine Island to the mainland was severely damaged, initially isolating the island. Recovery efforts are ongoing.