St. James City, Florida

St. James City is a compact, unincorporated community on the southern half of southwestern Florida’s Pine Island, a spot popular with fishermen, artists, writers and musicians, including the late, great Jimmy Buffet.

Sometimes called a “drinking town with a fishing problem,” St. James City boasts a laid back, tropical vibe and is a closely knit place where neighbors know one another. The community has no beaches and is dotted with mangroves and pine forests.

As a result, commercial builders have not been terribly interested in the area, and much of it remains undeveloped, agricultural and rife with wildlife. Building height and density restrictions are in place and have helped keep much of the island in a very natural state.

Fishing charters cater to people in search of snook, redfish and speckled trout, while wildlife excursions look for dolphins, manatees and a variety of bird species.

The southern end of St. James City has single family homes, and Pine Island Cove, a 55+ manufactured home community, sits on the northern end. Nearly every residence is along a canal.

There are several marinas, a long bicycle path, a Winn Dixie, a Laundromat, a liquor store and banks but no golf courses. Fun seafood restaurants and bars with bands come alive at night. Shopping and services are on the mainland, which is accessible via just one road.