Renter FAQs
CHECK IN IS 4 PM. YOU MAY NOT COME TO THE ISLAND PRIOR TO CHECK IN. THERE ARE NO PUBLIC FACILITIES ON THE ISLAND OR STORAGE AREAS FOR GROCERIES/LUGGAGE. YOU WILL NOT HAVE ACCESS TO THE DOCK OR HOME UNTIL 4 PM UNLESS YOU HAVE PURCHASED AN EARLY CHECK-IN IN ADVANCE.
MOST Frequently asked question: Are there beach chairs, beach towels, and umbrellas?
All homes have beach towels. There are usually beach chairs and an umbrella from previous renters at the home. Please note that chairs and umbrellas are provided as a courtesy only and we cannot guarantee what shape they are in or that there will be enough for a large group. We do have a few beach chairs and umbrellas available to purchase for $25 each. Just let our guest services manager know if you would like to purchase the items when you call to check in or if you find you need more during your stay. You are welcome to bring a beach tent, but they must be removed from the beach each evening.
WHAT DO I NEED TO DO PRIOR TO COMING TO THE ISLAND?
1.) ALL GUESTS MUST RETURN A SIGNED CONTRACT AND COMPLETED OCCUPANT FORM (FIRST PAGE OF YOUR CONTRACT). YOU WILL NOT RECEIVE YOUR ARRIVAL LETTER OR BE PERMITTED TO CHECK IN WITHOUT THIS DOCUMENT BEING SUBMITTED. PLEASE LET US KNOW ASAP IF YOU NEED THE FORM RESENT.
2.) ARRANGE FOR TRANSPORTATION TO THE ISLAND. YOU CAN NOT DRIVE TO LGI.
YOU MUST SCHEDULE YOUR WATER TAXI IF YOU ARE STAYING IN A SINGLE FAMILY HOME. YOU WILL NEED YOUR DOCK NUMBER (LOCATED ON YOUR CONTRACT AND THE HOME LISTING). THE WATER TAXI IS PRIVATELY OWNED AND WE CAN NOT CONTROL THEIR SCHEDULE AND RATES. GUESTS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR ALL PAYMENTS FOR TRIPS TO AND FROM THE ISLAND DURING YOUR STAY. PLEASE MAKE RESERVATIONS EARLY. PIRATE’S WATER TAXI: 941.697.5777
GUESTS STAYING IN A HIDEAWAY CONDO MUST COMPLETE THE FERRY PASS AND SUBMIT THE FORM ASAP TO LOUISA@LITTLEGASPARILLA.COM. YOU MUST BE PRE-REGISTERED WITH THE MAINLAND PARKING AND FERRY. PRINT THE FERRY PASS AS WELL.
NOTIFY THE GUEST SERVICES MANAGER IF YOU WILL BE BRINGING A BOAT. THERE ARE size LIMITATIONS AT SOME DOCKS.
3.) CALL OR TEXT OUR GUEST SERVICES MANAGER TO CHECK IN. YOU WILL NOT BE ABLE TO ENTER THE HOME WITHOUT CHECKING IN. PLEASE PROVIDE YOUR ETA AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. TERRY: 813.310.0902
4.) SCHEDULE THE CONCIERGE TO MEET YOU AT THE DOCK AND ASSIST WITH YOUR LUGGAGE AND GROCERIES (SERVICE NOT AVAILABLE AT CANAL HOMES, BEACH TO BAY GETAWAY, AND SUNNY DAZE). THE CONCIERGE IS AN INDEPENDENT PROVIDER AND YOU MUST MAKE RESERVATIONS DIRECTLY WITH HIM. BRETT: 941.223.4548
GETTING TO THE ISLAND
What is the address and/or dock number of my house?
Your home’s address and dock number are listed on the first page of your rental contract. The dock numbers are also posted on each home listing page. You will need the dock number to make your water taxi reservation.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK?
Please pack light. Guests ALWAYS bring too many clothes to the island! Be sure to bring any prescription medications you might need as well as over-the-counter medications and sunscreen because there are no drug stores on the island. Bug spray is also essential. If you are sensitive to sand gnats (also known as midges or noseeums) Avon Skin-So-Soft is an excellent repellant. All homes have a washer and dryer so you can wash clothes during your stay. Most homes have beach chairs and an umbrella from previous renters. Our guest services manager also keeps spares on hand for sale in case you need more during your visit.
Is there a shuttle from the airport?
Uber / Lift are usually available, but we recommend contacting Salty Girls Transportation services for car service from Sarasota, Ft. Meyers, Punta Gorda, and Tampa Airports. Their rates include one hour of shopping time at Publix, Walmart, or local restaurants. You can also arrange for outings to local attractions or mid-week shopping trips through their service. 941-909-5995 or saltygirlsservices@gmail.com
There are some other local options as well.
Shoreline Airport Transportation: 941-473-1237. ShorelineAirportTransportation.com
Charlotte Shuttles: 941-255-9117
L’Elegance Driver Services: 916-747-1415 or 916-701-6565
Gopher Chauffeur: 941-629-5368
Dannyboys Airport Transportation: 239-823-3144
Some people also rent an Enterprise car at the airport and drop it at the Enterprise office in Englewood. They will then drive you to the marina for an additional fee.
where should we shop for groceries?
There are no stores or restaurants on the island. If coming from the North, we recommend Publix in Placida at 8725 Placida Rd. If coming from the South, we recommend Publix in Port Charlotte at 13435 S. McCall Road. Ask for a “Boat Pack” (Paper inside plastic) which makes it easier to transport the bags in the water taxi. Publix also sells insulated cooler bags which will keep meat and frozen items cooler during the water taxi trip. There is also a grocery service available on LGI if you would prefer to have your items delivered.
Island Grocery Delivery: Evan Merritt: 941-830-1346
What is the address of the marina where we PARK?
PARKING FOR SINGLE FAMILY HOMES
Eldred’s Marina is located at 6301 Boca Grande Causeway, Placida, FL. Visit this page for driving directions.
Purchase a parking pass in the office of Eldred’s Marina BEFORE heading to the island. The charge is $8 per day or $10 if you have a boat trailer. Leave the pass displayed in your car window to ensure you are not towed. If the office is closed, you must put a note on your dashboard with your phone number and anticipated return date to pay upon departure.
PARKING FOR HIDEAWAY BEACH CLUB CONDOS
Parking is complimentary at the Hideaway Parking lot,12000 Placida Road, Englewood, FL. 33946. The gate code is provided in your arrival letter which will be sent closer to your check in date. Be sure to complete the parking pass (in the marked stations) and hang one portion in your vehicle and bring the other portion with you. You must show that parking permit AND your rental agreement/ferry pass to the ferry captain before boarding the ferry.
I AM STAYING IN A SINGLE FAMILY HOME AND NOT BRINGING A BOAT. HOW DO I SCHEDULE THE WATER TAXI?
Call Pirate’s Water Taxi at 941.697.5777 to schedule your water taxi service as soon as possible. The water taxi prefers reservations to be made 1- 2 weeks in advance (if possible). The water taxi runs by appointment only.
The rate is $15 per person (each way) during regular daytime hours. Please note their pricing is subject to change and they only accept cash. Request a quote when you make your reservation. All children count as “people” but dogs do not. Be sure to let the water taxi know if you are bringing over extra gear (kayaks, etc.). It may be necessary to book the entire boat in that case, and your charge will be $60. There is a $10 charge each way for each bicycle, kayak or paddle board you bring over.
You must have your dock number (found on the first page of your contract) to make the reservation. The water taxi will run at any time, but rates are increased for early morning trips or passage after 6 pm. Please note that the water taxi only accepts cash and there is an ATM available at the marina. Meeting the water taxi is like catching a plane….you should be at the dock, fully unloaded, parking paid for and ready to get on the boat 10-15 minutes prior to your reservation time. The taxi is on a tight schedule and will not wait for stragglers. If you are delayed in arrival due to weather, a late plane, etc. notify him immediately so he can reschedule your trip to the island.
I AM STAYING IN A CONDO. HOW DO WE USE THE COMPLIMENTARY WATER FERRY?
The condominiums include complimentary water ferry service and mainland parking. The ferry pass was included in your contract packet and needs to be returned to our staff ASAP to complete the pre-registration. Please make sure to print the ferry pass and your contract in order to board the ferry. Please see the current ferry schedule to plan your arrival.
Can I arrive by PERSONAL boat?
You are welcome to come by boat! YOUR SLIP WILL NOT BE AVAILABLE UNTIL 4 PM. There are several local boat rentals available (see local amenities below). You must notify us in advance if you are bringing a boat. Some docks have size restrictions and assigned slips. (There is no slip with Bunkini). Most boats 24 ft. and under will fit without a problem. Do not just show up and dock anywhere or you will risk having your boat towed. Please note that all community docks have a limit of one boat per house.
Print this nautical map of Placida Harbor or have someone show you how to get to your dock. Do not attempt this for the first time after dark!
If you are bringing a boat you must inform our guest services manager and confirm in advance with Eldred’s Marina that you can use their transient slip ($10 per day). Eldred’s Marina phone number is 941-697-1431. Transient parking is at a premium. You can launch your boat from Eldred’s ($10.00 to launch) and park your car and trailer there ($10.00 per day). You will need to stop by the marina office before you launch your boat and pick up the parking permit. Please note that all docks on the island are privately owned and you may not tie up at a neighbor’s dock. All rentals are limited to one boat per house.
*Guests at Dock 51 and Dock 78/79 are required to place a “guest placard” in their boat upon arrival. These placards are located in the house book and a copy should be attached to your contract. Please try to do this as soon as possible upon arrival. Be sure to bring extra ropes for your boat, and tie your boat safely and securely so that it does not damage other watercraft or the dock. Tides can be dramatic and windstorms can come up quickly so be sure your boat is property secured and utilize a spring line whenever possible. If your boat is improperly tied and damage to the dock occurs, you may be responsible for dock repairs.
HOW DO I GET FROM THE DOCK TO THE PROPERTY?
There is an island concierge ( Brett ) who can meet you at the dock with a golf cart and accompany you to the home and assist with your luggage upon arrival. He is sometimes off-island, though, so please try to make your reservation at least two-three days in advance if you want to use the concierge service. We compensate him for one trip so if you are able to contact him, one trip is complimentary. (This service is not available at canal front homes, Beach to Bay Getaway or Sunny Daze.) There will be additional fees if you require multiple trips, would like to make a reservation with the service for assistance upon departure, or request a golf cart tour of the island. You should pay him directly for any additional trips. Tips are appreciated as well. Make your reservations with the concierge by calling or texting: 941.223.4548. He picks guests up all over the island so we cannot guarantee that he will be available when you arrive. Please note that IF you decide to use his services upon departure, request his help a couple days in advance and follow up the afternoon before. We provide him with a list of arrivals so he is standing by, but departure trips are catch as catch can and we cannot guarantee that he will be available at your departure time.
If you can’t reach Brett and need assistance upon arrival, please call our Island Guest Services Manager: 813.310.0902 Her hours are 9 AM - 5 PM EST. She MAY be able to find someone else to meet you at the dock if Brett is off-island or not working.
CHECK IN
How do I get in the house?
YOU MUST CHECK IN VIA PHONE OR TEXT at least 48 hours prior to arrival with our Island Guest Services Manager, Terry: 813.310.0902. At this time you will be provided the home’s lockbox code. You will not be able to enter your home without checking in. Check in time begins at 4 PM and we must have your ETA in advance. We utilize self check-ins so it is important to get your information from Terry BEFORE heading to the island.
Can I check in early?
We can provide an early check in only if the home is unoccupied the day prior to your arrival and there is a $150 early check in fee. All early check ins must be scheduled in advance. Email louisa@littlegasparilla.com if you would like to request an early check in. Normal check in time begins at 4 PM. You should not come to the island before 4 PM. Please make your water taxi reservations early to ensure that you can get a trip during your desired timeframe. There are no public facilities or areas to store your luggage/groceries if you try to arrive early. You will not have access to the dock or home before check in time. Any unscheduled early arrivals are subject to a minimum $150 fee.
WHY DOESN’t the Home/Fridge feel cool?
The house thermostats are usually set between 76 and 78. The house may warm up as you go in and out to unload your belongings. Please do not lower the thermostat to try and hurry the cooling process. It will not cool any faster and could cause the system to freeze up completely. Try not to set the thermostat below 75. Keep doors closed and the system will eventually cool the house back down. Typically arrivals occur at the hottest part of the day so it may take several hours for the house to cool back down to 76.
When you put your food in the refrigerator, please be aware that drinks and liquids take longer to cool than anything else. We suggest leaving your soda and beer out of the refrigerator initially, so that the refrigerator can cool your meat and dairy products. A week’s worth of room-temperature food can overwhelm the refrigerator and cause it to work too hard. Keep the refrigerator door closed as much as possible immediately after arrival, keep soft drinks and beer out of the refrigerator until it cools sufficiently and — once again — do not adjust the temperature settings. Please make sure that food is not blocking air circulation in the refrigerator. That will also cause it to cool down more slowly.
What happens if I NOTICE CLEANING ISSUES WHEN I ARRIVE?
Contact our guest services manager immediately if there are any problems with the property. It is very helpful if you can text photos as well. We use an outside cleaning company and will contact them if anything needs to be addressed. Please note that their staff are all located on the mainland so it takes coordination to get your cleaner back to the home. We will do our best to rectify the situation as quickly as possible so it doesn’t put a damper on your stay. Your only concern should be getting to the beach!
CHECK OUT
ALL BELONGINGS AND GROCERIES MUST BE OUT OF THE HOME BY 10 AM.
WHAT DO WE DO WITH OUR GARBAGE?
The condos do have trash service, but there is no county trash pick up on the island for single family homes. We can usually offer complimentary trash pick up on TUESDAYS and FRIDAYS. We will confirm garbage dates with you upon arrival. We provide trash bags and stickers in the house for your use. If you do not check out on a Tuesday or a Friday, or if there is no pick-up during your stay dates, you are responsible for taking your trash off the island with you upon check out. You can place your trash into the dumpsters located at Eldred’s marina for $2.50-$5.00 per bag. Under no circumstances should any trash be left in the house, on the property, or at the dock. Leaving trash behind may result in additional charges. Check with our Guest Services Manager if you need extra trash bags or stickers or have questions about trash removal. If you have friends or family staying at other properties on the island, please be aware that they may not deposit trash at your rental. If so, you will be charged for excess trash removal costs.
CAN I CHECK OUT LATE?
Our check out is at 10 AM and we can not accommodate unscheduled late check outs. If you would like to schedule a late check out please contact us to determine availability at least one week prior to your reservation. There will be a $150 late check out fee applied to each approved late check out. Any guest who departs late (without an approved late check out) will be charged one additional night.
WHAT DO I HAVE TO DO BEFORE CHECKING OUT?
Because these are private homes rather than hotel rooms, cleaning takes considerably longer for our crews. Your cleaning fee covers dusting and vacuuming, cleaning and extra sanitizing of bathrooms and kitchens and laundering bed linens. However, with the extra covid-19 cleaning procedures, cleaning is taking much longer than usual. Therefore, we kindly ask that you do your part to help leave the home in good order and tidy when you depart. All dishes and pots and pans should be washed and put away in the cupboards. All towels, including beach towels, should be washed except those towels used the morning of your departure. Beach chairs, umbrellas, floats, sand toys, beach gear and rafts should be rinsed off and put away for the next guests to use. The grill should be brushed for the next guests. All opened perishable food should be removed from the refrigerator. All leftovers should be thrown away and their containers washed. A detailed check-out checklist is provided in the house book.
WHAT HAPPENS IF THERE IS DAMAGE DURING MY STAY?
Please let our guest services manager know ASAP if there is any accidental damage to the property or amenities during your stay. Please contact us prior to departure so that there is enough time to get items repaired or replaced prior to the next guest’s arrival. All reservations made after 7/28/20 are protected by $2,500 of “all risk” damage protection through Waivo. We need to file a timely claim in order to be compensated. Hiding damage or merely throwing something away does not allow us to file a claim. Please just be honest and straightforward, as you would expect someone to do in your own home. We understand accidents happen and that is what our insurance program is for. But we do need your cooperation to facilitate a claim. If damage is NOT covered by our insurance, you are responsible for any damage caused during your stay.
PLEASE NOTE THAT THE CONCIERGE, WATER TAXI, AND CONDO WATER FERRY STAFF ARE NOT OUR EMPLOYEES. THEY ARE INDEPENDENT, THIRD PARTY SERVICE PROVIDERS. THEY ASSIST MANY GUESTS AND OWNERS (NOT JUST LITTLE GASPARILLA VACATION RENTALS GUESTS). WE HAVE NO CONTROL OVER THEIR SCHEDULES, RATES, OR AVAILABILITY. YOU MUST COORDINATE WITH THEM DIRECTLY TO MAKE YOUR RESERVATIONS.
PROPERTY AMENITIES
Is there wifi?
Please check the listing page for the home you are staying in for wifi availability. Please download all entertainment before coming to the island and visit our Island WiFi page to learn more about the wifi limitations on the island. Please note that even if your rental states that they have wi-fi, that does not always mean that it will be functioning efficiently. This is NOT the wi-fi you are used to on the mainland. If wi-fi is important, you might wish to bring a mobile hotspot with you to the island.
Does my house have heat and AC?
All of our homes have air conditioning (central or wall/window units) and heat available. (Driftwood cottage has AC and portable space heaters.)
Can I rent movies?
We request that you please do not charge pay per view movies during your stay. Some properties offer a selection of DVDs and a DVD player, while others offer access to Netflix. In general, you will probably find the entertainment options more limited than you might at a resort or on the mainland.
Do i need to bring BOTTLED water OR ICE?
The homes are all on the city water line. There is no need to bring bottled water if you typically drink tap. All homes have either ice trays or ice makers. There is also ice available to purchase on the island if you need more for your tropical drinks!
Is the pantry stocked?
The homes come with general pantry items like spices and condiments. However specific items and quantities vary house to house, so if there are any specific pantry items you want to ensure you have during your stay, and cannot enjoy your vacation without, we recommend that you purchase and bring with you. Since there are no stores on the island, we make it a practice to leave condiments, opened or unopened, in refrigerators for future guests. If you are offended by an open ketchup container from previous guests, feel free to throw it away. Most homes usually have saran wrap, foil, and/or Tupperware as well. If you find you need something when you arrive, contact Guest Services at 813-310-0902. She can sometimes round up items from other island neighbors.
Do we need to bring paper goods like toilet paper or paper towels?
We provide a starter pack of paper products, laundry detergent, hand and dish soap, etc. If you believe you will have excessive use of any of these items or are staying for longer than a weekend, we recommend purchasing more and bringing them with you. If you prefer specific brands or fragrance-free products, feel free to bring your own.
Are there dishes/cookware?
All homes are equipped with dishes, silverware, and cookware for meals.
What if I’ve forgotten something?
If you are missing one simple item, like ketchup or a cup of sugar, you can contact our Island Guest Services Manager between 9 AM- 5 PM and we can usually find what you need. It’s a friendly island and people are always willing to help!
What APPLIANCES ARE IN MY HOME?
Each individual home listing on our website states the type of grill and coffee maker. We provide propane, but you will need to bring charcoal and lighter fluid. Every home has a full kitchen and washer and dryer (laundry detergent provided). If you have questions about other appliances or amenities in the home, please contact our Island Guest Services Manager, Terry, at 813.310.0902.
Do you have PORTABLE high-chairs, pack & plays, and/or other baby supplies?
We do not have high chairs or cribs. Some properties have a pack and play or booster chair and we MAY be able to provide one if notified in advance. Contact our guest services manager with your request prior to arrival and she will do her best, subject to availability.
Do I need to bring beach chairs, towels, or umbrellas?
All homes have beach towels. There are usually umbrellas and sometimes beach chairs at the home. Please note that chairs and umbrellas are provided as a courtesy only and we cannot guarantee that there will be enough for a large group. We do have beach chairs and umbrellas available to purchase for $25 each. Please let our guest services manager know if you would like to purchase the items when you call to check in or if you find you need more during your stay. You are welcome to bring a beach tent, but they must be removed from the beach each evening.
What happens if there is a MAINTENANCE issue during my stay?
Please feel free to contact our Island Guest Services Manager, Terry at 813.310.0902 with any questions between 9 AM - 5 PM EST. PLEASE DO NOT CALL BEFORE OR AFTER THESE HOURS UNLESS IT IS AN EMERGENCY. If you discover an issue upon arrival and notify us right away, we can deal with it more promptly. After 5 PM, we are unable to summon repair personnel until the following day. You must be aware that any maintenance issues require staff to come from the mainland. Issues can take hours (if not days) to be repaired. We will do our utmost to get a crew out for repairs in a timely manner, but there are no immediate fixes. Please bear with us and be patient if minor repairs cannot be accomplished during your stay.
A word about island septic systems.
All homes on the island are on a septic system. These systems are very fragile and should be handled with care. This means that NOTHING should be put in the toilet except toilet paper and it should be used sparingly. Flushable wipes are NOT FLUSHABLE on the island and should never be used! During summer months, outdoor showers should be used whenever possible to reduce the load on the septic systems. Run one load of laundry rather than several small loads. No sanitary products of any kind should be flushed into a septic system. More detailed rules will be left in each house in the house book.
LOCAL AMENITIES
How do i rent a golf cart?
There is only one option for golf cart rentals on the island:
LGI Carts: 941.697.3820. You will need the home address (found on the first page of your contract) to reserve a golf cart with LGI Carts. Please note it often takes several attempts to get in touch with LGI carts and they are often sold out.
WE ARE NOT AFFILIATED WITH LGI CARTS. YOU MUST MAKE YOUR OWN ARRANGEMENTS FOR RENTALS.
If you are coming during Spring Break or a holiday, it is best to make a reservation well in advance of your arrival. Golf carts do sell out during peak seasons. If you can’t get a cart, please be aware that the island is very narrow. You can walk from the bay to the beach in less than 5 minutes. You can also request an island golf cart tour from the concierge or schedule additional trips with him during your stay. In a pinch, some island residents will sometimes rent their personal golf cart, and some people have luck posting on the LGI Facebook page. But unfortunately, golf cart rentals cannot be guaranteed.
YOU CAN NOT RENT A CART IF YOU ARE STAYING AT SUNNY DAZE OR BEACH TO BAY GETAWAY. THESE HOMES ARE NOT ACCESSIBLE BY THE CART PATHS.
WHERE CAN I RENT A BOAT?
If you plan to rent a boat we recommend Weekly Boat Rental. You can also check with these local vendors:
Rock the Boat Rentals - NEW! 941-217-016
If you would like to explore by boat, but don’t really want to rent one, check out our sightseeing options below for private boat tours!
Is there any food delivery AVAILABLE?
Enjoy wood-fired pizzas made on-island and delivered hot to your door from One-Eyed Willy’s. (This is a hobby and he accepts donations only….the pizza is excellent.) Call or text 941.402.5093 or lgiguy@lgiguy.com
is there grocery delivery in case we run out of food/drinks?
The island now has the option of an upon-arrival or mid-stay grocery delivery service. Have your groceries delivered on the day you arrive or send the shoppers to the mainland for additional groceries or things you might have forgotten. Talk to Evan whatever your needs; he can often pick up carry-out items for you, or shop for special supplies or hardware items.
Island Grocery Delivery: Evan Merritt: 941-830-1346
How do I rent a Kayak or Paddleboard?
Contact William Myers for on-island kayak or paddle board rentals. 941.402.5093.
You can also rent from the mainland through SUP Englewood : (941) 26-KAYAK
Jet ski rentals are available from Allure Boat Rentals in Englewood. 941-475.2628
DO YOU HAVE FISHING CHARTER RECOMMENDATIONS?
Family Traditions Charters, Capt. Will Hubbard:678-630-1536
Man Overboard Charters : 941-525-8155
Sam Ellsbury (flats fishing): 813-924-3685
Captain Keith Santucci with Fishing4Reel Charters: 941-445-2680. These trips area also customizable depending on the composition of your group and how much serious fishing your group wants to do!
Captain Steve Hogan : 457-7287
Captain Bryce Green: BG Charters. (813) 857-5648
HOW DO I GET A FISHING LICENSE?
As a rule, if you are fishing from the dock or the beach, Florida residents do not need a license, but out-of-state guests do. For more specific details on requirements and fees, visit the Florida Fish and Wildlife website. Our guest services manager keeps some poles and tackle for sale. Please request them when you call to check in to confirm availability. There is bait available at the marina.
As you may know, Boca Grande is known as the Tarpon Capital of the World. During the warmer months, from April until almost August, the "silver king" offers fishermen one of the greatest thrills - and challenges - possible. If you are interested in tarpon fishing, contact the Boca Grande Fishing Guides and have them match you with a captain who can best meet your needs, skill level, etc. Their e-mail address is info@bocagrandefishing.com
CAN I GO SIGHTSEEING WITHOUT MY OWN BOAT OR CAR?
If you do not wish to rent a boat, but would like to do some simple cruising, contact Capt. Willy at 941-402-5093 for a private boat tour. He will take you to the sand bar, dolphin watching, to Cabbage Key, a quick cruise up the Intracoastal Waterway or a sunset cruise out into the Gulf. He charges $100/hour and advance reservations are required. Also, if you do not have a car and would like to explore Boca Grande, he will take you there by car and you can visit the lighthouse, shop the many small galleries, have lunch at one of their excellent restaurants, have ice cream, visit Banyan Street, check out the shell collection at the island library, etc.
For a fully customizable boat adventure, consider Nauti Aquatic Adventures. Their captain and first mate will pick you up at your dock, take you snorkeling, shelling, dolphin spotting or to a great waterside lunch spot. Call them at 772-992-6616.
For private kayak tours of Dog Island, the Woolverton Trails, mangrove tunnels, etc. contact Kind Vibes Outfitters. They launch from Eldred’s marina and offer private tours of local scenic waterways. Their phone is 941-444-6602. Tours are for a minimum of four people.
If you do not have a golf cart but would like to see more of the island, contact Bret’s Taxi at 941-223-4548 and he can arrange a golf cart tour of the island.
ARE THERE restaurants we can go to by boat?
Johnny Leverocks - Palm Island Marina, on the mainland
Rum Bay Restaurant - Palm Island Resort, on Palm Island
Cabbage Key Restaurant - Intracoastal Waterway channel market #60
Waterside Grill - Gasparilla Marina, on the mainland
The Innlet - Boca Grande, bay side
EagleGrill and Miller’s Dockside - Boca Grande, bay side
The Pink Elephant - Boca Grande Bayou, bay side
HOUSE RULES
Can I smoke in the house?
All properties are 100% non-smoking. There is no smoking allowed anywhere on the property. Any guest observed smoking on the premises will be subject to immediate eviction and additional cleaning fees. Evidence of smoking on the property, including a smell of smoke in the house, may also incur additional cleaning fees. You may smoke on the beach or on the dock. However, butts must not be disposed on the beach.
Can I bring my pet?
Pets are only permitted in pet-friendly homes. There is no charge for certified service dogs, but all other pets, including emotional support dogs, require a non-refundable $100 pet fee/per pet. Aggressive dogs are not tolerated and pets must be on flea prevention and up to date on vaccinations.. You must notify us in advance if you are bringing a pet. To avoid damage to property, pets should not be left alone in the house. Please bring a crate for your pet or take it with you when you leave the house.
What are the rules with dogs on the beach?
The beach is private property down to the high water line so if you are staying in a beachfront property, your dog is actually on the property and is allowed. Bring a leash to comply with Charlotte County leash laws and waste bags to pick up after your pet. It’s also important that dogs do not disturb sea turtle nests in the summer months. Sea turtle nests are marked on the beach with orange tape. Otherwise, dogs are generally allowed on the beach as long as they are under control and non-aggressive. There are several “island dogs” that run off leash frequently so be aware of this if your dog does not do well with other dogs. Dogs are not allowed anywhere in the Don Pedro State Park so if you are walking north up the beach, turn around when you see the large brown state park sign.
Can we drink alcohol?
Absolutely! We know you are on vacation and want to relax, however use of illegal drugs or abuse of alcohol, including consumption of alcohol by minors, may result in termination of your rental contract. If that happens, you will be required to leave the premises and your reservation will be subject to forfeiture of your rental amount. There will be no refunds for any unused nights. You should be respectful of your neighbors and keep noise/music down after 10 PM. Loud parties or noise complaints are grounds for eviction. This is a small island and loud or offensive behavior is frowned upon.
What HAPPENS if i don’t like my neighbors?
Please remember that you are a guest on the island and there are many residents that live here year round. Little Gasparilla is a family-friendly island. Any verbal or physical alterations with service personnel, other renters or island residents may result in termination of your rental contract in which case you will be required to leave the premises and the reservation will be subject to forfeiture of your rental amount. There are no refunds for any unused nights. If you have issues with neighbors, island residents, service personnel or other guests, please notify our Guest Services Manager and she will try to sort it out.
Can I have additional guests visit OVERNIGHT OR JUST FOR A DAY VISIT?
No visitors in excess of those listed on your rental contract are allowed…even if they are just visiting for the day. The septic systems in the homes are sensitive and the maximum occupancy of each house is in place for a reason. If you are vacationing with other families staying at other homes, you may congregate together on the beach, but ongoing parties at one home or loud parties resulting in noise complaints from neighbors may result in termination of your rental contract in which case you will be required to leave the premises and the reservation will be subject to forfeiture of your rental amount. We have also noticed that when several groups party together at one house, excessive amounts of trash are often deposited at one house. If you allow anyone staying elsewhere on the island to leave trash from their house at your rental, you will be charged for excess trash removal. We can only provide trash removal for the guests listed on your contract.
TIPS FOR BEING A GREAT GUEST
While you are staying on Little Gasparilla Island, you are staying in someone’s home….these are not rental units built for investment purposes, but individual family homes that have been loved and enjoyed, often for generations.
Individual owners are responsible for the decor, the amenities and the overall condition of the property. Embrace the quirkiness of each property, understanding that most owners love their homes just the way they are. They trust us to manage their homes for them and find respectful guests who will take good care of their property. To that end, we ask all guests to treat this home as though you are staying in the home of a family friend. This is not a resort or a hotel with stacks of fresh towels in storage, with industrial dishwashers in the kitchen or a staff of people standing by to do laundry or clean.
If you burn something in a pot or skillet, please try to clean it. We often find burned and food-encrusted pots and pans. If you need stronger cleaning supplies, please let our Guest Services Manager know.
If you take towels to the beach, either bath towels or beach towels, please try to remember to bring them back to the house.
Open food items on the counter or in cupboards will attract bugs within hourS…especially tiny sugar ants. Try to seal packages tightly or throw them away when you leave so that cupboards do not become magnets for bugs.
Leave shoes at the door to avoid tracking in sand. Many houses have a foot bath by their stairs for rinsing off feet.
Try not to rearrange furniture. If you move something, put it back when you are ready to leave.
Do not put ANYTHING into the toilet except toilet paper — even if it claims to be flushable. Toss wipes into the bathroom trash cans.
If you use beach chairs, umbrellas or toys, rinse them off and put them away for the next guests to use. Nothing should be left on the beach overnight.
Most homes come with extra blankets for winter months. Blankets and bedding should not be taken to the beach or used to make up extra beds on the floors or porches. If you do need to use extra bedding, you are welcome to do so, but please launder it and return it to the closet before you leave.
Launder all towels before you leave.
We kindly ask that you respect this home as you would expect someone staying in your home to treat it. Again, these are not hotel rooms or resort facilities — each home is owned and loved by a family just like yours.
STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?
Contact our Island Guest Services Manager, Terry Simms: 813.310.0902. Her hours are 9 AM - 5 PM EST.
Do you need to CHANGE YOUR RESERVATION DATES OR REQUEST AN EARLY ARRIVAL OR LATE DEPARTURE?
Contact our Reservations Manager, Debbye Landers : reservations@littlegasparilla.com