Boca Grande Guide | Sarah’s Small Town Escapes
There’s a beach town in Lee County that takes some effort to get to, and it’s definitely worth the trip. Boca Grande, at the south end of Gasparilla Island, isn’t a place you’ll just happen to pass through, you need to be intentionally heading there.
And when you arrive, you’ll find an island community unlike anywhere else in Florida. Every restaurant and shop is local, there are seven miles of sandy beaches, and the waters are teeming with fish, which is why its known as the “Tarpon Capital of the World.” Locals love the lack of glitz, but there’s still an air of quiet luxury everywhere you go. Here’s how to make the most of your visit to Boca Grande.
Explore by bike or golf cart
Renting a bike or golf cart is essential. It’s the most relaxing way to get around the community, which has an average yearly population of about 1,000 people. Boca Grande is very seasonal, so keep in mind some restaurants, shops, and hotels close in the off-season (August/September).
And, no need to ride on the main roadways during your visit. The six-mile Boca Grande Rail-Trail runs the length of the island and right through the quaint downtown, with dedicated spots to park and explore.
I rented a bike from Gasparilla Adventures, which has operated here for more than 16 years. They also have golf carts and SUPs if you’d like to get out on the water, too.
Eat and shop local
There are no chains in Boca Grande, so enjoy the local flavors. I recommend:
Breakfast: Coffee and an açaí bowl at Bella Vida
Sweet treat: Ice cream or a smoothie at The Pink Pony, a family-owned shop
Lunch/dinner: Key Lime Bistro in the historic train station where you can enjoy outdoor seating and a must-order slice of key lime pie (or martini!)
For shopping, I loved Gasparilla Outfitters for fishing gear, outdoor finds, and classic Boca Grande sweatshirts.
Staying in a vacation rental? Hudson’s Grocery is your go-to for essentials. It’s an old-school market with a great selection, and there’s even a bright pink, retro golf-cart gas pump out front that works!
Gasparilla Island State Park
You’ll see a number of signs for Gasparilla Island State Park during your visit. This 127-acre park has multiple entrances and it’s worth visiting several times for shelling, swimming, fishing, surfing, picnicking, and relaxing. For beach access, head to the Sea Grape and Range Light parking lots.
And you can't miss the lighthouses. Enjoy views of the Gasparilla Island Lighthouse at Wheeler Road and Gulf Boulevard.
Then step inside the Port Boca Grande Lighthouse, one of the oldest structures in Lee County, built in 1890. It originally guided ships into Charlotte Harbor and today houses a museum and visitor center. The porch offers gorgeous views of Boca Grande Pass, where tarpon migrate in spring and summer, giving the island its famous nickname.
Stepping up onto the porch of the Port Boca Grande Lighthouse will also give you great views of Boca Grande Pass, which separates Gasparilla and Cayo Costa islands, and is the reason why the area is known as the Tarpon Capital of the World because of the ample number of “Silver King” in the spring and summer.
Gasparilla Inn
The Gasparilla Inn is the grand dame of Boca Grande. Dating back to 1911, it still maintains its classic charm while now anchoring much of island life.
Guests can stay at the historic inn or in one of the cottages, villas, or houses. Wherever you stay, you will get to enjoy the Florida maximalist style and thoughtful design details.
And, the amenities are impressive! You can play a round on the 7,000-yard championship golf course, relax at the Beach Club, head out from the marina, play croquet on the lawn, or hit the clay tennis courts and pickleball courts.
For dining, choose from The Main Dining Room inside the Inn or The Pink Elephant, affectionately known as “The Pink”, a beloved spot serving signature cocktails and coastal flavors for decades.
Note: The Inn closes seasonally and books up fast around the holidays. If rooms are unavailable, jump on the waitlist, or plan a year ahead during peak times.
This trip was sponsored by the Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau. Discover more ways to explore Southwest Florida at VisitFortMyers.com.
