Davis Islands Map

Description:

Description: This map shows where the island is located in Florida.

Davis Islands is a man-made archipelago located in Hillsborough County, Florida, United States. Situated in the city of Tampa, these islands were created in the 1920s as part of an ambitious land reclamation project led by developer D.P. Davis. The islands encompass approximately 701 acres (2.84 sq km) and are connected to mainland Tampa by a small causeway.

The development of Davis Islands began in 1924 when Davis purchased what was then known as "Little Grassy Key," a small, naturally occurring island in Hillsborough Bay. Using dredging techniques, Davis expanded this modest landmass into multiple islands designed in a Mediterranean Revival architectural style. The original plans called for three islands, though today the area is generally considered as two main islands. Construction of the islands was completed in 1926, though development of the residential and commercial areas continued for years afterward.

Davis Islands is primarily residential, featuring a mix of single-family homes, apartments, and condominiums. The neighborhood has a population of approximately 5,500 residents. The islands maintain a distinct character with tree-lined streets, Mediterranean and contemporary-style homes, and waterfront properties that offer views of Hillsborough Bay and downtown Tampa.

One of the most notable landmarks on Davis Islands is Tampa General Hospital, a Level I trauma center that serves as the primary teaching hospital for the University of South Florida College of Medicine. The hospital occupies a significant portion of the northern end of the islands. Another prominent feature is the Peter O. Knight Airport, a small public airport that handles primarily private and charter flights.

Recreational amenities on Davis Islands include the Davis Islands Yacht Club, founded in 1956, which hosts various sailing events and regattas throughout the year. The Davis Islands Dog Beach is a popular spot for residents to bring their pets, while Davis Islands Park offers tennis courts, a baseball field, and a playground. The islands also feature a small commercial district with restaurants, shops, and professional services centered around East Davis Boulevard.

Notable residents of Davis Islands have included professional athletes, particularly players from the Tampa Bay Lightning NHL team and Tampa Bay Buccaneers NFL team. Former MLB player Derek Jeter previously owned a waterfront mansion on the islands, which was nicknamed "St. Jetersburg" by locals.