Justin Rambo

Dalton Wade Real Estate Agent

Davis Islands

Davis Islands is one of Tampa’s most desirable communities, offering a unique blend of island charm and city convenience. Just minutes from downtown Tampa, this waterfront neighborhood is known for its stunning views of Tampa Bay, historic Mediterranean-style homes, and modern luxury estates. Designed in the 1920s as a planned residential community, Davis Islands has grown into a vibrant, close-knit area with walkable streets, no traffic lights, and a relaxed coastal feel.

Residents enjoy a lifestyle centered around the water, with easy access to marinas, sailing, and waterfront parks, while also being steps away from restaurants, shops, and Tampa General Hospital. The neighborhood’s tree-lined streets, golf-cart-friendly roads, and active community events make it one of the most charming places to live in the entire Tampa Bay area.

Davis Islands

Davis island

Neighborhood

One cohesive neighborhood made up of two connected islands. Unlike sprawling suburban areas, Davis Islands is its own distinct community but within it you will find a variety of home styles and micro environments that give the island its unique charm.

Within Davis Islands, the variation comes from home type and location rather than separate named communities. 
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Historic Mediterranean Homes

When Davis Islands was first developed in the 1920s, many of the original homes were built in Mediterranean Revival style. These residences feature stucco walls, terracotta roofs, arched entryways, and ornate detailing that reflect the vision of early Tampa developers. Some of these homes are preserved landmarks today, serving as a window into the island’s past.

Waterfront Estates

The outer edges of the island are lined with stunning waterfront properties. These homes range from classic estates with private docks to modern mega mansions with panoramic views of Tampa Bay. Many feature resort style amenities like infinity pools, boathouses, and outdoor kitchens that make the most of the island’s coastal setting.

Modern Luxury

As older cottages have given way to redevelopment, sleek contemporary homes have become more common. These new builds showcase expansive glass walls, open concept layouts, rooftop terraces, and cutting edge smart home features. They stand as a contrast to the original historic charm, yet blend seamlessly into the island lifestyle.

Cottages and Bungalows

Scattered among the grand estates are charming mid century bungalows and cottages. These smaller homes offer character, cozy layouts, and often lush tropical landscaping. Many have been renovated to blend vintage style with modern comfort, giving them a distinctive island charm.

Famous Homes and Residents

Davis Islands has welcomed championship names and memorable moments. Explore the most talked about residents and stories tied to the island.

Derek Jeter

The baseball icon built one of the largest private residences in Tampa Bay on Davis Islands. Known locally as St Jetersburg, the thirty thousand square foot waterfront estate featured a theater, gym, wine room, guest suites, and multiple docks with sweeping bay views.

Tom Brady and Gisele Bündchen

When Tom Brady joined the Buccaneers he and Gisele rented Derek Jeters estate on Davis Islands. Their time on the island drew national attention and coincided with a Super Bowl win that put even more spotlight on the neighborhood.

Vinny Lecavalier

The longtime Tampa Bay Lightning captain owned a home on Davis Islands and helped cement the islands reputation as the address of choice for hockey stars.

Andrei Vasilevskiy

The Lightning goaltender is among the high profile athletes who have lived on Davis Islands, valuing the short commute to the arena and the privacy of an island setting.

Ryan Howard

The former Philadelphia Phillies slugger purchased a luxury property on Davis Islands, drawn to its waterfront lifestyle and proximity to downtown.

Teams and Executives

Over the years multiple Buccaneers and Lightning players and team figures have chosen Davis Islands for its privacy water access and easy connection to the citys sports venues.

The D P Davis Mystery

Davis Islands began as the vision of developer D P Davis during the nineteen twenties Florida land boom. After transforming mudflats into a Mediterranean inspired island community he vanished at sea in nineteen twenty six. His disappearance remains one of Tampas most enduring stories.

Championship Boat Parades

When Tampa teams celebrated title wins the trophy parades traveled the bay by boat with scenes along the water near Davis Islands. Residents watched from docks and shoreline parks turning the islands waterfront into a front row celebration.

Things to do on davis island

Things to Do & Amenities

    Davis Islands is filled with activities that take advantage of its waterfront setting, village feel, and proximity to downtown Tampa.


    Davis Islands Park and Sea Plane Basin Park offer open lawns, ball fields, playgrounds, and sweeping skyline views, making them favorite spots for families and outdoor gatherings.

    The Davis Islands Dog Beach is one of Tampa’s most popular pet-friendly destinations, where dogs can run off-leash, swim, and play along the bay.

    The Sandra W. Freedman Tennis Complex and Roy Jenkins Pool provide opportunities for recreation and fitness, from tennis leagues and lessons to lap swimming and family swim time.

    The Davis Islands Trail runs more than a mile along the waterfront and is perfect for jogging, cycling, or a sunset stroll with views of the city and the bay.

    With marinas, yacht clubs, and easy access to the water, boating, paddleboarding, sailing, and fishing are everyday activities for island residents.

    East Davis Boulevard serves as the community’s hub, lined with cafés, local restaurants, and small shops, creating a walkable village atmosphere in the heart of Tampa Bay.
    East davis boulevard

    Shopping & Dining

      East Davis Boulevard is the heart of the island and serves as its main commercial strip. Here you’ll find a collection of local cafés, casual restaurants, and small shops that give the neighborhood its walkable, village-like feel.


      Residents can grab morning coffee, enjoy pizza or sushi, or meet friends at a pub, all without leaving the island.

      For more variety, Davis Islands is just minutes from downtown Tampa and Hyde Park Village, where upscale boutiques, gourmet dining, and entertainment venues expand the options even further.

      From quick bites to fine dining, the area’s mix of neighborhood charm and nearby city hotspots ensures residents never run out of choices.
      Berkeley preparatory school

      Schools & Education

        Davis Islands is served by some of the most respected schools in the Tampa area, making it an attractive choice for families.


        Public Schools
        Students living on Davis Islands are zoned to top-rated schools in Hillsborough County. The area is served by Gorrie Elementary School, Wilson Middle School, and the highly regarded Plant High School. Plant consistently ranks among the best public high schools in Florida, known for its strong academics, athletic programs, and college readiness.

        Private and Charter Options
        Families also have access to a number of nearby private and charter schools. Institutions such as Academy of the Holy Names, Tampa Preparatory School, and Jesuit High School are all within a short drive, offering rigorous academics, extracurricular opportunities, and faith-based education.

        Higher Education Access
        Davis Islands’ central location places it close to the University of Tampa and the University of South Florida, giving residents quick access to higher education, continuing education, and cultural events hosted on campus.

        With strong public school zoning, prestigious private school options, and universities just minutes away, Davis Islands offers outstanding educational opportunities for families at every stage.

        Davis Islands l Real Estate Market

        Median home prices on Davis Islands range roughly from $1.0M to $1.6M in 2026 based on recent sold data, with active listing prices often significantly higher depending on waterfront positioning and new construction. While the market has normalized from peak highs, values remain strong due to limited inventory and consistent demand for luxury coastal living just minutes from Downtown Tampa.

        Buyers will find a mix of historic Mediterranean architecture, fully renovated modern homes, new construction waterfront estates, and smaller cottages or townhomes along established tree lined streets.

        Entry level opportunities typically begin in the $700,000s for smaller homes or townhomes. Waterfront and custom bayfront estates regularly command $3M to $10M+, depending on lot size, dock access, elevation, and skyline views.

        Because of the price point and luxury positioning, homes average around 100+ days on market, with higher end properties taking longer depending on pricing strategy and condition.

        Davis Islands continues to attract executives, professional athletes, medical professionals tied to Tampa General Hospital, and families seeking privacy with walkability to dining, parks, marinas, and Downtown Tampa. Long term desirability remains strong due to land scarcity and waterfront supply constraints.
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