South Tampa Neighborhood Spotlight: Davis Island

Are you searching for South Tampa homes for sale in a charming, picturesque neighborhood with plenty to do and see? Look no further than Davis Island! This South Tampa neighborhood is perfect for anyone seeking waterfront living in a family friendly community that offers scenic trails, charming coffee shops, restaurants, and boutiques to beautiful beaches, all while being close to Downtown Tampa and surrounding areas.

This post will give you a glimpse into some of the many reasons residents love to call Davis Island home. It will guide you through the area's best shopping and dining options and provide you with ideas for staying active if you decide to call this highly-desirable neighborhood home.

Davis Island is a hidden gem in Tampa Bay, offering breathtaking views and abundant outdoor activities. The neighborhood's upscale homes, marinas, and yacht club provide a glimpse into the luxurious life that awaits new residents. There is also plenty to keep you active, from biking and walking trails to kayaking in the bay.

Davis Island also is unique due to its luxury real estate market. It’s known for having record-breaking sales, such as when Derek Jeter’s mansion –– rented by Tom Brady –– sold for $22.5 million in 2021. In 2022, the most expensive home sold went for $15 million. The Derek Jeter sale has the potential for being topped in 2023, as a waterfront mansion was recently listed for an impressive $23.9 million.

However, what really sets Davis Island apart from other neighborhoods is its sense of community. Davis Islands' residents are known for being warm and welcoming, and they strive to foster an atmosphere where everyone feels at home.

Whether you want to explore the island's history or enjoy some fun in the sun, Davis Island has something for you. You can enjoy the sensational views along the Davis Island Trail, perfect for a leisurely bike ride or a scenic walk. Or, if you prefer water sports, Seaplane Basin Park provides the ideal spot for kayaking, fishing, and paddleboarding.

Residents can also take a dip at one of the many beaches on the island, including the dog beach at Severn Street and East Davis Boulevard. Marjorie Park Marina offers stunning waterfront views where children can keep themselves entertained for hours on the playground while adults enjoy a seat in the shade. Or, you can visit the Peter O. Knight Airport and sit and watch planes take off and land.

Exploring the natural beauty of South Tampa can be an enriching experience, and the Davis Island Trail is a perfect opportunity to do just that. The 1.5-mile trail is a must-visit attraction for anyone looking to enjoy scenic views of the waterfront and downtown Tampa. This popular trail is accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels, making it an ideal spot for walking, running, or biking. Along the way, visitors can take advantage of various amenities such as benches, picnic areas, and exercise stations. The trail also connects to local attractions such as the Marjorie Park Marina and the Tampa Riverwalk, providing you with even more opportunities to explore unique features of South Tampa's landscape.

Nestled on the southern tip of Davis Island is the charming and secluded Davis Islands Beach, a hidden gem that offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. This small beach boasts breathtaking views of Tampa Bay and downtown Tampa, making it an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, or gratifying recreational activities such as sand volleyball.

The beach also has rental services for kayaks and paddleboards, allowing you to explore the calm waters surrounding the island. With its serene ambiance and natural beauty, Davis Islands Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to unwind and soak up Florida’s perpetual sunshine.

Whether you are looking for an adventure on the water or simply want to take in panoramic views, Marjorie Park Marina is the perfect destination. The area offers visitors breathtaking views of Tampa Bay on the southern end of Davis Island.

Marjorie Park Marina is also a haven for water enthusiasts, boasting an extensive collection of watercraft, including sailboats and kayaks. With its proximity to the Davis Island Yacht Club and the Seaplane Basin, it is easy to see why Marjorie Park Marina is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Davis Island's designated dog park and beach provide distinctive and enjoyable experiences for pet owners and their furry companions. These areas offer ample space for dogs to run, play, and socialize. The park also features separate areas for small and large dogs, ensuring a safe environment for all pets.

The beach area is designated just for dogs. Owners can watch their four-legged friends splash around in the water and surf. The island’s pet-friendly amenities make it an ideal location for residents looking for a scenic place to bond with their pups.

The Davis Island Yacht Club is a premier sailing destination that provides members with a wide range of opportunities to enjoy Tampa Bay’s waters. The club features sailing programs catering to both youth and adults, sailing lessons, racing events, and social gatherings.

The club's marina has over 200 boat slips that accommodate boats up to 45 feet long, while the clubhouse features a bar and restaurant with gorgeous bay views. Membership is open to both residents and non-residents of Davis Island, making it an excellent option for anyone who loves sailing and wants to become part of a vibrant community.

Located in the heart of Davis Island, Roy Jenkins Pool is a beloved neighborhood landmark that attracts visitors from across the Tampa area. The 50-meter lap pool and children's splash zone provide ample space for swimmers of all ages to cool off during hot Florida summers.

Roy Jenkins Pool is a hub for aquatic activity and community engagement. The facility hosts swimming lessons, water aerobics classes, and regular swim meets and competitions. Whether you are looking to perfect your backstroke or simply soak up some sun on the large sun deck, Roy Jenkins Pool is your perfect spot to beat the heat.

Davis Island is a foodie's paradise, offering a wide variety of dining options for every taste and budget. From casual cafes to fine dining restaurants, there is something that is sure to fit your tastes in Davis Island. Many of the neighborhood's restaurants also feature outdoor seating with waterfront views, providing a picturesque dining experience.

When it comes to shopping, Davis Island offers a unique experience, with numerous boutique stores and artisanal food markets. The area also hosts farmers' markets and art walks, showcasing local businesses and talent.

Davis Island offers a diverse range of dining options to satisfy any craving. From casual cafes to upscale establishments, there's something to tantalize every taste bud. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood and waterfront views at the Island Grille and Raw Bar or sit and sip on exotic teas at TeBella Tea Company. For those seeking locally sourced ingredients and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, Cafe Dufrain is a local favorite.

Davis Island is a shopper's paradise, offering easy access to some of the best retail destinations Tampa has to offer. From clothing boutiques to home decor stores, you won’t have any problem finding the items and products you need.

Hyde Park Market is a must-visit destination if you are looking for fresh produce and artisanal goods. At the same time, if you want to freshen up your home with greenery, Plantology Floral Studio is the perfect place to find beautiful arrangements. The Paper Seahorse is another popular spot in Davis Island, offering stationery, calligraphy supplies, and workshops.

If you want to visit a premier mall jam-packed with incredible boutiques, retail chains, and popular designers, both the International Plaza and Bay Street and Hyde Park Village are just a short drive away from Davis Island.

One big perk to Davis Island is that it’s right in the heart of Tampa Bay, offering easy access to downtown Tampa and the city's many restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions. A few popular spots nearby include Hyde Park, Armature Works, Midtown, Ybor, and more. It's also close to some of Florida's best beaches, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

One of the most important decisions you’ll make when purchasing Davis Island real estate is finding the right agent to help guide you through the transaction. Experienced and knowledgeable agents such as Julia Fanning & Aleks Pavlova can ease any worries you may have by providing valuable insights into the local market and helping you find a home that meets your budget, style, and lifestyle. Not only can they take the reins during negotiations and help you navigate closing, but they can also offer advice on nearby amenities, attractions, and neighborhoods so you can make an informed and sound decision on where in Davis Island you’d like to set roots.

Looking to live in Davis Island? Start browsing homes in the area today!