Best Historic Stays: Tarpon Lodge on Pine Island
In a quiet corner of the largest island on Florida’s Gulf Coast, you’ll find Tarpon Lodge. Dating back to 1926, this old-school fishing lodge on Pine Island, now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, has seen several transformations over the decades, but today it’s back to its roots and better than ever.
Staying at Tarpon Lodge
Booking ahead is key at Tarpon Lodge, especially during peak season, because it only has 20 guest rooms and two cottages.
The 1926 Historic Lodge serves as the centerpiece. It’s home to the lobby, restaurant, and eight rooms with original hardwood floors and vintage charm. Upstairs rooms are walk-up only, while the rooms downstairs provide easier access for those with mobility challenges.
I stayed in the Sanibel Room, which was bright and airy with large windows overlooking the lawn and Pine Island Sound. The small patio with wicker chairs is the perfect spot for morning coffee or a sunset cocktail.
The Island House has twelve elevated rooms, six with water views and six without. Some rooms connect for larger parties, and the open-air patio beneath the building is a popular gathering spot near the pool on weekends.
For those who want more privacy and space, the Historic Boathouse and the Cottage are separate from the main buildings.
Things to Do at Tarpon Lodge
Each morning begins with a complimentary breakfast in the lodge’s main dining room, featuring orange juice, bagels, yogurt, cereals, and light bites. From there, you can choose your pace:
Relax by the pool: the perfect spot to catch some sun and chat with fellow guests.
Book a fishing charter: Tarpon Lodge has a list of recommended local guides.
Take a boat ride to sister property Cabbage Key: Cabbage Key is home to the famous “Dollar Bill Bar.” I visited in December and wrote all about the bar and the island’s unique history here. If you don’t have your own boat, there are water taxis from Pineland Marina (next to Tarpon Lodge) that go to Cabbage Key and North Captiva.
Explore the Great Calusa Blueway Trail: Paddle a scenic section of the 200-mile paddling route from the lodge.
Watch the sunset from the dock: Relax in the Adirondack chairs that line the dock and watch birds return to the mangroves at dusk. I was lucky enough to catch two stunning sunsets during my stay!
Dining at Tarpon Lodge Restaurant
The on-site Four Star restaurant serves lunch and dinner daily and is widely regarded as one of the nicest dining spots on Pine Island. The cozy bar area is decorated with trophy fish and vintage photos, while the main dining room is bright and airy. During cooler months, the screened porch is the perfect place to enjoy a meal.
The Tarpon Strawberry Lemonade, made with vodka, fresh lemon, mint, strawberries, and a splash of soda, is one of the restaurant’s signature cocktails, and just one option from the speciality cocktail menu. There’s also an extensive wine list.
Menu highlights include the Fresh Catch of the Day from local waters, filet mignon and daily chef specials that showcase seasonal flavors. I ate here both nights of my stay and had truly memorable meals. Best of all, it was only a short walk up the stairs back to my room after dinner!
Plan Your Stay at Tarpon Lodge
If you’re looking for a change of pace in Florida, Pine Island (Guide) is a breath of fresh air. In a state where so much feels built up and commercialized, this quiet corner has stayed true to itself, and so has Tarpon Lodge. It delivers the kind of authentic Florida getaway that’s hard to find today.
Book your stay, and be sure to let them know Sarah sent you!
This trip was made possible in collaboration with the Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau. You can find even more ways to experience Southwest Florida by visiting their website at VisitFortMyers.com.
