| Palm Harbor, aptly named for the number of Palm trees that used to dot the coastline, is largely a residential community. Located along the Gulf of Mexico, it is one of few communities in densely populated Pinellas County to retain designation as an unincorporated area. Such is largely responsible for the town retaining a Florida charm of yesteryear. A few historic structures still stand throughout the community and most are well maintained and preserved. The area was largely a citrus-producing community throughout its history. The town had several names prior to its current cognomen. Historical records indicate the town was originally commissioned as Bay St. Joseph then changed to Yellow Bluff, reflecting the yellow fever epidemic that near decimated the area back in the 1800's. That moniker was short-lived however, as residents dubbed it too negative and preferred to abdicate the term for the more upbeat "Ozona" meaning "pure air." In 1888, the federal government granted the town a post office and with it another name change followed. The arrival of the railroad the same year spurred residents to again change the name of the town, this time to that of Sutherland. Two large hotels were constructed high on the bluff overlooking Sutherland Bayou and the Gulf of Mexico. The community voted to change its name once again in 1925. Palm Harbor was born. Over the last two decades the community has become one of the most affluent along the Suncoast. Upscale, luxury condominiums, waterfront properties, vacation rentals and private homes, most constructed within the last two decades or so can be found throughout the community, although the town does have a residential area of homes constructed in the fifties, sixties and seventies. A small area of Palm Harbor is still recognized as Ozona today. The tiny, low density enclave captures old Florida at its best with a smattering of restaurants offering both modern and old Florida southern-styled dishes. Original Florida architecture is apparent throughout most of the area, as citizens and business owners alike take great care and pride in restoring and refurbishing much of the real estate as opposed to tearing it down a building anew. Ozona today very much resembles the quaint, little fishing village of which it was many years ago. Many cedar, palm and mature oak trees can be found throughout Palm Harbor, several of which create a gentle canopy atop parts of Orange St., offering a respite from the summer sun in downtown Ozona. Palm Harbor is Florida living at its finest. Close to major shopping, both casual and fine dining, entertainment and a vibrant nightlife, topnotch medical facilities, marinas, white sandy beaches and more, Palm Harbor offers an unparalleled lifestyle. Recent redevelopment resulted in hordes of new multi-family, duplex, triplex, town home condominiums, vacation rentals and businesses appearing with additional units planned. Palm Harbor is one Florida's most coveted communities of which to both live and visit. At CondoCompany.com, the Internet's foremost resource for condominium and vacation rental information, we can help one find the perfect lodgings in Palm Harbor to accommodate any lifestyle and budget. Visit CondoCompany.com today and take the first step toward securing your piece of paradise today. |
