Boca Grande is on the island of Gasparilla on the Gulf Coast of Florida. It is located midway between Sarasota and Ft. Myers. It is a lush barrier island with seven miles of powdery white beaches along the Gulf side and waters that would have you believing you are in the Caribbean.
Sun glistening off of the gorgeous aqua blue water
In the early 1880’s, phosphate was discovered several miles up the Peace River, which empties into Charlotte Harbor before flowing west through the Boca Grande Channel to the Gulf of Mexico. Initially, the phosphate was shipped down the Peace River on barges to Port Boca Grande on Gasparilla Island, where it was loaded into ocean-going vessels. In 1888, Congress responded to the growth of the port by appropriating $35,000 for the construction of a lighthouse at the southern tip of Gasparilla Island, to mark the Boca Grande or “large mouth” between Gasparilla and Lacosta Islands. The lighhouse has a small museum with a lot of history and nice gift shop. It is located at the south end where there is a beautiful, spacious beach also.
Boca Grande Lighthouse dates back to 1890
The number of boats and groups of boats in the water was interesting. People’s boats were grouped together and they enjoyed the afternoon swimming, boating, fishing, having cocktails, etc.
Boaters Paradise in Boca Grande, Gasparilla Island, FL
At the center of the island lies the nucleus of this little community, The Historic Village of Boca Grande. Here, “Main Street” still exists with no stop lights, no billboards, no high-rises and no fast-food chains. You will find unique shops and art galleries, casual and fine dining establishments serving fresh seafood just caught by the local fishing captains.
Florida has some of the most beautiful golf courses. Many are surrounded by water, like the Country Club course in Boca Grande. The views from this course are absolutely spectacular!
Boca Grande Country Club - What an absolutely beautiful, serene place to golf
