Nestled in the heart of Old Florida, America’s best small beach town features pristine waters and a picturesque bike path.

Although Florida attracts nearly 140 million tourists each year, few venture to the tranquil Gasparilla Island and its charming center, Boca Grande. This sophisticated yet laid-back community along the Gulf of Mexico remains pleasantly hidden, except for its fame as the 'tarpon capital of the world.'

As Nikki Heimann, manager of The Pink Pony, an island-loved ice cream parlor founded in 1988 by her grandfather, puts it, the franchise-free community feels 'like stepping back in time.'

'Our beaches are remarkably pristine, and the waters are typically clear and sparkling, teeming with diverse marine life,' she shares. 'A major draw is the deep-water tarpon fishing in our channel. We have two beautifully preserved historic lighthouses, a museum, and a state park on the southern end, plus a smooth bike path stretching the entire island, making it a favorite for golf cart and bicycle rentals for a leisurely day. It’s an ideal spot for those seeking peace, tranquility, and a break from it all.'

Beyond its beauty, Boca Grande demonstrates resilience. Like much of Southwest Florida, particularly Sanibel and Captiva islands to the south, it faced devastation from Hurricane Ian in September 2022. The Pink Pony reopened shortly after, but other businesses weren’t as lucky. 'Many beloved landmarks have vanished for good,' Heimann reflects. 'Everyone here has their own story and challenges. We’re just grateful we weren’t completely washed away.'

Now back in full swing, Boca Grande is a charming destination — a serene escape from the hectic rhythm of modern life (and many parts of Florida) with a delightful small-town vibe. In fact, Dinogo named it the best small beach town in the nation for 2023. Discover the magic for yourself by exploring the village via golf cart, bike, or on foot.

The Optimal Times to Visit 

Similar to many Florida beach towns, Boca Grande experiences seasonal fluctuations. 'Most visitors love coming during our lively 'social season' when the town is alive with energy, and the Florida sun provides a pleasant escape from northern winter snows,' Heimann explains. This peak season typically spans from around Thanksgiving to spring break.

'Afterward, we transition into tarpon season, attracting fishing families who enjoy the island throughout the summer months,' she adds. 'Many downtown shops close during August and September, making it an ideal time for those who prefer solitude in the heat.'

While late summer offers a tranquil, crowd-free experience in Boca Grande, finding accommodations may prove challenging since the Gasparilla Inn closes from mid-July to early October. However, other hotels remain open, and various vacation rentals are available. When planning your trip, keep in mind that spring and winter are generally the best times to visit Florida, as hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, posing potential storm risks during summer and fall. 

Activities to Enjoy

In America’s top small beach town, the best activities revolve around the water—think fishing, shelling, boating, beaches, and biking. Heimann highlights that the top recommendation is not just an activity but an experience: savoring a sunset from the beach or while paddleboarding. Other popular pursuits include climbing the Gasparilla Island Lighthouse (locally referred to as the “range light”) and visiting Gasparilla Island State Park for swimming, snorkeling, or fishing. Be on the lookout for tarpon that frequently leap and roll in the deep waters of Boca Grande Pass. For a true tarpon experience, consider attending the annual World’s Richest Tarpon Tournament, a tradition since the early 1980s with thousands of dollars in prizes up for grabs.

Much of Gasparilla Island’s charm can be explored along the Boca Grande Bike Path. The island spans seven miles and is half a mile wide at its broadest point, with this 6.5-mile path leading you past highlights like Banyan Street, the Boca Grande Historical Society, and the charmingly pink Johann Fust Community Library. The northern end is close to Glass Bottom Rentals, where Heimann suggests renting a clear kayak to paddle around the old railroad trestles nearby.

Aim for an invitation to the exclusive Useppa Island; if not, a day trip to Cayo Costa will certainly satisfy your desire for island adventures. It’s accessible only by boat or kayak, with ferry services available from several mainland locations.

Accommodations

Gasparilla Inn & Club 

The Gasparilla Inn & Club epitomizes the charm of old Florida, offering an ideal blend of elegance and comfort. The inn features various lodging options, including rooms and suites in The Main Inn, along with private cottages and villas that range from two to four bedrooms. Guests can enjoy numerous activities, such as golf, croquet, fitness classes, and rejuvenating spa treatments. With four dining venues on-site, just remember to adhere to the dress code while packing your bags.

Boca Grande Hotel

The charming Boca Grande Hotel provides a more relaxed stay on the northern end of Gasparilla Island, close to Uncle Henry’s Marina, although the nearest public beach access is three miles away. The hotel features an outdoor pool, rentable loungers for the beach, and a guest laundromat to tidy up before packing. Next door, you can enjoy a deli sandwich or ice cream at Kappy’s Market.

The Palmetto Inn

A companion property to the Boca Grande Hotel, The Palmetto Inn is situated in the Downtown Boca Grande Historic District, just a short stroll from the beach. Originally built as a private residence in 1900, it has been transformed into a delightful inn featuring seven suites, offering some of the most affordable in-season rates on the island.

The Innlet on the Waterfront

Perched on the shores of Boca Grande Bayou, The Innlet on the Waterfront is a no-frills gem featuring around 30 rooms that face the waterfront or courtyard. Amenities include a pool, an on-site restaurant offering breakfast and lunch, and a full-service marina if you prefer to BYOB (Florida lingo for 'bring your own boat'). Keep an eye out for manatees while enjoying breakfast on The Outlet's patio.

Dining and Drinking Options

Gasparilla Inn

Guests at the Gasparilla Inn will be pleased to discover that its dining options rank among the finest in Boca Grande. The inn features an elegant main dining room (serving breakfast and dinner), the laid-back Pink Elephant (offering lunch and dinner), and the inviting BZ’s, where both the public and guests can sip beverages and enjoy snacks while overlooking The Gasparilla Golf Club and Charlotte Harbor. The Beach Club is another popular spot for poolside drinks and lunch, though it is exclusive to inn guests and members.

The Temptation Restaurant 

For an authentic Boca Grande experience, order the fish of the day at The Temptation Restaurant. Standout dishes include crab cakes accompanied by roasted shrimp sauce and pan-fried lemon-garlic snapper, while the daily special may feature blackened tripletail or chargrilled pompano. The wine selection is equally noteworthy.

Scarpa’s Coastal

A sister establishment to the popular, family-run Scarpa’s Italian in Lakeland, Scarpa’s Coastal specializes in fresh Florida seafood with an Italian twist. The restaurant boasts an extensive wine list featuring bottles imported from Napa Valley and Italy. Diners rave about the crab cakes, pasta, and chicken offerings.

Eagle Grille and Miller’s Dockside at Boca Grande Marina

The Boca Grande Marina hosts two dining options: Eagle Grille and Miller’s Dockside. Eagle Grille offers a serene atmosphere with second-floor waterfront views, while Miller’s Dockside features a lively sports bar vibe right by the water. Both restaurants share a menu filled with fresh coastal dishes such as oysters, Gulf grouper, and shrimp.

Sisters Restaurant

No vacation is complete without pizza at least once, and Sisters Restaurant is the perfect spot for that. This cozy eatery serves classic Italian comfort food, available for dining indoors or al fresco — and yes, it’s truly owned by twin sisters.

The Pink Pony

What’s a day at the beach without a treat of ice cream? The best spot to indulge is The Pink Pony, a nostalgic hometown ice cream parlor that once rented VHS movies and developed photos. While times have changed, visitors can still partake in a beloved Boca Grande tradition by enjoying hand-dipped Amish ice cream, sorbets, specialty sundaes, shaved ice, all-fruit smoothies, açaí bowls, and coffee drinks. The Pink Pony also offers snacks, beer, wine, bagged ice, and souvenirs. Don’t forget to check out Tortuga, the outdoor walk-up window serving authentic Mexican fare behind the main shop.

Shopping Destinations

Boca Grande features a variety of local, family-run shops offering souvenirs, art, clothing, and more. Heimann suggests visiting Fugate’s — “a classic island gift store that has a little bit of everything,” she notes. You can also drop by Barbara Anne’s for a unique piece of jewelry to remember your trip. 

At the family-operated Smart Studio Art Gallery & Shop (which also has a location in Maine), you’ll discover beautiful local art, including original paintings, prints, driftwood sculptures, gifts, and home decor. If you’re looking for light tackle or outdoor clothing and accessories, Boca Grande Outfitters is the place to go.

Getting There

In addition to the private Coral Creek Airport, located less than 10 miles from Boca Grande, several public airports are in the vicinity. The nearest is Punta Gorda Airport (PGD), about an hour away, served by Sun Country and Allegiant Air with nonstop flights from roughly 50 cities.

Other options include Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) and Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW), both approximately an hour and a half away, as well as Tampa International Airport (TPA), around two hours by car. Boca Grande is more than three hours from both Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Miami International Airport (MIA). Regardless of your arrival airport, there’s only one route onto Gasparilla Island: the Boca Grande Causeway.