Overview of Dog Island, Florida
Dog Island is a small barrier island located off the coast of Franklin County, Florida, approximately 3.5 miles west of Carrabelle in the Gulf of Mexico [1]. The island is about 4 miles long and 1 mile wide, encompassing around 2,000 acres. It is only accessible by boat and is known for its pristine beaches, coastal forests, and abundant wildlife.
The island has a rich history dating back thousands of years. Evidence shows it was inhabited by Native American tribes like the Apalachee people. In the 19th century, the island was used for timber harvesting before later becoming a hub for shipping and rum-running during Prohibition [2]. Today, Dog Island is mostly privately owned with around 30 homes occupied by residents seeking a remote coastal lifestyle.
With no bridges connecting it to the mainland, Dog Island has remained relatively undeveloped compared to other Gulf Coast barrier islands. Its landscapes feature rolling dunes, maritime forests, salt marshes, and a long stretch of beach along the Gulf of Mexico. The island is known for excellent fishing, bird watching opportunities, sea turtle nesting grounds, and shelling along its picturesque shoreline.
Why Buy a Home on Dog Island?
Dog Island offers a tranquil hideaway unlike any other place in Florida. Located just off the coast of Apalachicola in Franklin County, this pristine barrier island provides a peaceful retreat surrounded by natural beauty.
With nearly 7 miles of secluded, pet-friendly beaches, Dog Island gives you access to the Gulf of Mexico in an unspoiled environment. The island has no high-rise condos or chain retailers, just a laid-back, old Florida charm.
Homebuyers on Dog Island value privacy and serenity. The island has just 300 full-time residents, with strict ordinances limiting development. This preserves the island’s ecological diversity, including the endangered St. Andrew beach mice.
Outdoor enthusiasts relish kayaking, fishing, bird watching, and beachcombing. The clear, calm water and gentle sloping make Dog Island ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, and boating. Experience sunrise and sunset views in a pristine setting with few people around.
With vacation rentals limited, buying a home gives you exclusive access to this hidden gem. Escape the hustle and bustle of the mainland by investing in your own slice of paradise.
Dog Island Real Estate Market
The real estate market on Dog Island is characterized by high demand and limited inventory, which keeps home prices relatively high compared to mainland Florida. According to Zillow, the median home value on Dog Island is currently $863,000, over double the median home value in Florida of $354,000. However, prices can vary widely depending on the size, age, and location of the home.
There are very few homes available for sale at any given time on Dog Island. As an exclusive private island community, inventory is tightly held. This scarcity drives up prices on the rare occasions that homes do hit the market. Competition is fierce when desirable properties become available.
Property taxes on Dog Island are higher than average for Florida. The millage rate is around 17.5 mils, compared to the Florida average of about 15 mils. At the current median home value, annual property taxes on Dog Island would be around $15,100. This pays for the island’s municipal services and infrastructure.
According to local real estate agents, the Dog Island market has been strong over the past decade, with steady price appreciation around 3-5% per year on average. Though occasional downturns have occurred, the exclusivity of island living and limited supply has helped maintain demand. With no signs of significant new development, the constrained inventory is expected to keep market conditions favorable for sellers into the foreseeable future.
Sources:
https://www.landsearch.com/island/dog-island-franklin-co-fl
https://www.landsearch.com/properties/dog-island-franklin-co-fl
Types of Homes Available
Dog Island offers a variety of home types ranging from beachfront estates to modest inland cottages. The island’s 9 miles of coastline provides ample opportunities for luxurious beachfront living. These homes are situated directly on the Gulf of Mexico and offer unobstructed water views. Beachfront properties come at a premium price but provide the ultimate island lifestyle. They range from modern 3-4 bedroom homes to lavish compounds with multiple structures.
Inland homes on Dog Island offer a more affordable alternative while still providing easy access to the beaches. These single-family homes and cottages are nestled among the maritime forests and natural dunes. They vary in size and style, with 2-4 bedrooms being typical. Some inland properties back up to the various tidal creeks and waterways that bisect the island.
For lower maintenance living, Dog Island has a limited selection of condominiums and townhomes. These are clustered in small communities located on the bay side of the island. They offer shared amenities like pools, clubhouses, and docks. Condos come in 2-3 bedroom floor plans and provide a comfortable island residence without the hassles of a large property.
Whether looking for a sprawling beach estate, cozy inland cottage, or convenient condo, Dog Island has options to suit every lifestyle and budget.
Notable Dog Island Neighborhoods
Dog Island has several notable neighborhoods located across the island that offer their own unique appeal.
Carrabelle Beach is located on the southern tip of the island and features gorgeous sandy beaches facing the Gulf of Mexico. Many homes here have panoramic views of the water and easy access to the shoreline. According to Landsearch.com, Carrabelle Beach real estate is some of the most sought after on Dog Island.
Another popular area is Bounington Beach on the east side of the island along St. George Sound. This side tends to be a bit more sheltered from storms coming in off the Gulf. Homes here enjoy proximity to both the sound side beaches and marshlands. Some listings describe this area as serene and peaceful.
On the west side of Dog Island facing Apalachicola Bay, you’ll find the Windswept Beach neighborhood. This area saw some damage from Hurricane Michael in 2018, but has since rebounded according to a first-hand account. Homes here offer gorgeous sunset views over the bay.
Toward the north of the island, Sea Breeze is a centrally-located neighborhood near amenities with homes overlooking the inland waterway. It provides relatively easy access to both sides of the island.
No matter which side of Dog Island you choose, you’ll be treated to natural Gulf Coast beauty and charm.
Lifestyle on Dog Island
Dog Island offers a relaxed lifestyle focused on outdoor recreation and enjoying the natural beauty of the Gulf Coast region. With just 300 residents, the island has a peaceful, small-town feel while still providing amenities and activities for residents and visitors.
The island is known for its pristine beaches, fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching opportunities. There are over 6 miles of hiking and biking trails to explore (https://www.mensjournal.com/adventure/dogisland). For water activities, people can swim, snorkel, kayak, canoe, and fish along the coast. Shelling is also popular on the beaches. Dog Island is considered one of the best kayaking destinations in Florida.
While small, Dog Island does have a few restaurants, bars, and shops. The Blue Parrot Oceanfront Cafe is a popular casual dining spot right on the beach. Other places to eat include the Dog Island Fish Camp and Shark Bite Grill. There are also a few small shops selling gifts, clothes and fishing/beach supplies. The island has an ice cream shop and a small market as well.
For schools, children on Dog Island attend public schools in nearby Carrabelle on the mainland. Carrabelle High School serves grades 9-12 while Carrabelle School educates K-8 students. There are around 250 students enrolled in the Carrabelle public school system.
Access to Dog Island
Dog Island is located just off the coast of Carrabelle in Franklin County, Florida. There are a few different ways to access the island:
The most common way is via boat or ferry. A private ferry provides transportation to and from the island, with trips departing from Carrabelle several times a day. The 10-minute ferry ride provides scenic views of the surrounding waters.
For those bringing their own boat, there are boat ramps available in Carrabelle to launch from. From there, it is a short 3.5 mile trip to reach the shores of Dog Island.
The nearest airport is the Carrabelle-Thompson Airport, which is located around 5 miles from Carrabelle. From there, you can arrange transportation or rent a boat to reach the island.
While there are no bridges connecting directly to Dog Island, the 4 mile long John Gorrie Memorial Bridge connects Apalachicola on the mainland to St. George Island. From St. George Island, Dog Island is just a 1.5 mile boat ride away.
Utilities and Services
Being a remote island, Dog Island has limited utilities and services compared to the mainland. However, basic necessities are available for residents.
For electricity, Dog Island is connected to the main power grid and served by Tallahassee Utilities. Homes on the island have access to electrical hookups provided by the utility company.
In terms of water, the island relies on private wells for water supply. Homeowners must drill wells on their property to access groundwater. Some treatments like water softeners or purification systems may be needed depending on water quality.
For internet access, satellite internet from providers like HughesNet and Viasat is available on Dog Island since cable and DSL are not options. Speeds may be slower than mainland connections.
Finally, garbage collection is handled by the Dog Island Conservation District. Dumpsters are located around the island for residential trash disposal.
Permits and Regulations on Dog Island
There are certain permits and regulations to be aware of when looking to purchase or build a home on Dog Island.
Dog Island is governed by the Dog Island Conservation District, which oversees zoning regulations and building permits for the island. According to the Dog Island Conservation District, zoning regulations include single-family residential, wetlands conservation, and preservation areas.
Those looking to build or renovate must obtain proper permits from the Conservation District. Permits are required for activities like new construction, additions, remodeling, pools, docks, seawalls, and more. All structures must comply with Florida Building Code requirements as well.
In addition to the Conservation District, some areas of Dog Island fall under homeowners associations (HOAs) with their own covenants and restrictions. It’s important for buyers to review any HOA bylaws before purchasing property.
Overall, Dog Island maintains a relaxed, natural environment through thoughtful planning and zoning policies. Potential buyers should understand the permitting process and regulations prior to purchasing or developing real estate on the island.
Finding the Right Dog Island Agent
When looking for a real estate agent to help you buy or sell a home on Dog Island, it’s important to find someone with extensive experience in the local market. Unlike more populated areas, Dog Island has unique dynamics that require specialized knowledge. The right agent will have established relationships with local lenders, inspectors, and others involved in real estate transactions.
Seek out an agent who specifically focuses on representing Dog Island properties. They will understand the permitting regulations, ferry and boat access, utilities configuration, and other considerations that come into play. An agent who primarily works in other markets like Tallahassee or Carrabelle may not fully grasp the nuances of Dog Island real estate.
Strong communication skills and responsiveness are also key. Since Dog Island is only accessible by boat, you want an agent who can arrange showings and facilitate transactions smoothly. They should provide regular updates and be available to answer questions in a timely manner via phone, email, or text.
Local expertise, intimate market knowledge, and a commitment to customer service are what distinguish the top Dog Island agents. Taking the time to find one who meets these criteria will lead to a much better home buying or selling experience. Check reviews and talk to past clients to verify an agent’s reputation before formally engaging them.
For more information on experienced Dog Island real estate professionals, visit TERRI CANNON – Carrabelle, FL Real Estate Agent.