This Landmark Private Island in the Florida Keys Could Be Yours

By Meghan Overdeep
October 03, 2019
Credit: Blacktip Aerial
We can see why James Terra is struggling with his decision to sell his 15.8-acre piece of paradise in the Florida Keys. But, after 27 years of ownership, he ultimately decided to list his private island over the summer. Put simply, his family isn’t able to spend as much time there as they used to. It was a good investment, but it’s time to cash out.A thin, quarter-mile road surrounded on both sides by water leads to Terra’s Key, the iconic private island at Mile Marker 79.9 in Islamorada. The compound includes a single-family home with five bedrooms and four bathrooms in addition to a pool, cabana, tennis court, boat slip, and helicopter pad. Fortunately, none of the modest buildings obstruct the views of the mangroves, blue-green ocean, and the nearby Alligator Reef Lighthouse.“It’s an amazing property,” listing agent Patti Stanley told the Sun Sentinel. “When you drive by it, it’s intriguing. It’s one of those fantasies. It’s there but you never get to go there.”“When you are standing on the island, all you see are palm trees, water and the sky,” Stanley continued.Terra’s Key is currently listed by Coldwell Banker Schmitt for $17 million. Put on some sunscreen and join us for a tour, won’t you?
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79775 Overseas Highway, Upper Matecumbe Key, Islamorada, Florida

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The thin road that connects the gated island to the highway was built in the 1950s.

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Rich History

Credit: Blacktip Aerial

A naval depot called Fort Paulding was established on the island during the Seminole War of 1838. Though it’s currently known as Terra’s Key, it’s also been call Boys Key, Tea Table, and Umbrella Cay throughout the years.

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Blue-and-White Paradise

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A blue-and-white color scheme helps the man-made structures blend into the landscape.

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Celebrity Digs

Credit: Brad Jinks

The 3,104-square-foot residence once belonged to Sir Bernard Ashley, widower of designer Laura Ashley.

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Incredible Views

Credit: Blacktip Aerial

There’s nothing to see but ocean and palm trees here.

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Island Life

Credit: Blacktip Aerial

When you’ve had enough of the Atlantic, why not take a dip in the tranquil inground pool?

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Quintessential Key West

Credit: Coldwell Banker Schmitt

We’re pretty sure this is what dreams are made of.

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By Meghan Overdeep