Beachfront living on Marco Island's southern shore
The Sandcastle I, completed in 1982, stands as a 16-story beachfront condominium on the southern end of Marco Island. This modern high-rise features 94 units, offering residents direct access to the Gulf of Mexico's pristine waters and white sand beaches. The building's curved facade and neutral color palette blend seamlessly with the coastal landscape, while private balconies on each floor provide sweeping ocean views. Situated in a prime location, The Sandcastle I combines the tranquility of beachside living with the convenience of nearby amenities, embodying the essence of Florida's barrier island lifestyle.
Spacious units with panoramic Gulf views
The Sandcastle I offers a variety of floor plans to suit different needs, ranging from cozy one-bedroom units to expansive three-bedroom residences. One-bedroom layouts span from 863 to 1,081 square feet, featuring 1.5 bathrooms and selling for $615,000 to $665,000. These units often include updated kitchens with granite countertops and stainless steel appliances, as well as renovated bathrooms with walk-in showers.
Two-bedroom units vary greatly in size, from 862 to 1,883 square feet, with 2 to 2.5 bathrooms. Prices for these residences range from $790,000 to $1,589,000. Many feature open floor plans, large wrap-around balconies, and recent updates such as impact windows and sliders. Some units boast chef-inspired kitchens with oversized granite islands and custom cabinetry.
The largest offerings are the three-bedroom units, approximately 1,300 square feet with 2 bathrooms. These spacious residences are ideal for families or those desiring extra room for guests.
Throughout the building, units showcase coastal-inspired interiors with features like wood-look tile flooring, plantation shutters, and updated fixtures. Most residences offer unobstructed views of the Gulf of Mexico, with some providing 180-degree panoramas of both the beach and the island. In-unit washers and dryers, ample storage, and hurricane protection (either impact glass or shutters) are standard in many units, enhancing both comfort and safety.
Resort-style amenities steps from the beach
The Sandcastle I offers an array of amenities designed to enhance the beachfront living experience. At the heart of the complex is a resort-style pool and spa, perfect for relaxation or exercise, complemented by a spacious sundeck and BBQ area for outdoor entertaining. Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the on-site fitness center, while tennis and pickleball courts cater to those seeking more active pursuits.
A community room with a full kitchen provides a versatile space for gatherings and events. Residents enjoy the convenience of covered parking, with each unit assigned a garage space. Additional storage lockers on the first floor offer extra space for beach gear and seasonal items.
The building's crown jewel is its private beach access, allowing residents to easily transition from their homes to the sand and surf. For added convenience, the property features a glass elevator overlooking Marco Island, offering scenic views during vertical transits.
The building is well-maintained, with recent updates to common areas and critical systems like air conditioning. These shared amenities contribute to the overall comfort and enjoyment of residents at Sandcastle I.
A coastal paradise with urban conveniences
Marco Island, the largest barrier island in Southwest Florida's Ten Thousand Islands area, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and modern amenities. The Sandcastle I is ideally situated on the island's southern end, placing residents in the heart of this coastal paradise.
Just steps away, Marco Walk Plaza serves as a hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment. This contemporary open-air complex features a variety of boutiques, restaurants, and a movie theater, embodying the island's casual yet sophisticated atmosphere. Nearby, Sunsations and Beach Daisy offer beachwear and accessories within a short walk from the condominium.
Culinary options abound in the vicinity. Sami's, a family-friendly restaurant about two miles away, serves up pizza, pasta, and seafood with patio seating. For a quick bite or casual American fare, Paradise Grill is just a mile and a half from Sandcastle I.
The island's natural attractions are a major draw. Residents can explore miles of white-sand beaches, including the nearby beach accessible directly from the condominium. The area's extensive waterways provide ample opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife observation. Tigertail Beach, known for its lagoon and natural setting, offers a different beach experience just a short drive away.
For those with school-age children, Tommie Barfield Elementary School, rated 8 out of 10 by GreatSchools and receiving an A grade from Niche, is about two and a half miles from the condominium. Older students attend Manatee Middle School and Lely High School, both within a 30-minute drive and offering solid educational programs.
Marco Island's community spirit is evident in its numerous parks and recreational facilities. Veterans' Community Park, the island's newest facility, hosts events and a popular weekly farmers market from November through early May, adding to the neighborhood's vibrant atmosphere.
Island living with mainland connections
Transportation on Marco Island primarily revolves around personal vehicles, reflecting the area's car-dependent nature. However, the island does offer some public transit options for those looking to explore without a car.
The Collier Area Transit (CAT) provides bus service to and around Marco Island. The nearest bus stop to Sandcastle I is located at 951 And Winterberry, about a quarter-mile or 5-minute walk from the condominium. This stop is served by two routes: the Express Immokalee - Marco Island line, which connects the island to the mainland, and the Marco Island Circulator, which provides transportation around the island itself.
For those preferring to cycle, Marco Island offers some biking opportunities, though it's important to note that the island's infrastructure is more geared towards motorized transportation. The flat terrain can be favorable for casual rides, particularly along the beachfront areas.
When venturing off the island, residents typically use the two bridges connecting Marco Island to the mainland via County Road 92 and Florida State Road 951. These routes provide access to nearby Naples, located about 18 miles north, and the wider Southwest Florida region.
For air travel, the Marco Island Executive Airport is situated about 7 miles northeast of the island, catering to private and charter flights. Commercial air travelers have options with Naples Municipal Airport approximately 17.5 miles northwest, and for a wider range of domestic and international flights, Southwest Florida International Airport is located about 48 miles north in Fort Myers.
While Marco Island's layout and infrastructure favor car usage, the strategic location of Sandcastle I on the southern end of the island puts many attractions within a short drive or even walking distance, allowing residents to enjoy the best of island living with the ability to easily connect to the broader region when needed.
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Quantarium
Current List Price
Sold Price
Area Factors
Low Crime
Crime Score®
2/ 10
Somewhat Bikeable
Bike Score®
33/ 100
Car-Dependent
Walk Score®
38/ 100
Sources: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com, Walk Score
Sources: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com, Walk Score
WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com, Powered by CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks. Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Environmental risk data is provided by First Street Foundation® and is designed to approximate risk and not intended to include all possible scenarios.
Parks in this Area
Mackle Park
6 min drive
Basketball
Fishing
Football
Canine Cove
6 min drive
Kid's Cove Marco Island
6 min drive
Veterans' Community Park
9 min drive
Picnic Area
Trails
Events
Key Island Rookery Bay Reserve
20 min drive
Schools
Source:
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Disclaimer: Please note that this building may not be in these schools' attendance zones.
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