A small barrier island off the southwest coast of Florida, historic Gasparilla is well worth the drive and the $6 toll to get through the gates. As you enter the island, it’s obvious that this locale is a playground for the wealthy, but in spite of the perfectly manicured estates lining the main route, Gasparilla Island retains a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
There’s a legend that the island was named for the Spanish pirate, Jose Gaspar (circa 1756-1821), who built a village there with his men and buried considerable stolen treasure after spending several years terrorizing and ransacking the Gulf Coast. When a US Navy ship tracked him down in 1821, the story is that he tied an anchor around his waist and cast himself into the water to die by his own hands rather than be captured. A few of his men managed to get away, hiding whatever treasure they took with them along their escape route, and many believe the treasure is still buried somewhere off the Florida coast. Whether you believe the story or not, the name ‘Gasparilla’ is a big part of the the Sunshine State’s history and a Gasparilla Pirate Festival is celebrated every year in Tampa.
The earliest known settlers of Gasparilla were the Calusa Indians who fished the rich waters off the island until the early 1600’s when the appearance of the first Europeans brought about their demise through battles, enslavement and disease. By the late 1800’s, descendants of early Spanish explorers and Cubans operated fish ranches, salting fish for shipment to Havana and other ports.
The discovery of high-grade phosphate, greatly sought after for use in fertilizers and many other products, led to the construction of a railroad in 1905. The rail not only transported phosphate and supplies, it brought wealthy travelers to the island. Six years later, the now iconic Gasparilla Inn opened, becoming a popular tourist destination for the well-heeled of Florida and beyond.
The Gasparilla Inn and Club is listed in Historic Hotels of America and the National Register of Historic Places. A large rambling structure that was originally built in 1911, the Inn quickly underwent renovations in both 1913 and 1915 due to ever-increasing popularity. More expansions came in the early 1930’s with the construction of tennis courts and guest cottages. Today, it is one of the largest of the surviving early Florida resort hotels and retains the old-style charm of that era.
The hub of the island, Boca Grande village, is a bustling place with restaurants and shops catering to tourists. Although the railroad is no longer in use, the original depot was restored in the late 1970’s and now houses many local businesses. It’s easy to park and walk to most destinations and scenic water views abound. Since there are no gas stations other than a pump at the Boca Grande Marina, many people get around on golf carts which only add to the leisurely pace of island life. People here are laid-back, unhurried and content, but then it’s hard not to be when you live and/or work in such a tranquil setting!
Exotic plants, trees and many species of birds make this island their home. Egrets can be seen nonchalantly walking the sidewalks! There are photo opportunities everywhere, one of them a village street lined with large Banyan trees. Beaches are easily accessible with ample parking and facilities, and you can watch both pelicans and people fish along the shore.
If you happen to be a lighthouse enthusiast, this seven mile long island boasts two: The 105’ white steel tower known as the Gasparilla Island Lighthouse, and the Port Boca Grande Lighthouse which is a bungalow-style dwelling along with a Keeper’s Cottage. Both lighthouses are open to the public.
I was fortunate to visit this little gem of an island in late February and found it far exceeded my expectations. If you appreciate a vacation destination that incorporates striking beauty with a relaxed atmosphere and old Florida charm, then I highly recommend visiting Gasparilla!
Feature photo courtesy of Gasparilla Inn and Club
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