Gasparilla Island sits in the Gulf of Mexico, surrounded by the clear blue waters off southwest Florida’s coast. This tropical waterfront destination is located between Venice and Fort Myers, but it occupies a world of its own. Anchored by the upscale Boca Grande community, the island has attracted celebrities for decades and has been connected to several prominent American families, including the Bushes, the Busches and the du Ponts. The community offers a tranquil, Old Florida setting with easy access to the amenities of contemporary coastal living.
Large, beautiful homes in a secluded environment
The island’s residential setting, much like the island itself, is picturesque and secluded. The largest and most expensive homes offer waterfront views and private docks. Most of the island’s single-family offerings are influenced by traditional Key West architecture. The Coastal style is prominent, and many homes feature its common elements, such as shuttered windows and elevated living areas designed with hurricanes in mind. Inland, prices range from the mid-$2 millions to about $5 million. Waterfront properties typically range from about $5 million to the high $10 millions, although newly built estate-style homes can sell for more than $20 million. Condos and townhouses range from $1 million to $5 million.
Recreation includes fishing, boating and resort-style amenities
The island is known for its blend of traditional Florida recreation and resort-style amenities. The pristine white-sand beaches that line its shores are a haven for swimmers, sunbathers and anyone who wants to catch a glimpse of native marine life, including dolphins, manatees and sea turtles. A 1-mile stretch of beach on the island’s southern tip is a popular destination at Gasparilla State Park, home to an iconic public lighthouse. The park’s main attraction, however, is Boca Grande Pass, where Charlotte Harbor flows into the Gulf. Not only does this make the island a boaters’ paradise, it also provides anglers with some of the world’s best tarpon fishing. The highlight of the Gasparilla Golf Club is an 18-hole course designed by famed architect Pete Dye. Palm trees mingle with sand traps on the stunning layout along Charlotte Harbor. Additional amenities include pools, tennis and pickleball courts and a green marina.
Upscale boutiques and waterfront dining in the heart of the community
Park Avenue is the center of the island’s quaint downtown district. Residents can shop at several boutiques and dine at high-end restaurants such as Scarpa’s Coastal. The Gasparilla Inn, a historic resort nearby, offers breakfast, lunch and dinner in separate venues. Dinner is served at The Pink Elephant, which overlooks Gasparilla Golf Club’s course. Eagle Grille & Miller’s Dockside are popular waterfront restaurants at Boca Grande Marina. There are no grocery stores on the island.
Lee County built an elementary school for island students
The Island School allows students in kindergarten through fifth grade to attend school without commuting to the mainland. The school, which earns a B-plus from Niche, was approved by Lee County in 2000. It serves a limited number of students, making its ratio of students to teachers much lower than the typical public school. The mainland is only accessible from the north, and the northern edge of the island is part of Charlotte County. Because Florida’s school districts offer open enrollment programs, older students are allowed to attend school in Charlotte County. L.A. Ainger Middle, rated B-plus, and Port Charlotte High, rated B, are the closest schools that apply.
Golf cart travel is common; only one way in and out via car
Golf carts are the island's most popular form of transportation. They are most noticeable in the heart of the community as residents often use them to get to and from shopping and dining destinations. Cars come in handy during hurricane season, as golf carts cannot navigate flooded streets. A car is needed to get off the island, and the mainland can only be reached via Gasparilla Road heading north. Homeowners should be aware that the high risk of flooding and wind damage from June through November is likely to affect insurance rates. Another tradeoff for a secluded coastal lifestyle is that medical facilities and airports are not easily accessible. Boca Grande has a health clinic, but HCA Florida Englewood Hospital is a little over 15 miles away. Coral Creek Airport is just across the water less than 10 miles away, but it only offers private flights. For commercial flights, Punta Gorda Airport and Southwest Florida International Airport in Fort Myers are 20 and 35 miles away, respectively.
The community's CAP Index score of 1-out-of-10 signifies the lowest possible crime rate.
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Boca Grande North Marina – Deeded Boat Slip #5at Boca Grande North Marina is the ideal place to keep your boat on beautiful Gasparilla Island. Located within the private, gated community of Boca Grande North, this is a true boater's paradise.This fully deeded deepwater slip features a 10,000-pound boat lift with a brand new cable and motor, plus electric, water, and a fish
This Single-Family 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom single-family home delivers exceptional value just steps from the Gulf’s pristine beaches and unforgettable sunsets just south of the village. Situated on a spacious and secluded 100’ x 153’ lot, the property is surrounded by native landscaping, offering true privacy and tranquility. Features include a Chicago brick paver driveway, propane fireplace,
Located at the north end of Gasparilla Island, this 19’ x 42’ boat slip at Uncle Henry’s Marina offers an exceptional opportunity for boaters seeking quick and easy access to the Gulf of Mexico. Just minutes away and only one mile from the Intracoastal Waterway. Situated in the heart of the Tarpon Capital of the World, this slip is part of a well-managed marina with daily dock staff, clean
Welcome to The Gasparilla Lookout, an exquisite 5-bedroom, 4.5-bathroom home boasting an innovative upside-down design, with the primary living areas, including the Master Suite, gourmet kitchen, dining space and luxurious living room, perched on the top level. This elevated vantage point offers unrivaled, panoramic views of the Gulf, framed by the lush palms.Nestled in the serene Golden Beach
Requires Weekly Rental Very private 4 bedroom/4 bath home located just 1/4 mile south of the historic town of Boca Grande and across the street from the beautiful Boca Grande beaches. Miles of walking,
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Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Owners
Demographics
Total Population
733
Median Age
71
Population Density
1 person/acre
Population under 18
6.7%
Below the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
65.8%
Significantly above the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$124,582
Significantly above the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$150,098
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
96.4%
College Graduates
54.2%
Above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
22.1%
% Population in Labor Force
30.1%
Significantly below the national average
65.1%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
51''
Average Winter Low Temperature
52°F
Average Summer High Temperature
91°F
Annual Snowfall
0''
Area Factors
Bikeable
Bike Score®
61/ 100
Car-Dependent
Walk Score®
6/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
