Where
Here’s information about and addresses for Boca Grande Beach accesses. The island also encompasses Gasparilla Island State Park, which is home to stunning, shell-strewn beaches, sited at 880 Belcher Road, Boca Grande FL, 33921.
Vibe
Bliss out on pristine beaches away from the crowds. A jewel in a string of Gulf Coast barrier islands, Gasparilla Island is utterly charming and laid back with an exclusive feel, a secret celebrity hideaway that’s devoid of traffic and famed for its tarpon fishing. The park is a haven for anglers and families—the Lighthouse museum even has a ‘please touch’ section- and welcomes visitors with an idyllic expanse of unaffected shoreline, aromatic pine forests, and natural adventures.
See, feel
At Gasparilla Island State Park, the water is a dreamy, impossibly vivid emerald hue, stretching along a beach heaped with sand that ranges from the creamiest brown to white, and laden with colorful shells. Dunes redolent with seagrapes and grass and luxe homes provide a picturesque backdrop. While the water is usually calm, winds, tides and offshore systems can occasionally cause conditions to be rough.
On or near the beach
Kicking back by the shore and working on your tan are time-honored ways to enjoy the day at Gasparilla, but there’s more to do if you’re inclined. Swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving are popular, and the park’s Gulf of America beaches deliver year-round excellent saltwater fishing, as do the deep waters of Boca Grande Pass. Surfers can launch their boards from the Sea Grape or Dune beach areas. To find the perfect souvenir, take a stroll by the shore to hunt for sharks’ teeth and shells that include Lightning Whelks, Horse Conchs and Turkey Wings. Make sure to save time to visit the restored Port Boca Grande Lighthouse. Built in 1890, it anchors the park and houses a museum and gift shop. A picnic in a shady pavilion with scenic beach views promises the perfect way to fuel the fun. Check out more information about Gasparilla State Park activities, and this map for a layout of facilities and adventures.
Accessibility
Dedicated to making the park welcoming to all visitors, Gasparilla Island State Park accessible amenities include the museum and visitor center at Port Boca Grande Lighthouse; a small gift shop; the Amory Memorial Chapel; picnic facilities with tables and grills; interpretive exhibits; parking and restrooms.
Beach wheelchairs are available for free on a first-come, first-served basis. Call the park ahead of time to reserve a chair. Service animals are welcome in all areas of Florida State Parks.
Facilities
Facilities include the 1890 Boca Grande Lighthouse, complete with a visitor center and museum; restrooms; a shower station; the Amory Memorial Chapel; and pavilions with picnic tables and grills.
Lifeguards
There are no lifeguards; swim at your own risk. Tidal flows can cause dangerous currents, and advisory signs should be obeyed. Visitors are reminded to pay close attention to the Warning Flag Signs posted at welcome stations and on the beaches. These flags indicate the swimming conditions at the beach.
Parking
Here are park fees and hours; here’s a map denoting parking areas and facilities.
