Little Gasparilla Island is a bridgeless barrier island located between Sarasota and Ft. Myers in Southwest Florida. You cannot drive to Little Gasparilla Island.
Closest airports
Punta Gorda (PGA) - 28 Miles
Sarasota-Brandenton International airport (SRQ) - 52 miles
Southwest Florida international airport (RSW) - 68 miles
Tampa International airport (TPA) - 100 miles
GETTING TO THE ISLAND | ISLAND DETAILS + AMENITIES | RENTAL HOME AMENITIES
Driving Directions
From Sarasota/North:
Take I-75 to Exit 191 (River Road). Take River Road South, cross 41 and continue to Winchester. Turn left on Winchester and continue to 776 (McCall Road). Cross McCall and continue on Winchester to Placida Road (775.) Turn left on Placida Road and continue to the Boca Grande Causeway. Turn right on the causeway and Eldred's Marina (where you park and catch the water taxi) is about 1/4 mile on the right.
From Ft. Myers/South:
Take I-75 north to Exit 170 (King's Highway). Exit left to first light, then right on Veteran's Boulevard. Continue several miles on Veteran's to 41. CROSS 41, you are now on 776. Continue on 776, go through the village of El Jobean and cross the Myakka River Bridge, then turn left on 771(Gasparilla Road). Continue on 771 to the Boca Grande Causeway and turn left. Eldred's Marina (where you park and catch the water taxi) is a couple hundred yards on your right. If you come to the Boca Grande toll bridge, you have gone too far!
How do we get from the marina to the island?
Phone number for Pirate's Water Taxi
941-697-5777
There is one water taxi that services the island, Pirate's Water Taxi. The taxi is available every day during daylight hours but will run later with a reservation. It is best to contact them about two weeks in advance, especially if you need to travel very early, after dark, or on a holiday. Average cost for the water taxi is $15.00 per person (subject to change) each way but be sure to verify this as prices sometimes change depending on the time of day you need to cross. There is also a minimum trip charge of $20.
*Hideaway Haven, Bay Breezes and Pelican’s Perch have complimentary ferry service. Please note this is a passenger ferry only, not a vehicle ferry.
PLEASE try to arrive before dark!
What is the beach like?
The beach is perfect for swimming. There are no steep drop-offs when you enter the water from the shore. The bottom is pure white sand and there is usually a sand bar 10-20 yards offshore which keeps the waves to a minimum. The water is usually quite clear. During storms there may be a rip current, so supervision of small children is always recommended.
Is it Private?
The beach itself is not private, but the difficulty of reaching the island without a boat or water taxi means that there are often very few people on the beach. There are other houses on the island so you do not have complete privacy. Most of our vacation home rentals are centrally located in the island, far from the "crowds" that can occasionally gather on the south end of the island OR at the Don Pedro State Park. Depending on the time of year you visit, you can sometimes walk for hours on the beach without seeing another person. Holiday weekends are generally quite busy, since many of the island homes are owned by Florida residents who visit on the weekends. But, because there is no bridge to the island, traffic and large crowds of tourists are virtually nonexistent. Even during peak times the beach is still quiet by public beach standards.
How do we get to the beach?
Beach access for all homes is usually via either a boardwalk or a sandy pathway. There is a beach easement at the end of each of the East-West roads. Even homes located on the Bay or inland have easy access to the beach. Since the island is only about 100 yards wide in many spots, it is usually not more than a 3-5 minute walk to the beach.
Can you buy groceries on the island?
No. There are no commercial establishments on the island. All groceries need to be purchased on your way to the marina and brought over with you on the water taxi. We suggest that our guests buy the majority of their groceries just prior to arrival at the marina, to limit the necessity of making additional water taxi trips. Be sure to ask for a "boat pack" (paper inside plastic) to make groceries easier to handle on the water taxi. Publix also sells insulated bags which will keep almost everything — except ice cream — nice and cool. (Ice cream does not travel well to the island.) We do have a grocery delivery service that may be able to purchase groceries for you during your stay OR to stock your cottage for you prior to your arrival.
Learn More About Grocery Delivery
Where can we rent a boat?
There are several nearby boat rental agencies which will rent hourly, daily or for a week. For quotes, check out their websites:
Do we need a fishing license?
As a rule, if you are fishing from the dock or the beach, Florida residents do not need a license, but out-of-state guests do. For more specific details on requirements and fees, visit the Florida Fish and Wildlife website. Please view this webpage for veterans discounts. As you may know, Boca Grande is known as the Tarpon Capital of the World. During the warmer months, from April until almost August, the "silver king" offers fishermen one of the greatest thrills - and challenges - possible. If you are interested in tarpon fishing, contact the Boca Grande Fishing Guides and have them match you with a captain who can best meet your needs, skill level, etc. Their e-mail address is info@bocagrandefishing.com
Can we rent a golf cart ?
There are golf carts available to rent on LGI. It is best to make a reservation well in advance, especially if you will be on the island during a holiday. Carts are available for rental through LGI Carts at 941-697-3820. Please note they are a separate company and we have no control over their supply of carts or the condition of their carts. Golf carts often sell out early, and the cart shop is slow to return phone calls so be persistent. Please note if carts are sold out that golf carts are not really necessary. You can walk from the bay to the beach in less than 5 minutes. You can also schedule an island cart tour from the island concierge. We provide contacts for golf cart rentals (along with other local amenities) upon booking.
Where can we get fresh fish?
There is an excellent fish market in Gulf Cove just a few minutes from Publix called Placida Fish Market. Twin Lobsters on Placida Road is another nearby fish market.
What do we need to bring with us?
Please try to pack light!
Guests ALWAYS bring too many clothes to the island! During the summer months, flip flops, a few T-shirts, a couple pairs of shorts, a couple swimsuits, a hat and a cover up should be sufficient. If you like to jog on the beach, bring your running shoes. And if you are coming in the winter, add some long pants or sweat pants and a sweat shirt or lightweight rain jacket. Almost all restaurants in the area (none on the island) are casual so you won't need "good" clothes unless you plan to dine in Boca Grande. (A couple places there actually require jackets!) Be sure to bring any prescription medications you might need as well as over-the-counter medications and sunscreen because there are no drug stores on the island. Bug spray is also helpful. It can also be helpful to bring allergy medication, children's Tylenol, fever reducer, etc. If you are sensitive to sand gnats (also known as midges or noseeums) Avon Skin-So-Soft is an excellent repellant. Most homes have beach chairs and umbrellas from previous renters. Our guest services manager also keeps extras for sale in case you need more during your stay.
What is there to do?
Will my kids get bored?
There are numerous outdoor activities to satisfy the most energetic guest.
FISHING
There is excellent fishing from the dock or the beach; nearby Placida and Boca Grande offer numerous charters for deep-sea fishing, tarpon fishing or flats fishing.
WATER ACTIVITIES
On island kayak and paddle board rentals are available from William Myers at 941.402.5093.
You can also rent kayaks and paddle boards from the mainland through SUP Englewood : (941) 26-KAYAK
Enjoy shelling trips or luncheon trips to Cabbage Key from local guides. There is snorkeling and swimming, plus wind-surfing, boogie boarding or tubing.
GOLF
There is golf on the mainland with several courses to choose from.
SHELLING
The island is also known for its many shell varieties and large number of shark's teeth, and many people walk the beach every day to add to their shell collections.
GOLF CART RIDES
You can also explore the island on a golf cart (rentals available on the island)
Does the beach ever become unsafe for swimming?
What happens if there is a hurricane?
The beach on Little Gasparilla Island is generally considered to be a calm, family-friendly beach year-round. There are very rare periods of larger waves or higher winds but even during storms, the surf is generally quite mild. There are no lifeguards on Little Gasparilla so little ones will always need supervision on the beach.
Hurricanes simply cannot be predicted. Hurricane Ian hit many of the islands of Southwest Florida and depending on where you were, significant damage occurred due to high winds and storm surge. In the event of a mandatory evacuation, you may be asked by authorities to leave the island. Keep in mind that most houses sit 8-15 feet above the dunes so storm surge is a minimal threat but depends on the path of the hurricane. During tropical storms or heavy rains, island pathways often become flooded, limiting golf cart traffic, and you may have to walk back to the dock through ankle-deep water. These large puddles usually dissipate quickly though.
We do not provide refunds for inclement weather events (including red tide) unless there is a mandatory evacuation of the island. Any rescheduling requests are subject to owner approval and a $200 fee, but most owners will waive the fee if there is an impending major weather event.
How do we get in the house?
We provide a contactless check in. You must contact our on island guest services manager 24-48 hours before check in to provide your ETA and get home access information. Please note you can not come to the island until check in time (4 PM). There are no public facilities or storage areas for your groceries. You will not have access to the dock or home until check in time.
How do we get from the dock to the house?
If you call our complimentary concierge and let him know your water taxi time, he will meet you at the dock and help transport luggage and groceries to the house for you. (Please note this service is not available at homes with private docks.) Generally, it is not necessary to lock the house during your stay. The island is very safe.
The island is only about 100-200 yards wide in most spots....so even if you choose not to use the concierge service, it is never more than a 3-5 minute walk from the dock to the beach. We do recommend you call him just to make sure you find the right house!
WiFi
Please see our Island WiFi page for more details.
Do you allow dogs?
Can we smoke?
Yes. Little Gasparilla Island is very dog friendly. Dogs are welcome on the water taxi. There are often many dogs on the beach swimming, chasing birds, digging in the sand and chasing frisbees. Dogs must be under owner supervision at all time and may not disturb sea turtle nests. Aggressive dogs must be restrained at all times. We also request that any pets staying at our rentals must be on preventative flea control, and that you properly dispose of pet waste on the beach or around the outside of the house.No pets are permitted on furniture or beds. All of our pet friendly vacation rental owners charge a $100 non-refundable pet fee (per pet) to help cover additional cleaning costs for furry friends. This fee does apply to support animals, but we do not charge for certified service animals. Most of our cottages are pet friendly, but please be sure to confirm before you bring a pet because some cottages do not allow pets and in all cases we MUST be notified in advance before you bring a pet. The following breeds are NOT permitted due to homeowner insurance restrictions: Akita, American Bull Dog, Beaucerons, Caucasian Mountain Dog, Chow Chow, Doberman Pinchers, German Shepherds, Great Danes, Keeshounds, Pit Bull, Staffordshire Terriers, Presa Canarios or Rottweilers.
We do not permit smoking at any of our properties. You may only smoke outdoors, on the dock or at the beach. Any evidence of smoking on the property (including decks and porches) may result in eviction and/or additional cleaning fees. Please be respectful of island neighbors if you choose to smoke on the beach and under no circumstances should butts be disposed of on the beach.
Are linens included?
Do you provide a beach chair and umbrella?
Yes, all linens are provided, including beach towels.
There are usually beach chairs at most properties, but they get very heavy use and are often rusty. There may be a beach umbrella but these too get very heavy use. You can contact our guest services manager prior to arrival to ascertain if you need to bring your own beach chairs. Our guest services manager also keeps extras on hand if you would like to purchase more during your stay.
Is the kitchen fully stocked?
What will be provided during our stay?
appliances
All kitchens include refrigerator, electric range, microwave, coffee maker, and blender. If you have questions about specific amenities at the individual homes, you may contact our Guest Services Manager Terry at 813-310-0902 to ask about crock pots, waffle irons, etc.
Dishes
All basic kitchen utensils, silverware, and dishes are provided. You will also find all necessary cookware and bake-ware.
WASHERS AND DRYERS
Each and every house has a washer and a dryer.
GRILLS
Each house has a grill for cooking outdoors. Some grills are charcoal, some are gas, and some are electric. Please check the individual listing for your grill type.
OUTDOOR SHOWERS
Many houses have an outdoor, after-swim shower for rinsing off salt water and sand. However, most are downstairs under the homes and few offer complete privacy.
Paper goods
Most homes offer a varied selection of pantry items such as saran wrap, aluminum foil, paper towels, napkins, coffee filters, etc. We provide a starter pack of paper towels and toilet paper, as well as hand soap, dish detergent and laundry detergent. Please note this is a starter pack only; if you have a large group or anticipate heavy usage, you may still need to bring toilet paper!
PANTRY
The house cleaners have been instructed to leave condiments in the refrigerator during the months of high usage. Some people like to have pickles, mustard, ketchup and other condiments left for them. (If you are offended by an opened jar of pickles or mustard, please feel free to throw it away.) Since there are no grocery stores on the island, sometimes it is helpful to have additional supplies in the house. Think of it as staying at a friend's home and having access to their refrigerator and pantry. If there is something you absolutely cannot do without, you should plan to bring it with you. Otherwise, you are welcome to use whatever is available in the house.
What happens if something breaks or there are other problems that need attention during our stay?
Our Guest Services Manager lives on the island. We will do our best to get problems taken care of as quickly as possible. But, due to the nature of island living, instant repairs are not always possible. AC repairmen, electricians, etc. have to come over on the water taxi just like everyone else. Please notify us sooner rather than later if you notice AC or appliance issues. Any calls after 5 PM cannot be dealt with until the following day. Please be aware that during summer thunderstorms or periods of high winds, it is not unusual to lose power on the entire island for a few hours. So be forewarned that repairs ALWAYS take longer on the island! A "go with the flow" mentality is essential to deal with repairs on the island.
We kindly ask that you let us know right away if there is any accidental damage to the property during your stay.
Are your rental homes handicap accessible?
Unfortunately, due to building restrictions on the island, all newer homes are built on pilings, with at least one flight of steps up to the house, and the homes do not have elevators. Our concierge is available to help carry groceries and luggage up the steps for our guests, so those with limited mobility may be able to enjoy the island, but our homes are not wheelchair-accessible. We have a few cottages with fewer steps that are closer to the ground, so if access is an issue, please let us know and we will recommend cottages that are easiest to access.
What happens if there is an emergency?
There is 9-1-1 service on Little Gasparilla Island, and there are actually first responders, a fire department, and paramedics on the island 24/7. There is a non-emergency number on the island that you can also call if you have non-emergency questions about allergies, rashes, bee stings, and other minor issues while on the island. There is a walk-in clinic and a hospital nearby in Englewood, just 10 minutes from the marina, and if there is a serious emergency, they will arrange evacuation from the island.
Do we need to bring drinking water?
No. The island water is safe and drinkable. All of our homes are now connected to municipal water. You do not need to bring drinking water to the island with you. Bottled water creates unnecessary waste and add to the trash on the island. If you are fussy about the taste, bring a Brita water pitcher with you.
REFUND/ CANCELLATION POLICY: If you want to cancel your reservation, you must notify us in writing. If we receive your written request at least 60 days before the arrival date shown in this agreement, we will refund your reservation in full. If notified at least 30 days prior to your arrival, we will refund 50% of monies. Cancellations within 30 days of your arrival date are not eligible for refunds. In the event of a catastrophic systems failure once you arrive that prevents the property from being occupied, a refund amount will be calculated based on occupancy. Neither the property owner nor the rental manager will provide compensation, issue refunds or provide an alternative rental property because of dissatisfaction with the property, because some equipment, appliances or utilities in the property are not working to your satisfaction, because of noise on or around the property or because of inclement weather. Your comfort and satisfaction are important, and we will make every effort to address the situation; however, no refunds or rebates can be guaranteed. Neither the property owner nor the rental manager is responsible for any inability to occupy the premises due to acts of God, including but not limited to hurricane, windstorm, flood, or red tide. Refunds are provided if there is a mandatory evacuation of the island. No refunds are issued for early departure or unused days. Any request to reschedule reservation dates is subject to approval of the property owner and, if approved, require the tenant to pay a $200 non-refundable rescheduling fee. The rescheduling credit has no cash value and no refunds will be issued if the tenant decides to cancel their rescheduled dates.
We strongly recommend that you consider purchasing trip insurance to deal with any unforeseen circumstances that arise. For more information on travel insurance, visit this website.
FAQs
Location + FAQ — Little Gasparilla Vacation Rentals? ›
The two islands are separated by Gasparilla Pass, an inlet southwest of the town of Placida, Florida. Gasparilla Pass connects Placida Harbor with the Gulf of Mexico. Little Gasparilla Island is located about halfway between Sarasota and Fort Myers, Florida.
What's the difference between Gasparilla Island and Little Gasparilla Island? ›The two islands are separated by Gasparilla Pass, an inlet southwest of the town of Placida, Florida. Gasparilla Pass connects Placida Harbor with the Gulf of Mexico. Little Gasparilla Island is located about halfway between Sarasota and Fort Myers, Florida.
How much is the water taxi to Little Gasparilla Island? ›Average cost for the water taxi is $15.00 per person (subject to change) each way but be sure to verify this as prices sometimes change depending on the time of day you need to cross. There is also a minimum trip charge of $20. *Hideaway Haven, Bay Breezes and Pelican's Perch have complimentary ferry service.
Do people live on Little Gasparilla Island? ›About Little Gasparilla Island Florida
The island is only accessible by private boat or water taxi and is predominantly single family homes, around 350, which are mostly part-time residents.
Little Gasparilla Island is a barrier island in southwest Florida, in Charlotte County. It is just north of Gasparilla Island, separated by Gasparilla Pass. It lies west of the town of Placida, separated by Placida Harbor. It is connected with Don Pedro Island to the north by a thin strip of beach and mangrove swamp.
Where is the best place for Gasparilla? ›The best place to watch the Gasparilla Invasion
The best place to view the invasion is on a boat in the invasion. Other great spots are: American Social and Jackson's Bistro on Harbour Island.
Many renters opt to use the mobile hot spots on their smartphones, especially if they have a large or unlimited data plan. Cell service is usually pretty good on the island and often this is fastest and most convenient option. Our team can assist you with this if you're unfamiliar with how to enable a mobile hot spot.
How long is the ferry ride to Little Gasparilla Island? ›At its widest part, the island is only about 1/4 mile wide, so it is a very easy walk from the dock to your home and/or the beach. While the boat ride from the mainland is only 10 minutes, Little Gasparilla is a world apart.
Can you swim in Gasparilla Island? ›The pristine beaches at Gasparilla Island State Park offer something for every beachgoer. The 1-mile stretch of beach can be accessed from any of the five parking areas along the gulf and the Boca Grande Pass. Search for new shells, sunbathe, go swimming or walk along the beach.
Is Little Gasparilla Island private? ›Little Gasparilla Island is a private, bridge-less barrier island accessible “only” by boat.
Are there alligators on Gasparilla Island? ›
As a matter of fact, Gasparilla Island features a large, wildlife friendly state park. Raccoons, opossums, bats, rats, mice, squirrels, snakes, osprey, skunks, iguanas, alligators, armadillos, and even feral hogs are all found on the island.
Are there scorpions on Little Gasparilla Island? ›So as far as I'm aware, based off of what I've collected here, it seems that Little Gasparilla Island only has a single species of scorpion - Centruroides gracilis, the Florida Bark Scorpion.
Can you walk from Little Gasparilla Island to Don Pedro Island? ›The beautiful Don Pedro Island State Park is part of an extensive chain of barrier islands extending along Florida's Gulf Coast. Between Knight Island and Little Gasparilla Island, Don Pedro is accessible only by private boat or ferry. Enjoy a scenic walk that travels through a variety of habitats on the island.
What is the difference between Boca Grande and Gasparilla Island? ›Boca Grande is a small residential community on Gasparilla Island in southwest Florida. Gasparilla Island is a part of both Charlotte and Lee counties, while the actual village of Boca Grande, which is home to many seasonal and some year-round residents, is entirely in the Lee County portion of the island.
What airport is close to Little Gasparilla? ›The nearest airport to Gasparilla Island is Punta Gorda (PGD) Airport which is 19.4 miles away. Other nearby airports include Ft. Myers (RSW) (36 miles) and Tampa (TPA) (85.3 miles).
How many miles long is Little Gasparilla Island? ›The current length is about 7 miles with variations in width. The part typically referred to as “Little Gasparilla Island” is about 2 miles long. The remaining 5 miles is made up of Don Pedro and Knight Island, both of which are north of Little Gasparilla Island.
What do people do at Gasparilla? ›Whether or not the mayor actually "surrenders", the pirates stage a "victory parade" along Bayshore Boulevard. During the parade, members of Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla along with dozens of other krewes throw beads, coins, and various souvenirs to the throngs from about 100 floats, most of them pirate-themed.
Can you bring alcohol to Gasparilla? ›From Gandy, up Bayshore Blvd. and through the whole of Curtis Hixon Park, the thirsty and weary can openly carry and consume alcoholic beverages during Gasparilla festivities.
How much does it cost to go to Gasparilla? ›Yes, Gasparilla is a FREE community event with over 100 years of history in Tampa Bay. Reserved seating is available for the Gasparilla Invasion Brunch at the Tampa Convention Center, the Children's Gasparilla Parade and the Gasparilla Parade of the Pirates.
How many people live on Little Gasparilla Island? ›| Y-o-Y Change | ||
|---|---|---|
| Total Population | 2,830 | 19.5% |
| Male Population | 1,333 | 19.6% |
| Female Population | 1,497 | 19.5% |
Does Little Gasparilla Island have red tide? ›
Little Gasparilla Island usually suffers from a red tide 2-3 times a year. Usually it is worse in late summer, but no one can predict its approach.
Are dogs allowed on Gasparilla Island? ›Are dogs allowed on a leash - Gasparilla Island State Park. Dogs are allowed in the park if they are on a leash. They are not allowed on the actual beach. This is pretty typical of Florida beaches everywhere - however, there are some "dog beaches" throughout the state.
How far is it from Gasparilla Island to Naples FL? ›How far is it from Naples to Gasparilla Island? The distance between Naples and Gasparilla Island is 53 miles. The road distance is 68.9 miles.
What island in Florida does not allow cars? ›North Captiva Island, Florida
Yes, the car-free island of North Captiva is located on the south-western coast of Florida. Since cars are banned on this American island, golf carts come into use for the people to get around the island.
Boca Grande is one of the few places where golf carts share the road with cars, bicyclists and pedestrians. It is important to know HOW you should operate a cart in Boca Grande, WHERE you are allowed to drive and WHO is allowed to drive.
Are there manatees on Gasparilla Island? ›Several imperiled species inhabit the park and its waters, such as gopher tortoises, manatees and turtles. A variety of shorebirds, including herons and egrets, can also be seen at the park. The fish and shellfish resources of the waters surrounding Gasparilla Island are among the richest in the state.
Can you kayak to Little Gasparilla Island? ›Little Gasparilla Island, a tropical barrier island just off the west coast of Florida, can only be reached by boat and therefore has no paved roads or cars, only sandy pathways made for golf carts and foot traffic.
Can you snorkel at Gasparilla Island? ›Welcome to Gasparilla Island State Park
The centerpiece of Gasparilla is the restored Port Boca Grande Lighthouse built in 1890. Swimming, snorkeling, fishing and nature study are popular activities that can be accessed at any of our five parking lots.
Numerous sports, showbiz, and political luminaries such as Katherine Hepburn, Harrison Ford, George H.W. Bush, Jason Garrett, and Tom Brokaw have all been known to rent or own vacation homes on the low-lying barrier island.
What city is Gasparilla Island? ›The Boca Grande Historic District is situated in the center of Gasparilla Island, a seven mile long barrier island in Charlotte Harbor. Two-thirds of the island lies in Lee County; the northern one-third lies in Charlotte County.
What is the biggest private island in Florida? ›
Hog Island- Largest Private Island in FL.
What is the most alligator-infested area in Florida? ›1. Lake Jesup, Florida. Although alligator attacks are rare, Lake Jesup is the most alligator-infested lake in the United States.
What is the most alligator-infested water in Florida? ›Lake Okeechobee, which has a surface area measuring 730 square miles, is the largest lake in Florida, as well as the most alligator-infested lake in the state.
Do alligators go into the ocean in Florida? ›Alligators are primarily freshwater animals and they do not live in the ocean.
What part of Florida has the most scorpions? ›Serving Central FL, Northern FL and the Panhandle
Florida is home to three main species of scorpions, the Florida Bark Scorpion, the Hentz Striped Scorpion, and the Guiana Striped Scorpion. These scorpions like to hide under boards, in debris, and in other places in homes and yards where food and shelter can be found.
Gasparilla Island State Park offers beautiful beaches with ample room to relax, hunt for fossilized shark teeth, shell, swim, snorkel, or fish, and is accessible from any of five parking lots.
Which city has the most scorpions? ›Phoenix, AZ
Native to the arid Arizona desert, the bark scorpion is the most venomous scorpion in the United States, and is the culprit in most scorpion bites in the state. Arizona's two poison-control centers report about 12,000 scorpion stings in the state each year.
Welcome to Don Pedro Island State Park
Located between Knight Island and Little Gasparilla Island, Don Pedro Island is accessible only by private boat. Boaters can tie up at the dock on the mangrove-lined bay side of the island.
There are many private residences on the island and much of the island is taken up by the Palm Island Resort. There is only one restaurant on Don Pedro, Rum Bay Restaurant, located on the north end of the island.
Can you drive a car on Don Pedro Island? ›Access to the island with your automobile is by Car Ferry only. The ride across the intercoastal waterway is only about 3 minutes long. You can drive-on, walk-on, or bring your bike or golf cart.
What is Boca Grande most expensive home? ›
A Mediterranean-style mansion on 130 feet of Gulf-front at 161 Gilchrist Ave., the toniest street in the exclusive old-Florida island community of Boca Grande, sold for $7.4 million this week.
What celebrities are in Boca Grande? ›It may have hosted Henry Ford, Thomas Edison, Audrey Hepburn, the George H. W. Bush family and more recently Nick Saban and Tucker Carlson, but the elite island of Boca Grande is still a place where regular folks can have a grand Old Florida experience.
What celebrities live in Boca Grande Florida? ›In fact, because of its isolation, it has been frequented in the past by celebrities like Katherine Hepburn and Barbara Bush. Today, Coach Nick Saban reportedly has a home in Boca Grande, while Tom Brokaw, Chris O'Donnell, and Tucker Carlson have reportedly been spotted there.
What airport do you fly into for Boca Grande Florida? ›Getting Here
Airports – There are a variety of airports close by including: Punta Gorda Airport, Sarasota Bradenton International Airport just north, Southwest Florida International Airport in Ft. Myers and Tampa International Airport in Tampa. By Car: Boca Grande is also easy to find if you are driving.
Within reach of both Palm Beach and Miami, The Boca Raton is easily accessible via three international airports (FLL, PBI, and MIA) as well as Boca Raton Airport.
Is boca closer to fll or pbi? ›What airports are near Boca Raton? The closest airport is Fort Lauderdale (FLL) (20.19 mi). Other nearby airports are Palm Beach Intl (PBI) (22.42 mi) or Miami (MIA) (40.82 mi).
How do you get around Little Gasparilla Island? ›There are two features of Little Gasparilla Island that make it most unique… There is no bridge to and from the island. All access is either by private boat or water taxi. There are no roads, and therefore no cars, on the island, only a sandy cart path which allows you to traverse and explore the island by golf cart.
Did Little Gasparilla Island survive the hurricane? ›John Day, an IT consultant and father to three teenage boys, built his house on Little Gasparilla Island in 2004. It survived Category 4 Hurricane Charley that year but Day says he wasn't prepared for what Ian wrought. "It's been mentally tough actually," he says. "I've never been challenged like this."
What is the history of Little Gasparilla Island? ›According to Florida folklore, Gasparilla Island gets its name from the legendary pirate captain José Gaspar ("Gasparilla", c. 1756–1821), who had his base on the island and purportedly hid his fabulous treasure there. Much of the development of this legend is the result of promotion by a local hotel and railroad line.
Can you drive on Little Gasparilla Island? ›One of the last Bridgeless Barrier islands
It has no bridges and is reachable only by private boat or the area's water taxi. There are no paved roads, just sandy pathways that meander through the sea grapes and Australian pines. Golf carts or walking are the usual mode of transportation.
What's the difference between Boca Grande and Gasparilla Island? ›
Boca Grande is a small residential community on Gasparilla Island in southwest Florida. Gasparilla Island is a part of both Charlotte and Lee counties, while the actual village of Boca Grande, which is home to many seasonal and some year-round residents, is entirely in the Lee County portion of the island.
Can I kayak to Little Gasparilla Island? ›Little Gasparilla Island, a tropical barrier island just off the west coast of Florida, can only be reached by boat and therefore has no paved roads or cars, only sandy pathways made for golf carts and foot traffic.
Are dogs allowed on Gasparilla beaches? ›Are dogs allowed on a leash - Gasparilla Island State Park. Dogs are allowed in the park if they are on a leash. They are not allowed on the actual beach. This is pretty typical of Florida beaches everywhere - however, there are some "dog beaches" throughout the state.
Do you have to take a ferry to Don Pedro Island? ›Located between Knight Island and Little Gasparilla Island, Don Pedro Island is accessible only by private boat.
Who lives on Gasparilla Island? ›Numerous sports, showbiz, and political luminaries such as Katherine Hepburn, Harrison Ford, George H.W. Bush, Jason Garrett, and Tom Brokaw have all been known to rent or own vacation homes on the low-lying barrier island.