Legend has it that the French pirate John Levique brought his loot to Treasure Island in the mid-19th Century, only to lose it when the Great Gale hurricane split the north island in two, forming a waterway called John's Pass where the treasure now lies buried -- or so they say.
Treasure hunters keep descending on this paradisaical town to this day, only nowadays they are mostly attracted by the home rentals that come with fantastic weather and three miles of white sandy beaches
Legend has it that the French pirate John Levique brought his loot to Treasure Island in the mid-19th Century, only to lose it when the Great Gale hurricane split the north island in two, forming a waterway called John's Pass where the treasure now lies buried -- or so they say.
Treasure hunters keep descending on this paradisaical town to this day, only nowadays they are mostly attracted by the home rentals that come with fantastic weather and three miles of white sandy beaches. Treasure Island might have the size and atmosphere of a small town, but it is situated within Tampa Bay, which is one of the largest metropolitan areas in the country, so you can easily treat yourself to entertainment and shopping sprees within driving distance. Best of all, every summer, this tourist hot spot is filled with cool people in their bikinis and trunks, giving you plenty of chances for summer flirts, or simply eye-candy if you are too shy.
The Cost
Be prepared to fight it out for your abode. Apartments for rent in Treasure Island consistently top the charts of the most competitive, not only in the state of Florida but also in the entire nation. The town is popular with residents from all walks of life, and all more than willing to and capable of splurging on a home in this paradisaical island in the Sunshine State.
When to Rent
In summer, when tourists flock to Treasure Island for their share of sun, surf and pirate festivals, the population doubles. No kidding. The high season drives the demand for vacation rentals up. So, if you don't want to compete with the influx of vacationers for a little piece of paradise, better rent in off-season when the hassle and demand will be lower.
What to Expect
We would hate to bring bad news, but there is always a certain chance of hurricanes from June through November. Good news is you will be hunting for your dream home in winter, so that's one problem less.
What You Need
If you think that you are the only one to whom it has occurred to move to this island of eternal summer, then maybe you should get a reality check. While you do that, also check your bank balance and the portfolio of documents you will need to impress a landlord. You better have your employment history, references from previous landlords and credit check neat and impressive.
Get a Car
The town is relatively small. Having your own car is the best way to get around, and you will absolutely need one if you plan on commuting out of town. Of course, if you want to stand out from the crows, you can go about by boat -- it's an island after all.
Now that you've discovered the beauty that is Treasure Island, it's time to decide where to put down your roots.
John's Pass: This is where it's at in otherwise relaxing Treasure Island. John's Pass is brimming with dining and shopping outlets, as well as plenty of high-adrenaline water sports. The annual pirate festival is held in this area, which attracts the majority of tourists. Rent an apartment here if you want to be right in the center of all the action.
Sunshine Beach: The neighborhood with a name that speaks volumes is the most chilled-out and relaxed part of town, with literally no tourists or party crowds, mainly because it is a purely residential area where you can get a cozy beachfront cottage or a condo apartment.
Sunset Beach: This is your first choice if you plan on doing yoga on your front porch or want to catch the waves first thing in the morning. This largely residential neighborhood made up of oceanfront cottages and houses offers all the beauty and postcard views you need to wake up to. There is a handful of popular hangouts where you can grab food and drinks while enjoying live music and socializing.
Paradise Island: Centered around the Yacht Club, this neighborhood offers water views of boats swaying on the marina and plenty of posh sports such as yachting, tennis and golf, as well as upscale houses and apartment complexes. It is a rather chilled-out and uneventful area, but if that's what you fancy, don't seek any further.
Isle of Capri: This area is a favorite of fisherman who doze off in the sunshine while waiting for the catch to get the bait. This neighborhood offers a wide choice of rental properties -- from apartments and condos to larger houses.
Isle of Palms: If you can't imagine living more than a few feet away from the ocean, then you will love the houses in the area, all of which are waterfront without exception.
The "largest white sand beach on the Gulf Coast" (according to proud locals), water sports and mouthwatering seafood give you Treasure Island living at its finest. More or less, these make for a pleasing combination that would appeal to all, from toddler to grandpa. Treat and tickle your taste buds with tastefully cooked ocean life but be careful with your waistline. You will have to fit into those flimsy, skimpy summer outfits that are in all year long.
Otherwise, you can always waste the extra pounds while swimming. The weather is suitable for sunbathing and water sports more or less in every season. Summers are hot and humid, spring and autumn are balmy, winter is cool. The only shadow over the heavenly climate is the summer thunderstorms and the potential hurricane threat from June through November. Yet, what's a hurricane or two when you can dip your toes in white sand and turquoise waters right when stepping out of the house.
The majority of shops and services are huddled in the downtown area, in John's Pass and St. Pete Beach, so this is where you need to head to do your hair or your groceries. At St. Pete Beach and John's Pass, you can also impress a date or entertain friends. There are dozens of bars and restaurants in both areas.
John Levique Pirate Days, the annual pirate festival, is held in John's Pass in mid-summer. It is a magnet for the crowds, tourists, treasure hunters and anyone who is itching to don their Halloween pirate outfit. Pirates descend on the island, ships battle and everyone is cheerful and merry. You have no excuse to miss out on it unless you have a crowd phobia.
