Shelling, boating, fishing, swimming, listening to the waves advancing and receding on the white sand beach, soaking in the warm, soothing rays of the sun; does it get any better than this?
Boca Grande, Spanish for "big mouth", in reference to the mouth of the pass on the island's southern tip, lies between the Gulf of Mexico and Charlotte Harbor. Boca Grande is the southern end of Gasparilla Island, one of a string of barrier islands on the western Gulf Coast of Florida.
The waters of Boca Grande are novel; Boca Grande Pass is a natural deep water channel and has earned the accolade "Tarpon Capitol of the World". A world fishing championship is held here each July. Throughout its history Native Americans, adventurers, fisherman, and wealthy Northerners have recognized its geographic uniqueness and splendor.
The first inhabitants, the Calusa Indians, hunted and fished here about 800-900 AD. The Spanish explored and fished the area during the 16th century. The earliest settlers came to take advantage of the rich fisheries. The Spanish and Cubans salted their catches and shipped most of them to Havanna.
Throughout the 1900's the town of Boca Grande grew. A railroad station was built, servicing both freight and passengers. Roads and a post office were built; hotels and resorts were established to cater to wealthy Northerners attracted by the fish, beauty, and climate of the area. Many of these visitors eventually built winter residences. They arrived by rail until a bridge was built in 1956, connecting the island to the mainland.
Later, phosphate was discovered along the Peace River near Punta Gorda. The phosphate was moved by rail to Boca Grande, then shipped to worldwide markets. In 1969 Port Boca Grande ranked as the 4th largest port in Florida but by 1979 the phosphate shipping industry here came to an end as companies looked inland for other deposits.
Today, Boca Grande still appeals to the wealthy, those who love to fish and boat, and the nature lover. Residents number fewer than 1,000 and the town has maintained its charming "Old Florida" style. The railroad was abandoned in 1979 and has since been developed into a famous biking trail. The lighthouse, built in 1890, keeper's cottage, and surrounding acreage have become Gasparilla Island State Park. The Lighthouse Museum, listed on the National Registry of Historic Places, chronicles the rich history of the area, from prehistory to modern times. Downtown is a delightful mix of shops and restaurants. You won't find a stoplight or high rise condominium. You will find modern and Key West style homes, some in the heart of the historic district.
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