If you're looking for life at a slower, more refined pace - where golf carts are the primary mode of transit, mint juleps are still all the rage, and you won't look out of place in a giant floppy hat, then Boca Grande is absolutely the right Florida trip for you. Think - sunshine after a long winter, great food, a fantastic atmosphere, gorgeous places to walk - just an all-around perfect getaway. We pulled together some of our favorite places to stay, brunch, dine, adventure, walk, relax, and enjoy this Florida gem!
Where to Stay:
We are big fans of the Gasparilla Inn - a very old school in the best possible way sort of an inn. The historic Inn's motto is "Florida the way it was meant to be," and is it ever. It's a place steeped in tradition where jackets are required at dinner, you get around the island on a golf cart, and everyone seems to know each other.
SNOW LEOPARD CLUTCH
Where to Eat & Drink:
Excellent dining options are all over Boca Grande. Gasparilla Inn has three incredible spots to choose from - The Dining Room, Beach Club & BZ's are all great. The Pink Elephant(more of an upscale island restaurant, without the country-club vibe of the Inn's actual restaurant), a coffee shop, which also serves sandwiches, etc., downtown.
Hit up Millers Dockside for amazing water-side Caesar Salads, Chicken Fingers, and Fries. Don't forget to visit The Pink Pony for the best ice cream you've ever had!
What to See & Do:
Hit up the beach! Unobstructed access to the pristine beach is easy, with many public parks dotting the Island, providing entry to miles of sugar-sand beaches (and some good shell selections!) During the week, you'll find few crowds, with people spacing themselves out and generally not posting up for the entire day. Extra points for taking your golf cart to the beach - don't worry, there's a parking lot, but if you're up for a bike ride, it's 100% the best way to enjoy the pristine views. Banyan Street is
One of the most well-known sights on Gasparilla Island, Boca Grande's historic lighthouse is now a museum (Port Boca Grande Lighthouse & Museum). So pop down to the extreme southern tip of the Island, pay the small parking fee, explore the beach & capture some excellent views of the lighthouse! If you're looking to break a little sweat, grab your clubs or racket and head over to the Gasparilla Tennis Courts or The Golf Club. The Golf Course is famously beautiful and challenging. The Gasparilla Golf Club is exclusive to guests and members and conveniently has no course tee times. Go for a round with your favorite golf partners or get a private lesson with one of their PGA professionals. They have extensive practice facilities, including a full driving range as well as chipping and putting greens.
For all you boat lovers make sure you don't miss Whidden's Marina; it's been open since 1926 and is a Boca Grande must-see. If you're a fisherman, there's no better spot to set up a boat charter and fishing expedition.
Tell us about your trip to Boca Grande, and don't forget to bring your best resort WKND WYFR pieces. Have some questions or looking for tips to explore Boca Grande at it's best? Let us know in the comments below or email us at hello@wknd-wyfr.com.