How a group of friends revitalised a neglected island into a thriving holiday spot

A group of friends has garnered praise from netizens worldwide for transforming a deserted island into a holiday destination in the US.

According to reports, four friends who once dreamed of creating a local getaway in Tampa Bay are now poised to make millions after revamping a deserted island into a tropical paradise.

The group purchased Pine Key Island, known locally as “Beer Can Island”, for approximately £65 000 (around R1.5 million) in 2017.

Once a popular party spot, the nine-acre island had fallen into disrepair.

Over the past seven years, the owners have renovated the land, hosted concerts and weddings, and turned it into a community destination.

Now, the property, which includes 90 acres of surrounding submerged land, is on the market for over £14 million.

Cole Weaver, one of the owners, admitted that while they initially hoped to develop a restaurant and navigate zoning hurdles, it is time to move on.

Locals are concerned that a high sale price could restrict public access, but Weaver stated that the group has always aimed to balance private investment with keeping the island accessible to Tampa residents.

Going forward, the island will either be used as a private escape or a corporate retreat, positioning it as a “VIP property” for the next owner.

For the friends who bought it on a whim, this represents a remarkable return on investment and the conclusion of an ambitious chapter.

Commenting on this, netizens had the following to say:

@maanta_d said: “Manifesting such friends.”

Another user, @t.llo.gumm._, remarked: “Moral of the story: have good, reliable, responsible people in your life who you can count on.”

@talismommy commented: “Wish I had friends like this ... lol ...”

While @rhyajanae said: “Smart! Friends coming together.”