Gasparilla Island State Park: Our SWFL Summer Day Trip Recommendation

Photo Credit: Florida State Parks

Want to plan a day trip to one of Southwest Florida’s most pristine and laid-back beaches? Head over to Gasparilla Island State Park, located in Boca Grande, Florida. Gasparilla Island sits between Fort Myers and Sarasota, and the only way to access the area is via the scenic Boca Grande Causeway, which costs $6 per car. Early summer is a great time to visit Gasparilla Island because the area is less crowded, so you’ll have more space for swimming, shelling, and relaxing. 

Photo Credit: Florida State Parks

The parking at Gasparilla State Park is only $3 per vehicle for the day, and the park offers bathrooms, showers, and picnic areas with tables and grills. Gasparilla Island features beautiful blue-green waters and is a perfect destination for beach swimming, shelling, and seeing dolphins in the water. There are nature trails across the island and a scenic bike trail that goes right through Boca Grande.

Photo Credit: Florida State Parks

Besides the beautiful beach, you don’t want to miss the historic Port Boca Grande Lighthouse built in 1890. The Lighthouse, which is the only lighthouse on Florida’s west coast to be open to the public, is now home to a museum about Gasparilla Island’s heritage. The Museum is free with the cost of your park admission and offers a “please touch” exhibit featuring local shells, fossils, and bones. Be sure to check the Museum’s hours and schedule before heading over as it is only open certain days. 

If you’ve never driven out to Gasparilla Island State Park, add this trip to your summer bucket list to enjoy this SWFL hidden gem. 

*Photo Credit: Florida State Parks