Privacy and Seclusion. It is a barrier island unlike any other with unparalled peace and privacy. Traffic is nonexistant and tourists are rare. It is still relatively undiscovered, meaning it's not unusual to go to the beach and not see another soul for hours....it is one of Florida's best-kept secrets! Here you will find Florida as it used to be, before seawalls and high-rises and condos became the norm.

The Beach. Little Gasparilla offers miles of the most beautiful -- and pristine -- beach in Florida. The water is clear and clean, perfect for swimming, snorkeling or floating on a raft. We often swim with pods of dolphin and manatees are often spotted around the docks or in the marinas. Noisy jet skis and wave runners are rare.

Safety. It is safe for children, with no cars and virtually no traffic. The water is shallow and tranquil and generally safe for even the smallest beachgoers. Neighbors are friendly and helpful and always willing to help out with any problems.

Pet Friendly. The island is quite pet-friendly with lots of friendly dogs and their owners on the beach. Though there are leash laws elsewhere in Charlotte County, they are seldom enforced on the island and dogs can run free and enjoy the waves along with their families. (But, they must be supervised during turtle nesting season, May 1-September 30.) Many of our guests tell us that our pet-friendly policy was their primary reason for vacationing here. We are pet owners ourselves and truly appreciate the opportunity to vacation with our two "girls".

Relaxation. Our guests tell us that their vacation here is one of ultimate relaxation. Unlike the hustle and bustle and craziness of Disney or Miami or Daytona Beach, our island is peaceful and quiet. Unlike Sanibel or
Captiva, our beaches are uncrowded and there are still thousands of shells for the taking. (But no live specimens please!) Nightlife on the island is limited to ghost crabs scurrying around and sea turtles nesting on the beach!

Fishing. The waters around Little Gasparilla are known for the abundance and variety of fish. Whether you prefer castnetting for mullet, flats fishing or bay fishing for mangrove snapper or deep-sea fishing for grouper, avid fishermen always find a thrill. (Out of state guests will require a fishing license, which you can get at the marina.) Our grandchildren can almost always catch fish right off the dock, and our neighbors often catch snook right off the beach. And, the best tarpon fishing in Florida is found in the Boca Grande Pass, just south of Little Gasparilla. (And, if your day of fishing happens to be unsuccessful, there is a wonderful fresh fish market just across the bay in Placida! You can get fresh jumbo shrimp that were still in the Gulf that morning!)

Nature. The island is rich with wildlife....many species of shore birds including the beautiful snowy egret and majestic grey heron can be spotted daily on the beach. A pair of eagles often nest north of the house near the
state park. Endangered gopher tortoises can be spotted crawling through the dunes or crossing the sand pathways....several will eat grapes or peaches right out of your hands! (They love juicy fresh fruit!) More unusual wildlife can also be spotted....everything from armadillos and raccoons to the occasional black snake all comfortably coexist on the island. Porpoise families can sometimes be spotted cruising up or down the island and manatees can be found in the calmer waters of the bay side of the island. Hermit crabs cluster around the dock and can be found in many shells....also starfish, oysters and other marine life are found in our rich waters.

While it is just a short boat ride from the mainland, Little Gasparilla island is miles away from congestion and traffic and worldly cares. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do!
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