Forget Naples or Sarasota: Old Florida Still Exists on the Charming Island of Boca Grande
On this sleepy island, golf carts replace cars and time slows. Known for tarpon fishing and pastel cottages, this is Old Florida at its best.
Living in Punta Gorda, my husband and I are spoiled with easy access to some of the prettiest beaches on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
But when we want a truly special day by the sea, we head to Boca Grande. This small, laid-back barrier island feels worlds away from the resort towns of mainland Florida.
Tucked along Charlotte Harbor on Gasparilla Island, Boca Grande has that Old Florida charm that’s getting harder to find.
Think quiet streets shaded by banyan trees, pastel cottages with wraparound porches, and locals cruising around in golf carts instead of cars.
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It’s an easy escape for us, but one that feels indulgent. And if you’re planning a Florida vacation, this is a lesser-known destination that should be on your radar.
You can spend the morning biking along palm-lined streets, the afternoon sunbathing on a white-sand beach, and then watch the sunset over the Gulf from Gasparilla Island State Park.
Whether you’re visiting for the day or staying a while, Boca Grande is the kind of Florida town that reminds you to slow down, unplug, and just enjoy the view.
So let’s talk about how to get there, where to stay, and what to do when you arrive!
How to Get to Boca Grande
Getting to Boca Grande, Florida is part of the fun. If you’re visiting other parts of Southwest Florida, it’s close enough for an easy day trip.
But it’s remote enough to feel like you’ve discovered your own little island escape.
The island sits off the coast of Southwest Florida, connected to the mainland by the Boca Grande Causeway, a scenic bridge that crosses Charlotte Harbor. There’s a small toll (currently $6 per vehicle), and once you drive over, you’ll immediately feel the pace slow down.
Closest Airports:
- Punta Gorda Airport (PGD): About 45 minutes away, this is the most convenient airport but it’s small with just a few airlines that serve it.
- Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW): Located in Fort Myers, it’s about 1 hour and 30 minutes from Boca Grande.
- Sarasota International Airport (SRQ): A little over an hour away, this is the closest larger airport to Boca Grande.
Parking is available in town and at Gasparilla Island State Park, though spots can fill up quickly on weekends. If you’re staying overnight, most accommodations include designated parking.
Once you’re here, park the car—you won’t need it. The best way to explore is by golf cart, the preferred island mode of transportation.
You can rent one from several local spots (more on that in a moment!), and it’s the easiest way to reach the beaches, shops, and restaurants scattered along the island.
Best Time of Year to Visit
There’s really no bad time to visit Boca Grande, but the island’s personality changes a bit with the seasons.
Winter and Spring (December–April) are the most popular months. The weather is sunny and mild, with low humidity and daytime highs in the 70s and 80s. It’s peak season for visitors escaping colder climates, so book early if you plan to stay overnight—especially at the Gasparilla Inn.
Summer (May–September) brings hotter temperatures and afternoon thunderstorms, but also fewer crowds. This is when locals like me tend to visit for quiet beach days and calm Gulf waters perfect for swimming. Just pack extra sunscreen and plan around the heat.
Fall (October–November) is an underrated time to go. The weather cools slightly, hurricane season winds down, and you’ll find more affordable lodging options.
If you’re interested in local events, this area is known as one of the best tarpon fishing spots in the world.
Held in May each year, the World’s Richest Tarpon Tournament is a legendary event on the island. The next tournament is scheduled for May 25-26, 2026 and it’s a must-see if you’re in the area.
Where to Stay in Boca Grande
Even though Boca Grande, Florida is small, it offers a nice range of places to stay depending on whether you want a luxury resort experience or a cozy beach rental.
Hotels and Inns
The Gasparilla Inn – If you’re after classic elegance, there’s only one place that truly defines the island. Open since 1913, this historic resort is the heart of Boca Grande and oozes Old Florida charm.
Expect rocking chairs on wide verandas, perfectly manicured lawns, and impeccable service. The inn’s beach club and golf course are beautiful bonuses if you’re planning a longer stay. (Note: This Florida beauty is only open only during the winter months.)
Boca Grande Hotel – When the Gasparilla Inn is closed (or if it’s out of your budget!), this is my top pick on the island. With sparkling clean rooms and a lovely little pool, this is a great choice for a beach getaway.
The Palmetto Inn – A budget-friendly option with rooms ranging from studio suites to two-bedroom apartments.
Vacation Rentals
If you prefer a little more privacy, vacation rentals are plentiful across Gasparilla Island. Many are steps from the beach and include golf carts for getting around.
You’ll find charming cottages near Park Avenue, modern condos with Gulf views, and family homes tucked behind those iconic banyan-lined streets.
Here are a few of my favorite Airbnbs on Boca Grande:
GrandeFlats – This 2-bedroom apartment is a great budget-friendly choice for a couple or small family. It’s sparkling clean and walking distance from the beach, shops, and restaurants.
Pilot Street Beach House – For a little more space, this 3-bedroom, 2-bath beach house is a great find on the island. The open kitchen and great room area is perfect for family gatherings and there’s a large deck with a grill for relaxing after a beach day.
Island Oasis- Boca Grande Club – One of the Village Houses inside the Boca Grande Club, this 3-bedroom, 3-bath home comes complete with a temporary membership to the Boca Grande Club where guests can enjoy access to a range of exclusive amenities (including a swimming pool).
Grande Canal 3 Bedroom Retreat – If you’re travelling with a big family, this spacious vacation home with a private pool and hot tub is a gem.
Whether you’re staying at the historic inn or renting a beach cottage, everything on Boca Grande feels just a little slower and more intentional—a welcome break from Florida’s faster-paced coastal towns.
Things to Do in Boca Grande
Boca Grande might be small, but it’s packed with charm and things to do. Whether you’re into beaches, history, or just slow island living, you’ll find plenty to fill your days.
1. Spend the Day at Gasparilla Island State Park
This is my go-to spot for a beach day. The sand is soft, the water is clear, and the sunsets are some of the best on the Gulf Coast. There’s plenty of parking, picnic tables, and restrooms, making it one of the most visitor-friendly beaches in the area.
2. Visit the Gasparilla Island Lighthouse
Located within the state park, this beautifully restored lighthouse is one of the most photographed landmarks on the island.
The small museum next door tells the story of Boca Grande’s maritime history and its connection to Charlotte Harbor. The lighthouse is open for public tours October thru April of each year.
3. Stroll or Bike Down Banyan Street
You can’t visit Boca Grande without stopping here. The massive banyan trees form a tunnel of branches that’s absolutely beautiful in photos and even more magical in person. The banyans took a major hit in last year’s hurricanes but they are slowly recovering.
4. Explore Park Avenue
This is the island’s main street and the heart of the village. You’ll find boutique shops, art galleries, and local favorites like Keylime Bistro, Hudson’s Grocery, and Pink Pony Ice Cream.
Everything’s within walking (or golf cart) distance. Don’t miss lunch or dinner at the popular Pink Elephant restaurant.
5. Rent a Golf Cart and Cruise the Island
Golf carts are the unofficial mode of transportation here, and honestly, half the fun of visiting is cruising around in one. You can rent from local companies like Gasparilla Adventures and explore every corner of the island at your own pace.
6. Go Fishing or Boating
Boca Grande is known as the “Tarpon Fishing Capital of the World,” and anglers come from all over to test their luck in the waters of Charlotte Harbor. Local charters offer half-day and full-day trips, or you can rent a small boat to explore the mangrove-lined backwaters.
The Boca Grande Sandbar is also a popular spot for local boaters to relax on the water for the day. We often take a boat from our Punta Gorda marina over to the sandbar for an afternoon enjoying the crystal clear knee-deep water on the sandbar.
7. Visit the Boca Grande History Center
If you enjoy a bit of history, stop by this small but well-curated museum on Banyan Street. It offers a glimpse into the island’s early days and the development of the Gasparilla Inn.
More Info: Boca Grande History Center
8. Watch the Sunset Over the Gulf
End your day the way locals do—park your golf cart by the dunes at Gasparilla Island State Park and watch the sky turn pink and gold over the Gulf.
So consider Boca Grande for your next Florida escape!
To me, Boca Grande is the perfect reminder that some of the best places don’t need to be flashy to be special. The island’s quiet charm, walkable streets, and postcard-perfect beaches make it one of my favorite escapes from nearby Punta Gorda.
If you’re planning a trip to Southwest Florida, make time for this beautiful barrier island. It’s one of those places that captures you with its simplicity—and keeps you coming back.
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