Lake Alice is known as one of the precious gems of Odessa, Florida. Lake Alice is known for its super clear water and ultra desirable location in Odessa. This famous Odessa lake boasts water clarity ranging anywhere from 13ft to 21ft visibility depending on the time of year and in combination with a few other factors. Depths can reach as deep as 25 feet with a mean depth of 12 feet. There is a natural sand bar towards the north end of the lake where residents like to anchor their boats and jet skis and play in the waist high water and beach like sandy bottom. Homes around the shore of Lake Alice range widely, from old cabin like stilt homes over the water built in the early 1900’s to modern day multi million dollar mansions.

History - In general, Odessa was a very remote town until recently. Going way back to the year 1888, Odessa was given its name by Russian Peter Demens, the developer of the Orange Belt Railway. In 1909 two major saw mills were built and Odessa quickly grew to 2000 residents, with 60% of the residents being employed by the saw mills. By the time 1925 came around, the lumber supply had depleted and both saw mills burned to the ground. It is believed that the fires were intentional in order to get paid out by their insurers. The population of Odessa quickly dropped to 250 residents and then a handful of new residents came to Odessa and planted Citrus. In the early 1980’s, as Tampa’s growth continued spreading outward , residents began moving to Odessa little by little.

Presently - Odessa is home to a large number of professional athletes, doctors, attorneys, and successful business owners. Odessa is the most desirable suburb of Tampa, primarily because of its close proximity to all of Tampa’s shopping malls, restaurants, and the International Airport. Odessa offers a semi-country and rural atmosphere, yet residents still enjoy the spoils of urban conveniences within minutes of their homes. I guess that’s why property owners surrounding Lake Alice in Odessa, Florida feel like they have the best of both worlds.