Boca Grande

Boca Grande is a small residential community on Gasparilla Island in southwest Florida, just a few miles south of Englewood.  Bocca Grande is the name of the town, Gasparilla is the name of the island.  Gasparilla Island is home to two counties.  Charlotte and Lee. Lee county actually governs this little spot in the sun, while the actual village of Boca Grande,  is entirely in the Lee County portion. 

The Population is Fluctuating

The Island’s permanent population hovers around 2,000 locals. However, in season, when the snowbirds are flocking to this enchanting paradise, the number represents only a fraction of the actual residents. Gasparilla Island has a long history of tourism because of its tropical splendor, where you can get lost while wandering on the seven miles of pristine sugar-white sandy beach. There is a bike path running through the entire island. Tourism and fishing are the economic basis on this tranquil tropical barrier island. A bridge connects the mainland with Gasparilla Island, where the famous Boca Grande is the capital. During the winter months, the wealthy visitors rub shoulders with local fishermen and longtime local residents.

The Railroad

Long before a road was built to connect Gasparilla with the mainland, a railroad linked Gasparilla already with Punta Gorda. The primary purpose of that railroad was to transport phosphate to the south end of the Island.  That was the only spot deep enough to accommodate seagoing vessels. 

However, when you can use the railway to haul phosphate, you can make some extra bucks by transporting people as well.  Therefore, affluent people from the northern states could use that train to get to Gasparilla and spent the winter months on the sub-tropical island. 

The Island looks different today

At that time, the number of accommodations was pretty limited, but today, condominiums and modern homes dot the tropical Island. However, at least the picturesque town of Boca Grande looks much the way it did a century ago.

Real Estate on Gasparilla Island and Boca Grande

Discover the luxury real estate market where you can find historic homes, condos and new key west-style luxury homes.