Little Gasparilla Island, a bridgeless barrier island off Florida's west coast, part of a chain of coastal islands including Don Pedro and Palm Island, is located near the world famous fishing grounds of Boca Grande. This secluded Gulf of Mexico island paradise offers serenity that you would not have believed still existed in today's Florida.
Centered between Tampa and Naples, an easy drive from the airports of Sarasota and Ft. Myers, Little Gasparilla Island lies in the heart of some of the planet's most beautiful white sand beaches and boasts fantastic fishing. The safe simplistic appeal of this tranquil tropical paradise offers something for every family. The beauty of nature abounds on the island and in its surrounding waters.
Trade in your snow shovel for a sand shovel and pail. Spend the winter building sand castles beneath blue skies basking in the Florida sun. Southwest Florida celebrates two main seasons. The cooler temperatures of October begin Florida's winter and the season stretches through late April. Occasional cold fronts may drop the temperatures below freezing, but sweaters and jackets are usually discarded after lunch. The weather begins getting warmer in April, and Florida's summer is enjoyed through September. Ocean breezes and afternoon showers of summer temper the daytime temperatures.
Swim, snorkel, or sail in the waters that surround the island. For the fishing enthusiast Charlotte Harbor and world famous Boca Grande Pass lie at your doorstep. The harbor offers miles of backcountry and flats fishing for snook, trout, redfish, permit and more. Our area is the tarpon capital of the world.
Seven miles of pristine beaches provide outstanding seashells and breathtaking scenery for relaxing walks. Hours on the beach are filled with discoveries and surprises--collecting shells, watching the dolphins play, sandpipers scurry or seeing ospreys and eagles fish for their dinner. Whether you begin your day watching morning's sunrise color the harbor waters or end it swimming, with the sun slowly sinking below the horizon, each island day will be special, creating memories.
Much of the charm of the island is derived from seclusion by choice...a preference for pristine beaches, quiet walks, meandering paths. Without stores, but with the mainland and its conveniences minutes away, residents and visitors may easily leave paradise when the pull of nearby shopping malls, gourmet restaurants, and attractions is strong. Area restaurants offer memorable dining experiences. Fresh seafood is, of course, a specialty and many waterfront restaurants offer docking facilities.
If the call of the fairway beckons, emerald greens of golf courses carpet south Florida. Test your game on well-maintained lush fairways. With a gentle breeze at your back, warm sunshine on your face, tee-off for a challenging round on one of the many nearby courses.
Facilities on the island are quaint. Non-denominational services may be attended at the Leydon-Mirza Chapel located in The Preserve on Little Gasparilla Island. The congregation may choose to leisurely stroll the white sandy road or to arrive by golf cart to worship in the white-steepled church. Service schedule is posted on the bulletin board opposite the chapel, and services are signaled by ringing the historic steeple bell.
An island library was inherited when Randy Ridenour purchased his bayside home. Eager island readers are thankful that Randy enthusiastically embraced the idea and has expanded the collection. Circulation is on the honor system, and the Dewey Decimal System is nonexistent. Donations are placed in random order on the shelves and there's something for everyone.
Island spirit is strong. Several times a year island parties are held and everyone is invited. The Fourth of July Golf Cart Parade exemplifies island spirit. Carts decorated in red, white, and blue follow the parade route while enthusiastic spectators lining the path sitting in beach chairs, cheer, wave, and throw candies.
Perhaps the greatest appeal is provided by what is missing. Malls, heavy traffic, pollution, crowds. Escape to Little Gasparilla Island where the pace is a little slower, the evenings a little quieter, and life is just more fun!
