Discovering Gasparilla Island: A Step Back in Time

Experience the hidden gem of Gasparilla Island. This enchanting island is a distinct slice of paradise, set apart by its pristine beaches, clear waters, and the lavish yet nostalgic atmosphere. As you step foot on the island, you'll be transported back in time, away from the hustle and bustle of modern life, with no traffic lights, chain restaurants, or towering high-rises in sight.

No visit to Gasparilla Island is complete without a trip to Gasparilla Island State Park and that may be where you want to start your day. The park spans 127 acres, with several parking lots and beach accesses. The park features convenient amenities like restrooms and rinse-off stations. The park's iconic lighthouse museum is located at the southernmost part of the island and it offers fascinating insights into the island's rich history. During our visit it was $3 per vehicle to park in one of the lots. During the high season and on holidays these parking lots fill up fast so be sure to head out early.

Boca Grande: The Heart of Gasparilla Island

After spending the morning in the sun, it may be time to check out downtown Boca Grande. This quaint beach town is brimming with upscale restaurants and historic charm. While parking in the downtown area is for patrons of the local businesses, finding a spot can be tough during the high season and on holidays.

Newlins is a great choice for lunch if you want to try what is known as Florida's best lobster roll. Unfortunately it was closed for the summer for remodeling during our latest visit so we will be excited to come back to see the newly renovated space as well as try that lobster roll.

Even if you decide to visit this summer, there are a few other options to consider for lunch, including the Pink Elephant. This historic restaurant has been in business for over sixty years. We were surprised how much their BLT impressed us. They took what is often considered to be an average dish to the next level. This is also a good choice if you want a nice cocktail, it you order one you might go home with a cute tiny Pink Elephant.

You may have noticed a theme here on Gasparilla Island - the parking is hard to come by - for that reason, many visitors choose to stay on the island. The most well known accommodation has to be The Gasparilla Inn, which was recently named the best resort in Florida. The luxury that is offered here does come with a high price tag, but thankfully there are some more budget friendly options on the island like the Boca Grande Hotel. While this accommodation is located at the north end of the island approximately 3.5 miles from the Historic Downtown, Gasparilla Island has a very well maintained bike path that runs from the north end, all the way south to Gasparilla Island State Park. Many visitors choose to get around via the bike path on bicycles, scooters and even golf carts!

If you are craving something sweet after lunch, you can head to the next "pink" spot,  The Pink Pony, which is only a few blocks away. This business has been in operation since 1988, but used to be known as the Dolphin Cove. They offer a variety of homemade ice cream flavors but we had to try their highly recommended coffee shake and it was the perfect blend of coffee and ice cream. It definitely gave us the boost we needed to head back down south to another area of the state park.

Just south of downtown is where you will find the second lighthouse on the island, the Gasparilla Island Lighthouse. It is located just off of the bike trail within the state park. This lighthouse is much taller than the original lighthouse on the south end of the island and is surrounded by lush vegetation and beach trails. We would recommend allocating time to check out both lighthouses during your visit.

As your day winds down, head back south on the island to the South Beach Bar & Grille. Whether you are just looking for a spot to grab a drink and watch sunset, or enjoy a meal on the beach, this place has something for you. While this spot was severely damaged by a recent hurricane, they were able to rebuild and continue to offer locals and visitors a unique experience on Gasparilla Island.

A Perfect Getaway: Embrace the Old Florida Charm

Gasparilla Island, with its unique blend of natural beauty and sophisticated charm, offers the perfect escape for those seeking both relaxation and luxury. Whether basking in the sun on a pristine beach, savoring a gourmet meal, or exploring the island’s rich history, each moment promises a slice of paradise. The island’s seamless mix of old-world charm and modern indulgence makes it a must-visit destination, offering experiences sure to create lasting memories.

If you are planning your own visit we do recommend watching our Gasparilla Island episode to get a feel for the destinations in this guide to decide which places are going on your itinerary. Be sure to follow us on Plannin and YouTube for more Florida travel guides and itineraries.