Cool listings: A $16.5M miniature private island in the heart of Florida Keys

Georgie Mihaila
5 Min Read
East Sister Rock Island, a miniature private island in the heart of the Florida Keys, listed for $16.5 million. Photo credit: Maximilian Martins of VIDEOMAXMIAMI
Photo credit: Maximilian Martins of VIDEOMAXMIAMI

East Sister Rock Island, a miniature private island and dream getaway that doubles as a thriving vacation rental, is on the market for $16,499,999, offering one lucky buyer the rare opportunity to own a secluded retreat in the Florida Keys.

This 1.4-acre island is a mere quarter-mile from Marathon, Florida, and is accessible only by boat or helicopter, providing a level of privacy and exclusivity unmatched by mainland properties.

The island’s history is as unique as its location.

Built in the 1970s, before the implementation of stricter environmental laws, the island was created for a New Jersey gastroenterologist, Klaus Meckler.

Its structure, a concrete home resting on 75 pillars drilled into coral rock and elevated on a 15-foot high plateau, showcases both engineering ingenuity and a deep respect for the surrounding natural beauty.

East Sister Rock Island, showing the main residence with the mainland in the background. Photo credit: Maximilian Martins of VIDEOMAXMIAMI

The 2,304-square-foot main residence, complemented by a detached guest house, features three bedrooms and two bathrooms — and has been operating as a popular vacation rental in recent years, with stellar reviews from travelers.

The detached guest house on the island. Photo credit: Maximilian Martins of VIDEOMAXMIAMI

The property’s eco-friendly design includes a solar and wind power system, a 15,000-gallon freshwater cistern, and its own desalination plant. This off-grid setup ensures a self-sufficient living experience that aligns with modern sustainability values.

Notable for its luxurious amenities, East Sister Rock Island boasts an outdoor pool, a helicopter pad, and a dock, catering to various modes of transportation and leisure activities.

Photo credit: Maximilian Martins of VIDEOMAXMIAMI
Photo credit: Maximilian Martins of VIDEOMAXMIAMI

The island’s location on a coral reef, surrounded by protective rocks, offers stunning 360-degree ocean views and a serene environment, perfect for relaxation and outdoor entertainment.

In addition to its private use, the island has also been operating successfully as a vacation rental.

Related: Tour a $20M mansion in Key Biscayne, Florida with its own private yacht dock

Guests have consistently rated their stays as exceptional, highlighting the island’s tranquility, convenience, and unique experience of seclusion close to necessary amenities.

Reviews praise the comfort of the property and its amazing location, noting its easy access to nearby attractions and the fantastic fishing opportunities it offers.

This property was nothing short of amazing! My wife and I had dreamed of doing a trip like this since we’ve been married, due to the season we were in when we tied the knot a honeymoon just wasn’t in the cards. 9 years later we arrived on East Sister Rock, and enjoyed this incredible home with our family. The home was well kept, the bathrooms were gorgeous, and the home is nothing short of captivating.

One VRBO review reads
Photo credit: Maximilian Martins of VIDEOMAXMIAMI
Photo credit: Maximilian Martins of VIDEOMAXMIAMI
Photo credit: Maximilian Martins of VIDEOMAXMIAMI
Photo credit: Maximilian Martins of VIDEOMAXMIAMI
Photo credit: Maximilian Martins of VIDEOMAXMIAMI
Photo credit: Maximilian Martins of VIDEOMAXMIAMI
Photo credit: Maximilian Martins of VIDEOMAXMIAMI

Currently listed for $16.5 million with Ember Duran of The Agency Miami, East Sister Rock Island is a testament to luxurious, sustainable living. Its blend of privacy, eco-conscious design, and modern amenities makes it a one-of-a-kind property in the heart of the Florida Keys.

Whether as a private retreat or a high-end vacation rental, this island promises a unique and unforgettable experience in one of the most beautiful locations in the United States, and we’re looking forward to seeing who its lucky future owners will be — and how much East Sister Rock Island will end up selling for.

Until then, we’ll add it to our vision boards and daydream about one day owning our own slice of paradise in the azure waters of the Florida Keys.

Photo credit: Maximilian Martins of VIDEOMAXMIAMI

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With a decade-long career as a digital content creator, Georgie started out as a real estate journalist for Multi-Housing News & CPExecutive. She later transitioned into digital marketing, working with leading real estate websites like PropertyShark, RENTCafé and Point2Homes. After a brief but impactful stint in the start-up world, where she led the marketing divisions of fintech company NestReady and media publisher Goalcast, Georgie returned to her first passion, real estate, and founded FancyPantsHomes.com