Gasparilla Island - Boca Grande

Boca Grande is a community on the island of Gasparilla, it is a very affluent boating community.  One of the first things you see when coming into Boca Grande Pass, is the Port Boca Grande Lighthouse, it is located in Gasparilla Island State Park and was build in 1890. The Lighthouse now houses a museum.
After passing the Lighthouse on the shore to the left of the entrance, look forward into the pass, what you will see is a lot of small fishing boats hanging out in the middle of the pass.  What we came to find out was that Boca Grand is known as the tarpon capital of the world. Tarpon is a fish similar to Snook, Redfish or Seatrout.  Tarpon fishing is strictly a catch and release sport but it draws anglers from around the world, it is a fighting fish that is very hard to catch. Spring is Tarpon season here in Boca Grande.  The town it self reminds me of Newport beach with million dollars homes on the waterways.  On arrival to Boca we set anchor in narrow channel near the town.  We anchored and tied up to the mangroves to keep us from moving while in the tight anchorage.  It was challening to say the least, but luckily for us some fellow boaters helped us tie up, using their dinghy. But once we were stable, we were good to go for the three nights that we stayed there.  We had a lot of fun in Boca.  We went to several great restaurants (which Cam told us about); The Pink Elephant and Temptations.  Both were outstanding eateries! Thanks Cam!!
Bird watching was also good here in Boca. There were quite a few Herons, Egrets , Ibs and Pelicans near the waterway.  I also enjoyed seeing the Gasparilla Inn, which is a beautiful historic Inn  located at 5th and Palm Avenue.  It is one of the largest and oldest surviving resorts in Florida. Many famous people have stayed here, i.e. The Bush family. While walking around the town, we also found some excellent shopping to be had. I found an adorable coral and green skirt with shorts under it, great for the boating lifestyle.

The beach in Gasparilla is beautiful, clear blue green waters with temps about 70 degrees. Relaxin by the beach and taking walks is what we did. We also spent some time stand up paddling around the channels.  Osprey nest were seen at every corner and dolphins playing in the waves.  Nature is abound with riches in Boca Grande. We had a great time exploring and will surely be back again.