Island time! And boy, this sure is some island! A neat tidbit of history is that Thomas Edison planted the banyan trees on the property! This is known as Burgess Island, and it is also called Little Bokeelia Island. The house was built in 1928. It is located on 104 acres in Bokellia, Florida. It was originally built by Charles Frederick Burgess, founder of the Burgess Battery Company. The property consists of a main house, guest cottages, manager’s house, nine hole golf course, pool and a tennis court. Six bedrooms, thirteen bathrooms and 11,371 square feet. $89,000,000
Contact Michael McCumber with Waterfront Realty Group
From the Zillow listing:
Burgess Island is one of Florida’s most significant private island estates, conveniently positioned in Pine Island Sound between Sarasota and Naples. Spanning approximately 104 acres with extensive shoreline and unmatched privacy, the property presents an extraordinary opportunity for a singular private family compound, a corporate retreat, or an exclusive development, with its 29 developable lots. Centered around an updated 1920s Mizner-style residence, the island is complemented by four charming guest cottages, a clubhouse and pool, and a dedicated property manager’s cottage. There are a total of 11 bedrooms, 10 full and 3 half bathrooms across the island. Lifestyle amenities are equally compelling, featuring a private 9-hole golf course, a pickleball, tennis, and basketball sport court, along with four separate docks providing convenient water access. A helipad enhances accessibility, allowing seamless travel to and from the mainland. The level of infrastructure is rarely found in island offerings of this scale, including mainland power service, four onsite generators, and a reverse osmosis water system – providing both comfort and self-sufficiency. The property’s heritage is as remarkable as its physical attributes. Originally acquired in 1924 by renowned inventor and electrochemist Charles Frederick Burgess – a pioneer in dry-cell battery technology – the island has long been a destination for innovation and distinguished company. Thomas Edison himself visited and planted banyan trees that endure today as living landmarks of this legacy. Comprehensive amenities, flexible access, a convenient yet private location, and a storied past converge to make Burgess Island not merely a residence, but a rare and irreplaceable asset. Ideally positioned for the Southwest Florida lifestyle, the island offers immediate access to world-class tarpon fishing, exceptional boating, and kayaking through pristine waters, while remaining just moments from the historic Gasparilla Inn and championship golf. From your dock, cruise to Cabbage Key for a relaxed waterfront lunch or continue on to Boca Grande for an evening of dining and coastal charm—where nearby islands and waterways naturally extend the experience beyond the property. Located ~6 mi. to Gasparilla Inn & Golf Club, ~2 mi. Useppa Island, ~1 mi. to Four Winds Marina, ~5.5 mi. to Boca Grande Marina (Miller’s), ~11 mi. to Coral Creek Airport & Golf Club, ~19 mi. to Punta Gorda Airport (PGD), ~28 mi. to RSW, and ~45 mi. to Naples Airport (APF). The island is known as Little Bokeelia Island, Burgess Island, and Pentecost Island.
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