While travelling to sunny Treasure Island and staying at the luxurious Eiko’s Beach House on the Gulf of Mexico it is easy to think that the Sun coast of Florida offers only sunshine, sand, sea gulls and shorelines. This is usually the case, but a few brave souls dare to enter the dark side of the sun coast. Join us if you dare to explore our favorite haunted sites of the sea side.
The Don CeSar
The first most affluent and romantic spirit to haunt the area is Mr. Thomas Rowe the creator of the Don Cesar on St. Petersburg Beach. Stepping into this historic hotel, especially after sunset, allows the visitor to step into another time of the roaring twenties.
Some hotel staff allege that the spirit of Mr Rowe wanders the halls of the Don Cesar and can be found in the banquet rooms on the 5th floor and in the main lobby. He is not only admiring the luxurious renovations but seeking out his lost love who inspired him to build this jewel on the Gulf.
The fortunate (or unfortunate) seekers can smell a whiff of Mr. Rowe’s cigar or see a well-dressed gentleman who seems concerned for the happiness and comfort of visitors and guests of this hotel… his hotel. However, should your quest for ghosts fall short, spirits of another kind are guaranteed at the Rowe Bar and Lobby Bar located within the hotel.
Fort De Soto
Situated in one of the largest and most stunning State Parks in West Florida, the old fortifications and camp grounds of Fort De Soto offer the casual ghost hunter a glimpse of the other world. The original fortification was established prior to the Civil War but large scale construction began during the Spanish and American War of 1898.
Visitors who explore the grounds after hours have reported hearing disembodied footsteps and voices in the ammunition bunkers overlooking Tampa Bay. Visitors have also seen and heard ghosts at nearby Fort Dade on Edgemont Key and at the site of the Skyway Bridge Disaster on the fishing areas near the entrance of this amazing and majestic bridge joining St. Petersburg with Manatee County.
However, should your ghost watch scare away the spirits rather than attract them, a stroll along the natural beaches or a ferry to Edgemont Key will more than compensate you for any disappointment. The views of freighters going into and out of Tampa is breath-taking. The fishing is excellent and the sun bathing on these quiet beaches are worth the visit.
The Eiko’s Beachhouse
Finally, should you be looking for the ghosts of pirates, sailors and treasure hunters, look no more than your own Treasure Island, home to the Eiko’sBeach House!
Legend has it that John Levique, a Frenchman who settled in the area in the early 1800’s, was captured by Spanish pirates and during his adventures accumulated his own treasure! However, during a trip to New Orleans, the area now known as Johns Pass, was transformed by a hurricane which struck in 1848 and all John Levique’s treasure was lost forever. Locals claim, at night it is possible to see the torchlight of John looking for his lost Treasure on the beach.
While staying with family and friends at the Eiko Beach House in Treasure Island it’s possible to stand vigil in the comfort of your own porch, overlooking the beach Pirate John may haunt. If you dare, light a fire in the outdoor fireplace, relax in a hot tub, gently lit by and old pirates lantern and spin your own yarns and at Eiko Beach House, rewrite history, create your own story and be hero in your personal paradise. Pleasant dreams.
