About 520 Tarpon Bay Rd
Own a Piece of Sanibel History in a PRIME Location!
Welcome to a rare opportunity to own one of Sanibel Island’s most iconic buildings, beautifully reimagined for modern use while honoring its rich past. This freestanding historic gem, originally built in 1913 and steeped in local history, began life as a Baptist Church before becoming the Sanibel Colored School in 1927. After decades of transformation—from a cherished school to an art gallery, gift shop, and most recently, Lily & Co. Jewelry—this building stands ready for its next chapter.
Perfectly positioned in a high-traffic, high-visibility location, this property sits directly across from the upcoming Bailey’s Shopping Plaza and adjacent to the popular Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille—a hotspot for foot traffic, cyclists, and vehicles alike.
Zoned Town Center General—the most flexible zoning available on Sanibel—this space invites a wide range of commercial or creative possibilities: boutique retail, gallery space, café, studio, office, or a unique mixed-use concept.
The seller has worked in partnership with the City of Sanibel to fully remediate and modernize the structure while preserving its historical charm. Recent upgrades include:
Complete interior demo and rebuild
Crawl space filled and reinforced with concrete
Brand-new 24-gauge standing seam metal roof
Seamless gutters and marine-grade exterior light poles
All new drywall, base, casing, and interior doors
Cali Longboard vinyl plank flooring throughout
Fully updated plumbing and electrical systems
Brand-new HVAC and mini-split systems
Fresh interior and exterior paint
Windows and doors re-caulked and sealed
Whether you’re an investor, entrepreneur, or visionary seeking a landmark location with story and soul, this one-of-a-kind property offers endless potential in the heart of Sanibel Island. Don’t miss your chance to create something truly special—schedule your private tour today.
