The History of Ono Island: From Frontier Outpost to Private Paradise

Posted by Meredith Folger Amon on September 10th, 2025

THE HISTORY OF ONO ISLAND: FROM FRONTIER OUTPOST TO PRIVATE PARADISE

By Meredith Amon — Licensed in Alabama & Florida
Guided by Integrity. Backed by Experience. Search the Gulf with Meredith Amon.

When I cross the private bridge onto Ono Island—that long, narrow ribbon tucked between Bayou St. John and Old River—I’m reminded that this isn’t just a gated neighborhood. It’s a century-long story of shifting coastlines, stubborn pioneers, and a 1970s development vision that turned scrub and sand roads into one of the Gulf Coast’s most private communities.

Where is Ono Island—and why it matters today

Ono sits at Alabama’s southeastern edge across from Perdido Key, Florida. The island is roughly 5.5 miles long, outside city limits but…

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Ono Island: From Goat Grazing Grounds to Gulf Coast Gem – A Storied History

Posted by Meredith Folger Amon on November 10th, 2024

Ono Island: From Goat Grazing Grounds to Gulf Coast Gem – A Storied History

 

Ono Island, an exclusive oasis near Orange Beach, Alabama, is known today as a luxurious, private community surrounded by serene waters and stunning natural landscapes. However, this wasn’t always the case. The story of Ono Island is as unique as its name, spanning from untamed land used for grazing goats to a WWII Navy training ground, and finally, to the prestigious enclave it is today. Let’s explore the rich history, unique characters, and pivotal moments that shaped Ono Island.

The Early Days: Goat Island and a Natural Transformation

In 1945, Ono Island was far from the high-end community it is now. Known then as "Goat Island," this 5.5-mile-long stretch of land…

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