Davis Islands offers a lifestyle surrounded by water, sunset views, and exclusive amenities.
Tampa’s skyline may shine, but just across the bridge lies something even more captivating: Davis Islands, where waterfront living is both an everyday reality and a luxury lifestyle. Unlike many luxury communities that feel removed from the city, Davis Islands brings the peaceful surroundings without sacrificing location.
Here’s what makes Davis Islands, Tampa, FL an ideal place to find a waterfront home for sale.
Table of Contents:
A COMMUNITY WITH CHARACTER AND PRESTIGE
Davis Islands is home to Tampa General Hospital, a nationally recognized medical center.
Davis Islands stands out in Tampa’s luxury market not just for its waterfront setting and top-tier amenities, but for its unique character. Developed in the 1920s by D.P. Davis, the island was built from dredged bay bottom and envisioned as a Mediterranean-inspired retreat. Today, historic landmarks like the Palace of Florence and Mirasol still stand, now joined by modern estates, luxury condos, and updated homes that appeal to today’s high-end buyers.
But it’s not just the architecture that sets Davis Islands apart. The island feels more like a private community than a typical neighborhood. This exclusive enclave offers tree-lined streets, no traffic lights, and a calm, upscale atmosphere just minutes from Downtown Tampa.
Location That Serves a Lifestyle
Davis Islands stands out thanks to its strategic and scenic position. The community is home to some of Tampa’s most important institutions, including Tampa General Hospital, one of Florida’s top medical centers. At the southern end, Peter O. Knight Airport offers direct access for business travelers and high-net-worth residents.
And when it comes to culture, commerce, and connectivity, Downtown Tampa is just across the bridge. The Straz Center, Amalie Arena, and the revitalized Channelside District are all within minutes of the waterfront community.
THE DAVIS ISLAND LIFESTYLE: WATERFRONT, WALKABLE, AND WELL-LOVED
Davis Islands offers a kind of luxury that’s shaped by the water and designed for a slower, more intentional pace of life. The neighborhood is known for its walkable layout, with everything from cafes and shops on East Davis Boulevard to parks and marinas within easy reach. Its 1.3-mile linear park, which is frequented by walkers and runners, connects various green spaces with water views.
Pet owners on Davis Islands enjoy the neighborhood’s dedicated dog beach, while active individuals take to the clay courts at the Sandra W. Freedman Tennis Complex.
Waterfront Living At Its Finest
Davis Islands is a neighborhood that’s built for boaters, aviators, and nature enthusiasts. The Davis Islands Yacht Club, a private member-owned club, adds to the appeal for anyone investing in a waterfront home for sale on Davis Islands, Tampa, FL. Fishing charters, casual boating, and meals on open-air patios are part of daily life here.
REAL ESTATE SPOTLIGHT: 96 MARTINIQUE AVENUE, TAMPA, FL
96 Martinique Avenue: a custom-built coastal masterpiece with commanding open bay views.
Located on one of the most desirable bayfront lots in Tampa Bay, 96 Martinique Avenue is an incredible waterfront home for sale on Davis Islands, Tampa, FL. This newly built coastal-modern estate offers over 9,442 square feet of living space (and more than 19,600 square feet total) on 110 feet of open bay frontage. Built to impress and designed to live in, this home offers comfort, privacy, and flexibility.
What Sets It Apart
This Davis Islands showpiece at 96 Martinique Avenue blends indoor-outdoor living with elevated coastal design, from airy vaulted ceilings and statement pendant lighting to layered textures, soft neutrals, and an open floor plan made for waterfront entertaining.
- ELEVATED DESIGN, INSIDE AND OUT
96 Martinique Avenue has a circular motor court that welcomes residents and guests into a two-story glass foyer. In this incredible property, the bay views immediately become your backdrop the moment you step inside. Other key features include a great room with full-wall pocketing doors, a chef’s kitchen with state-of-the-art appliances, and a full entertainment lounge.
- A MASTERFULLY DESIGNED PRIMARY SUITE
Upstairs, the home’s spacious primary suite was designed to serve as a private sanctuary, complete with its own covered terrace overlooking the bay, a spa-inspired bathroom, and a comfortable sitting area. Three additional ensuite guest rooms, including a junior primary suite with terrace access, round out the third floor of 96 Martinique Avenue.
- OUTDOOR FEATURES DESIGNED FOR WATERFRONT LUXURY
True to its Davis Islands address, 96 Martinique Avenue embraces the outdoor lifestyle that defines the community. The covered lanai features a custom outdoor kitchen, dining area, and a saltwater pool and spa that overlook the bay. The outdoor area also has an allowance for a custom dock and boat lift.
WHY BUYERS COMPETE IN DAVIS ISLANDS
With its historic charm, waterfront views, and a central location, it’s no wonder that waterfront homes for sale on Davis Islands, Tampa, FL are in demand. For Tampa General professionals, privacy-seeking athletes, and longtime residents alike, Davis Islands offers a lifestyle that’s rare to find and even harder to leave behind.
Rising Home Values and Limited Inventory
With a median home price of over $1.8 million and some properties reaching $12 million, Davis Islands ranks among the most exclusive neighborhoods in Tampa Bay. From historic Mediterranean homes built in the 1920s to sleek, modern estates and upscale townhomes, the island offers a variety of luxury styles.
A Magnet for Professionals and Athletes
The houses for sale on Davis Island, Tampa are especially attractive to healthcare professionals, with Tampa General Hospital located right on the island. For doctors and hospital executives, living minutes from work with direct access to the bay is a major advantage. The island also appeals to athletes and business leaders because of the convenience the nearby Peter O. Knight Airport offers.
Despite its island feel, Davis Islands is just two miles from Downtown Tampa via the Columbia Drive Bridge. Residents may easily reach the city’s business, legal, and cultural centers, as well as major highways and public transit options.
A Strong Sense of Community
Davis Islands thrives on its strong sense of community. The neighborhood is walkable, pet-friendly, and full of everyday moments that bring people together, from golf cart parades and local events to waterfront picnics. Buyers are also drawn to nearby top-rated schools like Plant High School, which is known for its strong academic and athletic programs.
MAKE THE BAY YOUR BACKYARD
Because of its location, lifestyle, prestige, and long-term value, the homes for sale on Davis Islands, Tampa don’t stay on the market for long. For buyers seeking more than just square footage, this community is the place to be.
At The Toni Everett Co., we specialize in helping clients find their perfect home in Tampa’s most exclusive neighborhoods. Our white-glove service and deep market expertise make your home-buying experience smooth and stress-free from start to finish.
Let’s start searching for your dream waterfront home for sale on Davis Islands, Tampa, FL! Get in touch with the best Davis Island, Tampa real estate team today at 813.839.5000 or send us a message.