Gasparilla Island/Boca Grande – a Trip to the Caribbean
Only 30-40 minutes away from your vacation home Villa Happy Gator you will find the fantastic miles long beaches of Gasparilla Island, that with their gorgeous colors give a real Caribbean feeling. Do plan a full day and pack the cooler – you will be rewarded!
Take Englewood Road CR776 to Englewood and follow Placida Road CR775 until you reach the toll bridge of Boca Grande Causeway, the only connection to the island.
Pass noble Villas and picturesque houses of the Historic District around Park Avenue until the South end, where the 127 acre Statepark begins. If you like, stop even before and use one of the public beach accesses on the right. Within the Statepark you will find the beaches Sea Grape and Range Light. For sure you will find your piece of paradise for a perfect beach day. Walk along the turquoise colored water or simply let yourself unwind in the beach chair – this is pure relaxation!
There is an option to visit the Boca Grande Lighthouse, built in 1890, and the nearby museum. The Lighthouse belongs to the oldest buildings in Lee County and is the oldest building on the island. The US Coastguard used the lighthouse until 1966, since 1983 it is open to the public after restoration. 1986 it was included in the list of the National Register of Historic Places.
More info here.