Boca Grande

 

Living in this charming area of southwest Florida is like stepping back in time. The historic downtown district is postcard-perfect with tree-lined streets, chic boutiques, darling cafes, and beautiful century-old churches. The preferred means of transportation is a golf cart, keeping the community’s roads free of noise and traffic.

 

The idyllic small town is located on Gasparilla Island, surrounded by unspoiled beaches and natural beauty. A paved 6.5-mile bike and golf cart path built by the DuPont family extends the island's length, replacing what was once a working railroad track.

A bustling fishing village in the 1900s, Boca Grande still has a reputation for being the best place in the world for tarpon fishing. Today, no condominium towers or chain restaurants litter the authentic vibe of the downtown area, just quaint storefronts evoking a feeling of Old Florida charm.

 

There are few places left in the country like Boca Grande. The area is rich in history, and with less than 1,000 residents, everyone knows their neighbor, and the community looks out for one another. Despite its small size, there are plenty of activities to enjoy without leaving home. There are country clubs, marinas, upscale restaurants, and boutique shopping to keep busy, with beautiful beaches and parks for relaxing. While Boca Grande is somewhat off the beaten path, it is less than 45 minutes from I-75 at Port Charlotte, granting residents access to the best of Florida.

For over 60 years, visitors have gathered at the Gasparilla Inn & Club’s Pink Elephant for exquisite meals served on the establishment’s outdoor patio. Fresh local seafood, signature drinks, regional comfort food, and refined service are the norm at this popular hotspot. Guests can also enjoy a full breakfast or four-course dinner at the Gasparilla Inn Main Dining Room, enjoying traditional decor that creates an atmosphere of grace and intimacy. Popular dishes include pan-seared scallops, double-cut lamb chops, local Pompano, and more.

At Scarpa's Coastal, locals enjoy innovative island-inspired meals and elegant Italian cuisine inside an old 1920s theater. The restaurant's iconic Fishtales Lounge, situated behind a 250-gallon aquarium, serves refreshing cocktails.

Upscale shopping in Southwest Florida is readily available at places like St. Armand's Circle and The Village Shops on Venetian Bay. Locally, Palm on Park is a chic boutique offering Florida's finest fashions, specializing in Lilly Pulitzer designs for the whole family. Gasparilla Outfitters offers hand-crafted jewelry, resort wear for men and women, and whimsical decor. The highly-rated store also provides sportfishing charters.

No visit to Boca Grande’s downtown is complete without a stop at The Pink Pony. This ice cream shop is a local favorite, offering ice cream sundaes, smoothies, and other tasty treats.

 

There are countless championship golf courses scattered throughout southwest Florida, but not many have the breathtaking views found at Gasparilla Golf Club. Located on the historic Gasparilla Inn & Club, the golf course is well-maintained and perfect for all skill levels. The Gasparilla Inn & Club is also home to an exclusive beach club with a private pool, USCA-certified croquet lawns, a fitness center and exercise studio, a full-service marina, and more.

At Boca Bay Pass Club, members enjoy exclusive amenities. Sitting a mere 100 feet from the Gulf of Mexico, the newly renovated full-service club offers a heated swimming pool, seven lighted tennis courts, and a fitness facility. A professional culinary team prepares flavorful meals inside fine-dining restaurants, and themed events occur regularly. Membership is by invitation only.

To enjoy the region's natural beauty, visit Gasparilla Island State Park. The public beach provides ample space for swimming, shelling, snorkeling, and relaxing. There are two picnic shelters and plenty of parking. Waters here are teeming with tarpon and other local fish species, creating an angler’s paradise just moments from Boca Grande. One of the best spots for tarpon fishing is the Boca Grande Pass, located on the southern point of Gasparilla Island State Park. Reaching depths of 80 feet, it is one of the deepest natural passes in Florida, connecting Charlotte Harbor to the Gulf of Mexico. Fishermen worldwide come to Boca Grande Pass to fish for goliath grouper, snook, and tarpon.

Explore the Port Boca Grande Lighthouse Museum. Built-in 1890, the lighthouse that once guided ships into the Charlotte Harbor is now a museum packed with old photos and artifacts. The 360-degree views are astounding and well worth checking out.

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