For the Rich and Famous wanting to get away for some relaxation and privacy Boca Grande is the PERFECT spot for many!
Gasparilla Island is home to a little over 2,000 residents –with only 2 hotels on the entire island it gives you an extremely exclusive feel.
From former presidents to people who live in the spotlight, the ability to escape that reality, feel normal again and just blend in is a very rare opportunity. Boca Grande offers just that, there is no paparazzi, residents and other visitors are also very influential and respect their privacy as that is most likely the reason they are there themselves.
Here is everything you need to know about Boca Grande on Gasparilla Island.
Where is Boca Grande Located?
Boca Grande is a community on Gasparilla Island. The Island is very private as it is located in one of the most secluded areas possible. It's 30 miles south of Venice FL which makes it the furthest island from a downtown. There is only one entry point to the island at the north end. You have to pay a small toll bridge to get in which adds a private gated feel. Sarasota is the closest large downtown and its located about 50 miles north, about an hour drive.
What is Boca Grande known for?
Boca Grande is know for its high end real estate. The Island is centered around the famous Historic Gasparilla Inn and club and Gasparilla beach resort complex which is the definition of "what Florida was meant to be". It is also referred to as the tarpon fishing capitol of the world as it has the deepest pass in the state of Florida.
Catering to high end residents and guests, Gasparilla Island is one of the top 3 most private islands in Florida.
Besides the Inn guests can also stay at one of these beach cottages.
What part of Boca Grande is best?
The heart of the island is right in the center surrounding the Gasparilla Inn and Club. Majority of the restaurants, shops, and businesses are located here.
The northern part of the island is about 3.5 miles made up of different kinds of neighborhoods. The homes are very luxurious and offer many different kinds of options. From large estates on a private beach, condos, villas and homes on the bay.
Just north of town is the Boca Grand Bayou community which is a large gated community on the bay which is perfect for those who enjoy boating and want a dock.
South of town we have another almost 2 miles of residences running along Boca Bay Dr and Gulf Blvd.
In this area we have the Boca Bay Pass Club which is a private member owned dining, tennis and fitness club for the Boca Bay Community.
The club has recently been fully renovated and has one of the most amazing settings which lets you soak in the definition of what Boca Grande has to offer.
How wealthy is Boca Grande?
Boca Grande ranks as the 3rd wealthiest Island on the gulf coast. In the last 3 years there have been 36 homes SOLD over $5 million dollars. With the smallest population compared to the rest of the islands this could be considered as the most expensive island.
Here is a chart showing the number of luxury residences sold on the gulf coast islands.
What is the biggest negative of living in Boca Grande?
You are truly living in a village, this may be the perfect contrast for those living in a big city but for those living in a small town or village the cons usually are limited shopping and dining options.
There are 2 small grocery and market stores on the island so If you want to go to a large standard grocery store, the closest Publix is located off the island however it is only 7.5 miles from the center of Boca Grande.
There is only a street pump at the Boca Grande Marina. The closest gas station is also off the island about 11.5 miles from the center of the island. Most of the locals use a golf cart to get around the island so a trip to the gas station becomes very rare.
What is unique about Boca Grande?
Boca Grande has a historic lighthouse located on Gulf Blvd near a public beach access point. It adds so much character and charm to this beach setting and creates a view that can't be replicated anywhere else in the state.
At the south tip of the island is the Gasparilla Island State Park which also has a Port Boca Grande Lighthouse Museum among 2 public beach access points.
How does Boca Grande compare to Sanibel?
Boca Grande is the most similar to Sanibel Island, both islands have one entry point over a toll causeway bridge. The biggest difference is the size of the island. Sanibel is about 3 times larger in land mass and population.
Here is a chart comparing a few of the statistics of the islands on the Gulf Coast.
Here is a video tour of Boca Grande that will give you a better idea of what Boca Grande has to offer.
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