Unforgettable


Sunset Island, a private one-acre island at the mouth of the Homossassa River on the Gulf of Mexico, was put up for auction in 2013. The property also included 69 acres of submerged land and marsh.

Years ago boaters came to the island to kick back, enjoy watching the sunset over dinner at the Crow's Nest restaurant, or simply seek shelter from an unexpected storm. Half of the fun of dining on the island was the boat ride to and from. Yes, I recall one trip to the island caught by a thunderstorm--that's Florida. The setting and the experience were so mesmerizing, I have no recollection what I ordered from the menu.

Bidding for the island started at $90,000, which would have been a steal. Purportedly, one client was interested in restoring the restaurant. Ultimately, the island sold for $578, 600. Four years later, I find no evidence that the restaurant has been restored. (I'll double check with friends and family who live upriver.)

Salt-Water Cowboys is another favorite further north on the east coast. It can be reached by boat or by land. And, I won't forget--shrimp & grits!


[Carolyn Fjeran, LowTide explorer/reflective writer; horticulturist & gardener; former writer for Cooperative Extension Service, Master Gardeners and The Newnan Times-Herald]

View: Saltwater Cowboys, St. Augustine, Florida

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