Ballast Key, Private island in Florida Keys, United States.
Ballast Key is a private island in the Florida Keys off Key West covering roughly 26 acres. The property includes a main residence with five bedrooms and a separate guesthouse with three bedrooms, both facing palm-lined beaches.
The island was developed and managed by David W. Wolkowsky before being transferred to The Nature Conservancy. This transfer ensured the protection of the land within the broader natural landscape of the Keys.
The island served as a private retreat for artists and writers seeking solitude away from public life. It became known as a destination for those desiring time away from crowds and attention.
Reaching the island typically requires advance arrangements for helicopter or boat transportation from Key West. Visitors should coordinate access before planning a trip to this remote location.
The island operates a desalination system to produce fresh water since it has no connection to mainland water supplies. This independent system allows the property to function completely self-sufficiently on open water.
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